Exception or rule?

[David Porritt]

Arlie:

I'm not an expert on Kawai and their line of products, but I believe the UST8
is the piano that replaced the SC3.  That was a lightly built piano that I've
found unsatisfactory.  On the other hand they do make some very nice
instruments.  I just think you have to be familiar with the various models they
have.  Like everyone else, I think they try to have a model for everyone's
budget.  I usually tell people that if there is a piano in a line that is
significantly cheaper then the rest, there is probably a reason.

dave

Arlie D. Rauch wrote:

> 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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David M. Porritt, RPT
Meadows School of the Arts
Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX 75275
mailto:dporritt@swbell.net
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