Not All Pianos Are Created Equal
Pianos range widely in size, tone, style, and brand. As someone who has tuned and repaired hundreds of pianos across Austin over the past 15+ years, I've formed some clear opinions about what holds up and what doesn't — and I'm happy to share them.
Personally, I prefer Japanese pianos. In my experience they offer the best combination of durability, consistency, and value — whether you're buying new or used. The two brands I recommend most often are Yamaha and Kawai, with Steinway being the right choice only if budget is no concern. Read my breakdown below, or reach out directly if you'd like help finding a specific instrument.
Yamaha
Yamaha produces a wide range of pianos — some made in Japan, others in the US. Buying a Yamaha is like buying a Toyota: they last forever, rarely need major repairs, and are consistent in style, tone, and design. You'll find them in professional recording studios around the world.
For used and restored models, a quality Yamaha upright like the U1, U2, or U3 is hard to beat at any price point. I work closely with Austin importers and can help source one at a better price than any music store.
Think: Toyota — reliable, consistent, built to lastKawai
Buying a Kawai is more like buying a Lexus. Built similarly to a Yamaha but with nicer materials, Kawai pianos produce a warmer, more American tone — closer in character to a Steinway. They're also partly handmade, like a Steinway.
A Kawai works beautifully in the studio, on stage, or at home. If you want that fuller, rounder tone and are willing to spend a bit more, Kawai is a wonderful choice.
Think: Lexus — refined, expressive, handcrafted qualitySteinway
If you want to spend $40,000 or more on the gold standard of concert pianos, I'd point you directly to the Steinway Gallery. They're extraordinary instruments — but for most home players and studios, a well-maintained Yamaha or Kawai delivers equal joy at a fraction of the cost.
If you're evaluating a used Steinway, I'm happy to provide a pre-purchase evaluation so you know exactly what you're buying.
Think: Bentley — unmatched prestige, serious investment
The Yamaha U3 — one of the finest production upright pianos ever made, and a personal favorite.
Quick Comparison: Yamaha vs Kawai vs Steinway
Here's a quick snapshot of how the three brands compare across the factors that matter most when buying a piano in Austin.
| Brand | Tone Character | Build Quality | Best For | Price Range (Used) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yamaha | Bright, clear, consistent | Excellent — built to last decades | Home, studio, teaching, stage | $1,500–$8,000+ |
| Kawai | Warm, full, American-influenced | Premium — partly handmade | Home, performance, recording | $2,500–$12,000+ |
| Steinway | Rich, complex, uniquely expressive | Handmade — the concert standard | Concert halls, serious players | $15,000–$40,000+ |
I'll Beat Any Music Store's Price
If you're looking for a used, restored, or refurbished Yamaha, Kawai, or any high-quality used piano — I'm your guy. I work closely with the best importers and collectors in Austin, and I can help you find the right instrument at the right price.
What I Offer Piano Buyers
When you work with me to find a piano, you get the full advantage of my 15+ years of experience and my network of trusted Austin dealers and importers.
- Beat any music store's price on quality used and imported pianos
- Full A440 tuning included with every piano purchase
- Delivery coordination across greater Austin
- Pre-purchase evaluation for any used piano you're considering
- Honest, unbiased advice — I'm not a commissioned salesperson
If this sounds like what you're looking for, inquire below or call or text me at 512-587-4621.
Piano Buyer's Guide — Austin, TX
Buying a piano is one of the most meaningful purchases a household can make. Whether it's for a beginning student, a returning adult player, or a serious musician, the right instrument can inspire decades of playing — while the wrong one can sit silent in a corner. As an Austin-based piano technician with over 15 years of experience, I've seen both outcomes more times than I can count.
What to Look for in a Used Piano
Used pianos vary enormously in condition. Age alone tells you very little — a 40-year-old Japanese upright that's been well maintained and regularly tuned can outperform a 10-year-old neglected instrument in every way. Key things I assess in a pre-purchase evaluation include soundboard condition, pin block integrity, action regulation, string and damper felt condition, and overall structural stability.
Why Japanese Pianos Hold Their Value
Yamaha and Kawai have been building pianos to exacting standards for decades. Their manufacturing tolerances are tight, their materials are selected for longevity, and their designs have remained consistent enough that parts are often interchangeable across model years. When you buy a well-maintained Yamaha U-series or Kawai K-series upright, you're buying an instrument that can realistically last another 50 years with proper care.
Should I Buy New or Used?
For most buyers in Austin, a high-quality used Japanese piano will outperform a new entry-level instrument at the same price point. A used Yamaha U1 or U3 is a proven, professional-grade instrument. I can help you find one — and I'll make sure it's properly tuned and ready to play the day it arrives.
Ready to Find Your Piano?
Tell me what you're looking for and I'll put my network to work. I can also evaluate any piano you're considering — before you buy.
Let Me Help You Find the Right Piano
Tell me what you're looking for — brand preference, budget, upright or grand, new or used — and I'll reach out with options. You can also book a tuning or learn more about me first.