How to Assess Piano Value by Brand – What’s a Piano Worth?

Discover how to assess piano value by brand

If you’re curious about learning how to gauge piano value by brand, then this article is for you.  Today, we’ll examine various pianos (from different manufacturers) on the market and try to explain why some pianos and brands seem to be worth more to consumers than others.

Estimating Piano Value by Brand

Let’s begin by showcasing a few pianos available on the marketplace by some notable brands.

1) 2015 Steinway Model M

This 2015 Steinway Model M grand piano is a stunning instrument that boasts the timeless quality and rich tone that Steinway is renowned for. Measuring just under 5′ 7″ in length, this piano is ideal for smaller music spaces and still delivers the hand-crafted excellence that Steinway is famous for. With a serial number of 602660 and a Macassar Ebony finish, this piano is a beautiful addition to any music space.

This pre-owned 2015 Steinway Model M has been thoroughly inspected to ensure that it has been properly maintained and cared for, ensuring that it will provide years of musical enjoyment. It comes with a 1-year warranty, offering peace of mind to buyers. Whether you’re a seasoned pianist or just a music lover, this beautiful grand piano is a fantastic investment that will bring you years of musical enjoyment.

Below, check out video of what a different Steinway Model M sounds like:

2) Yamaha U3 Professional Upright Piano

The Yamaha U3 Professional Upright Piano is a used instrument that offers exceptional sound and performance. This piano features a 52″ Black Polish Finish that adds a touch of sophistication to any music space. The sleek and glossy finish not only looks great, but it also enhances the projection of the piano, making it a great choice for concerts and performances. The responsive key action adds to the overall playability of the instrument, making it a joy to play.

This Yamaha U3 Piano is available for $3,280.00 and comes with a 5-year warranty from Jim Laabs Music. Additionally, it is eligible for free delivery within 100 miles, making it a fantastic investment for any music lover. 

The rich and powerful sound of this upright piano is sure to captivate audiences, and its responsive key action ensures a smooth and effortless playing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pianist or just starting out, this Yamaha Upright Piano is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their musical abilities.

3) Used Bösendorfer 170

The Used Bosendorfer 170 Grand Piano is a stunning instrument from the renowned Austrian manufacturer, Bosendorfer. Known for its fast action, rich bass, and clear treble, this grand piano is sure to captivate audiences with its beautiful sound. The Ebony Polish Finish adds a touch of elegance to any music space and the high gloss level gives it a sleek and sophisticated appearance.

This Used Bosendorfer 170 Grand Piano is available for $29,500.00 and comes with a valid warranty. Measuring 102″ in height, 151″ in width, and 170″ in length, this grand piano is a beautiful addition to any music space. With 88 keys and 3 pedals, this piano is a versatile instrument that is sure to meet the needs of any pianist. The Bosendorfer Model 200 Grand Piano is made in Vienna, Austria, and is available through Jim Laabs Music Store located in Stevens Point, United States.

Below, check out a demo of a different Bosendorfer 170 grand piano if you’re curious to hear what it sounds like:

4) Kawai K500

The Kawai K500 51″ Professional Upright Piano is a powerful and versatile instrument that is perfect for any studio environment. With its tall 51″ height, newly-designed scale, and polished ebony finish, this piano offers a rare combination of power, dynamic range, and tonal richness, as well as a touch of sophistication to any music space. The responsive and dynamic key action allows for a smooth and effortless playing experience, while the rich and full sound captivates audiences with its powerful bass and clear treble.

This beautiful and powerful instrument is available for $16,095 and is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their musical abilities. So, if you’re interested in purchasing the Kawai K500 51″ Professional Upright Piano, reach out to Kawai for more detailed information.

5) Bechstein Grand Piano

The Bechstein Grand Piano is a hand-made instrument from Germany, dating back to 1895. It has been completely rebuilt and refinished to a beautiful ebony satin finish with polished ivory key tops is known for its exceptional playing pleasure and ideal everyday companion for pros and advanced amateurs. With its unrestricted playing pleasure, this parlor grand piano is suitable for recitals and is frequently found in conservatories and private music rooms.

The soundboard of the C. Bechstein grand piano reacts like a vibrating acoustic membrane, transforming the tones into long-lasting pleasures. The pin block’s nine layers of high-quality wood ensure extra-precise regulations of the tuning pins and long-lasting tuning. 

This beautiful instrument is available for $38,616.98 and is offered by Angela Harmon (Northwest Pianos) in Bellevue, United States. Whether you’re a seasoned pianist or just starting out, the Bechstein Grand Piano is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their musical abilities.

