Bechstein v Steinway

[mitch]

I played on a 1951 Bechstein Grand Model L at the Piano Auction in Holborn, London earlier this month, (which has recently been reconditioned in Poland) and fell in love - but it was estimated to go for 8k-10k.

I can't quite afford this at the moment, (and so will have to keep saving) but had I had the money I would have probably gone for it, but have today read with interest an article on this Forum saying to stay away from any pianos reconditioned in Poland - and wonder whether this goes for all of them.......

Also - are Steinway / Bosendorfer "far" better pianos than Bechsteins?

[PianoGuy]

I played on a 1951 Bechstein Grand Model L at the Piano Auction in Holborn, London earlier this month, (which has recently been reconditioned in Poland) and fell in love - but it was estimated to go for 8k-10k.

I can't quite afford this at the moment, (and so will have to keep saving) but had I had the money I would have probably gone for it, but have today read with interest an article on this Forum saying to stay away from any pianos reconditioned in Poland - and wonder whether this goes for all of them.......

Most of them certainly.

There is a case for getting the cosmetic work done in Poland and the rest by someone who can impart a bit more finesse.

Also - are Steinway / Bosendorfer "far" better pianos than Bechsteins?

Yes.

[Otto]

I swapped a Bechstein for a Steinway because I found it to be much better in almost every respect.

I certainly wouldn't willingly go back to the Bechstein.

[ben_abbots]

having played fine examples of both makes, i can say that i personally much prefer a bechstein, challen or bluthner to a steinway, as the renner action especially on newer or reconditioned models always seems slightly unforgiving compared to the schwander action found on challens etc. the tone quality, though, is biblical!
incidentally, i play '20s jazz and romantic pieces (lizst, rach etc.)
i wonder if anyone with similar tastes prefers schwander actions?

ben