Piano World Home Page Forums Our Most Popular Forums Piano Forum Kawai K3 Vs. NS-20A

Hello everyone,

After playing many pianos recently, I made a decision that I want a Kawai. I really like the sound of the K3 but it is priced a little high for what I can afford at the moment. I did call around and found a dealer with a very nice looking 1993 Kawai NS-20A (from the pictures) that is more in my price range. It is quite far from where I live, so I'll be unable to play it. It is 50" rather than K3's 48" but wanted to know if anyone has compared the difference in sound between the two? They will include shipping, 5 year warranty, and 1 free tuning for the NS-20A for $4400. The K3 is closer to 6K(Brand new) . Any suggestions on my situation? Most importantly....how does the sound of the NS-20 compare to the K3?

The Kawai NS-20A was a very nice instrument. All companies evolve their products. Kawai has done this. I highly recommend that you do NOT buy a piano long distance. If you cannot personally travel to the piano with a qualified tech., pass.

Try a lower offer on the K3.

That's the lowest they would go with the K3. The problem is..... I've tried calling other dealers, but they tell me they can't quote prices over the phone and that I have to come in. What if I'm 600 Miles away or more? Every place I call will not work with me on a K3 going any lower so I'm not having any luck. I would pay $5,000 for one (which I think is very reasonable) but never can get that far.

Well, it is sometimes suggested that a buyer bring a checkbook, and kindly inform the dealer of the price one is ready to pay on the spot. If the dealer still won't go lower or low enough, leave your phone number with them in case they change their minds in a day or two. In the meantime then keep shopping around for a different brand that you may be just as happy with at your budget.

The NS-20 is a very fine piano, but has been out in the world long enough to possibly need work. Pictures are not a good basis for purchasing a piano - if you cannot go and see it yourself, dig around for an independent piano technician in the area of the dealer, hire the technician to check the piano, then make a decision. Any upright piano can be used hard, abused, not serviced appropiately, or subjected to harsh environments, and you need to know this before buying unless you REALLY trust the selling dealer.

Just remember a piano is an instrument not a piece of furniture. And while one somewhat may go on the make and model of an instrument in assuming their track record is good and if you have played one you like, you still should play the instrument you want to buy to know if it is what you want with sound, touch and feel. I love Steinways, however I've played some I would never have wanted no matter the price. If you are far away from your purchase and have not played it or heard it you are taking quite a chance no matter how good the deal. Good luck finding the piano of your choice.