Are you considering acquiring your first piano? That’s an excellent decision! But how do you choose the right instrument for your needs? Here are 3 options to consider and our recommendations for each:
1. Traditional acoustic piano
The advantages of a real piano are numerous: the richness and depth of the sound, the unique sensation of playing on a string and hammer instrument, the elegant aesthetic of a well-crafted piece of furniture. This is definitely the ideal choice for classical pianists who wish to embark on a long journey in piano learning and have “their own piano”. However, regular maintenance (tuning every 6 months in Hong Kong due to the climate) and the bulkiness are disadvantages to consider.
For a small room, I would rather recommend a compact piano with a more modest soundboard. This type of model will integrate harmoniously without overloading the space, while offering a balanced sound. If you have a larger room, you can consider a more massive and imposing model. Thanks to its larger soundboard, this piano will fully fill the acoustic space and provide you with a full and generous sound.
To buy a traditional new piano in Hong Kong, if like the vast majority of pianists you don’t have the budget to buy one of the extraordinary American grand pianos from the “Steinway & Sons” manufacturer (minimum HKD 800,000, we all dream of it…), I recommend you turn to renowned Japanese brands for their sturdiness and resistance to humidity, an important issue in our city.
Two main brands of new pianos that are well known to piano tuners and repairers stand out in the region:
– Kawai, pianos sold by Parsons Music (showroom at Time Square). Entry-level models start around 35,000 HKD.
For example, some very popular Kawai piano models are:
– Kawai K-200: Average price in Hong Kong: 35,000 – 45,000 HKD. It is a compact and affordable upright piano, with a very good sound quality for its price. It is an excellent choice for beginner pianists.
– Kawai K-300: Average price in Hong Kong: 50,000 – 65,000 HKD. This slightly higher-end model offers better sound projection and a better keyboard response compared to the K-200.
– Kawai KS-7: Average price in Hong Kong: 80,000 – 100,000 HKD. It is an entry-level grand piano that offers a beautiful sound in a more compact format.
– Kawai KG-2: Average price in Hong Kong: 120,000 – 150,000 HKD. This entry-level grand piano model has a larger soundboard, for a rich and powerful sound.
– Yamaha, pianos sold by Tom Lee Music (showroom in Wan Chai). Entry-level models start around 48,000 HKD.
For example, some very popular Yamaha piano models are:
– Yamaha U1: Average price in Hong Kong: 48,000 HKD. It is a very popular and affordable upright piano. It offers an excellent value for money for an acoustic branded piano.
– Yamaha YU111: Average price in Hong Kong: 80,000 – 100,000 HKD. It is a slightly higher-end model than the U1, with better keyboard response and better sound projection.
– Yamaha GB1K: Average price in Hong Kong: 120,000 – 150,000 HKD. It is an entry-level grand piano from Yamaha. Although smaller than a full-size grand piano, it offers a rich and expressive sound.
– Yamaha C3X: Average price in Hong Kong: 180,000 – 240,000 HKD. It is an excellent entry-level grand piano, with a larger soundboard size that provides a beautiful tone.
During your visit to these showrooms, I recommend following this checklist to properly evaluate the different models available:
– Beauty and richness of the sound (no metallic sound), with a nice resonance. The piano must have “heart” and convey emotions.
– Responsiveness and regularity of the key mechanism (test slow and fast pieces).
– Pleasant touch sensation, neither too “dry” nor too “deep”.
– Balance between the bass and treble volumes.
– Smooth functioning of the pedals.
– Overall condition (no scratches, marks, etc.).
– Structural solidity (the piano should not move when playing).
– Some pianos are also sold with an integrated dehumidifier, which is very convenient in Hong Kong’s humid climate.
– Delivery time! Some pianos are available immediately, while others will take 6 months to be delivered.
– Warranty duration (1, 2 or 3 years).
– My very personal opinion (each teacher has their favorites…): for true entry-level pianos, Yamaha is a good choice. For pianos in a higher range, Kawai has very good arguments!
