Advice about baby grand pianos

[jameskinnear1]

Hi there,

I'm looking in to buying a Yamaha GB1 baby grand piano. Space is a bit limited in my house and this looks like a really nice piano, so this seems like a good option.

However I also came across another piano which is slightly smaller and cheaper in price: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/290472496508?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649

Can anyone suggest how the two compare, and whether there's any major difference to the GB1 for a casual piano player?

[jameskinnear1]

Also if anyone can recommend any alternatives to both those pianos I'd be open to other options!

[iansinclair]

Unfortunately you e-bay link doesn't tell me much about the instrument -- other than that it is a piano.

I think that most folks here would agree that a piano is a significant purchase, and that the only way to really judge whether it is suitable for you is to try the piano you have in mind.  In the less expensive pianos, which are largely machine made, it is probably sufficient to try the same make and model.  In the more expensive pianos -- which are not what you are looking for! -- it is mandatory to try the specific instrument you are purchasing.

All that said, the Yamaha is a decent little piano.  There are other makers, such as Kawai, who also turn out decent little pianos.

I would recommend that you not shop exclusively on price, though.  A piano is a significant investment, and should be considered carefully.  Least expensive is not always the best way to go.

[quantum]

If you can tell us more about the person playing it, the music that will be played, or any specific requirements you have we may be able to give a more detailed response. 

Is there a budget you need to stick to?  Are there space restrictions?  Does it necessarily need to be a grand?  Are you a music student?  Is it for your child?  Would you be willing to sacrifice the space of a sofa or a table in order to have a better piano?

[jameskinnear1]

Thanks both for your replies. My rough budget is under £10,000 as it'll be for myself and I'm really just a casual player, but I think you're right about not basing the choice on price. My living space is open plan so I can jig furniture etc around a bit, but space is limited which is why I'd like to go for the smallest possible. I like the look of baby grands so am looking at these rather than upright ones, which wouldn't really fit in to my room very easily! The Yamaha GB1-K seems to be a good option having looked around a little more. Would you guys recommend this?