6) 1994 Baldwin Model C

The Baldwin Model C #325497 is a grand piano built by the highly respected Baldwin Piano & Organ Company. Founded in 1862, Baldwin has long been one of the most respected names within the piano industry, known for its quality craftsmanship and exceptional sound. This particular piano was built in 1994 here in the United States and has been expertly refurbished to bring out its best features.

The piano features a new custom-fitted pinblock, new strings, and a fully regulated and voiced action. The polished ebony cabinet is in excellent condition, adding to the overall beauty and sophistication of the instrument. Whether you’re a seasoned pianist or just starting out, the Baldwin Model C Grand Piano is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their musical abilities. With its expert refurbishment and attention to detail, this piano is sure to provide years of musical enjoyment.

Below, check out what a different Baldwin Model C sounds like by watching this video:

Assessing Piano Brands and Their Value

Let’s begin by discussing Steinway and Sons more in depth, so we can better understand their value.

Steinway & Sons

Steinway & Sons is a world-renowned piano brand that has been producing premium-quality pianos since its founding in 1853. The brand is synonymous with quality, craftsmanship, and musical excellence, and is known for producing some of the finest pianos in the world. Steinway pianos are prized by musicians, music educators, and music lovers alike for their exceptional sound quality, touch, and longevity.

History and Reputation

The history of Steinway & Sons is one of innovation, perseverance, and dedication to excellence. From its founding in New York City in 1853, the brand has established a reputation for producing pianos of the highest quality and has become one of the most respected names in the music industry. Steinway pianos have been played by some of the world’s greatest musicians, and have been featured in some of the world’s most prestigious venues.

Founding of Steinway & Sons

Steinway & Sons was founded by German immigrant Henry E. Steinway in 1853. With a passion for music and a commitment to craftsmanship, Steinway worked tirelessly to create the finest pianos in the world. His innovations and attention to detail helped to establish Steinway & Sons as a premium piano brand, and his legacy continues to influence the brand’s commitment to quality and excellence.

The Reputation of Steinway & Sons

Steinway & Sons have a well-deserved reputation as a premium piano brand, and its pianos are considered by many to be the finest in the world. The brand’s commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail has earned it a loyal following among musicians, music educators, and music lovers, and its pianos are prized for their exceptional sound quality, touch, and longevity.

Examples of Steinway Pianos and Their Values

Steinway offers a range of premium-quality pianos, each with its own unique sound and style. Some of the most popular Steinway models include the Model D Grand Piano, the Model B Grand Piano, and the Model O Upright Piano. The value of a Steinway piano can vary based on its age, condition, and rarity, but they are generally considered to be among the finest pianos available and are highly sought after by musicians, music educators, and music lovers.

Steinway Model D Grand Piano

The Steinway Model D Grand Piano is one of the most iconic and recognizable pianos in the world. With its powerful sound and elegant design, the Model D has been a favorite of musicians and music lovers for generations. The Model D is considered to be one of the finest concert grands available, and its value can range from $150,000 to over $200,000.

Steinway Model B Grand Piano

The Steinway Model B Grand Piano is a smaller grand piano that is ideal for smaller spaces, but it still boasts the power and musicality of its larger siblings. The Model B is prized for its rich, full sound and its exceptional touch, and is a popular choice for musicians and music lovers alike. The value of a Model B can range from $100,000 to $150,000.

Steinway Model O Upright Piano

The Steinway Model O Upright Piano is a premium-quality instrument that boasts the rich, full sound of a grand piano in a compact and space-saving design. Its exceptional touch and musicality have made it a popular choice among musicians and music lovers. The value of a Steinway Model O is determined by various factors including its age, rarity, and condition, with prices ranging anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000 or more. 

Yamaha

What is the value of a Yamaha piano?

Yamaha is a leading manufacturer of musical instruments, including pianos, that has been in business for over a century. The company was founded in Japan in 1887 and has since become a global leader in the music industry, known for producing high-quality, innovative instruments that meet the needs of musicians and music lovers of all levels.

History and Reputation

Yamaha has a rich history of innovation and commitment to quality that has helped to establish its reputation as a leading piano brand. From its early beginnings as a maker of reed organs, Yamaha has grown and evolved over the years, continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the world of music. Today, Yamaha pianos are widely recognized as some of the best instruments on the market, offering a combination of beauty, sound quality, and playability that is unmatched by any other brand.

