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Hi everyone - I've been taking my time shopping for a good, used baby grand piano for around $6k. I recently got a lead on somebody selling a 1929 Steinway Model V125 for just around that price.

I know it's an upright, but I've liked the sounds of the new Steinway uprights I've heard.

I'm planning to go play it this week and have only been told that it's in "good condition" with no sound board cracks, etc.

What are some of the questions I should be asking or things I should be looking for in a piano this old. Also, is $6k fair, a steal or a ripoff considering the age of the piano.

Thanks everyone!

Find out whether you like it, then if you do, get a tech to evaluate it for you.

Pianos don't last forever (even Steinways).
Pianos don't get better with age.

This piano will be beyond life expectancy for strings, hammers, dampers, some action parts, key bushings, and more.

This piano may be beyond life expectancy for bridges, soundboard, and pin block.

Only move on this with a complete technical survay from a qualified technician (not associated with the seller).

To completely rebuild this piano would cost many thousands of dollars.

There are very good performing new Indonesian grand pianos on the market around the $6k mark that will give years of good performance and the security of a warranty. Many would outperform a model V in decent condition.

Ok, thanks - this is helpful. It sounds like given the age, regardless of the condition it is in, that $6k can be better spent somewhere else. Appreciate the detailed input.

Brian