Is ABS parts used in the action of Kawai or Yamaha a true concern?

Shelly,

The UST-9 is Kawai's "institutional" piano. It has a much larger music desk than the K-2, K-3 and K-5. 46" high. The K-3, 48" high, is one of the most popular uprights around. Lots of our piano search threads end there. Even though I have a Kawai, I still think the Walter screams "SPECIAL" when I play it. There are no bad choices here, just personal preference. How old is the U-1 you talked about?

Charles

Without going into details; I don't see any reason why to compare any of the models/brands you mentioned to the Walter. The Walter should be a no brainer.

The Yamaha U1 is a 1983 model and has been fully checked out by the store owner. The asking price is about $4400 US, but they said there is some negotiating room.

The quoted price for the Walter 45" studio in polished ebony is $6,800 US.

I'm still leaning (heavily) toward the Walter.

Any opinions on the quoted prices?

Thanks so very much!

Shelly in OK

*edited for clarification

[quote=ChasT]Shelly,



The quoted price for the Walter 45" studio in polished ebony is $6,800 US.

I'm still leaning (heavily) toward the Walter.

Any opinions on the quoted prices?

A low price for a fantastic piano.

Is it the last one or a special order?

Shelly,

You ought to look through Larry Fine's pianobuyer.com website. There's a link on the right side of this page. The pricing guide begins on page 188. $6800 is half the retail price of the Walter 1500 and 35% off Mr. Fine's SMP (suggested maximum price.) If I were shopping, I'd be thrilled, especially with the Renner action instead of the Chinese action.

Read the section on buying a used piano. It begins on page 47. Going by Mr. Fine's depreciation schedule, I'd say $4400's a bit much for a 1983 U-1. Also, the U-1's 26 years old with 26 year old strings, hammers, action, etc. It may have a dealer warranty for a while, but the Walter has a factory warranty.

If you can swing the higher price, I'd go with the Walter or a newer U-1, if you prefer the Yamaha. It's your personal preferrence, of course.

Are you open to shopping other brands? You might look at a Wm. Knabe WKV-121 or WKV-131, if you're near a dealer. I like Knabes a lot. Or perhaps a Hailun or a Brodmann. They get lots of good press, too.

You sound like you really like the Charles Walter, but are wanting someone to approve that choice. It's a really nice piano and a good choice, but it's YOUR decision. I suggest you play lots of pianos. Pick your favorites and play them several more times. Then, you'll be pretty certain of picking the one that's right for you.

And good luck!

Charles

PS: What part of Oklahoma? I lived in Oklahoma City for about 11 years. CT

I asked re the custom order as many dealer will discount for custom orders since they don't have to put out the money with hopes of a sale.

Enjoy whatever piano you choose.

Thanks so much for your input. I didn't realize there might be a discount... wow! I may have to inquire a bit more with them and consider polished mahogany. ; )

BTW, I looked at your website. What a wonderful shop you own. Your restoration pictures and pianos in stock are incredible! Thanks so much for offering your time to help.

Shelly

I am having the same dilemma. I am looking at buying a piano. I play and so do my young children. I have narrowed the search down to Yamaha vs Charles Walter:

Here is my question--How does the Yamaha P660 compare?