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Piano - Buying tips & guidelines

therefore picking your first instrument can be difficult; however, the primary thing to focus on is how the guitar feels in your hands. Find out more by clicking on the tile below. Many beginners, therefore, use the Digital Piano as it is lighter and more portable if lessons are located outside your home and less expensive. Find out more by clicking on the tile below. For parents buying this for their child learning to play, you would not know the level of interest your child would have and if this will be maintained; therefore, be cautious about how much money you splash at the start.

Technological advances with digital pianos mean that a good one will be one with tools and settings similar to the acoustic piano, like the levels of touch sensitivity and replicating the feel and weight of acoustic keyboards.

When buying any instrument, the starting point is always to decide on a budget but be careful not to opt for the lowest quality or cheapest instrument. Off course, acoustic pianos are more expensive. Still, it is always best to get an instrument of good quality that will play a satisfactory sound, give you enjoyment when playing, and effectively support the learning experience.

For acoustic pianos, this possibility is enhanced by buying one that is guaranteed and comes from a certified piano manufacturer, having tried out several pianos before deciding which to go for.​
Visit the Skwiix outlet for a great selection of quality pianos.

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Selecting the right one

The choice of which instrument to select, especially if it is your first depends on different factors, including: - 

• The level of your commitment to playing the instrument
• How much time do you want to spend rehearsing playing the instrument
• How much money do you wish to spend on the instrument
• The styles and genres you want to play
• The instrument type that best suits you

 
How much you can spend on the quality of the instrument you get is wide-ranging. You can get a simple, good, working, used instrument entirely sufficient for your purposes or a new expensive instrument that may not fit your goals.
To ensure you receive the best opportunity as a beginner, it is best to take time to compare brands, prices and customer reviews. Look for models that balance economy with good sound and playability.

You should always seek help before you buy an instrument to know whether the quality of what you're getting is worth the price. Research and look for piano reviews, solicit the help of a piano teacher, a friend or someone who plays the instrument to go with you to play, test, feel, and check the instrument before buying is always recommended.

Where possible, it makes sense to check if you can lease or rent a new instrument from the music shop, which you can buy later. Do not rush to get your instrument; ensure you get the right thing. If the dealer hasn't got the type of instrument you want, you should ask them to show you the ones they have that are within your budget range to try out. Of course, be aware that the Grand, Baby Grand, Upright and Digital pianos will differ in terms of sound, quality and cost. 

To ensure you are buying an instrument fit for purpose, carefully check if anything has broken, scratched or dented on your selected instrument before you buy. You do this by checking if: -

 You like the sound. A good piano sound (acoustic or digital) is round and full rather than bright or mellow. An experienced music teacher or a registered piano technician can help you determine this.

• It has 88 keys (Representing a full-size piano)
• Keys have smooth surfaces and are free of damage and cracks.
• Keys have adequate resistance. There should be sufficient cushioning to reduce the shock transmitted to your finger joints. The right touch sensitivity and weight
• The physical dimensions of the instrument and environmental conditions (humidity and temperature) are an ideal fit for placing an acoustic piano. 
• There is sufficient warranty coverage for the purchase (Recommended five years)
• There is a maintenance record if the instrument is second-hand and in good working condition. (Buying a second-hand digital piano is not recommended)
• Buying a reputable brand: -

Acoustic

• Yamaha
• Steinway & Sons
• Kawai
• Baldwin
• BÖsendorfer

Digital

• Yamaha
• Casio
• Roland
• Korg

Buy vs Rent

​Ultimately, buying or renting a piano depends on your needs and preferences. If you have the space and are committed to playing the piano long-term, buying one may be the better option. If you are unsure or need a more flexible arrangement, renting may be the way.

• The benefits of buying a Piano will include the following: -
  
  • ​While the upfront cost of buying a Piano can be significant, especially for a high-quality instrument, owning one can be cost-effective over the long term. If you plan to use the Piano for many years, buying one can save you money compared to renting one for an extended period. Additionally, suppose you take good care of your Piano. In that case, it can retain its value over time, and you can potentially resell it for a decent price.
  • Buying a Piano can be a great option if you have the space and plan to keep it for a long time. You can choose the size and style that suits your needs and preferences, and you won't have to worry about returning it or finding a new rental location if you move.
  • Digital Pianos or keyboard instruments can be a more affordable and space-saving alternative. However, they often don't provide the same sound quality and playing experience as a traditional piano.

• The benefits of renting a Piano will include the following: -​​​​
  
  • ​​Can be a more cost-effective option if you only plan to use it for a short period or are unsure if you want to commit to owning one long-term. Rental fees can vary depending on the type and quality of the instrument, but they generally cost less upfront than buying.
    
