Hello,
I would like to buy a used piano; I found an acquaintance who is reselling me his Pearl River upright, 110cm tall, about 15 years old, for 550 euros.
--------- I should preface that I don't have high expectations, as long as it is something decent; unfortunately, I cannot spend much (actually, let's say it's already too much!). I took a few months of lessons 15 years ago and I liked it; I used to play on my cousin's piano. Now, I started again a few months ago with my brother-in-law's small keyboard (to give you an idea of the level, let's say I can read sheet music and manage a few pieces by Einaudi, Beethoven, Yann Tiersen... unfortunately, I lack all the study of music theory...) and I convinced my husband to finally buy me a piano, even if it is used, worn out, and not the best, but as long as it is a piano and MINE above all, so that I can study seriously. ---------
I have never owned a piano and am not an expert at all, so I kindly ask you:
1) Is the price honest?
2) Is it possible to adjust some keys (2-3) of the piano that are not aligned, meaning they are a bit lower than the others? Does it depend on something that is expensive to repair?
3) Upon opening it, I noticed that the hammers were not aligned at all; is this normal? (I don't understand these things)
4) I think that after transport it will also need to be tuned; what is the average cost?
5) Furthermore, the soft pedal (una corda) does not muffle the sound enough, and I need to have the possibility to not disturb others if necessary; is it possible to replace the felt with a more effective one? Is it expensive?
In short, let's just say that if I have to shell out another 200 euros to fix it, I might as well buy one for 800 euros directly!!!
Sorry for the length, but perhaps by having a complete picture, including my needs, you will have more elements to base your answers on.
Thank you.