AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Startone Piano Accordions 2026
The top pick is Startone Piano Accordion 48 Red MKII ($470). Startone Kids Accordion Red MKII gives you the most for the money at $222. Startone Piano Accordion 120 Black MKII leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 5 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 11, 2026
Top 5
Full detail for the 5 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$470 now$470€419 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$593 now$593€529 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight10.3 kg
The Startone 120 Black MKII is a surprisingly capable instrument, especially considering its price point. It's a great entry into piano accordion playing for students or those wanting a reliable, portable instrument for folk or traditional music—it delivers a decent, classic tone without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Solid German-style bellows offer good air seal and responsiveness
- Treble voicing provides a surprisingly warm, traditional tone for the price
- Lightweight for a 120-bass, making it manageable for intermediate players
Cons
- Standard reed plates might lack the longevity of premium brands' reeds
- Bass registers feel somewhat basic, limiting tonal flexibility
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$839 now$839€749 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight3.1 kg
This Startone Kids Accordion is a solid entry point for young learners or those just curious about the instrument. The bright red finish and lightweight design make it fun to handle, and the basic reed setup provides a straightforward learning experience. It's a budget-friendly option ideal for introducing kids to the joys of accordion playing.
Pros
- Bright, cheerful red finish is visually appealing for children
- Lightweight at 3.1kg makes it manageable for smaller players
- Simple two-rank reeds offer a clear, basic sound for learning
Cons
- Standard reed plates limit tonal complexity and dynamic range
- Eight bass buttons offer limited chord options for more advanced players
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$222 now$222€198 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight9.4 kg
The Startone 96 Black MKII is a great entry point into piano accordion playing, offering a decent sound and manageable weight. It’s perfect for students or players looking for an affordable, portable instrument without needing top-tier professional features. The build quality is respectable for the price, though it won't fool a seasoned pro.
Pros
- Solid, well-aligned reed voicing offers a surprisingly rich tone.
- Red bellows provide a touch of visual flair and good air seal.
- Lightweight for a 96-bass accordion, making it manageable for students.
Cons
- Standard reed plates limit dynamic range and long-term tonal complexity.
- The action feels a bit stiff, requiring some break-in time and potentially regulation.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$670 now$670€598 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
Piano Accordions by the numbers
Measured across all 105 models we track, not a sample.
Median $593 — half of all piano accordions here cost less.
median of 101 models · 5 kg–11.9 kg
How to choose the best piano accordions
Tone
Startones generally deliver a warmer, rounder tone than some of their brighter competitors. It's not a huge difference, but it's noticeable - less ice-picky treble, more of a usable midrange honk that cuts through a folk band without being harsh. The bass response has a surprising amount of low-end thump for the price point.
Action & Key/Button Response
The action is consistently decent across the range. You'll find a bit more play in the keys than a top-tier instrument, but it's generally responsive and allows for decent articulation. Button response is also pretty good, though some models might benefit from a quick voicing adjustment.
Build Quality
The reeds are generally well-tuned out of the box, and the bellows are surprisingly robust for the price. They're not going to last forever under heavy gigging, but they're a noticeable step up from the absolute cheapest options. Expect some minor cosmetic imperfections - this isn't a museum piece.
Bellows & Airflow
The bellows offer a reasonable amount of airflow, which is important for dynamic playing. They don't have the headroom of a professional-grade accordion, so you might notice compression at higher volumes, but for most genres, it's perfectly adequate. Bellows wrap is often a simple, functional design - nothing fancy.
Value for Money
This is where Startone really shines. You get a lot of playable instrument for the price. They're often the sweet spot for players who want a reliable accordion without the crippling cost of a Hohner or similar brand. It's a clear case of getting more than you pay for.
Buying guide
So you're looking at a Startone piano accordion? Smart move. They've quietly become a go-to for players wanting a solid, reliable instrument without dropping serious bank. Forget the flashy marketing - these are workhorse accordions, built for the gig and surprisingly versatile, offering a sweet spot between budget and genuine playable quality.
Don't expect miracles - these are budget-friendly instruments. The lower-end models will show their age with more wear and tear, and the reeds might need a little tweaking. Spend a little more for a model with a higher reed count if you're serious about recording or playing in a louder band.
Always check the bellows for leaks and the key/button action before you buy.
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 10 piano accordions from the Thomann catalogue (of 105 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
Are Startone accordions good for beginners?
Absolutely. They're accessible and forgiving, making them a great starting point for learning. The tone is pleasant enough to keep you motivated, and the price means you're not risking a huge investment.
How do Startone accordions compare to Hohner?
Hohners generally have a more refined tone and better overall build quality, but you pay a premium. Startone offers a great compromise for players on a budget. Think of it as a 'good enough' that still delivers a satisfying playing experience.
What kind of music are Startone accordions suitable for?
They're incredibly versatile. Folk, polka, Irish traditional, even some blues and jazz - they can handle it all. The warmer tone leans towards genres where a bright, piercing sound isn't desired.
Do I need to have the reeds voiced?
It's not always necessary, but a little voicing can go a long way. Even a minor adjustment can improve the responsiveness and clarity of the tone. It's a common practice with many accordions, regardless of brand.
What's the difference between the different Startone models?
The main differences lie in reed count (affects volume and sustain), bass register range, and bellows size. Higher-end models often have a more refined action and better overall build quality, but the differences are incremental.
