Looking for a used piano?

Friends don’t let friends get free pianos.

This is a great time to buy used pianos. There are so many of these on Facebook Marketplace and Craigs List that are free to relatively inexpensive.

The problem is knowing what you are buying. There is no way for a normal person to evaluate the condition of a piano. When you read “Just needs tuning”, look out. There are many things that should stop you from taking an even free piano that a piano technician can warn you about.

First, are the tuning pins tight. If they are not, don’t buy the piano. Is the soundboard in good shape? This takes some experience. A crack in a soundboard isn’t necessarily something that should keep you away from the piano. Some don’t make a difference while others really do.

Are the strings, particularly in the bass, dead. Do the strings “ring” or do they “thud”. Bass strings can be replaced but you should know about this before you take on the piano.

Are there cracks in the bridges. If so, run from the piano.

Though it may cost a minor amount of money, I can help you understand what you are buying. You may find an old Steinway or Mason & Hamlin or other high quality brand available to you for little more than the price of moving it.

Whatever you do, don’t take it, move it, and then try to decide if it is trash or not. Call me (916) 261-2419 and let’s talk about it.