There are four basic categories of vertical (upright) pianos. This variety of selection provides versatility and often a bit of confusion for the piano buyer.
I will clarify the differences, the pros and cons, and how they may appeal to the piano buyer.
SPINET: The spinet is the smallest (shortest) variety of upright pianos. They generally measure around 36″ to 39″ vertically from the floor to the top of the case. They were originally designed to be a real functioning piano that took less space. While this is generally true most of the saved space is vertical which serves to make the overall appearance much smaller when compared to the other upright models. They are also intended to be an entry-level piano for beginning players. They are also usually less expensive than the larger models making them attractive to first time piano buyers. There are a few dis-advantages to the spinet which makes them less desirable to more experienced players. Being a smaller instrument they have a shorter string length and less surface area in the sound board than larger pianos. This often limits their projection and tonal dynamics. The second drawback is that spinets usually have what is a termed a “drop-action”, which means the action is below the plane of the keys. The effect of this is that when a key is played the mechanical elements are triggered by a pull as opposed to a push. All of the other verticals are triggered by a push to play the notes. This is called a direct-blow action as opposed to the spinet which is an indirect-blow action. The basic difference is that the direct blow action is more efficient and easier to play. It is more responsive which means the touch of the pianos will be more responsive. The drop-action is also quite difficult to service as it is very hard to get to.
CONSOLE: The console has evolved over the years into the most widely used vertical piano. While larger than a spinet at 40”-44″ they are still space-saving and less obtrusive in a limited space. They always have the direct-blow action and they have a longer string length and sound board surface area than a spinet. While usually more expensive than a spinet they give you more piano for your buying dollar. A well designed console will give you a much greater range of tone and dynamics than a spinet.
STUDIO UPRIGHT: The studio upright is generally about 45″-47″ vertically. They are often some of the most sought-after sizes of verticals. They extra little bit of size over consoles combined with the larger sound board and longer strings will usually produce a much more powerful and dynamic instrument. The range and breadth of tone is often quite significant. A well designed modern studio upright can often out perform an average full upright. With the studio upright you really get the best of both worlds, namely, smaller than the full uprights but lots of dynamics and sound.
FULL UPRIGHT: Last but not least is the full upright. This is quite often the large old upright many people had in their families growing up. They are generally well made and produce a sound comparable to some smaller grands. Some of the more modern full uprights can be better than many grands in a variety of ways. Big sound, powerful dynamics and a full and rich tone are just some of their characteristics.
PRICE: The price points in vertical pianos generally tend to increase with size which is to be expected as the larger instruments often have some additional technical characteristics built into them which input how they play and sound.
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Gary 208 859-3855