AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Grand Pianos for Jazz 2026
The top pick is Yamaha T100C 2-Channel 100-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo ($29,062). Yamaha GB1 K SC3 PWH Grand Piano gives you the most for the money at $19,071. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 37 models across 5 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 20, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Yamaha T100C 2-Channel 100-Watt 1x12" Guitar Combo
C 2 X PE · Yamaha
3 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Weight305 kg
The C2 X PE is a beautifully crafted instrument, offering a clear, pure tone that’s perfect for students, teachers, or smaller performance spaces. Yamaha’s composite action provides a dependable playing experience, and the polished ebony finish looks fantastic. It’s a reliable, well-built piano, though the smaller size means it won't have the full sonic depth of a concert grand.
Pros
- Solid spruce soundboard delivers a vibrant, resonant tone.
- Yamaha’s renowned composite action offers consistent, reliable touch.
- Compact 5’8” size suits smaller spaces without sacrificing sound.
Cons
- The smaller size limits the ultimate bass response compared to larger grands.
- Composite action, while reliable, lacks the nuanced feel of a traditional wooden action.
82AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$29,062 now$29,062€25,890 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight265 kg
- Keys88 keys
The GB1 K SC3 is a smart choice for serious students or those with limited space who still want a genuine Yamaha grand experience. The Silent System is a game-changer for practicing without disturbing others, and the Bluetooth connectivity adds modern convenience. It’s a beautifully crafted instrument that delivers a surprising amount of performance for its size.
Pros
- Silent System offers incredibly realistic practice with diverse sounds
- Compact size (5’) makes it suitable for apartments or smaller studios
- Yamaha’s renowned action provides responsive and predictable touch
Cons
- White polished finish demands meticulous care to avoid fingerprints and smudges
- Silent System’s speaker quality is adequate, not truly high-fidelity
64AudioFu
Index↓ 5.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$20,194 · Aug 17$19,071 now$19,071€16,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight249 kg
- Keys88 keys
The GC1 M is a solid choice for students or smaller spaces wanting the grand piano experience without the top-tier price tag. It captures the essence of the C1's tone, though with a slightly more restrained character due to the material choices—a great balance of quality and value for those seeking a beautiful instrument.
Pros
- Duplex scale delivers enhanced resonance and sustain
- High-gloss polished finish provides a striking aesthetic appeal
- Cost-effective entry point to Yamaha’s renowned grand piano lineage
Cons
- Material selection compromises premium sound compared to the C1
- Smaller size limits low-frequency response and power
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$25,357 now$25,357€22,590 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight317 kg
- Keys88 keys
This piano delivers a professional sound without breaking the bank, making it perfect for schools and serious students. It feels like a full-sized instrument with 88 keys and a solid bench included. While the weight is heavy and the sustain pedal is basic, it offers high expressiveness for its price.
Pros
- Outstanding sound quality at a reasonable price point
- Made to high standards used by professional artists
- Includes a dedicated Andexinger piano bench
Cons
- Limited to a single tone sustain pedal only
- Hefty weight of over 300 kilograms
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$31,419 now$31,419€27,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight299 kg
This compact grand plays like a big CFX or Bösendorfer but stays quiet. You connect headphones to hear the rich sound and record up to ten songs with built-in tools. It's perfect for students or pros who need practice space without noise, but you'll need external speakers to hear it outside.
Pros
- Built-in 25 sounds including famous grand pianos
- MIDI recording and playback for 10 songs
- USB audio recorder for capturing performances
Cons
- No internal speakers to hear the instrument
- Requires external headphones for silent playing
58AudioFu
Index↓ 3.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$36,470 · Aug 17$35,348 now$35,348€31,490 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight312 kg
The GL 30 E/P is a beautifully crafted, compact grand – a great choice for smaller spaces or aspiring pianists. Its action feels incredibly refined for its size, and the tone is surprisingly full. Perfect for students, apartments, or anyone wanting an authentic grand piano experience without the footprint of a concert model.
Pros
- Millennium III action offers exceptional responsiveness and control.
- Duplex scale design delivers a richer, more resonant tone.
- ABS Styran components ensure durability and consistent performance.
Cons
- The compact size limits low-end power compared to larger grands.
- The polished black finish is a fingerprint magnet, requiring regular cleaning.
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$20,082 now$20,082€17,890 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight289 kg
The GL 10 ATX 4 E/P is a beautifully crafted instrument, perfect for serious students, smaller performance spaces, or homes where a full-sized grand isn't feasible. The AnytimeX-4 system makes it surprisingly versatile for recording and digital integration, while the Millennium III action provides a truly satisfying playing experience.
Pros
- Millennium III action delivers exceptional responsiveness and control.
