AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best Piano Accordions for Jazz 2026

Q: What's the difference between a 'piano' and a 'button' accordion?

Piano accordions have a piano-style keyboard on the right hand, while button accordions use buttons. Jazz players almost exclusively use piano accordions for the familiar keyboard layout.

Q: I'm a beginner. Should I buy used or new?

Used is often a better value for beginners. You can get a much higher-quality instrument for the same price. Just be sure to have a tech check it out before you buy.

Q: What does 'bellows' mean, and why is it important?

The bellows are the 'lungs' of the accordion. They create the airflow that vibrates the reeds. A leaky or stiff bellows makes the accordion difficult to play and affects the tone.

Q: How much should I expect to spend?

A decent jazz-worthy piano accordion will start around $1500 used, and easily go up to $5000+ for a top-tier instrument. The price reflects the quality of the reeds, action, and overall construction.

Q: My accordion sounds 'tinny' or 'harsh' when amplified. What's wrong?

That's usually a sign of cheap reeds or a poorly voiced pickup system. Upgrading the pickup or having a tech adjust the reeds can often improve the sound.

The top pick is Hohner Bravo III 96 silent key red ($2,015). Startone Piano Accordion 48 Red MKII gives you the most for the money at $470. Scandalli Super L leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 86 models across 8 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 10, 2026

86models in this chart

8brands

$4,480median price

10price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All Piano Accordions Showing: For Jazz · clear

Price

Skill level

Use

Brand

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

Hohner Bravo III 96 silent key red
Hohner
Not on Reverb yet4 finishes at Thomann
- Weight8.6 kg
The Bravo III 96 is a fantastic entry point into the world of piano accordions, especially for students or players seeking a compact, manageable instrument. Its silent key action is a real boon for practice, and the overall build quality is surprisingly robust for its class. It's a well-rounded package for those wanting a traditional sound without excessive bulk.
Pros
- Silent key action provides incredibly responsive, controlled treble playing
- Solid German bass reeds deliver a warm, full-bodied, traditional tone
- Compact size and lightweight design (8.6 kg) enhance portability and comfort
Cons
- Standard reed plates limit customization and advanced tonal shaping potential
- 96 bass configuration may feel restrictive for experienced players accustomed to larger instruments
66AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup90
- Price75
- Specs100
- Maker100
↓ 8.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$2,195 · Aug 14$2,015 now

$2,015€1,798 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Scandalli Air I
Scandalli
Not on Reverb yet5 finishes at Thomann
- Weight9.1 kg
The Scandalli Air I is a fantastic entry into the premium accordion market. It’s a beautifully constructed instrument with a lively sound and surprisingly manageable weight, making it ideal for intermediate players or those seeking a high-quality, portable instrument without the extreme expense of top-tier models. The Italian craftsmanship really shines here.
Pros
- Super Dural reed plates deliver a remarkably responsive and bright tone.
- The lightweight (9.1 kg) design makes it surprisingly manageable for extended playing.
- Scandalli’s build quality ensures excellent durability and a refined feel.
Cons
- The limited number of bass registers might restrict advanced bass ornamentation.
- While lightweight for a 96-bass, it's still a commitment for younger or smaller players.
63AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup100
- Price50
- Specs100
- Maker84
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$5,434 now

$5,434€4,849 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Hohner Varia One Piano C Black
Hohner
Not on Reverb yet2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight4.7 kg
This accordion is built for kids aged six to ten, with a slim keyboard that feels natural to hold. The light weight helps young shoulders, and the flexible bellows stay put better than stiff plastic. It suits music schools and teachers looking for a durable, child-friendly instrument.
Pros
- Natural posture thanks to child-friendly proportions and slim keyboard design.
- Gentle on shoulders due to reduced weight and compact build.
- Flexible metal-free bellows holders protect the instrument.
Cons
- Only one reed rank on the treble side limits volume.
- No specific reed size or pitch adjustment options mentioned.
62AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup61
- Price84
- Specs100
- Maker100
↓ 11.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
$3,735 · Aug 17$3,306 now

