Boston UP-118S purchase

[andrewh973]

Hello all,

After looking at other upright pianos in the similar price point, I'm considering a Boston UP-118S for my daughter, who will be starting lessons this fall. She'll be learning the classical repertoire. It's got a fuller, warmer sound, for it's size, compared to others in that category.

Any personal comments, reviews, experiences regarding the Boston 118S would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks much.

Andrew

[stevehopwood]

I love the Boston pianos I have played. They have a lovely mellow tone and seem to me to be great value for money.

In the last ten years, three of my students have bought them. Two bought nearly 6 foot (5' 10'' I think) grands; one bought the top of the range upright.

All three have worn brilliantly and continue to give lasting pleasure.

To my mind, in this price range there is only Yamaha to consider as a rival. Here is where you might like to stop and think.

Boston pianos have not been around for long. Yamahas have. My own Yamaha 6' grand continues to give brilliant service 25 years after I bought it brand new. In this time, I have taught on it 3-6 hours a day and prepared all my recitals\concertos on it. 18 months ago, I had the hammer heads replaced - at £250.00 the biggest maintenance expense in all that time and all that work.

So, if I were buying one of these mid-price pianos now, which would I choose?

Not certain. I love the mellow tone of the Boston. I also love the brighter tone of the Yamaha. I know Yamaha's will last for ever.

So, given my experience, probably the Yamaha.

I bet that doesn't help you one jot, does it  . Sorry 

If you really like the Boston then buy it. Your daughter is unlikely to expose it to the sort of treatment my piano receives.

Steve 

[tosca1]

I am not familiar with the Boston UP-188S piano, but I did buy a new Boston GP178 about 8 years ago. I am delighted with my Boston piano and while I concede that it is not in the same class as the best European pianos, it is often by described by musically discerning friends as a "lovely" piano.  I would describe the Boston sound as generally warmer and more mellow than that of Yamaha. After 8 years, my Boston piano's sound has developed and improved with moderate use.  The Boston piano is excellent value for its competitive price and I have no hesitation in recommending this make.

Kind regards,

Robert.