Side by side
C. Bechstein vs Kawai ES120
C. Bechstein
9 positive (90%) · 1 mixed (10%) · 0 negative (0%)
Trust + time weighted: +90%
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Bechsteins are still superior if we're looking at tonality and touch. Absolutely sublime.
When it comes to new I personally prefer the traditional European brands like Bechstein, Hoffmann, Sauter, Petrof, Schimmel, Förster, Seiler, Grotrian, Steingraeber, Blüthner and Rönisch.
You may get more value for money by finding a refurbed secondhand piano - perhaps a Bechstein, or Welmar (fantastic 2nd hand uprights in Europe.
Which brand of piano is best among concert grands - is it Steinway, German Steinway, Bechstein, Shigeru Kawaii, Fazioli, etc.
Bechstein, perhaps one of the finest piano manufacturers in the world, and patently European at that
Kawai ES120
12 positive (75%) · 4 mixed (25%) · 0 negative (0%)
Trust + time weighted: +72%
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You might also find the likes of a used Roland FP30X, Kawai ES120, or Yamaha P125 for around $500.
Kawai ES120, ES520, ES920
Kawai for the action.
Try Kawai Es120, es520, Roland FP30x, FPe50, Yamaha P225, DGX670 (ghs, so normal length keys).
Here’s suggestions, Roland FP10 ($499 new), Roland FRP-NUVOLA ($599 new on sale at Costco with pedals, stand and I think a bench!), Roland FP-30X (on sale for $599.99 right now), Kawai ES60 ($499), Kawai ES120 ($949), Kawai KDP75 ($999). All of these are great beginner keyboards