If you are more inclined towards a used model, it is possible to find good pianos at more affordable prices. In this case, you can also turn to reputable German/Austrian brands (Bechstein, Blüthner, Grotrian-Steinweg, Feurich, Schimmel, Pfeiffer or Förster). The American sub-brand of Steinway & Sons, called Boston, is also an excellent choice. Websites like Facebook Marketplace or Carousell regularly post ads for used pianos.
However, when buying a used piano, it is essential to go and try it in person before finalizing the purchase. You need to thoroughly check the general condition of the instrument, including the functioning of the keys (for example, keys that stick) and the sound quality. You can follow the same checklist as for a brand new piano (adding a few key topics such as the piano’s age – no more than 15 years old -, its origin, and the warranty status…)
It is important to take the time to test the piano in detail, as a used instrument can sometimes have more or less visible problems that would require costly repairs later on. By being cautious, patient, and trying out used pianos before purchase, it is entirely possible to find good deals!
Whether for a new or used piano, plan to have it tuned ideally every 6 months (average rate in Hong Kong per tuning: 700 HKD). Feel free to contact us to get the coordinates of a good tuner.
If you don’t have the budget for a brand new piano, but you don’t want to take the risk of buying a used one, another option is renting! Rental providers like Nagoya Piano (https://www.pianos.com.hk/rentals) or Fujiasia (https://www.fujiasia.com/) can provide you with a piano in perfect condition for a minimum of HKD300 per month and a commitment period of 2 years. They will also cover the cost of tuning the piano every 6 months. Be sure to choose a model that fits the size of your room.
2. Digital Piano (cabinet)
The digital piano option has several advantages. First of all, it does not disturb the neighbors thanks to the possibility of adjusting the volume or using headphones. Moreover, digital pianos do not go out of tune, unlike acoustic pianos which require regular tuning, especially in humid climates like Hong Kong. Although a real piano is always preferable, digital pianos offer an excellent alternative, especially for beginners or those living in confined spaces.
For digital pianos, I strongly recommend the Kawai brand as a priority.
The most popular pianos in Hong Kong are:
– Kawai ES110: Average price in Hong Kong: HKD 12,000 – 18,000. This is an entry-level portable piano highly appreciated for its sound quality and keyboard feel, while remaining affordable.
– Kawai KDP110: Average price in Hong Kong: HKD 18,000 – 24,000. This is a mid-range digital piano with an excellent price-to-performance ratio. It offers high-quality sound and keyboard feel.
– Kawai CN27: Average price in Hong Kong: HKD 25,000 – 35,000. This high-end digital piano model offers a playing experience very close to an acoustic piano, with exceptional sound and keyboard quality.
– Kawai CA49: Average price in Hong Kong: HKD 35,000 – 45,000. This is a high-end digital piano with an exceptional sound system and keyboard, close to the perfection of an acoustic piano.
– Kawai CS11: Average price in Hong Kong: HKD 45,000 – 60,000. This flagship model of the Kawai range offers a professional-level playing experience and sound quality in a compact format.
– My favorite: Kawai CA-701. Average price in Hong Kong: Between HKD 50,000 and 65,000.
The sound is more pleasant and the key mechanism is more responsive. Two of our students bought the CA-701 model this year, which is compact and offers a nice resonance. This is a hybrid model with real wooden keys and hammers (that strike printed circuits), so there is a real piano-like touch sensation. The sound is very beautiful, whether played without or with headphones. It is possible to order your piano in a specific color (white, black, oak, etc.) and add a “polished” option for a glossy finish if desired.
In the Yamaha range, the good models are those in the Clavinova series (classic piano feel) or the Arius series (more compact for a small room).
If you have the space, opt for the Clavinova series which produces a better sound. Within the same series, the prices of new pianos vary depending on the model’s age or the number of “gadgets” integrated into the piano. A good compromise is to choose a recent model, but very simple (with as few gadgets as possible). Moreover, the latest digital pianos generally have a small digital screen which makes them easier to use than the older pianos without a screen.
Some good Yamaha digital pianos to consider:
– Yamaha CVP-705. Average price in Hong Kong: 35,000 – 45,000 HKD. Top-of-the-line Clavinova series, very high quality sound and keyboard, close to a grand piano. Numerous advanced features for an exceptional playing experience.
