[lisadainty]

Hi

We have now decided to purchase an acoustic piano. Trouble is we have a limited budget around 2000. It is primarily for our 10 year old son but would like to encourage younger sister!
We have looked at the bottom of range kawai -- K1SE and have also looked at a reconditioned BL12 & a DS65 - all come in at a similar price. Son likes the feel of all - but then he is only a beginner. We totally musical inept parents no nothing - advice needed please. New or second hand.??

Thanks

[PianoGuy]

I'd be surprised if anyone can see you without seeing the pianos in question. Kawai's model numbers were terribly confused until recently so few can identify what a BL12 or a DS65 actually are. The K15 is a very good starter piano, but smallish, and I would *guess* that the other two are taller, probably imported models.

If this is the case, condition is all. Older Kawais if priced right can be good buys, so if you can get a local independent tuner to look at all three you should glean some good knowledge.

[jackg]

If you contact your local school or concert venue to ask them for the phone number of their piano tuner. Then if you phone the tuner(s), as he is in the trade he may know of a piano for sale or can advise which models to consider or who to ask, and may offer to look over a piano for you. There is plenty of info on the internet but it takes a while to read and digest. And get more than one opinion.

[lisadainty]

Thanks.

Yes the older two Kawai are imported from Japan. Another question? Is it usuall - advisable practice to get a tuner to look at pianos before you purchase?

[PianoGuy]

Don't see why not.