Yamaha C2 grand piano

[pianist1095]

Hello,

I am a piano performance major looking for a quality but reasonably priced grand piano for daily practice to upgrade from my Kawai console piano. I found a Yamaha C2 for $6000, but I was wondering if this piano would be a good choice. I was also looking at a Kawai RX-2. Does anyone have any experience with either of these pianos or any suggestions for other pianos to look at? Ideally, I would like to find a Mason and Hamlin, but the ones I have looked at have been pretty expensive except for a few on Craigslist. I'm trying to stay under $10K for my budget if possible. Thanks in advance!

[derschoenebahnhof]

Hello,

I am a piano performance major looking for a quality but reasonably priced grand piano for daily practice to upgrade from my Kawai console piano. I found a Yamaha C2 for $6000, but I was wondering if this piano would be a good choice. I was also looking at a Kawai RX-2. Does anyone have any experience with either of these pianos or any suggestions for other pianos to look at? Ideally, I would like to find a Mason and Hamlin, but the ones I have looked at have been pretty expensive except for a few on Craigslist. I'm trying to stay under $10K for my budget if possible. Thanks in advance!

I bought a new C2X (the revised version of the C2, with a bit more modern design) 2 years ago. At first I was frustrated with how bright it was but found local piano technician who removed the harshness and softened the tone in a matter of minutes (he did this by fluffing the tip of the hammers). This kind of light voicing does not last forever, so he does this after every tuning.

Either way, I would say both are fine instruments. Yamaha tends to be on the brighter side and Kawai (I played a few RX-2 in showrooms before buying) has a warmer, mellower sound. I like the Yamaha action, very precise and on the lighter side. I can't comment on the Kawai action, but heard they started to use ABS plastic in some parts (supposedly plastic is sturdier and does not expand/contract with moisture level like wood does). The RX-2 is slightly longer (5'10" versus 5'8" for the C2).

Best,
CG