– Yamaha CLP-635. Average price in Hong Kong: 25,000 – 32,000 HKD. Mid-range Clavinova series model. GrandTouch keyboard and high-quality sound system. Suitable for demanding pianists looking for a compact digital piano.
– Yamaha YDP-164. Average price in Hong Kong: 15,000 – 20,000 HKD. Mid-range Arius series model. GHS (Graded Hammer Standard) keyboard for a natural playing feel. Good sound system for a digital piano in this price range.
– Yamaha P-125. Average price in Hong Kong: 8,000 – 12,000 HKD. Compact and portable entry-level Arius series model. Good value for money for a beginner digital piano. Suitable for pianists looking for a simple and affordable instrument.
Brands to avoid for digital pianos: Casio and Roland, too “synthetic” in my opinion…
If you turn to a used model, plan a budget of 3,500 to 10,000 HKD on traditional resale sites (Carousell, Facebook Marketplace, etc.). If you cannot visit to test the piano, a good practice is to ask the sellers to send you a video of each key played one by one slowly (white and black). Listen carefully to the video and make sure no keys make a “click click” sound, which would indicate they are cracked/broken inside. Feel free to send us the videos for an expert opinion, we are used to advising our students!
3. Portable digital keyboard (on a stand)
If your space is very limited or if you need to move your instrument frequently, a portable digital keyboard can be an excellent solution. Lightweight and compact, it will allow you to practice anywhere while benefiting from high-quality sound. Of course, the playing experience will be slightly less than on a real piano, but it’s an ideal option to start with if you have a very small space. Make sure to get an 88-key keyboard with a high-quality pedal (not a “sewing machine” model) and a very stable stand. The keys should be “weighted” to get as close as possible to the feel of a real piano.
Roland stands out as the leader in digital keyboards. The Yamaha and Korg brands are also interesting.
To avoid (for now): the many Chinese brands at very attractive prices, which generally have much too light keys.
You are now better equipped to find the ideal piano that will suit your needs and level. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced pianist, there is always an appropriate model that will allow you to progress and derive immense pleasure from playing.
Domitille, Director of FHK Music
Are you considering acquiring your first piano? That’s an excellent decision! But how do you choose the right instrument for your needs? Here are 3 options to consider and our recommendations for each:
1. Traditional acoustic piano
The advantages of a real piano are numerous: the richness and depth of the sound, the unique sensation of playing on a string and hammer instrument, the elegant aesthetic of a well-crafted piece of furniture. This is definitely the ideal choice for classical pianists who wish to embark on a long journey in piano learning and have “their own piano”. However, regular maintenance (tuning every 6 months in Hong Kong due to the climate) and the bulkiness are disadvantages to consider.
For a small room, I would rather recommend a compact piano with a more modest soundboard. This type of model will integrate harmoniously without overloading the space, while offering a balanced sound. If you have a larger room, you can consider a more massive and imposing model. Thanks to its larger soundboard, this piano will fully fill the acoustic space and provide you with a full and generous sound.
To buy a traditional new piano in Hong Kong, if like the vast majority of pianists you don’t have the budget to buy one of the extraordinary American grand pianos from the “Steinway & Sons” manufacturer (minimum HKD 800,000, we all dream of it…), I recommend you turn to renowned Japanese brands for their sturdiness and resistance to humidity, an important issue in our city.
Two main brands of new pianos that are well known to piano tuners and repairers stand out in the region:
– Kawai, pianos sold by Parsons Music (showroom at Time Square). Entry-level models start around 35,000 HKD.
For example, some very popular Kawai piano models are:
– Kawai K-200: Average price in Hong Kong: 35,000 – 45,000 HKD. It is a compact and affordable upright piano, with a very good sound quality for its price. It is an excellent choice for beginner pianists.
– Kawai K-300: Average price in Hong Kong: 50,000 – 65,000 HKD. This slightly higher-end model offers better sound projection and a better keyboard response compared to the K-200.
– Kawai KS-7: Average price in Hong Kong: 80,000 – 100,000 HKD. It is an entry-level grand piano that offers a beautiful sound in a more compact format.
– Kawai KG-2: Average price in Hong Kong: 120,000 – 150,000 HKD. This entry-level grand piano model has a larger soundboard, for a rich and powerful sound.