Founding of Yamaha Corporation

Yamaha Corporation was founded in Japan in 1887 by Torakusu Yamaha, who was determined to bring Western-style musical instruments to Japan. Over the years, Yamaha has continued to expand its product line and has become one of the world’s largest manufacturers of musical instruments, with a reputation for producing high-quality, innovative products that meet the needs of musicians and music lovers around the world.

Reputation of Yamaha

Yamaha has built a reputation as a leading piano brand by producing instruments that are known for their high-quality sound, exceptional playability, and beautiful design. Yamaha pianos are widely recognized as some of the best instruments on the market, offering a level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that sets them apart from other brands. 

Whether you are a professional musician, a passionate hobbyist, or simply looking for a beautiful addition to your home, Yamaha pianos are a smart choice that will bring you years of enjoyment.

Examples of Yamaha Pianos and Their Values

Yamaha offers a wide range of pianos, each designed to meet the needs of a different type of player. Some of the most popular Yamaha pianos include:

Yamaha CFX Concert Grand Piano

The Yamaha CFX Concert Grand Piano is a top-of-the-line instrument that offers the sound quality and performance of a grand piano in a compact, portable package. This piano is prized for its rich, full sound, its exceptional touch, and its beautiful design, making it a popular choice for musicians and music lovers alike. With a price ranging from $30,000 to $50,000, the Yamaha CFX Concert Grand Piano is an investment in musical excellence that is sure to bring you years of enjoyment.

Yamaha U1 Upright Piano

The Yamaha U1 Upright Piano is a classic instrument that offers the sound quality and playability of a grand piano in a compact, space-saving package. This piano is prized for its rich, full sound, its exceptional touch, and its beautiful design, making it a popular choice for musicians and music lovers alike. With a price ranging from $5,000 to $10,000, the Yamaha U1 Upright Piano is a great value for those looking for a high-quality piano that is both affordable and reliable.

Yamaha Arius YDP-S34

The Yamaha Arius YDP-S34 is a high-quality digital piano that offers the sound and feel of an acoustic piano in a compact, space-saving package. This piano is prized for its exceptional sound quality, its responsive touch, and its beautiful design, making it a popular choice for musicians and music lovers alike. 

With a price ranging from $1,000 to $3,000, the Yamaha YDP-S34 is a great choice for those looking for an affordable and convenient option for their musical needs.

With that said, there is also the Yamaha YDP-S35 available, as well.  Also, if you’re interested in quality Yamaha digital pianos, check out some of my reviews below:

Bösendorfer

Bösendorfer is a premium piano brand that has been crafting high-quality pianos for over 200 years. The company has a rich history and a reputation for producing some of the finest pianos in the world. From its founding to its current status as a leading piano brand, Bösendorfer has continued to set the standard for excellence in piano making.

History and Reputation

Bösendorfer was founded in Vienna, Austria in 1828 by Ignaz Bösendorfer. The company quickly established a reputation for producing high-quality pianos that were known for their rich, warm tone and exceptional craftsmanship. Over the years, Bösendorfer has continued to innovate and evolve, and today the brand is known for its exceptional quality and attention to detail.

Founding of Bösendorfer

Ignaz Bösendorfer founded the company in 1828 with a passion for piano making and a commitment to producing the finest instruments possible. With a focus on craftsmanship and attention to detail, Bösendorfer quickly established a reputation for producing exceptional pianos that were highly prized by musicians and music lovers alike.

Bösendorfer Reputation

Today, Bösendorfer is widely regarded as one of the finest piano brands in the world, with a reputation for producing high-quality instruments that are unmatched in terms of sound, craftsmanship, and playability. Whether you’re a professional musician or simply a music lover, a Bösendorfer piano is sure to provide you with years of enjoyment and musical fulfillment.

Examples of Bösendorfer Piano Value

Bösendorfer offers a wide range of pianos, each with its own unique character and sound. Some of the most popular Bösendorfer pianos include the Imperial Grand Piano, the 140 Upright Piano, and the Model 225 Digital Piano. These pianos are known for their exceptional quality and value, and they are highly prized by musicians and music lovers alike.

Bösendorfer Imperial Grand Piano

The Bösendorfer Imperial Grand Piano is one of the company’s most prestigious models, and it is known for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. The average price for a Bösendorfer Imperial Grand Piano is around $100,000 to $200,000, although the exact price can vary depending on the specific model and the individual seller.

