Piano Facts
What you need to know before buying a good used piano!

Case
This is probably the least meaningful part from a musical instrument standpoint , however most buyers insist on a great looking cabinet. Touch-up and refinishing is expensive.

Bench -
Sturdy legs matching the piano is a definite plus. Replacement benches range in price from $ 295.00 to $ 785.00.

Keys -
Coverings should be in good shape , no chipping or cracks , bad discoloration or deep scratches. A new set of keys range from $ 295.00 to $ 450.00.

Bushings -
Movement from the front to back or side to side on the keys indicate worn bushings, these make the piano feel old and loose. New bushings are approx. $ 400.00.

Hammers
Deeply grooved ends can be sanded to reshape the hammer however flat
heads mean replacement, side movement is bad because it prevents correct striking.

Dampers
Dampers stop the sound when the key is released, check for moth problems, hard dampers make noise when the reset onto the string.

Action
All notes should play with light, even uniform touch for consistency particularly or children and beginners, beware of plastic action parts eventually they must all be replaced.

Pinblock
Tuning may be off but the piano should be in tune with itself, check for untuned triads this is a sign of weakness and separations in the block itself.

Strings
Excessive rust and corrosion around tuning pins will cause the strings to pop while tuning, again this is an expensive repair.

Soundboard
Solid spruce is superior, check for cracks across bridges these may cause bussing and rattles.