Good morning everyone, after several years and many private piano lessons, I have decided to take the big step. Given that in these years I have tried various pianos (Bösendorfer, Steinway, Yamaha, Essex Kawai, etc., etc.), but my ear has fallen in love with the Steinway sound. Currently, I have a 178cm Kawai KG2C which, with much patience, I have managed to tune exactly how I like it. That being said, I have found two opportunities (used, of course, given the unaffordable prices of new ones), namely an M-170 with 3 pedals from 1963 and an O-180 with 2 pedals from 1978. My music is contemporary (Cacciapaglia, Einaudi, Yanni, etc., etc.). My question for domestic use (among other things, I tune to 432 Hz) which one do you recommend? Both have been restored. I tried to look for them where both could be tested in the same room, but I never succeeded. Do you have any advice or evaluations to take into consideration? The room where it will be placed is about 54 sqm.
I forgot, the 170 which has had more owners costs almost half of the 180 which has had only one owner, so I wonder if the 180 is truly and how much superior to the 170.
Well... I would prefer the 180, if it is in good condition: a more recent serial number and of a different design. Furthermore, after the 60s, Steinway modified the hammers and impregnated them differently. The 80s mark another change, as do other subsequent age ranges up to the present day. I see the 70s as particularly happy. Naturally, this is my personal opinion. I hope it is in good state of preservation. Best wishes, whatever the choice!
Thanks for the answer, question: what do you mean when you say "different conception"? the 170 is from '63 while the 180 is from '78. in what sense do you see the 70s as particularly happy? sorry for so many questions but for me it is a very important purchase given my great passion and I am looking for as much info as possible so as not to make a mistake. thanks
PS: the "nasone" in the photo is so sweet....I have three and I couldn't live without them😉
Unfortunately this dog, Socrate, has not been here for six years... but I was particularly fond of him. First of all, the 180 is more recent and perhaps less exploited. It is a model that has established itself more than the 170. Everything remains to be seen. When making these purchases, one must see the condition of the instrument and project any potential work over time and the costs. Buying a piano like this and not performing scheduled maintenance is wrong. The investment is not just the name. Above all, the action is of fundamental importance and has its own lifespan. In these cases, it is worth being accompanied by a truly expert and "disinterested" person of trust to evaluate everything. A Steinway, in my opinion, must live through time with a documented history, including interventions and maintenance work. This is my opinion. From a distance, it is difficult to give definitive advice. They would need to be seen.
