Schimmel vs Yamaha
Weighing a Schimmel against a Yamaha depends a great deal on which Schimmel, because the name covers a German flagship and two cheaper lines. We sell reconditioned Yamaha, so allow for our leaning.
Which Schimmel
A German-made Konzert Schimmel is a top-end piano that sits above a standard Yamaha, competing more with the likes of a Steinway. The cheaper Wilhelm and Fridolin Schimmel lines, built in Poland and China, compete directly with a good Yamaha, and that is the more common comparison.
Tone
Schimmel is clear, precise and versatile, a little brighter and more modern than the old romantic German makers. Yamaha is bright, clear and even, and famously consistent. The two are closer in character than, say, a warm European maker and a Yamaha.
Price and resale
Against the cheaper Schimmel lines, a reconditioned Japanese Yamaha usually offers similar or better quality for the money, and stronger resale in the UK. Against a German Konzert Schimmel, the Yamaha is far cheaper but a step below in outright quality.