- Integrated Hammer Sensing System (IHSS) provides realistic dynamic range.
- AnytimeX-4 offers versatile connectivity and recording options.
Cons
- The compact size (153cm) may slightly compromise low-end resonance compared to larger grands.
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most musicians.
54AudioFu
Index↑ 3.0%since Aug 17$18,510 · Aug 17$19,071 now$19,071€16,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight305 kg
- Keys88 keys
The GC 2 PE is a solid choice for students or institutions needing a reliable, expressive grand piano at a more accessible price point. It captures the essence of Yamaha’s renowned sound quality while streamlining production. Expect a bright, clear tone and responsive action, perfect for developing technique and enjoying a classic piano experience.
Pros
- Duplex scale design enhances sustain and resonance.
- Cost-effective entry into Yamaha’s grand piano lineage.
- Glossy black finish provides a classic, elegant aesthetic.
Cons
- Materials are optimized for cost, potentially limiting long-term durability.
- Smaller size (173cm) may restrict low-frequency response.
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$24,684 now$24,684€21,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight331 kg
- Keys88 keys
The DGC1 EN ST is a seriously impressive piece of engineering. It's perfect for the serious piano enthusiast who wants the convenience of automated playback and silent practice alongside a truly authentic grand piano experience – just be prepared to dedicate the space and budget for it.
Pros
- Exceptional Yamaha build quality ensures long-term reliability and stability.
- DSP Servo Drive System delivers remarkably accurate and nuanced playback reproduction.
- Silent Piano technology offers discreet practice and listening options.
Cons
- The substantial weight demands professional movers and a reinforced floor.
- High-end pricing places it beyond the reach of many recreational players.
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$44,889 now$44,889€39,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight331 kg
- Keys88 keys
The DGC2 EN ST is a seriously impressive piece of kit – a beautifully finished grand piano combined with Yamaha's Disklavier tech. It's perfect for families wanting a versatile instrument or established musicians who appreciate the convenience of automated playback and silent practice. It’s a premium investment, but the technology and build quality are top-notch.
Pros
- DSP Servo Drive delivers incredibly accurate and nuanced playback reproduction.
- Silent Piano technology offers unparalleled practice flexibility and privacy.
- Black polished finish provides a sophisticated aesthetic appeal and easy maintenance.
Cons
- The substantial weight requires professional installation and dedicated space.
- High-end price point positions it beyond the reach of many recreational players.
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$47,695 now$47,695€42,490 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 37 grand pianos
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Yamaha D C1 X EN Black PolishedYamaha53Stable$51,175€45,590$51,175€45,590Check ↗
- 12
Yamaha C 7 X PE Grand PianoYamaha53Stable$56,114€49,990$56,114€49,990Check ↗
- 13
Yamaha D C3 X EN Pro Black PolishedYamaha53Stable$61,726€54,990$61,726€54,990Check ↗
- 14
Kawai GX 2 ATX 4 E/P Grand PianoKawai · 3 finishes52Stable$38,940€34,690$38,940€34,690Check ↗
- 15
Steinway & Sons B-211Steinway & Sons · 3 finishes52Stable$57,236€50,990$57,236€50,990Check ↗
- 16
Yamaha GCB1 Black PolishedYamaha · 2 finishes51Stable$14,581€12,990$14,581€12,990Check ↗
- 17
Kawai GX 6 E/P Grand PianoKawai50↑ 3.3%$52,185€46,490$52,185€46,490Check ↗
- 18
Kawai GX 3 E/P Grand PianoKawai49↑ 4.6%$38,715€34,490$38,715€34,490Check ↗
- 19
Steinway & Sons M-170 black matSteinway & Sons · 2 finishes48Stable$29,174€25,990$29,174€25,990Check ↗
- 20
Steinway & Sons O-180Steinway & Sons · 2 finishes48Stable$45,562€40,590$45,562€40,590Check ↗
- 21
Yamaha C 5 X PEYamaha46Stable$46,011€40,990$46,011€40,990Check ↗
- 22
Yamaha C 6 X PEYamaha46Stable$51,063€45,490$51,063€45,490Check ↗
- 23
Kawai GL 50 E/P Grand PianoKawai43↑ 1.1%$30,296€26,990$30,296€26,990Check ↗
- 24
Steinway & Sons S-155Steinway & Sons43Stable$35,909€31,990$35,909€31,990Check ↗
- 25
Steinway & Sons A-188Steinway & Sons43Stable$43,205€38,490$43,205€38,490Check ↗
- 26
Seiler 168 Virtuoso Grand PianoSeiler41Stable$33,664€29,990$33,664€29,990Check ↗
- 27
Seiler 208 Professional Grand PianoSeiler41Stable$44,889€39,990$44,889€39,990Check ↗
- 28
Seiler 214 Concert Grand PianoSeiler41Stable$52,746€46,990$52,746€46,990Check ↗
- 29
Seiler 242 Concert Grand PianoSeiler41Stable$67,339€59,990$67,339€59,990Check ↗
