Yamaha GC1/GC2 vs Kawaii GL30 Grand piano

[francesm]

Hi everyone:

I'm the parent to two very competent pianists who I have promised to buy a grand piano. I have a budget  up to $25000 and am in Australia. I would rather buy new than try to guess at the condition/treatment of a second hand piano. I personally prefer the feel of the Yamaha but I'm not an advanced player.

The thing is, this will be the last piano I buy in my life. If my children don't have somewhere for it, it will become mine when they leave home.

Thoughts?

[quantum]

Hi and welcome to Pianostreet.

There is no need to guess the condition of a piano, bring a piano tech to evaluate instruments you are interested in. 

A new piano is no guarantee that you will get an instrument in "perfect" condition.  It just means the piano has less history.   You will also be paying a premium for a new instrument. Pianos, new or previously owned, will still need tuning, voicing and regulation to get them to perform to your tastes.  Don't expect a new piano to immediately work to your requirements upon arrival at your home, it has to be worked on by a tech. 

Talk to your children about this.  What pianos do they like to play?  What would they like to have in a piano?  Since this will be a shared instrument, involve all parties in the discussion and search.

Play and evaluate many different pianos during your search.  That includes ones beyond your budget, as you can gain more perspective of what instruments are out there and how far your money is going while staying within budget. 

Don't count on it being your last piano.  Always leave the door open for opportunity.  You never know when an upgrade opportunity will present itself.