Piano Buying Tips in Singapore

Choosing the right piano is a meaningful investment — whether for your home, your child’s musical education, or your long-term playing journey. When you buy a piano in Singapore, understanding what to look for ensures better sound quality, reliability, and lasting value.

At Melodious Piano Boutique, we believe that an informed buyer will always make a confident decision. This guide covers the essential factors to consider when purchasing a new, used, or reconditioned piano in Singapore.

Choosing the Right Piano for You

New vs Reconditioned / Second-Hand Pianos

New Pianos
New pianos are ideal for buyers seeking a long-term investment with a factory-fresh condition and manufacturer warranty.

Reconditioned / Used Pianos
High-quality Grade A reconditioned pianos from Japan offer excellent value, combining professional restoration with a more accessible price point. When properly reconditioned, these pianos deliver reliable performance, stable tuning, and consistent touch suitable for serious learning.

Brand Considerations

Different piano brands have distinct tonal characteristics and playing feel:

Yamaha Pianos – Clear, bright tone with precise touch; well-suited for examinations, pop, jazz, and stage performance
Kawai Pianos – Warm, mellow tone with a smooth action; favoured for classical repertoire and expressive playing

How to Verify a Piano Before Buying

Before purchasing a piano, careful inspection is essential to avoid long-term issues.

Key areas to check include:

Action responsiveness, keys, pedals, and soundboard condition
Evenness of tone across the keyboard
Absence of buzzing, rattling, or mechanical noise
Evidence of proper servicing or professional reconditioning

For used or reconditioned pianos, always verify the instrument’s age, origin, and service history.

Country of Piano Reconditioning Matters

The quality of a reconditioned piano depends greatly on where and how the restoration is performed. In Singapore, many used pianos are refurbished in different countries, each with varying standards.

Japanese-reconditioned pianos are highly regarded due to:

Strict inspection standards
Skilled craftsmanship
Low usage levels before refurbishment
Consistent quality control

What Does “Fully Reconditioned” Mean?

Not all “reconditioned” pianos are equal. A fully reconditioned piano undergoes a comprehensive restoration process, not just cosmetic cleaning.

A proper reconditioning process includes:

Internal inspection and replacement of worn action parts
Regulation for accurate touch and responsiveness
Voicing of hammers for balanced tone
Full tuning and fine-tuning
Cabinet refinishing and hardware checks

This ensures the piano performs reliably for years of learning and performance.

Should You Rent or Buy a Piano?

Both options have advantages depending on your needs.

Piano Rental is suitable if you:

Are staying in Singapore temporarily
Want to test your child’s interest before committing
Need short-term flexibility without long-term ownership

Buying a Piano is ideal if you:

Plan long-term learning or performance
Want stable touch and tone consistency
Prefer ownership as a lasting investment

Final Advice for Piano Buyers

A piano is more than a purchase — it is a long-term musical companion. Prioritising sound quality, professional reconditioning, and proper verification ensures a satisfying experience for years to come.

If you’re unsure, seek expert guidance and take time to compare instruments in person before deciding.