Buying a Used Kemble
Kembles are no longer made, so buying one means buying used. Here is an honest guide to doing it well.
First, which era
Establish whether it is a Yamaha-era Kemble, built after 1988 with Yamaha soundboards and action parts, or an earlier British-only one. Both can be good, but the later ones have the Yamaha engineering and are usually the better buy. The model and serial number help date it. See are Kemble pianos made by Yamaha.
What to check
- Condition above all: the action, the hammers, tuning stability and the case.
- Whether it has been looked after and tuned regularly.
- The model and height, which affect tone and value.
As with any older piano, a tired one can cost more to put right than it is worth, so have one seen by an independent technician before you buy.
What to pay
A used Kemble usually costs less than the equivalent reconditioned Yamaha, which is the appeal. Our price guide has the ranges.