Steinway & Sons is a name that resonates with prestige, quality, and unparalleled craftsmanship in the world of pianos. While they are best known for their grand pianos, Steinway upright pianos are equally commendable.

They offer a unique blend of power, resonance, and the iconic Steinway sound. This article delves into the world of Steinway upright pianos, highlighting their features, history, and why they stand out in the market.

The 6 Best Steinway Upright Pianos (Full Reviews)

Steinway Upright Pianos Models

1. Steinway Upright Pianos: Model K-52

Design

The Steinway Model K52 is a masterpiece of craftsmanship. Standing at 52 inches tall, it is one of the best Steinway upright pianos to buy used. It is renowned for its powerful and resonant sound and is often compared to a grand piano.

Introduced in 1903, the Steinway K-52 is handcrafted in Steinway’s Astoria, New York factory. Its design is characterized by an overstrung scale, also known as a cross-stringing arrangement. The strings are arranged vertically and overlapping.

This configuration allows for a longer string length, contributing to its rich and full-bodied tone. The solid wood, staggered back-posts provide the K-52 with unmatched structural integrity.

Its classic and sophisticated appearance, combined with its outstanding musical capabilities, makes the Model K52 a sought-after instrument among discerning pianists around the world.

It is available in various finishes, including mahogany, walnut, ebony, and birch (all in polished or satin), allowing it to complement a wide range of interior decors.

Dimensions: 52 x 61 x 26.5 (132cm x 154cm x 67cm).

Sound

The Model K52 also boasts a patented diaphragmatic soundboard, which is crafted from the finest spruce. Steinway uses the highest grade of materials, ensuring longevity and consistent sound quality.

This soundboard is tapered, meaning it is thinner on the edges and thicker in the center, a design that enables it to vibrate more freely and produce a more vibrant and dynamic sound.

Action

The piano’s action is highly responsive, providing players with precise control over the keys, making it an ideal choice for both professional musicians and serious amateurs.

The action of American-manufactured Steinway pianos typically offers greater resistance. Pianists can develop excellent control over the keyboard with the K-52.

This characteristic, especially noticeable in upright models, also results in a playing experience that closely mirrors that of a grand piano.

Where to Buy a Steinway K52

You can buy a Steinway K52 online at several online marketplaces:

1. Schmitt: Like New ($29,999.00)
2. Freeburg Pianos: ($17,990)
3. Reverb: With orginial piano bench ($11,900)
4. Ottawa: 1912 Steinway K52 – Refurbished ($19,995)

Find out more about the Steinway K52 on the Steinway Website.

Always verify the condition and authenticity of the piano before purchase. It’s also advisable to play it yourself before making a purchase.

Availability and prices are subject to change, so please check the respective websites for the most current information.

2. Steinway Upright Pianos: Model 1098

Design

Steinway’s dedication to craftsmanship is evident in the 1098 model. Each of the Steinway upright pianos is constructed with precision and care, utilizing high-quality materials that ensure longevity and stability.

The solid spruce soundboard, hard rock maple bridges, and all-wood action components contribute to the instrument’s durability and responsive touch.

Though no longer in production, the Steinway 1098, standing at 46.5 inches, remains a sought-after model in the used piano market. It served as a testament to Steinway’s commitment to providing quality in a compact form.

Ideal for both practice and performance, the 1098 is a popular choice among educational institutions, professional musicians, and home pianists alike.

The Steinway 1098 also presents an excellent value proposition for those seeking Steinway quality at a more accessible price point.

Its reliability and consistent performance make it a wise investment for individuals, schools, and smaller performance venues looking for a high-quality upright piano that offers both affordability and excellence.

Sound

Despite its smaller stature, the Steinway 1098 does not compromise on sound. It produces a tone that is warm, clear, and full-bodied, with a balanced distribution across all registers.

The piano’s sound is surprisingly powerful, capable of filling a room with its resonant and expressive voice, making it suitable for various musical genres.

Action

The 1098 offers a playing experience that is both comfortable and rewarding. Its responsive action allows for accurate and fast repetition of notes, providing players with control and ease of expression.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced pianist, the 1098 facilitates a smooth and enjoyable playing experience.

Where to Buy a Steinway 1098

You can buy one of the 1908 Steinway upright pianos from the following online stores:

1. Beethoven Pianos: 1979 – Polished Ebony ($18,000.00)
2. Caruso: Satin Ebony ($11,900.00)
3. Hollywood Piano: Satin Walnut ($8,995)
4. Carlsonspianoworld: Ebony ($8,999)

Always verify the condition and authenticity of the piano before purchase. It’s also advisable to play it yourself before making a purchase.

