Steinway

Steinway Model O vs Model L

The Model O and the Model L confuse a lot of buyers, and for good reason: they are almost the same piano.

The difference, which is small

Both are about 5 feet 10½ inches, Steinway’s larger home grand. Over the years the New York factory has swapped between the two, the L replacing the O for a long spell before the O returned, with small changes to the tail shape and the design inside. For a player, the practical difference is very slight.

Which to buy

Do not agonise over the letter. At this size, condition, rebuild history and how the individual piano sounds matter far more than whether it is an O or an L. Judge the actual piano in front of you. Our buying guide and used price guide apply equally to both. A reconditioned Yamaha C3 is the natural cheaper comparison at this size.

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