- 30
Thomann GP 160 E/P Grand PianoThomann40Stable$7,622€6,790$7,622€6,790Check ↗
- 31
Thomann GP 188 E/P Grand PianoThomann40Stable$9,530€8,490$9,530€8,490Check ↗
- 32
Seiler 186 Maestro Grand PianoSeiler40↑ 2.9%$39,276€34,990$39,276€34,990Check ↗
- 33
Steinway & Sons L Onyx Duet Grand PianoSteinway & Sons36Stable$45,113€40,190$45,113€40,190Check ↗
- 34
Steinway & Sons A-195 (A3)Steinway & Sons36Stable$46,011€40,990$46,011€40,990Check ↗
- 35
Steinway & Sons D-274Steinway & Sons36Stable$112,014€99,790$112,014€99,790Check ↗
- 36
Seiler 170 Professional Grand PianoSeiler34Stable$25,806€22,990$25,806€22,990Check ↗
- 37
Thomann GP 213 E/P Grand PianoThomann32Stable$15,704€13,990$15,704€13,990Check ↗
Grand Pianos by the numbers
Measured across all 75 models we track, not a sample.
Median $34,562 — half of all grand pianos here cost less.
median of 68 models · 101 kg–385 kg
median of 21 models · 88–88
most common · 7 models
How to choose the best grand pianos
Tone
Jazz demands warmth and complexity. We're not chasing bright, sparkly cleans; we want a rich, full sound with that fat midrange honk that cuts through a trio without sounding harsh. A little bit of vintage grit isn't a bad thing either - it adds character. Avoid anything that sounds brittle or overly modern.
Action
This is critical. A light, responsive action allows for those subtle dynamic shifts and nuanced voicings that define jazz playing. Heavy, clunky actions will strangle your expression. Look for something that allows you to play quietly and still get a defined tone, and that doesn't fight you when you want to dig in.
Sustain
Not endless sustain, but enough to let phrases breathe and notes linger. Too much sustain can muddy the sound, especially when comping. Too little, and you'll be constantly pedaling just to get a decent phrase across. It's a balance, and it's incredibly important for that legato feel.
Dynamic Range
The ability to play quietly and still have the piano be heard, and then to build to a powerful crescendo is key. A piano with limited dynamic range will feel flat and lifeless. This is where the quality of the hammers and soundboard really shines through.
Size/Space
A full-sized concert grand is overkill for most jazz players. A 5'6" to 6'6" piano is usually plenty. Consider your space - a massive piano in a small room will just sound boxy and unpleasant. Smaller rooms benefit from a piano with a more focused tone.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're serious about jazz and you're looking at a grand piano. Forget the concert hall monsters - those are built for power and projection, not the nuanced touch and intimate feel we need for jazz. We're talking about instruments that can whisper a bluesy phrase, or punch with a subtle authority, all while offering a responsive action and a warm, inviting tone. Let's find you a piano that swings.
Don't get blinded by brand names. A well-maintained older Yamaha or Kawai can often outperform a newer, budget-brand Steinway. Listen critically, and don't be afraid to walk away.
Action is king - it's far more important than a perfectly pristine finish. Be wary of pianos that have been heavily modified or "voiced" - a good tech can improve a piano, but a bad job can ruin it.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 63 grand pianos from the Thomann catalogue (of 75 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between 'warm' and 'muddy'?
Warm implies richness and depth without sacrificing clarity. Muddy means the low-end is overpowering, masking the other frequencies and making it difficult to hear individual notes.
Should I buy new or used?
Used is almost always the better value, but you absolutely need to have a qualified technician inspect it first. A good tech can spot potential issues that you might miss, and a full reconditioning can add years to a piano's life.
What about digital pianos? Can those work for jazz?
They've gotten better, but they still struggle to replicate the nuanced feel and complex overtones of an acoustic piano. For serious jazz playing, nothing beats the real thing. A good hybrid (acoustic action with digital sound engine) can be a decent compromise if space or budget is a major concern.
What does 'voicing' a piano mean?
It's adjusting the hammers to alter the tone - softening them for a warmer sound, or hardening them for more clarity. It's a delicate process best left to experienced technicians.
I'm on a tight budget. What should I prioritize?
Action, without question. You can live with a slightly less-than-perfect tone, but a terrible action will ruin your playing. Focus on finding a piano with a responsive, even action, and be prepared to compromise on other aspects.
