Steinway

Steinway vs Mason & Hamlin

Mason & Hamlin is the other great American piano maker, the main home-grown rival to Steinway through the golden age of the piano.

The makers

Mason & Hamlin was founded in Boston in 1854, a year after Steinway. In the early twentieth century the two were fierce rivals, and Mason & Hamlin pianos were played by the likes of Rachmaninoff. Today they are built in Haverhill, Massachusetts, and remain, with Steinway, one of only two surviving American makers from that era.

What makes a Mason & Hamlin different

Its signature is the tension resonator, a set of steel rods under the soundboard designed to hold the board’s curve and keep the tone alive over the years. The pianos are known for a very solid build and a big, rich, powerful tone, often described as even fuller in the bass than a Steinway.

Which to buy

Both are fine American grands. Steinway has the greater fame and resale, Mason & Hamlin a devoted following and, some say, more piano for the money. They are rare in the UK, so hear one if you can. If neither fits the budget, a reconditioned Yamaha grand is far less money for a very good instrument.

Our used Yamaha grand pianos
Ask Mark a question