Top 5 Piano Buying Tips
The piano was invented in Padua, Italy around 1700s by Bartolomeo di Francesco Cristofori. The invention was born out of the idea that a taut string can produce sound when vibrated and boxes could be used to augment the sound. The classical concert piano has come a long way, thanks to advances in technology that has seen the invention of digital pianos and other modern musical instruments. Pianos come in different sizes, design and features. The three main types of Piano are Upright, Grand and Electronic piano. Grand piano or horizontal piano is the largest and most expensive type of piano. The popularity of this piano stems from several factors, including its aesthetic and psychological appeal as well as the high sound quality.
The Grand piano features dampers, wooden made form holders and keys made of wood or ivory. Its soundboard is usually encased in an open platform that lifts upwards. The baby Grand piano is a smaller version of Grand piano. This piano uses an 88-key set and comes with a much smaller soundboard. The Upright piano is the most commonly used piano.
This piano is widely used because it is less expensive, comes in a compact shape and produces more measured sound. In terms of design, the strings and dampers on Upright piano typically stretch downwards while the soundboard lies in a vertical direction. The soundboard support base is normally visible on the back area. The main differences between the upright and grand piano lies in the design and construction material.
The other components of the Grand and Upright piano such as the keyboard are pretty much the same. The Electric piano, on the other hand, is a much preferred option for beginners and mobile music troupes. This piano is much more affordable compared to the Grand and Upright pianos. Electric piano features different sounds and settings, in addition to special constructs such as the headphone that allow the user to operate the instrument silently.
The downside of electric piano is the suspect sound quality and often cumbersome power supply. Purchasing a piano for the family can be one of the greatest decisions you will ever make because it will create an opportunity to stimulate your intellectual senses and bring utmost enjoyment at home.
Below are top 5 tips to consider when buying a piano:
Making the initial consideration
There are several considerations to decipher when purchasing a new piano; these include the instrument’s proficiency level, cost, space, brand and design of the piano. Purchasing a higher piano quality, even if it is slightly expensive is always a prudent investment decision because a well-maintained, top quality piano can last up to 40 years. With regards to space, a standard Upright piano measures about 5ft wide x 5ft deep (including the sitting area).
Grand pianos, on the other hand, require a larger space because a standard instrument measures about 5ft x 7ft wide. The decision to purchase an Upright or Grand piano is largely determined by factors such as individual preference, space, cost and level of proficiency. When it comes to cost, always go for the longest Grand piano or tallest upright piano that you can find, because pianos with long strings produce the best tones.
In addition, you can also choose whether to go for a new or used piano. There are numerous risks in buying a used piano. For starters, you must make sure all the keys and critical components are operational. A cheap or free piano can end up being expensive and undesirable afterwards because of the time and cost it will take to repair or rebuild the instrument.
Shopping around town and online
When shopping around for a piano in Atlanta, it is important to take your time to check out a number of pianos sold in reputable piano shops in the city or online before making the final decision. The next step is to narrow down your search to two or three pianos based on the tone, cost and level of appeal.
If the store is offering discounts, go ahead and negotiate the price. Before making the final purchase, ask the dealer if the instrument comes with a warranty that covers parts and labor. If the warranty is transferable, your piano’s resale value will remain high in case you decide to sell it.
Check your room’s acoustic setting
One of the most important factors to consider before buying a piano is the significance of your room acoustics. This is an important factor because the location and setting you choose to have your piano should complement its tone. Some of the factors that can influence the acoustics include the size of the room, curtains and type of flooring.
For instance, a Grand piano with bright tones will require a medium to large open space and carpeted or tiled floor that compliment the instrument in order to bring out the most desirable view. Whatever location you choose for your piano, make sure the instrument is placed a safe distance from sources of heat and cold such as the air conditioner, fire pit and direct sunlight.
Get a piano technician to help you
Always choose an instrument that will fit your musical needs. If you are not well-versed with the intrigues of piano buying, it is important to seek the services of an experienced piano technician to help you chose, analyze and move the piano. During the examination stage, the technician might be able to spot underlying problems and advice you accordingly. Although seeking professional assistance might be expensive, if you really value your purchase, then this is a good bet to try.
Look for a professional piano transportation service
Due to the delicate nature of moving big pianos, ask whether your piano dealer has a professional moving service or arrangement. If the service is unavailable at the store, look around for a professional piano mover who will help you transport the instrument safely to its rightful location inside your home.