Steinway & Sons has been synonymous with craftsmanship and excellence in the piano world since 1853. Aspiring pianists and seasoned musicians alike value Steinway as the gold standard for pianos.
However, purchasing a Steinway piano is a significant investment, so it’s crucial to make an informed decision. By asking the right questions, you can confidently choose the piano that matches your needs, skills, and budget.
This guide highlights nine crucial questions to discuss with a dealer when purchasing a Steinway piano. Whether you’re looking for your first piano or upgrading to a concert-level instrument, these inquiries will point you in the right direction.
Steinway produces several lines of pianos, each with its own unique performance and aesthetic characteristics. Understanding the Steinway models a dealer has available is essential when selecting the right piano. Steinway’s core offerings include the flagship Steinway & Sons pianos, Boston pianos, and Essex pianos.
The Steinway line features unparalleled quality, which is why professional musicians and institutions often choose it. Boston and Essex offer exceptional craftsmanship at more accessible price points for students or those with smaller spaces. Ask your dealer to walk you through the models they carry, their sizes, finishes, and intended audiences, especially if this is your first time buying a piano.
The decision between a new or used Steinway piano largely depends on your budget and personal preferences. A new Steinway piano features the latest construction innovations and is in perfect condition, but it also comes with a higher price tag. Used Steinway pianos can deliver excellent quality at reduced costs if they are in good, well-maintained condition.
However, the condition of used Steinways can vary widely. Confirm with the dealer whether used pianos have undergone Steinway-certified reconditioning. Verify the authenticity of the parts and repairs to ensure they meet Steinway’s rigorous standards. A trusted dealer should provide thorough documentation on the history of the instrument. At M. Steinert & Sons, every used piano undergoes a thorough quality inspection to ensure it meets our high standards.
Your piano should match your current skill level while providing room for growth. Beginners might not require a full-size grand piano initially, while experienced players may demand a larger, more dynamic instrument.
Discuss your experience level and practice expectations with the dealer. They can guide you to a piano that suits your progress and ambitions. For homes with limited space, an upright Steinway Model K might be a practical option without sacrificing tone. Alternatively, a Steinway Model M or Model O grand piano could be ideal for advanced players.
While Steinway’s acoustic pianos are famous, digital pianos have become a popular alternative, offering unique benefits. Budget-friendly digital models, such as those from Roland, provide features like headphone connectivity, built-in sounds, and recording capabilities. These instruments are often favored by beginners, or those needing a compact, maintenance-free option. While digital pianos offer convenience and versatility, they differ significantly from the experience of playing an acoustic instrument.
For those seeking the craftsmanship of a traditional Steinway with modern technology, the Steinway Spirio is an exceptional choice. This high-end player piano seamlessly blends acoustic excellence with advanced digital features, allowing users to experience world-class performances through high-resolution playback and even record their own playing. Unlike standard digital pianos, the Spirio retains the full tone and responsiveness of a handcrafted Steinway, making it ideal for those who want both cutting-edge technology and an authentic acoustic experience.
If you’re considering digital features, ask your dealer to explain the many differences between a budget digital model, a Steinway Spirio, and a traditional acoustic Steinway-designed piano. Evaluating how these options align with your musical goals will help you find the best fit for your needs.
Verifying whether the dealer is an authorized retailer is essential before you buy a Steinway piano. Authorized dealers adhere to Steinway & Sons’ strict standards and only sell genuine instruments that meet the company’s quality criteria. Authorized dealers also provide direct access to Steinway’s services, warranties, and customer support.
M. Steinert & Sons is Boston’s only authorized Steinway dealer, ensuring that customers receive authentic Steinway pianos backed by the company’s standards and support.
Purchasing from unauthorized sources can result in receiving counterfeit or improperly maintained pianos. This is why it’s key to always confirm the dealer’s credentials and their affiliation with Steinway & Sons before moving forward.
If you already own a piano, check whether the dealer offers trade-in opportunities. Many authorized Steinway dealers have trade programs allowing customers to exchange an old instrument for a discount on a new one. It’s a great way to offset the cost of upgrading to a Steinway piano.
Ask the dealer about their trade-in policies and how they assess an instrument’s value. Providing photographs or an in-person piano inspection will help determine its trade-in eligibility and potential worth.
At M. Steinert & Sons, the Lifetime Piano Pledge ensures your investment is protected. Every piano purchased—new or used, acoustic or digital—qualifies for 100% trade-in value toward a new, larger Steinway & Sons piano at any time.
Pianos are a significant financial investment, and their cost varies widely based on type, size, and model. Before committing, have a clear understanding of the specific piano’s price, any added setup fees, and available payment options.
Many dealers offer financing plans that allow for flexible payments. Ask about promotions or exclusive discounts that can make the purchase more manageable. Maintaining open communication with the dealer ensures you choose a piano that aligns with your financial goals while fulfilling your musical aspirations.
A Steinway piano can last generations, but it requires regular maintenance to preserve its sound and performance. Routine tuning, regulation, and occasional adjustments will help keep the piano in optimal condition.
Ask the dealer for details about maintenance requirements specific to the piano you’re considering. Do they provide maintenance services, or can they recommend qualified technicians? Understanding the long-term upkeep ensures you’re prepared to care for your Steinway investment.
A warranty provides peace of mind by protecting against defects or issues that may arise after purchasing your piano. Steinway & Sons offers extensive warranties for their instruments, illustrating their commitment to quality.
Discuss the piano’s warranty terms with the dealer. Verify what it covers, how long it lasts, and the process for filing a claim if you need repairs. For used pianos, ask whether the dealer provides any warranty coverage or guarantees to protect your purchase.
Purchasing a Steinway piano is a deeply personal and exciting decision, and finding the right dealer is key. M. Steinert & Sons, a trusted Steinway dealer since 1860, provides an unmatched selection of Steinway pianos along with expert guidance. Our dedication to connecting musicians with their ideal instruments has made us a leader in the music industry.
As an authorized Steinway dealer with 152 years of partnership with Steinway, we are one of the oldest and most experienced dealers in the world. At M. Steinert & Sons, you can browse an array of Steinway models, discuss customization options, and arrange in-depth consultations with our piano consultants. We’d be happy to delve into any of these questions and anything else you might think of.
Whether you’re choosing your first piano or upgrading to a Steinway, the right questions make all the difference. By remembering these nine questions to ask the dealer before you buy a Steinway piano, you set the stage for a rewarding and informed purchase.
Explore Steinway’s rich legacy and exceptional instruments by visiting M. Steinert & Sons. Begin your musical journey with a piano that resonates with your passion and potential.