Availability and prices are subject to change, so please check the respective websites for the most current information.

3. Steinway Upright Pianos: Model K-132

Design

It’s the upright of uprights. The Steinway K-132 has a perfectly balanced touch, a broad sound spectrum, and an unsurpassed rich sound. This upright piano showcases a blend of timeless elegance and advanced technical capabilities.

Steinway uses the same materials to manufacture the upright pianos in their Hamburg factory as they do for their grand pianos, in order to meet Steinway’s highest musical standards and “to build the best piano possible.”

It is available in various finishes, including classic black, pristine white, and an array of Crown Jewel veneers such as Amber Wood, East Indian Rosewood, Indian Appletree, Kewazinga Bubinga, Macassar Ebony, and Mahogany Pommele.

These options allow for personalization to seamlessly integrate the piano into diverse interior designs and aesthetic preferences.

With a height of 132 cm, width of 152.5 cm, and depth of 68 cm, the Model K-132 is a substantial instrument that commands a presence in any setting. It will add a striking new centerpiece to any room in your house.

Sound

The K-132 is celebrated for its unrivaled sound and feel, providing a musical experience that is both rich and immersive.

It boasts a perfectly balanced touch, broad sound spectrum, and unsurpassed volume, delivering uncompromising musical enjoyment.

The piano is crafted with the same meticulous attention to detail and superior materials as Steinway’s grand pianos, adhering to the company’s commitment to building the best possible piano.

The sound produced is expansive and dynamic, making it the upright of choice for those seeking the grand piano experience in a more compact form.

Action

The action of the Steinway K-132 is noteworthy, providing musicians with a responsive and controlled playing experience.

The piano responds beautifully to various types of touch, from gentle caresses to more vigorous strokes, allowing pianists to explore and push their limits.

The flexibility of the action facilitates expressive playing, enabling artists to convey their musical ideas with clarity and finesse.

Where to Buy a Steinway K-132?

You can buy a Steinway K-132 online at several online marketplaces:

1. Coachhouse: Like new (£37,995.00)
2. Steinway: Balanced touch and a broad sound spectrum. Enquire for more info.

Always verify the condition and authenticity of the piano before purchase. It’s also advisable to play it yourself before making a purchase.

Availability and prices are subject to change, so please check the respective websites for the most current information.

4. Steinway Upright Pianos: Model R

Design

The Steinway Model R is a rare and exquisite upright piano, beautifully finished in rosewood with elegant brass fittings.

The piano’s exterior is treated with French Polish, a finish renowned for its unparalleled depth and color, akin to the light refraction properties observed in precious gemstones.

This sustainable finish, derived from the resin produced by the lac beetle, is meticulously applied by hand, requiring thousands of hours of practice to master.

Sound

The Model R produces a captivating sound, with a soundboard made from Sitka spruce.

Action

The action of the Steinway Model R is responsive and precise, providing musicians with a delightful playing experience that is both satisfying and inspiring.

Whether you are a seasoned professional or an aspiring musician, the Model R offers an action that is sure to meet and exceed your expectations.

Where to Buy a Steinway Model R

1. Thomson: Fully restored (£14,995.00)
2. CoachHousePianos: Satin Rosewood (Enquire for price)

Always verify the condition and authenticity of the piano before purchase. It’s also advisable to play it yourself before making a purchase.

Availability and prices are subject to change, so please check the respective websites for the most current information.

5. Steinway Upright Pianos: Model N

Design

The Steinway Model N is a vintage piano crafted in New York City in 1902. It boasts a timeless design, which when fully refinished is hand-rubbed to achieve a satin open-grain finish.

This meticulous process gives the piano a clean and polished appearance while preserving the instrument’s age and the beauty of the mahogany wood.

The piano’s design is further enhanced by its soft curves, making it a near-perfect and aesthetically pleasing musical instrument.

Sound

The Model N is not only a visual masterpiece but also a sonic one. It is fully re-strung with premium Canadian bass strings, providing a rich and resonant sound.

When the soundboard is restored, the Model N is set to deliver years of delightful sound. It is undoubtedly one of the finest Steinway upright pianos ever made.

Where to Buy a Steinway Model N

1. Bigwrench: Fully refinished ($15,500.00)

Always verify the condition and authenticity of the piano before purchase. It’s also advisable to play it yourself before making a purchase.

