Choosing a Quality Upright Piano: Brands Worth Considering
People often ask, “What’s a good upright piano?” The answer depends on tone, touch, size (height matters), price, and long‑term reliability. Below I’ll outline makes from different regions that consistently build solid uprights. This isn’t exhaustive, but it should help you choose well.
German and Austrian Upright Pianos
German and Austrian pianos are benchmarks for build and musicality.
- Blüthner – Warm, singing treble and solid midrange; refined actions. Older Blüthners can be excellent if well maintained.
- Schimmel – Clear, precise, and well‑engineered. Good consistency across heights (118–130 cm).
- Bechstein (including C. Bechstein) – Known for refined actions and transparent tone; premium tier.
- August Förster / Sauter – Smaller output, high craftsmanship; worth considering when available.
- (Note: Hamburg Steinway uprights exist but are less common on the used market.)
American Upright Pianos
American makers aimed for projection and durability.
- Baldwin – Older American‑made Baldwins (e.g., 243/6010) are workhorse uprights for schools and churches.
- Mason & Hamlin – Less common in uprights than grands, but quality examples are very strong.
- Steinway (New York) – Historic models exist; condition varies widely and restoration quality is crucial.
Japanese Upright Pianos
Japan set the modern standard for reliable uprights.
- Yamaha – U1 (121 cm) and U3 (131 cm) are industry standards: clear tone, stable tuning, robust parts availability. Great for teachers, schools, and homes.
- Kawai – K‑series (K‑200, K‑300, K‑500) offers a slightly warmer sound and different action design. Modern Kawai actions are smooth and consistent.
Chinese Upright Pianos
Quality has improved dramatically; value varies by factory and line.
- Hailun – One of the stronger Chinese makers; good parts selection and QC for the price bracket.
- Pearl River / Ritmüller – Broad range; better lines can be solid for students and budget‑minded buyers.
- Brodmann – European‑influenced designs built in China; decent value when well prepped.
(While not at the top German/Japanese level, good Chinese uprights can make sense for entry to mid budgets.)
British and Other European Upright Pianos
Plenty of good used options remain; a few boutique makers continue in Europe.
- Knight (UK) – Very robust cabinets and actions; respected for musicality and longevity.
- Broadwood (UK) – Historic brand; condition varies—good examples can be rewarding.
- Kemble (UK) – Later models often built with Yamaha; reliable and musical, especially 121–125 cm heights.
- Petrof (Czech Republic) – Warm European tone; common in conservatories; good balance of value and character.
- Estonia / Seiler / Hoffmann – Various European lines to watch for, with differing levels of handwork and price.
- French/Scandinavian makers – Less common, but quality examples exist; judge case by case.
Final Thoughts
Brand matters, but condition matters just as much. On uprights, height strongly affects tone and projection (taller = longer strings and larger soundboard). A well‑serviced Yamaha U3 may outperform a bigger‑name piano in poor condition. Think about room size, player level, and how long you’ll keep the instrument.
Condition is key: action wear, regulation, hammers, soundboard, bridge, and pinblock. If you’re in Houston, Roberts Pianos can check, service, and guide you through the condition of any upright you’re considering, so you know what you’re getting.
At Roberts Pianos, we spend time with each piano that comes through our shop so we can give you honest advice about its quality—German, American, Japanese, Chinese, British, or other European.