What to Look for in a Used Piano Before Buying

1. Overall Appearance and Cleanliness

First impressions matter. Check the piano’s cabinet, legs, and pedals for:

• Deep scratches, cracks, or chips
• Water damage or staining
• Missing parts (like pedals or key covers)
• Signs of neglect, such as excessive dust or cobwebs

A well-cared-for exterior often signals that the previous owner took good care of the instrument as a whole.

2. The Condition of the Keys

Play each key individually. You should look for:

• Smooth, even key action (no sticking, dead, or overly loose keys)
• Consistent spacing between keys
• No broken or chipped keytops
• Uniform color (extremely yellowed keys could signal aging ivory or plastic)

The keys are your direct connection to the piano—if they don't feel or respond correctly, it will impact your playing.

3. Soundboard Health

The soundboard (the large wooden plate inside the piano) is crucial for rich, resonant tone.
Inspect it carefully for:

• Cracks or splits (small hairline cracks can be manageable, but large ones are serious)
• Rattles or buzzing sounds when playing
• Signs of moisture damage

A cracked or warped soundboard can be extremely expensive to repair, and often signals it's better to walk away.

4. Tuning Stability and Pitch

Play several notes across the piano’s range and listen closely.

• If the piano is significantly out of tune, it could just need a basic tuning—but if the tuning pins are loose or slipping, that's a serious problem.
• Ask when it was last professionally tuned.
• Confirm that the piano can hold pitch at standard A440.

Inconsistent pitch or difficulty tuning could mean costly repairs—or that the piano isn't worth restoring.

5. Pedal Functionality

Test all three pedals (if it has them):

• Sustain pedal (right) should hold the note clearly without sticking
• Soft pedal (left) should soften the sound properly
• Sostenuto pedal (middle, on grands) should sustain only selected notes

Pedal issues can affect performance and may require mechanical work if not functioning properly.

6. Age and Brand Reputation

Not all brands age the same way. Some trusted names known for durability and craftsmanship include:

• Yamaha
• Kawai
• Steinway & Sons
• Baldwin
• Boston
• Mason & Hamlin

If you're looking at a lesser-known brand, extra caution is warranted. Also, remember:

• Pianos over 40–50 years old may require major restoration unless meticulously maintained.
• Serial numbers can often reveal the manufacturing year—ask the seller or check under the lid.

7. Professional Inspection Matters

Even if everything looks and sounds good, it’s wise to have a professional piano technician inspect the piano before buying.
An expert will check:

• Internal components
• Pinblock health
• Action regulation
• Overall structural integrity

At Lane Music, we often assist customers with pre-purchase piano evaluations to ensure they’re getting a great instrument and a great deal.

Final Tip: Buy from Trusted Sources

Buying from private sellers can sometimes save money, but it comes with risks. Reputable dealers like Lane Music:

• Carefully inspect and service used pianos
• Offer warranties or guarantees
• Provide professional delivery
• Help you choose the right piano for your needs and budget

Trust your ears, your instincts—and trusted experts!

Find Your Perfect Piano at Lane Music

Whether you’re buying your first piano or upgrading to a finer instrument, Lane Music’s team of experts is here to guide you.
We carry a curated selection of high-quality used pianos and are happy to assist with inspections, financing options, and delivery.

Visit us today or Contact us to schedule a free consultation!