New Yamaha B2 versus used U1 or ... ?

[Wormsie]

Hi,

I have played the piano for thirteen years now (classical, still taking lessons, at the moment learning to play Rachmaninov's cis-moll prelude), first with the piano in my parent's house and later with a digital one in my own apartment. During the one year that I've had my Roland digital piano I have noticed that a digital just doesn't have what it takes (obviously). So I'd like to buy my very first piano, one that would hopefully stay with me until I get the money and the apartment where a grand piano fits. I'd be grateful to get some advice regarding different makes and models.

The amount of money I can afford to spend is 4000-6000 euros.

I'd be interested in getting a Yamaha, either new or used. I've been wondering, are the B2 Yamahas generally considered good pianos or not?

The other possible option would be to buy a U1 used, which is about the same price as a new B2 (around 4500 euros). Buying a new piano would be less risky, but then again the U1 is very popular and a piano I personally like. (The models that are for sale as used often don't seem to be in the best possible condition, though.)

Also, How does the Yamaha M108 relate to these models? Used, it's for sale here for 3500 euros.

If I were to use all my 6000 for a new Yamaha, I could get a P112NT. Is it wise or not?

Sorry if the euros cause you trouble.

[PianoGuy]

Hiya Wormsie!

Search the forum for "U1" and you'll see a hierarchy of which old U1s to avoid and which to go for. Generally, try and get a U1 which is newer than 4-million (preferably 5-million) on the serial number, and go for a proper U1 rather than one of the similar models with other designations. This will bolster the resale value of your chosen piano.

The b2 is OK if you don't want to pay more, but not a patch on the U1.

The M108 is the original incarnation of the b1/b2's frame design but lacking the braced back. Build quality is excellent, being Japanese built rather than the b-series' Indonesian build, but tone is usually 'old-school' Yamaha... ie a bit bright for European ears! It will also be a fair few years old now.

If you're in the Netherlands or Germany, you'll be able to pick from a better selection of imported U1s than most of us in other parts of Europe. Judging by your perfect English, I'd say that was probably the case, unless of course you're from the Emerald Isle, where despite the lovely countryside, you'll be worse off than us Brits for poor quality imports!!.....

[Wormsie]

Thanks for the response!

Regarding my country of origin, I'm from northern Europe, Finland to be precise.