Shopping for New Studio Upright

We are a musical family with a son in college (music major, classical guitar, but wants a "real" piano at home), mom who's a vocalist and needs a good piano for accompanying herself & learning new rep (currently we have a horrifically untunable piano), a preschooler who is desperate to learn to play (and who we don't want to teach on the disgusting excuse for a piano we currently have), and another one on the way who will hopefully be musical as well! Went shopping today and have narrowed down some choices, but it's not narrow enough, so I've been trolling these boards for opinions. While incredibly helpful, I thought I'd put my specific considerations out there and see what opinions I can further cultivate!

In descending price order, we are considering:

Charles Walter Studio
Ritmuller (Renner action) 48"
Kawai K3
Hailun 48"
Yamaha T118

I personally like a mellower sound, and, while the least expensive, that has me shy away from the Yamaha. However, I am just interested in as many opinions as I can get on these specific options, which are basically running in the $6,000-$7,000 range as of today. It is also important that the little ones learn on a piano with appropriate action for early classical music training.

I thank you in advance for your expertise! We are very excited about the new addition to our family (both the piano and the newest little one on the way)!

The CW would be my preference. Mellow tone and great action for an upright. I will admit I'm not familar with the other uprights on your list. I have heard many positive comments on the forum regarding the Yamaha T118. Good luck.

Rich

CW would be a great choice. And you might want to look at the Kawai K-5.

Only one of your list is made in the US, by Americans.

CW is the clear choice IMHO.

The Charles Walter is in the right place on your list.

There's only one piano on your list we would ever consider. (See below...)

I've played a few CWs and they're a good value.

You need to play all these pianos or have someone do it for you and listen in.
My personal hunch is that the 121 Rit could end up being a top pick.
[disclosure: we're dealers..but for reason]
Please note: the Rits don't have Renner actions - just Renner hammers.
The only one coming to a conclusion about this of course is - you!
All models mentioned [except one IMHO..]are fair competitors to each other!
Good luck!
Norbert

if you're looking for a mellow sounding piano at that price you should consider an essex made by steinway... a lot of people dislike them because they say they're not a real steinway.. however they sound INCREDIBLE... try one out

I prefer a mellower sounding piano myself. I think ju5tin-h is correct, try to find an Essex produced by Steinway & Son's to try out. I would also recommend trying out a Perzina if you can find one?

This should be your top pick - Charles Walter Studio
Number 2 choice , but far down from walter - Kawai K3
Number 3 pick Ritmuller (Renner hammers) 48"
Number 4 Yamaha T118
Number 5 Hailun 48"

I have sold and played all of the pianos on this list.

The Walter vertical pianos are excellent instruments. I cast my vote for the Walter.

Thank you everybody for all the advice! I went with the Charles Walter, delivered today & we can't be happier!!!

Congratulations!

You will enjoy many years to come with your new piano.

Remember: Posting photos of your new piano is a tradition at PW.

Congratulations!

We are looking forward to pictures.

Welcome to our RAREFIED Walter Club. Enjoy!!!