what is your favourite piano brand?

Answer 1

I like the Yamaha. I like the action, I like the construction (especially the higher end models) and I like the consistency. I've played the Bosendorfers, Steinways, Steinwegs, Baldwins etc. but when I see a Yamaha on stage, I pretty much know that I'm going to have a good time with it. That being said, there are Piano Brands, and there are Pianos. Each Piano has an individual sound, action, and temperament. They all have some idiosyncrasy to overcome, and most have some endearing quality that makes me want to sit there forever and never leave or at least take them home with me.

I like a completely correct action, although I have never owned a piano that had one. I love sitting behind the keyboard of a nine foot grand. It's like being in a limousine, and getting to drive all at the same time. I like the keys to be just a little stiff. There is something disquieting about mushy keys.

I will say that when I sold Pianos and Organs, the only pianos I ever sold were Yamahas. The other major brand on the floor had a much higher profit margin, and the "furniture" was much more ornate. I really wanted to sell the other brand. It would have meant a little more money for my young family at the time, and it would have made my manager very happy. He eventually became a rep for the other brand and when they went out of business, he took his own life. Every single one of my customers bought a Yamaha though. I used to sit up at night thinking about it. I still do, not very often, but I do. This will probably trigger some more thought. Oh well.

Answer 2

I like the Bosendorfer best of all. Steinways are great if they are not from the 60's through the 80's. There were some really poor Steinways from that era. Yamahas have a very crisp sound, and the actions are generally clean, but they do not hold up under any abuse. When I was in college (as a piano major) the school of music bought 8 or 10 Yamaha concert grands. They have had to replace them all in less than 15 years. I also do a lot of playing in a school district that has a newer (less than 15 years old) Yamaha, and it suffers the same problems. It has been taken care of, but it simply is not the best instrument.

The Bosendorfer has the darkest sound - so if you are looking for something brighter, the Steinway is a pretty meaty but full sound. Baldwins are very functional, and usually durable, but they leave a lot to be desired in sound quality and tone production.

If price is a concern (and for most of us it is), look at used Steinways. Stay away from the bad years, and you will find a great instrument. Personally, I would also stay away from the low end newer pianos. They might look pretty in the show room, but they are just furniture. Buy a table instead:)

Answer 3

Petrof...I've never heard one that wasn't amazing. I still own two. I've had every other brand at one point or the other, and none held the particular magic of the Petrof. I particularly dislike Yamahas.

Answer 4

Baldwin

Answer 5

definitely Casio

Answer 6

Yamaha!!!!!