I have a question which affects recommendations I make for piano purchases. I do not sell pianos, but I am often asked what brands are good. One of my recommendations is Kawai. But I am wondering whether I can continue to recommend Kawai. A school nearby purchased a new Kawai studio (UST-8C, serial A89257) because they had an older Kawai studio which they loved. This new one is not of the same quality. One of the holes for a plate bolt is stripped. Some tuning pins are loose enough to remind me of a fifty-year-old piano. The fall board had to be repaired (glued together) at my first visit before the piano had even been used. The sound is less rich. There were other problems, too. Over all it reminded me of a low quality American (ouch) made piano. This Kawai has required a significant pitch raise each of its first two tunings and a tremendous amount of regulation each time. This is unlike my experience with other Kawais. And the music teacher is not happy with this one. So, is this an exception or the rule? Or is there a certain line of Kawais one should avoid? What's been your experience? Arlie Arlie D. Rauch Glendive, MT If you have nothing better to do, check out http://members.tripod.com/~Turbooster/. You'll be glad you did.
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