Piano rating guide might be useful tool!

[flyinfingers]

I found this guide on the internet and I found it very useful and informative and referred to it before purchasing my piano (Knabe).  Although it's one person's opinion, it seemed as though she has quite a bit of knowledge.  I think you'll find it an interesting read.
https://www.marthabeth.com/piano_brands.html

[pianoplayjl]

Thx flyin fingers! this has certainly increased my knowledge of grand pianos. Hope to post more useful stuff in the Instruments board. Thx again. 

[hbofinger]

Larry Fine takes this much further in his book.

However, I flew through her list, and was pleasantly surprised in that we agreed on the pianos I most think of. She knocked some brands that should be knocked (but can't be unless you are willing to take the wrath of god!, so there she is gusty and outspoken), and liked the same I do.

[b_nghiem]

This was a very intriguing article - I have a Kawai and am very happy, although I find that there are certain touches that this piano just can't provide as well as...
well, the likes of Bosendorfers or Steinways.
I've played on both of them and personally I prefer the richer and deeper, well-rounded sound that you can very easily get from the Bosendorfer - plus you get extra keys! Just a wonderful pool of dark chocolate

One day I shall have my $186 000 Model 290 Imperial...

[dedilya]

I like this article – it is a good beginning for looking for the instrument. Larry Fine book is invaluable when you are close to the final selection.

My 2 cents are about the size. I have Boston GP 163 and I love it. The only piano I would change it is approximately 7 feet one, which could be Shigeru, Mason/Hamlin, Charles Walter, or Boston - a good brand piano with mellow tone. Speaking length of base strings makes a difference.

[flyinfingers]

Sounds like you're sold on a new instrument in the future?  Would you consider a rebuilt piano?  I just got my 1901 rebuilt/restored Knabe today and I can't imagine anything sounding better nor do I want to. Clint used the finest parts from Germany.   I was a little hesitant to get a 6'2", but I'm no concert pianist and the space would have fit more.  It does sound awesome and my husband couldn't believe it.  He was thinking the digital was just great!  He was blown away by the sound.   It is certainly more than I could have asked for or every thought.  I didn't even consider a new piano after my research.  My hand-rubbed mahogany is beautiful!  What do you get today?  Well...
My guy Clint was amazing.  He delivered my piano today and he has so much love for what he does.  Treated our home with such respect and my doggie too.  I wanted the guy to eat my spaghetti and meataballa, but he insisted on having to hit the road home, and, as an Italian, I was, of course, offended slightly.  
I couldn't be happier with the price, quality, service, etc.  It speaks volumes to his character.
He is an awesome guy!  Believe me, I was the project mgr. (unpaid babysitter) on our custom home and I can count on two fingers the people I can say that about  -- yes, the two that I hired and not my builder.    I wish every subcontractor had the honor, integrity and love for what they do as Clint.
www.grandamericanpiano.com
Pianoplayr, don't see the need to post anymore stuff, nor do I have anymore knowledge in my arsenal.  Glad you liked it so far.  
Clint is your guy, believe me.  You will pay an arm and a leg more for the same quality on the East Coast.  Go to that Lindeland site or whatever it is and see.
Shipping is nothing compared to those costs over there.  I checked it out.  
Now, if you want to know about building a home...I have quite a few answers and opinons on that subject!  Put up a thread and I'll answer questions.  
Oh, My husband asked if I could control the volume on that Knabe piano!  HA!  LMAO!  

[ahennon]

Hi
Thank you for this - it is really interesting and useful. However, I am looking for information on a specific piano. Has anyone ever heard of Steinhoven? I want to buy a piano for my grand daughters who are about to start playing, and the dealer I spoke to only recommended this. Have never heard of this brand and can't find any independent evaluations on the net.

[dedilya]

This what I found: https://www.steinhoven.ie/index.html
But it is not clear who does it. Based on the price - China...
I would better go with used Kawai RX or Yamaha C, or Boston. They will work for you for a long time

[pianoplayjl]

I prefer European made pianos and brands.

[dedilya]

then try Petrof or Estonia, they are both good

[pianoplayjl]

Thanx for the suggestion but I really only have a Yamaha which is Ok and Japanese. If I had a lot more money at my disposal then of course I would purchase a European made piano, perhaps even an upright Steinway which might seem weird because most poeple play on a grand Steinway.

JL