Hello there :-)
I haven't been playing the piano for too long, but it is going well and i know that I will continue playing for the rest of my life.
The upright piano I have now doesn't work properly, so I really need a new one.
I am just getting into the market, and wow, it's a jungle.
I want to buy a horizontal piano, and I want it to last for the rest of my life, almost no matter how good I get (I know that is pushing it, but I hope you get the idea). I only want to spend money on a new piano once, even if it is 'too good for me', compared to my current level.
I don't know if prices are the same in Europe (Denmark) and the US, but my guess would be that the US is a lot cheaper with pianos as it is with everything else. So please keep that in mind.
I have been looking at the internet a lot, for prices and stuff.
From what I gather, I can get good used pianos for about €20000 (maybe a bit more if I get tempted), which is my budget. Without having played on much yet (I am going to, right now I am trying to get an idea of what to look for), I have my eyes on some used Steinways, which are around those €20k. I haven't tried them yet, as I have to drive a bit to do that. I am planning on taking a little trip going to all the dealers I can to try stuff out.
Anyways: They are from 1962 (Model S) and 1928 (Model M), both 'totally renovated'. There are also some O's that are renovated, but no production year (I guess I can call for those).
My questions are: Are they too old? Will any of them last 80 extra years? Are they worth it (given I like the sound)?
On a more general note:
What should I be looking for in my price range (matching my criteria)? I don't mind them used.
What brands keep their value?
I have also been looking at a a brand new upright Bechstein which is about €10.4k , and i like it. Is something like that worth it? Or should I go the used Steinway way.
If I don't like the sound of Steinway, what should I be looking at? They are the easiest to find used by far.
I have also seen never Yamaha C3s in lots of price ranges, but definitely some thousands down from €20k. Do they keep value?
I can easily travel to Germany. Can any of you Germans recommend anything? What can I get for €20k there? Is it possible to find good used (small horizontal) Bösendorfers, Bechsteins etc, that are worth it?
I am sure you have guessed that I don't know much, but I am trying to learn. That's why I am asking you clever people here.
Please help. It's so appreciated.
Peter