[kathy]

I have just decided to buy my first piano. I have a budget of about &1500.

Would I be best trying to get a new one for this price or going for a second hand?

Also - there seem to be so many different makes out there - a few that I recognise - but lots I don't.

Any advice on what are good/not so good makes to look out for?

I think that I will probably buy from a dealer rather than privately as I know next to nothing about them. Any suggestions as to where I might go - I live in West Sussex near Hampshire border.

Thanks

Kathy

[Barrie Heaton]

Second hand will get you a better piano and getting it from a shop is a good idea you should be looking at modern pianos of possible something like this Kemble
http://www.uk-piano.org/pianos-for-sale-trade/detail.php?siteid=712 which comes with a 5 year guarantee which is just the same as some new ones or this Zender
http://www.uk-piano.org/pianos-for-sale-trade/detail.php?siteid=708

the down side for the 109 size 60 and 70s pianos is the bass is a bit lacking partially Zenders, these are not bad for the size
http://www.uk-piano.org/pianos-for-sale-trade/detail.php?siteid=615
However, the floating centres do tend to click if they have been is a very dry house
If you are after a rich bass tone then you will have to look at a bigger budget something like
http://www.uk-piano.org/pianos-for-sale-trade/detail.php?siteid=705
This looks like a good buy
http://www.uk-piano.org/pianos-for-sale-trade/detail.php?siteid=680
again with a 5 year guarantee it all depends on your needs remember not only will you be playing the piano for the next few years or so but you will be looking at it as well

Barrie,
_________________
Barrie Heaton
Web Master UK Piano Page

[kathy]

Thanks for your advice Barrie - I actually saw a couple of those piano's yesterday at the Bedhampton Piano Shop when I called in there yesterday. The Zender was very nice - but I really loved the look of the Kawai - just have to see if I can stretch the budget!

Thanks again

Kathy

[Barrie Heaton]