$3,306€2,950 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Thomann Alpin III 72 M BK
Thomann
Not on Reverb yet4 finishes at Thomann
- Weight9.1 kg
The Thomann Alpin III 72 M BK is a well-built, entry-level piano accordion geared towards students and enthusiasts of European folk music. Its Musette tuning and solid construction deliver a traditional sound and feel, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a dependable instrument without a premium-priced tag.
Pros
- Mother-of-Pearl keys offer a premium feel and visual appeal
- Dural reed plates contribute to a responsive and clear tone
- Musette tuning provides a traditional, slightly nasal European accordion sound
Cons
- Musette tuning limits versatility for non-traditional genres
- The included case, while functional, might lack premium protection
60AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup90
- Price52
- Specs100
- Maker73
↓ 0.5%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$4,504 · Aug 14$4,480 now

$4,480€3,998 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Hohner Bravo III 120 silent key
Hohner
Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
- Weight9.2 kg
The Bravo III 120 is a well-built, compact piano accordion perfect for students or players who value portability and a quieter practice experience. The Silent Key action is a real boon for apartment living, and the Hohner sound is recognizable and pleasing. It's a solid entry point into the world of 120-bass accordions without being overly premium-priced.
Pros
- Silent Key action is remarkably responsive and quiet for practice.
- Hohner’s standard reed plates offer a reliably bright, classic European tone.
- Compact size and lighter weight make it manageable for students and smaller players.
Cons
- The 41-key treble range limits complex chord voicings and advanced repertoire.
- Three treble registers, while decent, may feel limiting for experienced players.
59AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup39
- Price96
- Specs100
- Maker100
↓ 15.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$2,614 · Aug 14$2,218 now

$2,218€1,979 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Startone Piano Accordion 48 Red MKII
Startone
Not on Reverb yet3 finishes at Thomann
- Weight6.1 kg
The Startone 48 Red MKII is a solid entry-level piano accordion. It’s a surprisingly good deal for students or hobbyists wanting a playable instrument without a huge investment; the weight makes it comfortable to learn on, and the included gig bag is a bonus.
Pros
- Surprisingly robust reed construction for the price point.
- Lightweight for a 48-bass, making it manageable for smaller players.
- The red finish is striking and adds a touch of flair.
Cons
- Standard reed plates limit dynamic range and tonal complexity.
- Treble register selection feels somewhat basic and unrefined.
56AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup77
- Price50
- Specs100
- Maker65
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$470 now

$470€419 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Startone Piano Accordion 72 Red MKII
Startone
Not on Reverb yet3 finishes at Thomann
- Weight7.7 kg
The Startone 72 Red MKII is a surprisingly capable instrument for the price. It's a great entry point for aspiring piano accordionists or those wanting a compact, portable option. The bright red finish is a bonus, and the included gig bag makes it travel-friendly.
Pros
- Solid German reeds deliver a surprisingly rich, balanced tone.
- The red bellows are visually striking and appear durable.
- Lightweight for a 72-bass, making it manageable for smaller players.
Cons
- Standard reed plates limit dynamic range and expressive possibilities.
- The action feels a bit stiff, requiring some break-in and adjustment.
56AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup77
- Price50
- Specs100
- Maker65
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$593 now

$593€529 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Hohner Bravo III 72 myColor Day
Hohner
Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
- Weight7.4 kg
The Bravo III 72 is a great entry point into quality chromatic accordions. It's well-built, sounds pleasingly traditional, and the compact size makes it manageable. Perfect for students and enthusiasts seeking a reliable, attractive instrument without a premium-priced tag.
Pros
- Solid German construction ensures reliable performance for years.
- The 'myColor Day' finish is a genuinely attractive and durable aesthetic.
- 72 bass buttons provide a surprisingly comprehensive chordal range.
Cons
- The 7.4kg weight can be tiring for extended playing sessions, especially for younger players.
- Limited register selection restricts versatility for more complex musical styles.
55AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup39
- Price66
- Specs100
- Maker100
↓ 5.5%since Aug 14
$2,239 · Aug 14$2,117 now

