Pianos come in many different styles, designs, shapes, and sizes. How do you know which one is best for you?
Start right here with our guide to the different types of pianos. It depends on many things, like:
- Size of your home
- How often you play
- Your decor taste
- How much you choose to invest
Overall, acoustic pianos fall into one of two categories: vertical or horizontal. Verticals are uprights. Horizontals are grands.
You’ll find verticals or uprights are the most popular category as they fit into many different spaces. It’s also one of the most affordable instruments you can purchase.
The soundboard is vertical, so the strings and dampers run downward across the board. As a note is played, the hammers strike outward, and take a bit longer to return to resting position. That causes a slight delay.
But don’t think every grand is superior in performance to an upright; it isn’t true. Both verticals and horizontals can be high quality investments that will provide you with years of enjoyment.
In each category, you might run across different names.
Vertical:
Spinet – 33 to 35 inches high, the smallest of the pianos. It’s a popular choice for small spaces, but will have less power and accuracy than other models.
Console – 40 to 43 inches high, it produces a more enhanced tonal quality, and comes in a variety of styles and finishes.
Studio – 45 to 48 inches high, you’ll find this in schools and training center. It’s durable and has a high quality sound.
Full – 48 to 60 inches high, this is the tallest of the uprights. You’ll probably find this in your grandparents’ home, and maintains its sound over time.
Grand:
Petite – 4’ 5” to 4’11” is the smallest of the grands.
Baby – 4’11” to 5’6” is one of the most popular because of its aesthetics, sound, and affordability.
Parlor – 5’7” to 6’4”
Ballroom – 6’5” to 7’5”
Concert – 7’6” and above
The largest of pianos you’ll find in the best music halls around the world. Why? Because they create the best music.
There are many different types of pianos – how do you know which is best for you? Stop by today and let’s consider your options. We’ll help you find the right piano for your needs.
