Buying a piano can be a significant expense; that’s why many beginners choose to rent, or look into buying a used instrument. While there are many used pianos for sale out there, it’s important to know what to look for before you buy. In this article, we cover our tips on purchasing a used piano for your family or household.
First, Consider a Dealer
While you may be able to find a used piano for less by buying from an individual, you may want to consider purchasing your used instrument from a dealer instead. This is because most dealers recondition the instrument before selling, ensuring that the piano is in the best condition it can be. A professional is also better equipped to spot things an amateur may miss, such as a cracked soundboard. Dealers usually also offer additional maintenance services or complementary tuning that will cost you extra if you buy from an individual seller.
Know What to Look For
Pianos that are being sold online or by individuals may be neglected instruments, and may need a great deal of maintenance. If you do opt to buy from an individual on your own, it is important to know what to look for to ensure that you are getting a good instrument:
- How often has maintenance been performed and who performed it? It is important that tuning and other maintenance has been performed regularly, and by a professional. Even small errors can lead to major internal damage.
- Does it sound good? Not every instrument will have the sound you’re looking for. Carefully play it and be sure the piano’s voice is in tune with your tastes. Additionally, there should be no buzzes or rattles.
- Does it feel good? Test each key and make sure it responds readily. There should be no stickiness or squishy feeling keys.
- Are the strings in good shape? Take a look under the hood of the piano and check the strings. It’s normal for a bit of rust around the tuning pin, but it shouldn’t appear “furry.” There also shouldn’t be any missing or broken strings.
- Are the hammers in good shape? The piano hammer faces shouldn’t be deeply grooved.
Even after carefully checking all of the above, it is a good idea to have a professional give the instrument a thorough once-over before you buy, as they may catch something you missed. Any seller who is reluctant to allow this is probably trying to pull one over on you, and it’s best to move on to another instrument.