$2,117€1,889 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Scandalli Super L
Scandalli
Not on Reverb yet2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight11.7 kg
The Scandalli Super L is a beautifully made, traditional Italian accordion perfect for serious players specializing in folk music. Its responsive reed action and comfortable treble layout deliver a truly authentic experience – if you're dedicated to the style, this is a top-tier instrument.
Pros
- Exceptional Italian craftsmanship; Scandalli’s reputation is well-earned.
- Tipo-a-Mano reed plates deliver a rich, complex, and responsive tone.
- The 41-key treble offers a comfortable, traditional layout for experienced players.
Cons
- The double octave tuning might feel cramped for players accustomed to a wider treble range.
- Limited versatility; excels in traditional Italian folk music, less suited for modern genres.
55AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup61
- Price50
- Specs100
- Maker84
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$9,132 now

$9,132€8,149 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Hohner Bravo III 72 myColor Wind
Hohner
Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann
- Weight7.4 kg
The Bravo III 72 myColor Wind is a solid entry-level chromatic accordion, beautifully finished and surprisingly playable. It's a great choice for students or hobbyists looking for a compact, well-built instrument without a premium price tag, particularly those drawn to folk or traditional styles.
Pros
- Excellent build quality with a surprisingly lightweight, durable ABS casing.
- The 'myColor' finish is genuinely attractive and well-applied, a nice touch.
- Responsive action on the treble keyboard, allowing for nuanced phrasing.
Cons
- The 34 treble keys limit its range for more complex classical pieces.
- Bass button layout, while standard, might require adjustment for experienced players.
54AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup39
- Price65
- Specs100
- Maker100
↓ 5.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$2,239 · Aug 14$2,128 now

$2,128€1,899 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗

All 86 piano accordions

Sort

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

11
Hohner Bravo III 72 myColor WaterHohner

Index 54↓ 5.0%
54
↓ 5.0%$2,128€1,899
$2,128€1,899Check ↗
12
Hohner Bravo III 72 myColor TwilightHohner

Index 54↓ 5.0%
54
↓ 5.0%$2,128€1,899
$2,128€1,899Check ↗
13
Thomann Alpin IV 96 MHThomann · 2 finishes

Index 54Stable
54
Stable$5,904€5,269
$5,904€5,269Check ↗
14
Hohner XS Accordion Piano greyHohner

Index 53↓ 1.8%
53
↓ 1.8%$615€549
$615€549Check ↗
15
Startone Piano Accordion 120 Black MKIIStartone · 2 finishes

Index 53Stable
53
Stable$839€749
$839€749Check ↗
16
Hohner Amica Forte III 72 BK silentHohner

