As we approach the end of another year, our dedicated team of piano connoisseurs has curated a list of the most sought-after upright pianos of 2023.
The selection of pianos is based on the number purchased throughout the year by music enthusiasts and discerning pianists and is comprised of both new and pre-owned models.
Read on to discover the Best of 2023: Upright Piano edition.
New Upright Pianos
No. 1 – Kawai K300
Kawai K300 and Kawai K300 hybrid models including K300 ATX4 and K300 AURES2
From accredited Japanese brand Kawai, the K300 is probably the best value for money new upright piano currently available on the market due to it being a professional height instrument at 122cm tall. Kawai specialise in the precision mass production of high-quality musical keyboard instruments and their modern-day approach allows them to utilise more affordable production facilities in Indonesia which is where the K300 models are made alongside its smaller sister models, the Kawai K15 and the Kawai K200. They also make their most affordable grand piano in this factory known as the GL-10.
It is important to note that whilst the Kawai K300 is available as a standard acoustic piano, it can be purchased with a system known as ATX4 which promotes headphone functionality, or a hybrid system known as AURES2 which allows you to use and control volume of digital sound samples whilst using the natural soundboard as a speaker.
These features are key factors in making the K300 one of the most versatile and affordable mass-produced upright pianos available on the market today.
No. 2 – Sauter Carus 112
The Sauter Carus 112 is highly desirable for a number of reasons which is probably why it is one of the most popular new pianos to be purchased in 2023. This model is arguably the best value for money handcrafted German piano available on the market today. This is largely due to the nature of its compact size but very rich and resonant tone.
This piano has become one of the best-selling handcrafted German pianos ever which is why you have to join the waiting list should you wish to purchase one. This model is the number one choice of both professional musicians and amateurs alike and is available in a variety of different cabinet colours and finishes, each one handmade in the black forest on the Swiss border of Germany.
No. 3 – Kawai K400 & K500
The other most popular new upright pianos of 2023 are the Kawai K400 and K500. Both of these pianos are made in Japan and are built to a very high standard. Whilst reviewing clients who have purchased these models this year, it is noticeable that these models are ideally suited to those who are prepared to invest a little more in order to achieve more depth and dynamic range in terms of the tone.
Additionally, both of these models are very desirable in both domestic and educational environments making them a safe choice for someone looking for a reliable and enjoyable practice instrument.
View the K400 View the K500 range
Second Hand Upright Pianos
Reconditioned Yamaha U1
Produced and reconditioned in Japan
Some of the most popular pre-owned upright models of 2023 are the certified reconditioned Yamaha U1 and Yamaha U3 models. Yamaha is a world renowned and highly regarded piano maker which has mastered the art of mass producing upright and grand pianos in Japan. These models are popular with professional musicians and amateurs due to their reliability, consistency and value for money.
These models retail around £10,000 pounds when purchased new so being able to secure a reconditioned one for almost half the price is an attractive proposition for many. It is of course important to note that whilst reconditioned Yamaha upright pianos like the U1 and U3 are popular, you must make sure you know an check what you are buying in order to really guarantee you are making a safe and reliable purchase as there are many different levels and standards of reconditioning and refurbishment.
The overall bestselling pre-owned upright pianos of 2023 are as usual, the ones built in Germany, Britain and other parts of Europe. The difficulty with these models is that because they are unique and rare, they are often difficult to find and therefore sold on a first come first serve basis. Out of the many popular pre-owned German and European upright pianos sold in 2023, a majority of these are the Steinway & Sons Model V and Model K followed by preowned Sauter, Bösendorfer, Kemble and Welmar.
