99% of the population cannot imagine everyday life without music. It is found everywhere, in the minibus for the driver, in the columns of passers-by, in the elevator, etc. Of course, it is different everywhere, because everyone seeks to create something unique. However, there is a type of people who prefer not to wait, but to do. From an early age they are not fond of listening, but creating and working with many musical instruments. There is no way to describe each type in this article, but the editors of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" have prepared for you a rating of the best piano firms and models for 2020.
Content
What to look for when choosing
When it comes to buying a new professional tool, most people try to find an option that will last almost forever. Therefore, they are saving up an amount of several hundred thousand rubles. So they buy not just another expensive device, but quality that will last for decades, and the sound will not be electric, but real.
What a person gets when they acquire a new piano:
- First and foremost is the condition of the instrument. Buying used products is suitable for beginners who can abandon music after a couple of years, but for those who remain in this world, buying a new product is creatively necessary. They will not have to study information about the state of materials after years and calculate the gap that the piano will still stretch. Buying a new product, the musician solves all issues with the state.
- More positive than negative. When purchasing a used model, no one can answer exactly how long the device will last, whether it is possible to make adjustments, whether there is a need for a complete restoration, etc. Indeed, more often it turns out that after buying a supported version, a person begins to restore it. Then he delves into and realizes that the money spent on the restoration would be enough for a new device.
- In addition, the buyer is sure that there are no hidden scratches, deformations and cracks, which often occur due to improper use or violation of storage rules. A warranty card is issued for new pianos, so in the event of a malfunction, repair and maintenance will cost several times cheaper, and sometimes free.
- Subsequently, the purchased piano is easy to resell, because the user was alone, and if the coupon and the receipt are preserved, it will come out faster. Moreover, a person will be able to tell a potential buyer everything about this tool, because he is familiar with every flaw, if any.
- Practically the most important thing that the majority will appreciate is transportation. Here the seller assumes all guarantees. Therefore, the instrument will arrive at the apartment safe and sound, and the transportation process does not need to be carefully monitored. While when buying a used device, the opposite is true.
The main selection criteria: what is important to know when buying
Since buying a piano can be compared to buying a car, a person should carefully prepare, go and rely only on the seller, because he does not know all the preferences of the buyer. Therefore, you should pay attention to:
- Material. This is the most important point, because the sound quality depends on it.Most professionals advise buying products made from beech, walnut or mahogany. In a good piano, the soundboard is made of spruce, because it is the most resonant. Scientists have proven that the speed of sound in wood made from this material is 14 times higher than in air.
But it is important to understand that it is very difficult to find such a material, because in order for it to meet all technical parameters, the tree must grow over a hundred years. Moreover, it must be located in a certain area, on a special soil, the rings must be even, and the wood itself must not have pronounced defects. Therefore, it is not the technical equipment that fills the big price, but the "musical" tree. - Piano construction. Here everything is much more complicated, because each manufacturer has its own unique and inimitable secret for creating the best musical instrument. The most expensive and high-quality representatives in this parameter are German. It is also important to understand that the amount of handwork depends on the piano class. In the premium class, making a product requires at least 90% handwork. Therefore, the cost of such samples is 5 times higher than that of conveyor representatives.
- The lineup. The best company sells not one model, but dozens, only then the buyer can be sure of the reliability of the offered products.
- Value for money. So a good piano can be found both for a million and for 500,000 rubles, and in terms of quality the differences will be at a minimum, and only a person with an absolute ear for music will notice them.
- What is the sales volume. It is better to compare representatives within a certain price segment. Thus, most European companies are trying to cooperate with Chinese enterprises to reach the consumer class level. Of course, the sound quality is lost, but not so critical. However, it makes no sense to compare them with one-off models from the same manufacturer.
The piano is not a simple instrument, and the price is high, not because firms want to make more money from poor musicians who play classical music. Manufacturing takes a long time and the work is done with the precision of a jeweler. In addition, the quality depends not only on the specific material, but also on special technologies. They have been developed by thousands of craftsmen over the centuries.
What is the difference between a piano and a grand piano and a piano?
When it comes to the difference between these instruments, most people who are familiar with music at the school level say that the difference between a piano and a classical piano is minimal and often it is one product, but the grand piano is fundamentally different from these representatives. However, this is not quite true.
For the first time the world learned about the "piano" at the beginning of the 18th century. So the harpsichord master Bartolomeo Cristofori, a native of Italy, designed a new musical instrument. Its main task was to create the volume of the sound, because the harpsichord reproduces sounds at the same level. Some time later, in 1709, Cristofori creates a device with a quiet and loud sound. When creating a new model, the master understood that nothing could be done with a plucked mechanism, so he replaced it with a lever hammer. Thanks to this, the volume began to depend on the force of pressing. From the moment of its release until the middle of the 18th century, the piano began to be used almost throughout Europe, but with some changes.
At the beginning of the 19th century, two famous inventors from different countries decided to change the design, making it vertical, so the steel frame was placed perpendicular to the keys. Of course, this method had both its advantages - compactness, and disadvantages - bad sound. The piano model that many are familiar with today appeared in 1850.
Until the middle of the 19th century, the piano also underwent modernization, so the German Sebastian Erar made a major change in the mechanics, he created a double rehearsal mechanism.The main essence of the mechanism was that the hammer independently returned to its original position, and a repeated blow did not require a long return. Thanks to this, the musicians opened the way to performing complex passages. But the problem was that such an element could only fit in a horizontal structure. For this reason, the name of the piano was no longer suitable, and the instrument, where the double rehearsal mechanism was used, began to be called the "Royal".