Availability and prices are subject to change, so please check the respective websites for the most current information.

6. Steinway Upright Pianos: Model V

Design

The Steinway Model V is a beautifully crafted upright piano with a polished mahogany case, giving it a classic and elegant appearance. The brass fittings complement the mahogany, adding a touch of sophistication to the instrument.

Its compact size, with a height of 122 cm, width of 149 cm, and depth of 67 cm, makes it suitable for smaller spaces while still providing the grandeur associated with the Steinway name.

Sound

Steinway & Sons is renowned for producing pianos with exceptional sound quality, and the Model V is no exception. The mahogany wood construction also contributes to the warm and vibrant acoustics of the piano.

Action

The Model V features an 88-note keyboard and two pedals, providing players with the full range of musical expression.

Where to Buy a Steinway Model V

1. Besbrode Pianos: Located in Leeds, UK. Polished mahogany case and brass fittings. 12-month warranty, piano stool, and free delivery (£9000.00).
2. Klaviano: They have a list of Steinway & Sons V-125 pianos for sale with prices starting from $20,845.03.
3. eBay: This fantastic antique Steinway upright piano dates to around 1937. (£5,995.00)
4. ThePianoShopBath: Manufactured in 1986. 5-year warranty. Includes UK mainland delivery – ground floor. (£18.995)

Always verify the condition and authenticity of the piano before purchase. It’s also advisable to play it yourself before making a purchase.

Availability and prices are subject to change, so please check the respective websites for the most current information.

The Legacy of Steinway Upright Pianos

Steinway & Sons has been crafting pianos for over a century, with each instrument reflecting the brand’s commitment to excellence.

Their upright pianos, whilst not as globally recognized as their grand pianos, carry the same legacy of quality and sound.

Steinway holds over 150 patents on its proprietary technologies and inventions, much like its other German counterparts, and many of them are at the center of their Steinway upright pianos.

Among the Steinway patents are the diaphragmatic soundboard, accelerated action, and hexagrip pin block, which helps the piano to stay in tune over time.

What sets Steinway uprights apart is their bell-like sound, a characteristic feature of the brand. This sound quality is attributed to the brand’s well-engineered scale designs and handcrafted approach to piano making.

History of Steinway Pianos

Heinrich Steinweg established his piano company in 1853 in New York. Americanized by Steinway and Sons, it was the largest piano manufacturer in the world by 1859. In 1880, the Hamburg Steinway factory was opened.

Steinway pianos were designed by Henry E. Steinway and his son Henry Steinway, Jr. The very first Steinway upright scale design featured a 24-note bass section a ¾ flat plate, and agraffes throughout.

During the late 19th and early 20th century, large, imposing instruments of close to 55″ in height were built under the designations Model I in North America, and the virtually identical Model R in Europe.

Two Art Case Model R uprights, alongside a matching Model B grand were placed into service in the First Class areas onboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic. The most popular upright produced by Steinway was a vertical that measured 40″ in height.

First dubbed the Model 40, this smaller vertical underwent several variations and model changes during its time in production. 40″ uprights were built by the New York factory between 1939 and 1987.

The original Model 40 was first put into production to provide an affordable vertical piano to compete against pianos built by the company’s competitors.

Steinway Upright Pianos include a number of features associated with their grand brethren that have been scaled down and inserted in the vertical design.

According to Steinway marketing materials, the Model K is currently the only upright piano offered in North America. The Hamburg Factory currently manufactures the Model K and the Model V.

FAQ

1. How Much Is a Steinway Upright Piano?

The cost of a Steinway upright piano varies significantly based on several factors. New Steinway upright pianos can range from $15,000 to $60,000. The price will fluctuate depending on the model, age, condition, and where it’s purchased.

Over the years, Steinway upright pianos have been owned by aspiring and professional musicians throughout the globe.

John Lennon purchased what would become the world’s most expensive upright piano, built by Steinway in 1970.

This Hamburg Steinway Model Z upright piano was originally sold for $1,500 and was used to compose the song “Imagine” as well as other notable tunes. It later sold for 1.67 million pounds to George Michael.

Factors Influencing Value:

• Model: Different models come with various features, designs, and sizes. The rarity of a particular model can also influence its price.
• Age: While age can affect a piano’s value, it isn’t always a straightforward relationship. Some vintage pianos may hold or even increase in value over time if they are well-maintained.
• Condition: The piano’s overall condition, including its soundboard, strings, hammers, and exterior finish, plays a crucial role in determining its value. A well-maintained piano that is regularly serviced will hold its value better.
• Location: Where the piano is sold can also impact its price. Prices may vary between countries and even between different regions within the same country.

