Piano Buying Advice
Buying a piano is a big decision, whether it's your first instrument or an upgrade you've been planning for years. Over the years at The Piano Gallery we've been asked the same thoughtful questions again and again, so we've written honest, practical answers to all of them. Below is our complete buying advice library, grouped to help you find what you need.
If you'd rather talk it through, you're always welcome to call us on 01367 244554 or visit the showroom in Faringdon to play over 100 pianos in person.
Start here
- Piano Buying Guide — Our complete overview of how to choose the right piano. If you only read one page, make it this one.
Choosing the right type of piano
- Should I Buy An Upright Or Grand Piano? — How the two main types compare on sound, space and budget, and which suits your room.
- Should I Buy A Digital Or Acoustic Piano? — The honest pros and cons of each, and who each one really suits.
- Best Acoustic Pianos For Beginners — Where to start if you or your child is learning, without overspending.
New vs. used
- Should I Buy A Used Piano? — Why a good used piano is often the smartest choice, and what to watch for.
- Used vs New Piano — A side-by-side look at value, condition and longevity.
- Is A Second Hand Piano Reliable? — What makes a used piano dependable, and how we make sure ours are.
Budget and value
- How Much Should I Spend On A Piano? — Realistic price ranges and what your money actually buys at each level.
- Why Cheap Pianos Often Disappoint — The hidden costs and frustrations of buying at the bottom of the market.
Recommendations and brands
- Top 10 Pianos: The Best Upright Pianos In The UK — Our pick of the upright pianos worth playing, and why.
- Yamaha U1 Review UK — Our in-depth take on one of the most popular upright pianos in the country.
- What Is Better Than A Yamaha U1? — If you're considering stepping up, here are the alternatives worth playing.
- Why We Prefer Older Yamaha Pianos — The reasons a well-chosen older Yamaha can outperform a newer one.
Owning a piano
- How Long Do Pianos Last? — What to expect from a quality instrument, and how to get decades of life from it.
Still not sure? We're happy to help with no pressure. Call 01367 244554 or email sales@thepianogallery.co.uk, or come and visit us in Faringdon.
Let us help you choose
The Piano Gallery is an independent, family-run piano specialist established in 1980. We hold over a hundred pianos in our showroom, all available to play and compare, and we are always glad to give honest, unhurried advice. We do not sell pianos so much as help you find the right one.
The Piano Gallery
13-17 London Street, Faringdon, Oxfordshire, SN7 7AE
Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm. Any other time by appointment.
Telephone: 01367 244554 | Email: sales@thepianogallery.co.uk