  • If space is your issue or you are unsure if you'll be in your current location long-term, renting can be a good option. You won't have to worry about finding a new home for the instrument if you move or deal with the costs and hassle of moving a large, heavy instrument.
    
  • Renting can provide more flexibility. You can try out different types of Pianos or keyboard instruments without committing to one, and you won't have to worry about the cost and upkeep of owning one.

New vs Second hand

As with all instruments, besides cost, the reasoning that should drive the purchase should be comfort, quality and a choice that you feel will support your effort to learn to play the instrument. For a new Piano, the starting point is familiar brand names with reputation and proven reliability, well respected among professionals with cutting-edge technology and craftsmanship.
If your budget meets the cost of a new Piano, go for it. You will get a better product and pay for the Piano’s entire lifespan instead of just what’s left. You will also not have to worry about past wear and tear. If you don’t have the budget for a new piano, a well-chosen second-hand piano will suffice. Many second-hand pianos can be high quality even if they require additional tuning after purchase. The most important thing is to know what you’re paying for.

Second-hand pianos are not necessarily just for beginners or chosen solely because of their lower price; some prefer the more traditional, classical look. The low startup costs mean you can buy without a higher financial outlay, which for a beginner Piano player often makes it better to buy a second-hand piano.

A good digital Piano is most recommended as it is now often the choice of many professionals and piano teachers. It has much shorter lifespans than acoustics (5-10 years if well cared for) and typically costs brand new. Digital pianos do not last nearly the same as brand-new acoustic Ones because they are portable, often carried around, and not handled with much care. If the digital Piano goes wrong, finding someone able to carry out repairs at reasonable costs can be more challenging.

There is very little re-sale value for second-hand electrical goods, no matter how good a condition they may be in. You’ll get more value for your money as the first owner of your digital Piano.

Visit the Skwiix outlet to see the price range of Pianos on offer. You may also find them in pawn shops, auctions, flea markets, classified ads, and online.

 Here are some quick Skwiix tips for buying a Piano: -

Tip 1

Be sure to your commitment to playing the Piano. It doesn’t make sense to spend a considerable amount of money on an instrument you do not commit to playing

Tip 2

Decide on the type of Piano you wish to play (Acoustic, Digital, Grand or Upright). Most starters opt for the digital Piano, to begin with

Tip 3

If you opt for an acoustic Piano, then ensure sufficient appropriate space in your living room or study to house it

Tip 4

Decide whether you want to get a new or second-hand instrument

Tip 5

Set a budget of how much or how little you wish to spend on your Piano. Remember that the cost depends on the type of Piano you want (Acoustic, Digital, Grand, Upright, New or Second-hand). 

Tip 6

Digital and Second-hand Pianos will typically be less expensive than newer ones. Many music stores offer new and second-hand Pianos and can assist you in choosing the right fit for you or your child. Skwiix doesn't recommend Second-hand Digital Pianos

Tip 7

Both new and second-hand Pianos are best bought from Piano dealers rather than via direct sale 

Tip 8

Before you buy a used Piano, it is best to guarantee that it is a workable instrument with no playing defects. Get as much information as possible about the history of the instrument 

Tip 9

Before you buy a used Piano, play all the keys from one end to the other with a light, consistent touch to make sure every note sound is in tune, the volume and tone are consistent as you move up the scale, the keys do not stick or seem lighter or heavier than the others. Problems with any of these could be signs that the Piano has problems.

Tip 10

Look at the entire structure, inside and underneath, of an acoustic Piano you wish to buy to ensure there are no missing hammers, strings, dampers, damaged wood or mildew before buying. Though minor concerns, these can affect your instrument's longevity and maintenance costs.

Tip 11

Find and talk to a Piano teacher whose insight you can pick or Piano playing friends or relatives for their insight 

Tip 12

Although it may be convenient and sometimes even less expensive to buy your Piano online, it is best to go to a shop that sells several brands and types where you can get the look and feel of the instrument. Try out several before you make your decision.

Tip 13

Whether new or used, inquire about a warranty for the Piano you intend to buy. Make sure purchase terms are clear. It should include a time frame for returns or exchanges. It should also outline repairs to the Piano before delivery and when you start incurring repair charges

Tip 14

If visiting a shop to buy your instrument, arrange an appointment and, if possible, go with a teacher or someone knowledgeable about the Piano to play the instrument as a test; get their feedback before you buy it

Tip 15

Make sure in addition to the Piano, you also get a method book