Piano World Home Page Forums Our Most Popular Forums Piano Forum On buying the perfect piano

Hello Everyone,

So I’ve been visiting these forums since last summer while I’ve been on the search for the ‘perfect’ grand piano. I’ve made many visits to various dealers, and it’s been a very inspirational learning experience. Not to mention that I’ve received a lot of extremely helpful, insightful (and even free) advice from many people here, which I truly appreciate. Two days ago, I finally agreed to purchase a grand.

So what was my conclusion? Well, there is no single ‘perfect’ piano. I had three favourites, all of which I felt had an exceptional touch response. But each had their own individual voice. I was seduced by the rich, resonant sound of a Bösendorfer, yet at the other extreme by the purity of C. Bechstein. In an ideal world, I would buy one of each! But I don’t quite have the money or the space for that.

In the end, I found a compromise. A Shigeru Kawai SK3. In no way is it a compromise on quality – I feel that all three are roughly equal – but in terms of the tonal characteristics of the piano, it gives me the combination of clarity and complexity of tone that I decided I was looking for.

The Shigeru arrived at the dealer straight from the factory in exceptional condition. After a few small adjustments are made, it will be delivered to me in about a week and a half. I can’t wait, and will post a photo as soon as I have the chance.

And thanks go to everyone, even the people I may have disagreed with, for all responses to my questions!

Congrats!

Great choice, if I were to ever upgrade, the Shigeru would be my choice. Right after I purchased my RX3, I had a chance to play an SK7 for an afternoon. I thought that piano had it all. Maybe some day I'll be able to purchase a Shigeru but I'm very happy with my RX, so no complaints. I can't wait to hear your comments.

I'll beat Marty to the punch today by asking for those pix you promised! Take care and enjoy...........blob

Congratulations on choosing a fantastic piano. Do you get the MPA visit in Norway?

Neat - those are great pianos.

Congratulations, pogmoger!

You have have gone through the process of choosing your piano with careful consideration of all contenders and with due research and reflection. Finally, I believe that you have made a wise choice.

I once tried a new Shigeru Kawai SK3 which had a most beautiful singing tone. In my opinion, it outclassed all the other pianos in the showroom which included some very distinguished makes.

I am sure we all await news of its safe arrival in your home.

Warm regards,

Robert.

Thanks everyone! And congratulations to Blob for getting the photo request in first

Yes, I will get an MPA visit. As far as I understand it, there need to be a certain number of Shigerus sold in Norway before an MPA will make a trip here. I was told that maybe it will happen later this year, but I honestly don't mind waiting a little while. I figure that it can't hurt to let the piano settle in first.

Excellent. I really love Shigeru Kawais, in fact I came within about a week of putting a deposit down on one earlier last year but I've opted for something else. That said, they are amongst the finest pianos in their or any class. Congratulations and enjoy your beautiful new piano.

Will you record some Bach for us on it? I don't know why I'm thinking Bach but I would love to hear it.

Congrats! You'll have trouble waiting that week and a half!! I know I would!! I am so thrilled for you!! Enjoy!

Kawai was my choice before I stumbled upon the Estonia. I have not yet tried a Shigeru, but if it is better than the regular Kawai, I am sure it is just wonderful. Congratulations with your new love, may you grow old and happy together.

Hvor i Norge bor du?

Congratulations!
I'm still in love with mine.

Congratulations -- it's a great piano.

I've been Blobbed!

Congratulations Pogomoger! The Shigerus are fine instruments and it will bring you great joy and pleasure.

Were you able to find a dealership in Norway or did you have to travel?

Oh yes, do post pictures!

In Norway, they have everything.

http://www.pianolarsen.no/?page_id=21

http://www.aspheim.no/flygel/shigeru-kawai/

Congratulations!!! Nothing as exciting as getting a new piano!! OK, maybe there are. But, it's pretty exciting!!

Congratulations. Shopping for a piano--when done correctly--is quite the educational experience. Only after you've experienced a number of pianos does "the one", in a sense, sing to you. Enjoy! (I can't wait till I get my piano delivered.).

Thanks everyone.

Joe: I'll try to put together some short recordings at some point, although I will have to practise a bit first!

ChatNoir: Jeg bor i Oslo, men jeg er ikke norsk

Marty: My Shigeru is coming from an excellent local dealer here in Oslo. Most brands are represented somewhere in Norway (Bergen if not Oslo). Notable brands which unfortunately are missing include Blüthner, Steingræber and Estonia. Would have had to go to Denmark or maybe further if I'd gone down one of those routes. But I'm happy with my choice

Congrats Pogmoger! You found it!

Congratulations Pogmoger. I do enjoy the Shigeru's.
Good Luck!

A great choice. Hope you find your Shigeru is not a compromise at all.
Best wishes.

Congrats on your choice!! I played many grands over several months, and just kept coming back to the Shigeru. I haven't regretted my decision for a second. :-)