– Yamaha, pianos sold by Tom Lee Music (showroom in Wan Chai). Entry-level models start around 48,000 HKD.
For example, some very popular Yamaha piano models are:
– Yamaha U1: Average price in Hong Kong: 48,000 HKD. It is a very popular and affordable upright piano. It offers an excellent value for money for an acoustic branded piano.
– Yamaha YU111: Average price in Hong Kong: 80,000 – 100,000 HKD. It is a slightly higher-end model than the U1, with better keyboard response and better sound projection.
– Yamaha GB1K: Average price in Hong Kong: 120,000 – 150,000 HKD. It is an entry-level grand piano from Yamaha. Although smaller than a full-size grand piano, it offers a rich and expressive sound.
– Yamaha C3X: Average price in Hong Kong: 180,000 – 240,000 HKD. It is an excellent entry-level grand piano, with a larger soundboard size that provides a beautiful tone.
During your visit to these showrooms, I recommend following this checklist to properly evaluate the different models available:
– Beauty and richness of the sound (no metallic sound), with a nice resonance. The piano must have “heart” and convey emotions.
– Responsiveness and regularity of the key mechanism (test slow and fast pieces).
– Pleasant touch sensation, neither too “dry” nor too “deep”.
– Balance between the bass and treble volumes.
– Smooth functioning of the pedals.
– Overall condition (no scratches, marks, etc.).
– Structural solidity (the piano should not move when playing).
– Some pianos are also sold with an integrated dehumidifier, which is very convenient in Hong Kong’s humid climate.
– Delivery time! Some pianos are available immediately, while others will take 6 months to be delivered.
– Warranty duration (1, 2 or 3 years).
– My very personal opinion (each teacher has their favorites…): for true entry-level pianos, Yamaha is a good choice. For pianos in a higher range, Kawai has very good arguments!
If you are more inclined towards a used model, it is possible to find good pianos at more affordable prices. In this case, you can also turn to reputable German/Austrian brands (Bechstein, Blüthner, Grotrian-Steinweg, Feurich, Schimmel, Pfeiffer or Förster). The American sub-brand of Steinway & Sons, called Boston, is also an excellent choice. Websites like Facebook Marketplace or Carousell regularly post ads for used pianos.
However, when buying a used piano, it is essential to go and try it in person before finalizing the purchase. You need to thoroughly check the general condition of the instrument, including the functioning of the keys (for example, keys that stick) and the sound quality. You can follow the same checklist as for a brand new piano (adding a few key topics such as the piano’s age – no more than 15 years old -, its origin, and the warranty status…)
It is important to take the time to test the piano in detail, as a used instrument can sometimes have more or less visible problems that would require costly repairs later on. By being cautious, patient, and trying out used pianos before purchase, it is entirely possible to find good deals!
Whether for a new or used piano, plan to have it tuned ideally every 6 months (average rate in Hong Kong per tuning: 700 HKD). Feel free to contact us to get the coordinates of a good tuner.
If you don’t have the budget for a brand new piano, but you don’t want to take the risk of buying a used one, another option is renting! Rental providers like Nagoya Piano (https://www.pianos.com.hk/rentals) or Fujiasia (https://www.fujiasia.com/) can provide you with a piano in perfect condition for a minimum of HKD300 per month and a commitment period of 2 years. They will also cover the cost of tuning the piano every 6 months. Be sure to choose a model that fits the size of your room.
2. Digital Piano (cabinet)
The digital piano option has several advantages. First of all, it does not disturb the neighbors thanks to the possibility of adjusting the volume or using headphones. Moreover, digital pianos do not go out of tune, unlike acoustic pianos which require regular tuning, especially in humid climates like Hong Kong. Although a real piano is always preferable, digital pianos offer an excellent alternative, especially for beginners or those living in confined spaces.
For digital pianos, I strongly recommend the Kawai brand as a priority.
The most popular pianos in Hong Kong are:
– Kawai ES110: Average price in Hong Kong: HKD 12,000 – 18,000. This is an entry-level portable piano highly appreciated for its sound quality and keyboard feel, while remaining affordable.
