I have been looking at a 6ft Kimball made in the 1950's. I've read that the 1950's was around the time when the company moved its factory and experienced financial problems that led it into the furniture business. Reading the posts here, it appears that the maker is not highly regarded. Are any Kimball's a good buy?

The piano I've been looking at appears to be in excellent condition and has been tuned annually. The seller wants $1800. Is that too much for this brand? My 7 year old has been playing on a keyboard for the past two years. I'd like to purchase something that isn't too expensive, but is attractive, sounds good and can last for many years. I appreciate any feedback.

Hi RobynS, and welcome to the Piano World Forums!

In regards to your question, yes, maybe/possibly. You'll find nay-sayers and negativity here for every brand, including Steinway and Yamaha. If the Kimball you are looking at is in good condition (per a piano tech inspection) and you like the touch, tone, and looks of it (which you say you do), then yes, it may well be a good buy and meet your needs for some time to come.

However, if you ever want to trade up or sell the Kimball, other prospective buyers will have the same thoughts as you..."is the Kimball a good buy"? So, you might use that as leverage for more negotiations on the price (which is not too bad to start with). Remember, you’ll need to pay for the move and a tuning.

Good luck, and keep us informed!

Rick

You can say what you want about Kimball as a brand in general, but it really comes down to the individual instrument, especially one that is 60+ years old. I have seen many pianos of that vintage that were perfectly usable musical instruments but a tech inspection of a piano of that vintage is a must, in my opinion. Also, I think I would try to negotiate the price down some. I doubt they have people lined up out the door just waiting to buy that piano for that price. Make them an offer, you never know what will happen.

That's not my recollection of the history of Kimball, but it really doesn't matter in any way compared to the 60 years that have passed. With a few noted exceptions, Kimball was a successful builder of modest pianos. Modest piano + 60 years = ???