Reconditioned Steinway Pianos
“Reconditioned” is a word you will see a lot when buying a used Steinway, and it can mean very different things. Here is what to check, so you know what you are actually paying for.
What reconditioned should mean
At its best, reconditioned means the piano has been properly gone through: tuned and regulated, worn parts renewed, action and hammers sorted, and the case tidied, so it plays and looks close to its best. At its worst, it means a clean and a polish. The word is not regulated, so ask exactly what was done.
The Steinway question that matters most
On a reconditioned Steinway, ask whether any major parts, the soundboard, the action, the hammers, have been replaced, and if so with genuine Steinway parts or substitutes. This makes a real difference to value. Get the answer in writing. Our restoration guide explains the jobs involved.
Always have it checked
Before buying any reconditioned Steinway, pay an independent technician to inspect it. A photograph cannot show you a tired action or a replaced soundboard.