Hi there,

I'm contented with my current piano, but I do like to 'flirt' with other pianos once in a while.

I wonder if anyone has experienced the Friedrich GROTRIAN? It's a 111cm upright, and happens to be the most affordable of the Grotrian range. Unlike other Grotrians, it has a conventional soundboard spine rather than the trademark Grotrian star-shaped spine.

The Friedrich played beautifully and impressed me more than the other larger Grotrians. The sound was mellow although slightly muffled. It was very expressive and playing it was quite an emotional experience.

I then found out that other Grotrians (with the star-shaped spine) cost at least twice the Friedrich. Wow! But why?

Would anyone be able to shed some light on the supposed advantage confered by a star-shaped soundboard spine?

To anyone who has played the little Friedrich Grotian, please share your experiences. I would love to hear your views on the piano.

That partiular Backpost design (star) is made-up of multiple laminates, into which are then cut a cookie-cutter shape. This should act as a very stable and strong backpost design and improve overall piano stability and structure. I imagine this sort of design does in fact cost a larger amount.

First of all you're looking at a great little upright piano to begin with.

Grotrian,of course, ain't no budget builder.

Nor are most of the other old German piano makers.

Now, if you go to a FULL upright in any of their particular lines, you will always say :

"WOW" !

It's the nature of the beast.

Star shaped back posts or not.

All of their top uprights will always beat out most other's studio grands.

They're designed to do that.

Besides using absolute best - but thought by some - to be squanderous premium felts,woods and actions...

norbert