– Kawai KDP110: Average price in Hong Kong: HKD 18,000 – 24,000. This is a mid-range digital piano with an excellent price-to-performance ratio. It offers high-quality sound and keyboard feel.
– Kawai CN27: Average price in Hong Kong: HKD 25,000 – 35,000. This high-end digital piano model offers a playing experience very close to an acoustic piano, with exceptional sound and keyboard quality.
– Kawai CA49: Average price in Hong Kong: HKD 35,000 – 45,000. This is a high-end digital piano with an exceptional sound system and keyboard, close to the perfection of an acoustic piano.
– Kawai CS11: Average price in Hong Kong: HKD 45,000 – 60,000. This flagship model of the Kawai range offers a professional-level playing experience and sound quality in a compact format.
– My favorite: Kawai CA-701. Average price in Hong Kong: Between HKD 50,000 and 65,000.
The sound is more pleasant and the key mechanism is more responsive. Two of our students bought the CA-701 model this year, which is compact and offers a nice resonance. This is a hybrid model with real wooden keys and hammers (that strike printed circuits), so there is a real piano-like touch sensation. The sound is very beautiful, whether played without or with headphones. It is possible to order your piano in a specific color (white, black, oak, etc.) and add a “polished” option for a glossy finish if desired.
In the Yamaha range, the good models are those in the Clavinova series (classic piano feel) or the Arius series (more compact for a small room).
If you have the space, opt for the Clavinova series which produces a better sound. Within the same series, the prices of new pianos vary depending on the model’s age or the number of “gadgets” integrated into the piano. A good compromise is to choose a recent model, but very simple (with as few gadgets as possible). Moreover, the latest digital pianos generally have a small digital screen which makes them easier to use than the older pianos without a screen.
Some good Yamaha digital pianos to consider:
– Yamaha CVP-705. Average price in Hong Kong: 35,000 – 45,000 HKD. Top-of-the-line Clavinova series, very high quality sound and keyboard, close to a grand piano. Numerous advanced features for an exceptional playing experience.
– Yamaha CLP-635. Average price in Hong Kong: 25,000 – 32,000 HKD. Mid-range Clavinova series model. GrandTouch keyboard and high-quality sound system. Suitable for demanding pianists looking for a compact digital piano.
– Yamaha YDP-164. Average price in Hong Kong: 15,000 – 20,000 HKD. Mid-range Arius series model. GHS (Graded Hammer Standard) keyboard for a natural playing feel. Good sound system for a digital piano in this price range.
– Yamaha P-125. Average price in Hong Kong: 8,000 – 12,000 HKD. Compact and portable entry-level Arius series model. Good value for money for a beginner digital piano. Suitable for pianists looking for a simple and affordable instrument.
Brands to avoid for digital pianos: Casio and Roland, too “synthetic” in my opinion…
If you turn to a used model, plan a budget of 3,500 to 10,000 HKD on traditional resale sites (Carousell, Facebook Marketplace, etc.). If you cannot visit to test the piano, a good practice is to ask the sellers to send you a video of each key played one by one slowly (white and black). Listen carefully to the video and make sure no keys make a “click click” sound, which would indicate they are cracked/broken inside. Feel free to send us the videos for an expert opinion, we are used to advising our students!
3. Portable digital keyboard (on a stand)
If your space is very limited or if you need to move your instrument frequently, a portable digital keyboard can be an excellent solution. Lightweight and compact, it will allow you to practice anywhere while benefiting from high-quality sound. Of course, the playing experience will be slightly less than on a real piano, but it’s an ideal option to start with if you have a very small space. Make sure to get an 88-key keyboard with a high-quality pedal (not a “sewing machine” model) and a very stable stand. The keys should be “weighted” to get as close as possible to the feel of a real piano.
Roland stands out as the leader in digital keyboards. The Yamaha and Korg brands are also interesting.
To avoid (for now): the many Chinese brands at very attractive prices, which generally have much too light keys.
You are now better equipped to find the ideal piano that will suit your needs and level. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced pianist, there is always an appropriate model that will allow you to progress and derive immense pleasure from playing.
Domitille, Director of FHK Music
