How to Buy a Second-Hand Piano
Buying a piano is exciting.
The pleasure of learning and playing could stay with you for years – even into the
next generation and beyond. And, acquiring a new musical skill could add a great
deal of happiness to your life, whatever age you are. For experienced players, a
“new”, pre-loved piano could re-ignite your passion – and delight others, of course.
Your Piano, Your Choice
There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to buying a piano.
In our opinion, it’s an extremely personal and subjective choice. Plus, it depends on
your stage in life, whether the piano is for an adult or child, how much you want to
spend, your accessible space – and so many other factors.
Likewise, although this blog is about buying a piano, you may wish to rent one from
Brighton Piano Warehouse while you decide which path you’d like to take. This gives
you more time to consider your best option. Even better, if you’d like to buy your
rented piano, we’ll deduct the cost of the rental from the purchase price.
Plus, as this article explains, there’s no need to buy new. You may be thinking about
an upright, a digital piano or even a Grand or Baby Grand. Our warehouse contains a
wide range of pre-loved instruments all waiting to be played.
There’s plenty of advice online about buying a piano; so much so, in fact, that it all
may seem overwhelming. So, we’ve distilled it into just FIVE key points, based on our
long-term experience and knowledge.
1 Set a Budget – We’re Happy to Help
Generally, you will get what you pay for in terms of quality and sound.
How much are you willing to spend?
Or rather, what’s your limit? If you’re not sure, get in touch.
We’re happy to offer you guidance and manage your expectations. There are several
wonderful second-hand pianos that won’t be too expensive. Brighton Piano
Warehouse sells an extensive range of new and second-hand pianos, and as a family
business established over 50 years ago, we have the expertise you need.
2 Try Them Out
As you would expect, you’ll need to try out a number of instruments to find out which
offers the best tone and touch.
At our warehouse on Bonchurch Road in Brighton there will be plenty of time for you
to do this.
It may seem obvious, but it really is the best way to find your perfect piano. In our
view, selecting a piano is about connection. This is different for everyone and, most
likely, you’ll find The One after a few try-outs. It will simply sound and feel right to
you. When you compare them you’ll notice how distinct they are. Different brands
have different characters: fresh and light, richer, deeper – and so on.
Also, its appearance may be a good indicator of how it’s been cared for – or in this
case neglected – throughout its lifetime.
However, when it comes to pianos, age is just a number. However old they are, a
piano won’t stand the test of time if it’s kept in unsuitable conditions. We can’t state
with certainty how long a piano will last – not least when you bear in mind that we
have a Steinway that’s over 100 years old.
3 Consider Your Peace of Mind
You deserve to know what you are paying for and you want your future piano to keep
its promises.
In other words, you need to have the reassurance of knowing that the instrument will
have been thoroughly checked and tuned up to concert pitch before you buy it. For
example, we will always inspect its structural integrity, soundboard and ribs, bridges,
and pedals.
You will see and hear that all the keys play smoothly and that nothing “sticks”.
Tuning is important. Most pianos need turning at least once a year. However, this
could vary, depending on the environment in which they’re kept, as well as its age
and condition.
4 Check That There’s a Warranty
An extension of the above point, this concerns professionalism and authenticity and
trust.
If you buy from an established business like Brighton Piano Warehouse, a piano
warranty will be available, subject to terms and conditions. In our experience, buying
privately could turn out to be costly exercise in the long run.
5 Measure Your Space
Finally, pianos come in all shapes and sizes and it’s easy to think that your heart’s-
desire piano will “work” where you want to place it – whereas in reality, it could be
too big or simply the wrong shape for your space.
Do remember to measure your chosen area at home and bring this information along
when you come along to the Brighton Piano Warehouse.
Do get in touch if you’d like more information. Your journey to music and joy awaits
you.
