Limited baby grand budget - advice appreciated

[eternaloptimist]

Unfortunately the budget for a new baby grand is tight...
Does anyone have an opinion on a Kawai GE 20 versus a Yamaha GC1? I can get either for approx. (Australian)$15,000 which is about my limit.
If I had the money I would be naturally looking at more expensive instruments...
Any other options to consider?
Any advice much appreciated.
Dave

[donjuan]

I hope you know the Yamaha GC1 doesnt have a full sostenuto, but merely a bass sustain.  Consider the Yamaha C1 instead and ask yourself if it is worth the extra 1000 dollars or so.  I believe it is.. The C1 is quite acceptable, whereas the GC1 feels cheap because it is.

I wont say anything about Kawai because I hate them so much and get very angry on the subject.  also, I dont want my bad experiences with them to impact your choice...Happy choosing.

You could look at korean made pianos like Young Chang, Kohler and Campbell, etc. but choose carefully because that country produces large outputs of garbage.  But every now and then you will see a diamond in the rough and it will be worth buying.  For example , the best piano I have ever played is a 6'0'' Knabe made in Korea and it sang like an angel.  Unfortunately, it was a little too far above my price range..
donjuan

[eternaloptimist]

Thanks for the info.. I wasnt aware of the no sostenuto problem   
Hmmmm....

[eternaloptimist]

I have been playing a lot of pianos in the last few weeks.
I took your advice donjuan.... I have just bought a Yamaha C1!!! I know this may sound very entry level with all the discussion re: Schimmels etc., but this is still the best sounding piano I have ever owned and will be fine for now. In 5 or 10 years.....
Am very happy today. 

[donjuan]

Good for you Dave!!!
You made a wise decision - the C1 will keep you satisfied for so much longer than the gc1.  I wish you nothing but the best! 
donjuan

[Axtremus]

Congratulations on the new piano!