The lifespan of a piano has been debated for years. I have always said to our customers that pianos are like people: with appropriate care and some luck, a person can live 80-100 years and the same goes for pianos. However, keep in mind that a person can run a marathon— but perhaps not as fast at the age of 80!

There are numerous reasons why customers choose used over new pianos:

1. Same Money, More Piano 

Your budget may be able to get you a new entry level grand piano, but in the used section it can get you a higher end model, of better quality.

2. Worry Less About Minor Cosmetic Blemishes

When we buy new, whether it’s a car, a piano or furniture, we want to keep it as pristine as when we first bought it, with that just out of the box look, for as long as possible. Unfortunately, most used instruments will have at least some minor blemishes

3. Peace of Mind

If you buy from a reputable piano store, you will still get the new piano perks, such as having a warranty, delivery and bench, and an in-home tuning included.

4. It is Unique and One of a Kind

When you buy new, you are typically choosing a mass-produced piano that you and your neighbours might all have. A used piano has a story, a history like no other. There is only one.

5. Help the Environment 

We cannot write an article on the benefits of buying used without mentioning the positive impact on the environment:

• used pianos do not require new resources, whereas every manufactured piano is responsible for a certain amount of resources consumed
• used products do not generate the same amount of pollution as new, such us shipping from the piano manufacturer
• used products don’t require energy to create
• used pianos do not have packaging

6. Depreciation and Appreciation

Most items purchased new depreciate. On pianos, the biggest depreciation happens right after you buy it. A used piano has to be significantly lower in price than a new one in order to be worth buying. So why not take advantage of that benefit?

7. It is Available

In some special circumstances, let’s say…hmmm…a global pandemic when the demand exceed supply, a used grand piano is an excellent alternative. If down the road you are still dreaming of a brand new shiny black piano, you can always trade your used piano in!