Hi all. So, FINALLY, I've been to several NY piano shops over the past week, as well as browsing online, etc. Well, today I came across a Weber W112 that sounded remarkable warm, very nice tone and quite pleasing in new condition. Weber W112

I played Bach's Prelude in C on it (that's my comparison piece on all pianos I am testing out) and I was impressed by the sound. Of course I am an amateur, but many people online seem to quickly 'pan' the Chinese made pianos, but I wonder if it varies by brand and if in recent years the quality has increased.

I also tried a Bergmann (also by YC these days) right next to it, but the sound was ridiculously over-the-top bright and harsh(!). The Weber, while a smaller sized piano at a mere 44" was just so sweet, and the price is right for me. Again, I am an amateur, and the piano will be primarily used by my 7 yr old son who has outgrown elec keyboard and is ready for his first acoustic... I appreciate all input.

Any comments? Can the quality vary by piano within a model line? Are the newer Weber's better than the ones from 10 yrs ago?

Any comments appreciated.

Yes, the quality of any piano varies by each individual piano.
I think this is most true of "handbuilt" pianos, but have found variations even with very mechanized factories (such as Yamaha).

Some on this forum would have a lot of specific information about the Weber... we'll see if they chime in.

If you're buying new and you like it, does it really matter what random people think of the brand?

I think it's great you are buying your young son an acoustic to practice on, and I'm sure he will get many years of enjoyment from it. If he continues playing, and you are able, you will most likely want to upgrade to a grand piano some years down the road. But if you and your son like this one, it will last him for quite a while.

You may want to check out http://www.pianobuyer.com/ which you can read online for free.

Ezra,

That particular Weber model was designed by Del Fandrich, one of the most respected piano designers working today. He is also a frequent and active participant at Piano World.

Though considered an entry level instrument, it has some very innovative and progressive features. I have not played one, but your reaction seems to confirm that Mr. Fandrich's goal was achieved. You have been able to hear, side by side, how different pianos can respond dependent on the care which is taken with the whole concept from design to completed product.

If you are pleased with the Weber, there would be no reason to not provide the instrument for your son. It seems to fill all of your, and his, needs.

Congratulations, you are going about your search in a logical and thoughtful manner.

Have Del designed consoles hit te market yet?

Del??? Are you there?

Where, exactly, is "there?"

Yes, at least some of the new designs have reached market. At least they are in production. I don't know what the actual distribution and/or shipping schedule is like.

All of the pianos to be shown at the NAMM show next week are supposed to be the new designs.

In the mean time at least some of the changes developed for the new designs did make it into the last of the older designs. Specifically, the more resilient "cold-pressed" hammers. It is some confusing because the only way to tell the difference is by listening; the pianos with the cold-pressed hammers have a much warmer and pleasant sound.

ddf