Selling Used:

When selling a used Steinway upright piano, its ability to hold value is influenced by:

• Maintenance: Regular tuning, cleaning, and proper environmental conditions (humidity and temperature control) help maintain the piano’s condition and value.
• Restoration: Professionally restored pianos, where worn or damaged parts are replaced or refurbished, can fetch a higher price.
• Brand Reputation: Steinway & Sons has a longstanding reputation for crafting high-quality pianos, which helps their instruments retain value over time.

Buying Used:

If you are considering buying a used Steinway upright piano, pay attention to:

• Inspection: Have a professional technician inspect the piano to assess its condition and identify any potential issues or required repairs.
• Playability: Play the piano yourself to evaluate its sound quality, action responsiveness, and overall playability.
• Provenance: Understanding the piano’s history, including previous owners and how it was used and maintained, can provide valuable insights into its condition and value.
• Warranty: Check if there is any warranty or guarantee offered with the piano, as this can provide additional peace of mind and protection for your investment.
• Tuning and Delivery: Some people who sell used pianos may offer free delivery to your home and free tuning on arrival. Getting this bundled into the cost of the instrument purchase is a nice bonus.

2. Why Choose a Steinway Upright?

Space Efficiency

For those with limited space, an upright offers the Steinway experience without the footprint of a grand.

Affordability

While still a significant investment, Steinway uprights are more affordable than their grand counterparts.

Trade-Up Policy

Steinway offers a unique trade-up policy, allowing payments made on a new upright to be applied to a later grand piano purchase.

Steinway’s Commitment to Quality

Steinway’s focus on the K-52 over the last century underscores its commitment to providing the best in upright piano design.

Their dedication to refining and perfecting this model ensures that it remains at the forefront of the upright piano market.

3. How to Care for Your Steinway Upright Piano

Caring for your Steinway upright piano not only ensures that it produces the best sound but also that it retains its value over time.

Below is a guide on how to care for your piano through regular maintenance, tuning, and protection from environmental factors.

Regular Maintenance and Tuning:

• Regular Tuning: Pianos should be tuned regularly to maintain their sound quality. For new pianos, it is recommended to tune them three to four times in the first year and at least twice a year thereafter. The exact frequency depends on the piano’s use, changes in season, and the local climate.
• Cleaning: Keep the piano clean by dusting it regularly. Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the keys and a separate one for the rest of the piano. Avoid using cleaning products unless they are specifically designed for pianos.
• Action Regulation: The piano’s action (the mechanism that produces sound) should be regulated every one to two years. This process adjusts the action’s components to compensate for wear, compacting of the felt, and changes in wooden parts due to humidity.
• Voicing: This process adjusts the piano’s tone or “voice” and should be done as needed. Voicing is subjective, so it should be done according to the player’s preference.

Protecting Your Steinway Upright Piano From Environmental Factors

• Control Humidity: Pianos are sensitive to humidity. Too much humidity can cause swelling in the wooden components, while too little can lead to cracking. Maintain indoor humidity levels between 40% and 60%.
• Avoid Temperature Extremes: Place the piano in a part of your home where the temperature is stable, avoiding areas near heaters, air conditioners, radiators, or direct sunlight.
• Use a Piano Cover: When the piano is not in use, cover it with a soft cloth or a piano cover to protect it from dust and environmental damage.
• Avoid Placing Objects on the Piano: Do not place drinks, vases, or anything that might spill or scratch the piano surface.
• Provide Adequate Space: Ensure there is enough space around the piano for air to circulate, helping to maintain consistent temperature and humidity levels.

By following these care and maintenance guidelines, you can preserve the beauty and functionality of your Steinway upright piano for many years to come, providing endless enjoyment and a lifetime of beautiful music.

You can find many more used pianos at the following websites:

1. Golden-age-of-pianos

Conclusion

Steinway upright pianos are unparalleled in their combination of aesthetic design, sonic excellence, and responsive action, providing musicians with an unmatched playing experience.

Each model in our top six list brings something unique to the table, catering to various needs and preferences of piano enthusiasts and professional musicians alike.

With a Steinway upright piano, you are guaranteed a lifetime of musical enjoyment and inspiration. Happy playing!