Purchasing a used 1998 Estonia 168 piano - any advice?

[classicalmix]

HI there-
I'm new to the pianoforum - but I've learned a great deal already just by reading through posts! I'm wondering if anyone can help me with some advice-
I've recently "discovered" Estonia pianos and am intrigued after playing some at a local music store.
I recently found a private seller who is selling a 1998 Estonia 168 (5'6") piano (high gloss black) for $13,000-

I haven't played this particular one yet- but I'm going to try it out soon-
The owner of the piano is the original owner- and says it is in great shape.

About me: I play mostly classical and new age music, and the piano would also be used for recording.

I've been reading about the history of Estonia- and so the one issue I can think of right now (without playing the piano yet, of course) is the year 1998-
As I've learned that these pianos have come a long way since the early 90's- and I read that even some of them in the 90's were "plagued with manufacturing defects" and that it wasn't until 2003 that they REALLY started improving in quality and craftsmanship. So I'm just wondering if anyone out there is familiar with a late 90's model and can tell me anything about the quality of the pianos manufactured during that time.

(Of course I will have a technician come and inspect it and give me his / her blessing after I try it out- before making my decision but I was just curious to know what you think on the forum.)

Any advice or opinions are greatly appreciated! Thanks :-)

[silverwoodpianos]

The technician that you hire will answer all of these questions for you. There is no dispute that the quality increased when Dr. Laul took over the company.

[oxy60]

The technician that you hire will answer all of these questions for you. There is no dispute that the quality increased when Dr. Laul took over the company.

sorry off topic but Dan, there are typos in you signature quote...

[classicalmix]

OK thanks Dan!

[silverwoodpianos]

sorry off topic but Dan, there are typos in you signature quote...

Fixed this morning with thanks.