Today the word "piano" refers to the class of keyboard instruments, while pianos and grand pianos are representatives of this type, having a unique design. It follows from this that under the piano, you can mean both a standard piano and a professional grand piano. The main difference between the first and the second type is compactness and sound. In addition, the piano is equipped with a double rehearsal mechanism, which cannot be used in a vertical design.
Rating of the best manufacturing firms with examples of quality models
Steinway & Sons
The pianos of this company have a rich and rich sound. The production uses unique technologies. The firm was founded in 1853 in New York by a German émigré. The organization quickly gained popularity and maintains a high standard of quality today. Steinway & Sons products are used at major concerts, in some recording studios, etc.
O-180
A popular model of a grand piano, which in terms of sound quality is not inferior to concert and studio ones. The only difference is in size. The tool is much more compact, which allows you to install it in almost any home. Accuracy and depth of sounding at the highest level, which will allow you to express your emotions in more detail. Weight - 286 kg.
The average cost is from 2,500,000 rubles.
Advantages:
- The best sounding possible;
- Compactness;
- Durability;
- Quality materials.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
Essex EUP-116E
A good piano from the same company, which has a rich and bright sound. Designed for aspiring pianists. The quality of workmanship remained at a high level, but there is much less manual work, which makes the device available for mass use.
The minimum cost is 470,000 rubles.
Advantages:
- Low price;
- Brand;
- Quality;
- Reliability;
- Sound.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
Bechstein
Models from this manufacturer are gaining wide popularity among lovers of soulful sound. The piano from this company is used by many masters, among whom there are many Russian representatives. The company was founded in 1853 in Berlin. The main goal is to make the sound unique and inimitable. The range is designed for both the premium class and ordinary users who are just discovering the world of music.
Zimmermann Z 160 Standard
A budget grand piano that will give you an unforgettable working experience. On this instrument, you can both perform the great classics, and create your own masterpieces. The instrument will fill the room with its pleasant sound, and thanks to its beautiful design, it will fit into any interior.
The average cost is 900,000 rubles.
Advantages:
- Compactness;
- Price;
- Harmonious sound;
- Design;
- Nice sound production.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
Zimmermann S 2
A beautiful and unique piano that is suitable not only for professional use, but also for beginners in this field. The design is made at a high level, it will decorate the room, and its compactness will allow you to install the piano almost anywhere. Sound reproduction is performed at the level typical for the company. Each part is manufactured in accordance with established standards, which makes it possible to use a musical instrument for a long period.
Average price: up to 400,000 rubles.
Advantages:
- Trouble-free work;
- Reliability;
- Level execution;
- The pedals are easy to press;
- Price.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
Mason & hamlin
A professional company that has been producing only quality products for decades. Its popularity is due to the fact that innovative technologies are used in the production of the deck. This allows you to maintain its original appearance over a long period and successfully resonate, as at the time of purchase. Mason & Hamlin was founded in 1854 and has continued the century-old tradition of creating top-of-the-line pianos for the professional stage and aspiring pianists ever since.
Mason & Hamlin Grand Piano Model A
A wonderful grand piano that will fill the room with indescribable sound and beauty. The model was created by professionals for the best in their field and for novice pianists. The main elements are made of quality materials. There will be no problems with the device even after 30 years of operation. The design will decorate the interior and give the room a royal look.
The average cost in an online store is 620,000 rubles.
Advantages:
- Sound;
- Ergonomics of the keys;
- Reliability;
- Assembly;
- Cost.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
Bösendorfer
A popular option for lovers of all the best. The company was founded in 1828 and even despite the fact that it was bought out by Yamaha, production still remained at the level.
Bösendorfer 155
An excellent model that will become a real boon for a professional and will serve him for 50 years or more. Sound quality surpasses all boundaries. The keys are easy to press. But the main advantage of such a device is that it can be installed in an apartment, because its dimensions are 155x151x102 cm. In addition, the piano will not interfere with neighbors' sleep, which is an excellent solution for those who like to play at night.
The average cost is 5,900,000 rubles.
Advantages:
- Made from quality materials;
- Sound;
- Reliability;
- Durability;
- Trouble-free work.
Disadvantages:
- Price.
Yamaha
A Japanese company that enjoys widespread success in the consumer segment and continually improves the quality of its products, creating something more than a standard piano. Each product has its own story and unique design that can decorate any room. Acoustic pianos of this brand are more often used by aspiring musicians, as they are sold at an affordable price and have a lifespan of more than 30 years.
Yamaha GB1K
A quality grand piano at an affordable price that will give the user an unusual sound. Every musician will like playing such an instrument. Comfortable keys and a royal appearance give the instrument a special status.
The cost is 970,000 rubles.
Advantages:
- High-quality assembly;
- Reliability;
- Excellent sound and resonance;
- Price.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
Yamaha U1J PE
The piano is suitable for beginners. Thanks to him, they will perform not only compositions by famous authors, but also be able to compose their own melody. Resonant sound with a balanced tone, will give only pleasure from playing. In addition, the tool uses a soft-release lid. Thanks to this solution, the risk of injury is minimal.
The average price is 470,000 rubles.
Advantages:
- High quality;
- Durability;
- Sound;
- Keyboard valve with microlift.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
Output
If you have experience in using the pianos presented in the rating, or a more interesting model, tell us about it in the comments.