You’ve decided to go piano shopping. You’re ready to bring music into your home. 

It’s important to take the right steps in the piano buying process to ensure you get a high quality instrument that will last for years to come. 

Your first step is to find a piano showroom that will provide you with an opportunity to learn all about the piano as an instrument. A knowledgeable sales associate can educate you on the differences between brands, sizes, and models. They’ll also be able to answer all of your questions as you move forward. 

Still, there are some things you should pay attention to as you narrow down your choices. 

Sound

Not all pianos sound the same. A piano will even sound different to individuals, depending on their preferences or tone. Some offer a rich tone. Others may be vibrant and lively. Some are built to sound beautiful in a large auditorium, while others will have a stronger voice in a smaller room in your home. By coming into a piano showroom, you’ll have the opportunity to hear a variety of pianos, and be able to pick the one that suits your tastes. 

Keys

While there are many parts on a piano that are considered crucial, arguably the keys would be at the top of the list. To be a great piano player, you learn by touching the keys. If you invest in an inexpensive electronic keyboard, for example, you’ll find they have cheap plastic keys that aren’t properly weighted. You’ll never be able to play by touch if you don’t learn with the proper tools. You should also pay attention to the way every key moves. Does a key stick? Is it cracked? Does it produce sound?

Warranty

A piano isn’t a static piece of furniture you place in a room and forget it’s there. With thousands of parts, there’s a lot that can go wrong. If you choose to work with a reputable dealer, you’ll have the added protection of having a warranty in place, that can protect you from any problems a piano may have encountered during the manufacturing process. Look for a dealer that stands behind their work. 

Play it first

This will be an instrument you bring into your home and play for many years to come. Don’t just look at the finish and admire the setup. Instead, take the time to sit down and play it. Without playing it, you won’t be able to feel it. Don’t be nervous about playing in front of people. You can always ask to sit down by yourself for a few moments to compare your final selections. A reputable dealer understands your desire to be happy with your purchase. They’ll give you time to make an informed decision, and help you be satisfied with your purchase.