Index 53↓ 1.8%
53
↓ 1.8%$2,408€2,149
$2,408€2,149Check ↗
17
Hohner XS Accordion Piano blueHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$638€569
$638€569Check ↗
18
Hohner Bravo II 48 Blue silent keyHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$1,455€1,298
$1,455€1,298Check ↗
19
Hohner Bravo II 48 Black silent keyHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$1,545€1,379
$1,545€1,379Check ↗
20
Hohner Bravo II 48 White silent keyHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$1,557€1,389
$1,557€1,389Check ↗
21
Hohner Bravo II 48 Red silent keyHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$1,557€1,389
$1,557€1,389Check ↗
22
Hohner Bravo II 60 Black silent keyHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$1,613€1,439
$1,613€1,439Check ↗
23
Hohner Bravo II 60 Red silent keyHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$1,635€1,459
$1,635€1,459Check ↗
24
Hohner Bravo III 72 Blue silent keyHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$1,894€1,690
$1,894€1,690Check ↗
25
Hohner Bravo III 72 White silent keyHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$1,903€1,698
$1,903€1,698Check ↗
26
Hohner Bravo III 72 Red silent keyHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$1,903€1,698
$1,903€1,698Check ↗
27
Hohner Bravo III 72 Black silent keyHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$1,903€1,698
$1,903€1,698Check ↗
28
Hohner Bravo III 80 Red silent keyHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$2,072€1,849
$2,072€1,849Check ↗
29
Hohner Bravo III 80 Black silent keyHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$2,162€1,929
$2,162€1,929Check ↗
30
Hohner Bravo III 72 myColor FireHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$2,239€1,998
$2,239€1,998Check ↗
31
Hohner Bravo III 72 myColor EarthHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$2,239€1,998
$2,239€1,998Check ↗
32
Hohner Bravo III 72 myColor SunriseHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$2,239€1,998
$2,239€1,998Check ↗
33
Hohner Bravo III 72 myColor SkyHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$2,239€1,998
$2,239€1,998Check ↗
34
Hohner Bravo III 72 myColor SunsetHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$2,239€1,998
$2,239€1,998Check ↗
35
Hohner Bravo III 72 myColor NightHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$2,239€1,998
$2,239€1,998Check ↗
36
Hohner Amica Forte IV 96 BK silentHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$3,663€3,269
$3,663€3,269Check ↗
37
Hohner Amica Forte IV 120 BK silentHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$4,302€3,839
$4,302€3,839Check ↗
38
Hohner Mattia IV 96 BK white ButtonsHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$10,472€9,345
$10,472€9,345Check ↗
39
Hohner Mattia IV 96 BKHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$10,756€9,598
$10,756€9,598Check ↗
40
Hohner Mattia IV 120 BK white ButtonsHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$11,531€10,290
$11,531€10,290Check ↗
41
Hohner Mattia IV 120 BKHohner

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$11,876€10,598
$11,876€10,598Check ↗
42
Thomann Junior III 84 BKThomann · 2 finishes

Index 51↑ 6.6%
51
↑ 6.6%$2,687€2,398
$2,687€2,398Check ↗
43
Scandalli Air MiniScandalli

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$3,920€3,498
$3,920€3,498Check ↗
44
Scandalli Air JuniorScandalli

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$5,265€4,698
$5,265€4,698Check ↗
45
Scandalli Air I MusetteScandalli

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$5,434€4,849
$5,434€4,849Check ↗
46
Scandalli Polifonico IXScandalli

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$5,546€4,949
$5,546€4,949Check ↗
47
Scandalli Air I S MusetteScandalli

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$6,330€5,649
$6,330€5,649Check ↗
48
Scandalli Tierra 96/34 ZiricoteScandalli

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$6,497€5,798
$6,497€5,798Check ↗
49
Scandalli Tierra 96/34 Olive MusetteScandalli

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$6,497€5,798
$6,497€5,798Check ↗
50
Scandalli Tierra 96/34 OliveScandalli

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$6,497€5,798
$6,497€5,798Check ↗
51
Scandalli Tierra 96/37 ZiricoteScandalli

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$6,891€6,149
$6,891€6,149Check ↗
52
Scandalli Tierra 96/37 Olive MusetteScandalli

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$7,003€6,249
$7,003€6,249Check ↗
53
Scandalli Tierra 96/37 OliveScandalli

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$7,003€6,249
$7,003€6,249Check ↗
54
Scandalli Intense 37Scandalli

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$11,092€9,898
$11,092€9,898Check ↗
55
Scandalli Super VI ExtremeScandalli

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$13,614€12,149
$13,614€12,149Check ↗
56
Scandalli IntenseScandalli

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$14,557€12,990
$14,557€12,990Check ↗
57
Scandalli Air VI AllblackScandalli

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$14,566€12,998
$14,566€12,998Check ↗
58
Thomann Concert IV/V 96 Double OctaveThomann