Bösendorfer 140 Upright Piano

The Bösendorfer 140 Upright Piano is a more affordable option compared to the Imperial Grand Piano, but it still offers the same rich, warm tone and exceptional playability that Bösendorfer is known for. The average price for a Bösendorfer 140 Upright Piano is around $15,000 to $35,000, although the exact price can vary depending on the specific model and the individual seller.

Bösendorfer Model 225 Digital Piano

The Bösendorfer Model 225 Digital Piano is a relatively new product from the company, and it offers the convenience and versatility of a digital instrument without sacrificing the quality and sound of a traditional piano. The average price for a Bösendorfer Model 225 Digital Piano is around $5,000 to $10,000, although the exact price can vary depending on the specific model and the individual seller.

Other Prominent Piano Brands and Their Values

There are many other prominent piano brands that are known for their quality and value. Some of the most well-known piano brands include Kawai, Bechstein, and Baldwin. These brands are known for producing high-quality pianos that are prized by musicians and music lovers alike.

Kawai

Kawai is a Japanese piano brand that is known for its commitment to quality and innovation in piano making. The brand is known for producing high-quality pianos that are prized by musicians and music lovers alike, and it has a reputation for innovation and excellence in the piano industry. The average price for a Kawai piano ranges from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the specific model and the individual seller.

Bechstein

Bechstein is a German piano brand that has a long and rich history in the piano industry. The company was founded in 1853, and it has been producing high-quality pianos ever since. Bechstein pianos are known for their exceptional craftsmanship and sound quality, and they are highly prized by musicians and music lovers alike. The average price for a Bechstein piano ranges from $30,000 to $150,000, depending on the specific model and the individual seller.

Baldwin

Baldwin is an American piano brand that has been producing high-quality pianos for over 100 years. The company is known for producing a wide range of pianos, from upright and grand pianos to digital and hybrid instruments. 

Baldwin pianos are known for their exceptional sound quality and playability, and they are a popular choice among musicians and music lovers. The average price for a Baldwin piano ranges from $5,000 to $30,000, depending on the specific model and the individual seller.

Definition of Piano Value

The factors that influence piano value by brand include brand recognition and reputation, quality of materials and craftsmanship, historical significance and cultural impact, age and rarity, and condition and maintenance. Understanding these factors can help one make informed decisions when buying or selling a piano.

Cultural Impact of the Brand

The cultural impact of a piano brand can be significant, with some brands having played a major role in shaping the world of music as we know it today. Brands that have been around for many years and have produced instruments used by some of the greatest musicians in history have made a lasting impact on the cultural landscape. From classical music to jazz, these brands have helped to define and shape the musical styles of their time.

Historical Significance and Cultural Impact

The historical significance and cultural impact of a piano brand go hand in hand. Brands with a rich heritage and a long history of innovation and excellence in the industry have not only helped to shape the world of music but have also left a lasting legacy.

Whether it’s through the cultural impact of their instruments or the historical significance of their brand, these brands have left a lasting impression on the musical landscape. By preserving the legacy of these brands, we help to ensure that their cultural impact will be felt for generations to come.

Materials Used in the Construction of the Piano

The materials used in the construction of a piano play a crucial role in its sound quality, durability, and overall value. From the soundboard to the keys, every material must be carefully selected for its acoustic properties, durability, and visual appeal. Brands that use only the finest materials, such as premium-grade spruce for the soundboard, hardwoods for the frame, and ivory keys (or synthetic ivory for the keytops), are known for producing exceptional pianos.

Techniques Used in the Manufacture of the Piano

The techniques used in the manufacture of a piano can also have a significant impact on its sound quality, durability, and overall value. Brands that employ skilled craftsmen who use traditional techniques and modern technology to create their instruments are known for producing exceptional pianos.

From the hand-sculpted soundboard to the precisely machined action components, every aspect of the piano is carefully considered to ensure that it meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.

Attention to Detail in the Piano’s Design

The attention to detail in the design and craftsmanship of a piano is what sets it apart from the rest and what makes it an investment that will last for generations. Brands that are committed to producing the finest pianos pay meticulous attention to every detail, from the elegant curves of the cabinet to the precise regulation of the action.

The attention to detail in the design and craftsmanship of a piano is what makes it a work of art and what helps to ensure that it will provide musical enjoyment for years to come.

Wrapping It Up

In conclusion, it’s clear that brand plays a significant role in determining the value of a piano. From the historical significance and cultural impact of Steinway & Sons to the quality and attention to detail of Yamaha and Bosendorfer, each brand has its own unique characteristics that contribute to its worth. 

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