I am in the intial stage of considering the purchase of a Mason and Hamlin B model built in 68/69 timeframe. This is part of a trade in from a university and used in a teaching studio. Purchase would be contingent on a extensive review and consideration of reconditioning costs. I do have concern about usage and age and whether this would be prudent. Cost prior to reconditioning would be approx 6,000. Any comments please.

Hey canguy,

Welcome to the forum.

Let's see, a 40 year old heavily used M&H 5'4" B Grand. $6000 selling price, plus approx. $25000 - $30000 for a Top Drawer Quality Rebuild. I don't think that I would spend all that money to rebuild a 5'4" grand piano, but that's just me.
You be the judge. What does an already restored B, one that you can test the results of the rebuild before you buy it, sell for? What is a good street price for a brand new new B?

If it were me, I think I would audition some ready to go total rebuilds from trusted re-builders. By the way, there are several well regarded ones that post on this forum. I'd also audition several new ones for comparison purposes.

Have you talked with Silas Lyon, Owner of Southern Keyboards in Marietta, {770 953 0938}. Silas is a stand up guy and will try to help you in any way that he can.

Good luck with your endeavor.

Cordially,

Bear

Thanks for your reply Bear. Coincidentally the piano is at Southern Keyboards! I do feel a little uncomfortable with this route considering my lack of knowledge and the possible cost. I am going to look at reconditioned pianos at other locations as well and will speak with Silas in the near future. That said, I am quite interested in the Kawai line and am looking at some of their products. Though there is great appeal to an older, quality piano there is something to be said for the application of new technology to create a reasonably priced quality instrument.
Thanks again

In the rebuilding community a M&H B as a rebuildable core piano sells for way less than 6K from the network of piano wholesalers though you are looking at this piano in a retail store. The big question is how good or how thrashed is it's present condition. If one can buy an already "rebuilt" one or even a "new" one for lesser $ than obviously that would be the route to go. You never know it may need just minimal repair. After the assessment from a qualified tech you can do the math.

Canguy,

IMO There is not a good reason to rebuild this piano. This is not a good size 5'4" even new; it wasn't a great piano to begin with. Try to find a good deal on New Model A, they are terrific for a small grand.

thank you to all who have replied to date. Will likely look at other "better" options.

Kawai?

of course. why not?

Stick around pianoworld for a while.. your options will increase exponentially.

The new 5'4" model B Mason is a fantastic piano. It is a brilliant design. Even the bass works amazingly well for its size.