Index 50Stable
50
Stable$4,795€4,279
$4,795€4,279Check ↗
59
Thomann Concert IV/V 96 MusetteThomann

Index 50Stable
50
Stable$4,795€4,279
$4,795€4,279Check ↗
60
Thomann Concert IV/V 120Thomann

Index 50Stable
50
Stable$5,210€4,649
$5,210€4,649Check ↗
61
Thomann Alpin IV 72 MHThomann

Index 50Stable
50
Stable$5,535€4,939
$5,535€4,939Check ↗
62
Thomann Concert V/V 120 A- ManoThomann

Index 50Stable
50
Stable$8,066€7,198
$8,066€7,198Check ↗
63
Startone Kids Accordion Red MKIIStartone

Index 49Stable
49
Stable$222€198
$222€198Check ↗
64
Startone Piano Accordion 96 Black MKIIStartone

Index 49Stable
49
Stable$670€598
$670€598Check ↗
65
Beltuna Play III 72 B Luxe BlackBeltuna

Index 49Stable
49
Stable$4,368€3,898
$4,368€3,898Check ↗
66
Beltuna Studio IV 96 P Luxe BlackBeltuna

Index 49Stable
49
Stable$6,711€5,989
$6,711€5,989Check ↗
67
Beltuna Studio IV 96 P Luxe Blue Shad.Beltuna

Index 49Stable
49
Stable$7,170€6,398
$7,170€6,398Check ↗
68
Beltuna Alpstar IV 96 M Helikon Palis.Beltuna

Index 49Stable
49
Stable$8,514€7,598
$8,514€7,598Check ↗
69
Beltuna Prestige IV 96 P GHV BlackBeltuna

Index 49Stable
49
Stable$10,701€9,549
$10,701€9,549Check ↗
70
Beltuna Prestige IV 120 P GHV BlackBeltuna

Index 49Stable
49
Stable$11,204€9,998
$11,204€9,998Check ↗
71
Beltuna Prestige IV 120 P Compact FlyBeltuna

Index 49Stable
49
Stable$13,445€11,998
$13,445€11,998Check ↗
72
Beltuna Leader IV 120 GHV WalnutBeltuna

Index 49Stable
49
Stable$14,790€13,198
$14,790€13,198Check ↗
73
Beltuna Spirit IV 120 P Classic BlackBeltuna

Index 49Stable
49
Stable$15,014€13,398
$15,014€13,398Check ↗
74
Beltuna Leader V 120 Compact GHV blackBeltuna

Index 49Stable
49
Stable$15,014€13,398
$15,014€13,398Check ↗
75
Beltuna Spirit IV 120 P Compact LuxuryBeltuna

Index 49Stable
49
Stable$18,712€16,698
$18,712€16,698Check ↗
76
Thomann Concert IV/V 96 SpecialThomann

Index 48↑ 2.4%
48
↑ 2.4%$5,265€4,698
$5,265€4,698Check ↗
77
Alpengold 372MH MacassarAlpengold

Index 47Stable
47
Stable$6,666€5,949
$6,666€5,949Check ↗
78
Alpengold Sinova 396MHST OliveAlpengold

Index 47Stable
47
Stable$7,675€6,849
$7,675€6,849Check ↗
79
Alpengold Sinova 496M NutAlpengold

Index 47Stable
47
Stable$8,235€7,349
$8,235€7,349Check ↗
80
Alpengold Sinova 496 CMH Wild OakAlpengold

Index 47Stable
47
Stable$12,157€10,849
$12,157€10,849Check ↗
81
Alpengold Krainer 5M CassottoAlpengold

Index 47Stable
47
Stable$14,399€12,849
$14,399€12,849Check ↗
82
Roland FR-4 X BKRoland

Index 44Stable
44
Stable$4,144€3,698
$4,144€3,698Check ↗
83
Lanzinger Model Elite IV 96 CLanzinger

