Buying a Second Hand Piano — What to Look For

The second hand piano market is full of opportunity — and full of pitfalls. A beautiful lookingpiano can be hiding serious mechanical problems, while a tired looking instrument might play beautifully. Here’s what to look for before you hand over your money.

Check the Keys

Play every single key from the bottom to the top of the keyboard. Listen for:

• Notes that don’t sound at all (broken hammers or strings)

• Notes that sound weak or thin compared to their neighbours

• Keys that stick down or don’t return properly

• Keys that feel significantly heavier or lighter than the ones around them

A few minor issues are normal in an older piano and can be repaired. Multiple problems across the keyboard suggest a piano that has been neglected or poorly maintained.

Look Inside the Piano

Open the lid and look at the strings. You’re looking for:

• Rust on the strings - light surface rust is common and not necessarily a problem, but heavy rust can affect tone and tuning stability

• Broken strings - these can be replaced but add to the cost

• The condition of the hammers -  they should be oval shaped, not deeply grooved or flattened

• Check the Soundboard - The soundboard is the large wooden board at the back of an upright or underneath a grand piano. Run your fingers across it and look carefully for cracks. Small hairline cracks are common in older instruments and don’t always affect tone significantly. Large cracks or a soundboard that has separated from its ribs is a more serious concern.

• Test the Pedals - Press each pedal and check that it functions. The sustain pedal (right pedal) should cause notes to ring on after you lift your fingers. A pedal that does nothing or makes a squeaking or grinding noise needs attention.

• Consider the Age and Brand - A 30 year old piano from a reputable maker — Yamaha, Kawai, Steinway, Bechstein, Blüthner in decent condition is often a better buy than a newer piano from an unknown manufacturer. 

• Research the brand before you buy.Get a Professional Assessment. The safest thing you can do before buying a second hand piano is have it assessed by a qualified piano technician. JP Piano Tuning offers pre-purchase assessments — we’ll inspect the instrument honestly and give you a clear picture of its condition and what any necessary work might cost. This could save you from an expensive mistake — or give you the confidence to buy with peace of mind.

Call or text 07955 637736 to arrange a pre-purchase assessment