Bechstein vs Yamaha
Weighing a Bechstein against a Yamaha grand? They sit in different places, and the honest answer depends on what you want. We sell reconditioned Yamaha, so allow for our leaning.
The short version
A hand-built German C. Bechstein is a top-end piano with a refined, singing tone, and a top-end price. A Yamaha is superbly consistent, beautifully made, brighter and more precise, and costs far less. A well-reconditioned Yamaha grand from Japan gives you a fine instrument for a fraction of a German Bechstein.
Tone
Bechstein is refined and transparent, with lovely colour. Yamaha is clear, even and bright, and carries and records well, which is why so many teachers and studios use it. Which you prefer is a matter of taste.
A word on which Bechstein
If the Bechstein you are comparing is a cheaper W. Hoffmann or Academy model rather than a German C. Bechstein, then a good Yamaha is a very direct rival at a similar or lower price, and well worth hearing side by side.