Which piano & Where is best to buy (USA or Austria)?

[mariak]

Hi, I'm a Brit abroad living in Houston, Texas (USA) and we are about to move to Vienna, Austria (March 2006) .
I would really appreciate advice on whether to buy a piano in America or Vienna??


We are looking for a baby grand (5.8 max). I see buying a piano as an investment for our future (kids etc.), deserving of some serious fore-thought and research. I used to play piano when I was younger and would love to get back into it.

In all honesty, I really have little idea on what to get. I like depth and resonance of tone which can develop with time. I can hear the differences between brands (and don't care for the Yamaha's).
I really liked the Petrof Model IV Klasik (I've been offered one for 24,000 dollars (13,700 British pounds)) which I think is expensive (and is definately our top price). I liked the sound, but I also liked the look of it. I also liked the sound of the Kemble KC173 Grand (14,000 dollars / 8,000 pounds). How about a Kawai GE30?


I have no idea on how expensive pianos are in Vienna or what brands are readily available.
Advice on which piano and where, greatly appreciated.

Maria

[Barrie Heaton]

Most European pianos should be cheaper over here than in the US not so much in the UK but in Germany yes Sound to me you like the softer tone you tend to get in Europe so you would have more choose for over here

Barrie,

[mariak]

Thanks for the reply.

I've managed to contact a few stores in Austria, and the prices do seem to be considerably less in Europe.

If anyone else has any further input about this I'd appreciated it. Is the Petrof Model IV Klasik considered to be a good/great piano?

Cheers

Maria