How to Evaluate a Used Piano
Purchasing a used piano can be a fantastic way to bring music into your home without breaking the bank—but knowing what to look for is essential to avoid costly surprises. From inspecting the soundboard for cracks to testing the action mechanism's responsiveness, a thorough evaluation can ensure you’re making a sound investment.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key steps to assess a piano’s exterior, internal components, and overall playability. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned pianist, these tips will help you identify a quality instrument that fits your needs. Let’s dive into the details and make your piano-buying experience as harmonious as the music you’ll create!
Buying a used piano can be a great way to get a quality instrument at a reasonable price—but it’s essential to evaluate it thoroughly to avoid costly surprises. Here’s a step-by-step guide to assessing a piano’s condition before making your decision.
1. Examine the Piano’s Exterior
Start by checking for structural and cosmetic issues:
Frame & Cabinet: Look for loose glue joints, cracks, or warping in the cabinet or back frame. On uprights, ensure the pinblock isn’t being pulled forward.
Legs & Casters: Ensure grand piano legs aren’t wobbly and all casters are secure.
Finish: Decide if the current finish is acceptable or if it will require refinishing. Repairing extensive veneer or cabinet damage can be costly.
2. Inspect the Inside Components
The internal parts of a piano are crucial for sound quality and functionality:
Plate & Soundboard: Check for cracks in the plate and large cracks or buckling in the soundboard. Minor soundboard cracks are acceptable, but unglued ribs or severe damage indicate costly repairs.
Bridges & Strings: Look for cracks in the bridges and ensure the strings are free of rust. Tarnish is okay, but rust could mean restringing is necessary. Check for adequate string tension and downbearing (the pressure of strings on the bridges).
Pinblock: Ensure the tuning pins are tight. Loose pins may indicate the need for a new pinblock or restringing with larger pins. Avoid pianos with pinblocks that have been poorly repaired or overly treated with pin tightener.
3. Assess the Keyboard & Action
The piano’s keys and action parts determine how well it plays:
Keys: Check for warped, discolored, or uneven keytops. Test each key for consistent movement.
Hammers: Examine the felt on the hammers for deep grooves or signs of improper reshaping.
Bushings & Straps: Worn bushings and broken bridle straps are common in old pianos but are relatively easy to fix.
Playability: Play every key softly and loudly to test for buzzing, clicking, or mechanical noise. Misaligned hammers or noisy action parts could indicate extensive wear.
4. Look for Signs of Past Damage
Water Damage: Red streaks on felts or rusted metal parts suggest moisture exposure, which can lead to long-term problems.
Repairs: Evaluate the quality of previous repairs, such as reshaped hammers or replaced keytops. Poor workmanship can diminish the piano’s value.
5. When to Walk Away
Avoid pianos with:
A broken plate or unglued frame.
Extensive soundboard or bridge damage.
Rusty strings and tuning pins.
Worn-out or damaged action parts that would require significant repairs.
Final Thoughts
If you’re unsure about the condition of a piano, consult a professional technician to assess it. While some repairs are worth the investment for a high-quality piano, others may not be practical. With careful inspection, you can find a used piano that meets your needs and provides years of enjoyment.
If you’re in the Rochester, NY, area and need expert advice or professional piano tuning services, feel free to reach out to Genesee Piano Tuning. Whether it’s evaluating a used piano or ensuring your current one is in top condition, I’m here to help.