Wilh. Steinberg IQ 116

[RachDue]

Hello,

I am considering a Wilh. Steinberg IQ 116 (some 6500 pounds). Renner action, built in Germany. Brand new (in stock since 2008). It needs a bit of voicing but it would be done in the shop before delivering. Any opinions on this piano? Do you think it can be a "long term" piano? I have studied for six years and I am looking for something "definite".

Thanks.

BR,
Beatriz

[Colin Nicholson]

Have you actually seen and played this piano?

Often is the case, a member might see a piano on a website only - and the information about the piano is only generalised to the action type, colour, size and origin. There is therefore no way of telling the quality or tone production of the piano in question.... no 2 identically-looking pianos are exactly the same in touch/ feel and tone.

I would also be asking questions about the quality of the keys, soundboard, bridges.... and particularly the strings (treble and bass) - and the kind of tuning pins used.

I would also want to know how it compared to other similar models (eg IQ24).... and if this 'budget' style piano is priced accordingly. Also tone quality. If the action and hammers have been installed by Renner - surely they should be voiced according to the piano? (and I wouldn't purely rely on the word of a shop owner, who may not be a technician).

So, with all this mind - I would get a piano technician to check over the piano for you before you hand your money over.

I have had a look on a website - yet there is only ONE customer's comments! no feedback from others or reviews - and the comment made was in 2009 - and no mention about the piano, just that the retailer managed to keep in touch with the customer! Also warranty? How long is warranty? How far are you away from this shop? .... and can you get your money back easily if you are not happy? Also, who do they use to tune, regulate and service the piano - and how easy would it be for them to arrange a tuner if any problems?

I've not tuned or serviced one - but if I was to buy one, these would be the questions I would be asking.

Hope that helps....

[joseph]

Yeah, also, would it not be better to voice the piano AFTER delivery? That's what I had done.