Index 44Stable
44
Stable$10,195€9,098
$10,195€9,098Check ↗
84
Beltuna Harmonikordeon 34/96M HelikonBeltuna

Index 33↑ 1.8%
33
↑ 1.8%$6,385€5,698
$6,385€5,698Check ↗
85
Hohner Bravo II 48 black SetHohner

Index 31Stable
31
Stable$1,567€1,398
$1,567€1,398Check ↗
86
Hohner Bravo III 72 black SetHohner

Index 31Stable
31
Stable$1,926€1,719
$1,926€1,719Check ↗

Piano Accordions by the numbers

Measured across all 105 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $4,480 — half of all piano accordions here cost less.

<$300$300–500$500–1k$1k–2k$2k–5k$5k–10k$10k+

Weight9.1 kg

median of 101 models · 5 kg–11.9 kg

How to choose the best piano accordions

Tone & Voicing

Jazz needs a balanced, warm tone - not overly bright or reedy. Think about a mellow clarinet or a well-miked Rhodes piano. The bass register shouldn't be muddy, and the treble needs to have sustain without being brittle. A 'fat midrange honk' is a plus, but it needs to be controlled.

Action & Response

A light, responsive action is crucial for quick runs and subtle dynamic changes. Stiff action kills articulation; you want to feel connected to every note. The keywork should feel precise and consistent across the entire range.

Reed Configuration

120-bass accordions are standard for jazz, giving you the range to navigate complex chord voicings and improvisational lines. The number of reeds per note (often denoted as 'two-row' or 'three-row') impacts tone and sustain; more reeds generally mean a richer, more complex sound.

Build Quality & Durability

Let's be real - accordions get beat up. Solid construction, reliable reeds, and a decent bellows are non-negotiable. Gigging means bumps, humidity, and sometimes, less-than-ideal handling. A cheap accordion will fall apart quickly.

Pickup System (for amplification)

If you plan on playing amplified - and most jazz gigs require it - the pickup system is critical. Cheap pickups often sound harsh and brittle; a good pickup captures the accordion's natural tone and provides plenty of headroom without unwanted breakup.

Buying guide

So, you're looking to bring the squeezebox into your jazz gig? Smart move - a well-voiced piano accordion can lay down some seriously soulful foundation. It's not just about finding an accordion, though; jazz demands a certain clarity, sustain, and responsiveness that a lot of 'em just don't deliver. We're gonna cut through the noise and find you something that'll actually swing.

Don't be swayed by flashy finishes or low price tags. Cheap accordions often compromise on reed quality and action, resulting in a thin, lifeless sound. Paying more usually gets you better reeds, a smoother action, and a more robust build.

Look for accordions from reputable makers like Hohner, Weltmeister, or Excelsior - even used ones from these brands are often a safer bet than a brand-new budget model. Prioritize playability and tone over aesthetics.

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 105 piano accordions from the Thomann catalogue. 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 a 'piano' and a 'button' accordion?

Piano accordions have a piano-style keyboard on the right hand, while button accordions use buttons. Jazz players almost exclusively use piano accordions for the familiar keyboard layout.

I'm a beginner. Should I buy used or new?

Used is often a better value for beginners. You can get a much higher-quality instrument for the same price. Just be sure to have a tech check it out before you buy.

What does 'bellows' mean, and why is it important?

The bellows are the 'lungs' of the accordion. They create the airflow that vibrates the reeds. A leaky or stiff bellows makes the accordion difficult to play and affects the tone.

How much should I expect to spend?

A decent jazz-worthy piano accordion will start around $1500 used, and easily go up to $5000+ for a top-tier instrument. The price reflects the quality of the reeds, action, and overall construction.

My accordion sounds 'tinny' or 'harsh' when amplified. What's wrong?

That's usually a sign of cheap reeds or a poorly voiced pickup system. Upgrading the pickup or having a tech adjust the reeds can often improve the sound.