AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Pianos for Professional 2026
The top pick is Yamaha SU 7 ($30,196). Yamaha U1 Acoustic Piano gives you the most for the money at $18,673. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 49 models across 9 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Weight273 kg
- Keys88 keys
The SU7 is a serious instrument, built for the concert hall or the dedicated pianist who demands the very best. Yamaha's commitment to craftsmanship shines through in the rich tone and responsive action—it’s a statement piece as much as a world-class piano.
Pros
- Extended keys enhance attack and responsiveness, a noticeable improvement.
- Ivorite and WPC keypads offer a premium, realistic playing feel.
- Dedicated production line ensures exceptional craftsmanship and quality control.
Cons
- The high-end price point puts it out of reach for many aspiring pianists.
- Its upright form factor limits space adaptability in some homes or studios.
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$30,196 now$30,196€26,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This rebuilt 1925 model offers a classic Steinway voice in its cleanest shape. It comes with a nice stool and is ready to play right out of the box. Perfect for a player who loves the traditional sound without extra gadgets.
Pros
- Authentic Steinway sound in its purest form
- Rebuilt by master piano builders for quality
- Includes high quality matching piano stool
Cons
- Very heavy instrument requiring professional movers
- Lacks modern digital connectivity or MIDI
30AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Oct 10Oct 10$27,858 now$27,858€24,900 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This German concert piano feels like a small grand thanks to its special soundboard. The five struts help it respond quickly to your touch. It comes with a bench and lamp, making it ready to play right away. Great for players who want big sound in a compact frame.
Pros
- Five struts stiffen the frame for strong voice response
- Soundboard radiates sound naturally like a small grand
- Made in Germany with top quality materials
Cons
- No specific action type or mechanism details given
- Price is high without listed warranty terms
35AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$26,840 now$26,840€23,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This piano plays like a real upright but has a quiet mode that uses digital tones instead of strings. You can hear it through the soundboard if you don't want headphones. It is a trusted choice for serious students and pros because of its solid build. Perfect for home practice where you need silence without sacrificing volume.
Pros
- Silent mode plays digital tones without hammer-string contact
- No headphones or external amps needed for silent playing
- Soundboard option lets you hear the piano naturally
Cons
- Digital sounds replace real strings in silent mode
- No specific string count or wood type listed
39AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$25,162 now$25,162€22,490 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight257 kg
- Keys88 keys
This piano gives you the touch of a real instrument with the clarity of digital sound. It plays through the wood when you want, but switches to pure digital if you prefer. It fits well in smaller rooms while feeling solid under your hands. Best for teachers and players who need reliable tone without the noise of a full acoustic.
Pros
- Silent series hammers avoid string contact for pure digital tone
- Soundboard reproduction offers natural acoustic resonance without headphones
- Proven U Series action provides professional touch response
Cons
- Heavy 257 kg unit requires professional movers and careful setup
- No physical knobs or controls for tone shaping or volume adjustment
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Sep 6Sep 6$23,260 now$23,260€20,790 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight262 kg
The DYUS1 is a clever piece – a Disklavier that also functions as a silent piano. It’s perfect for families who want the beauty and feel of an acoustic piano but need to manage noise, or for serious pianists wanting to practice privately. The playback accuracy is genuinely impressive, but be prepared for the investment and the weight!
Pros
- DSP Servo Drive ensures exceptionally accurate and nuanced playback reproduction.
- SILENT Piano technology offers truly private practice without sound leakage.
- High-gloss polished finish elevates aesthetics; feels premium to the touch.
Cons
- Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most buyers.
- Weight (262 kg) makes moving or re-positioning a serious undertaking.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$22,365 now$22,365€19,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight238 kg
- Keys88 keys
This piano lets you choose between real strings and digital tones without extra gear. It plays through the soundboard so you don't need headphones or amps. It's a solid choice for schools or pros who want flexibility in one box.
Pros
- Hammers stop striking strings for digital sound
- Full soundboard output without headphones
- Includes delivery and first tuning service
Cons
- Digital sound lacks acoustic hammer feel
- No external amplification or headphones needed
87AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$18,673 now$18,673€16,690 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight251 kg
The DU1 EN PE Disklavier Silent is a clever solution for families or serious piano enthusiasts who want the convenience of automated playback and private practice. It's a beautifully made instrument with Yamaha’s renowned build quality, and the Silent Piano function is genuinely impressive, allowing for practice without disturbing others. Ideal for those prioritizing space-saving design and automated performance.
Pros
- DSP Servo Drive ensures exceptionally accurate, nuanced playback reproduction
- Silent Piano technology offers truly private practice and listening
- Compact size (47 3/4 in height) suits smaller spaces well
Cons
- The Disklavier system adds significant complexity for maintenance
- Limited tonal versatility compared to acoustic pianos without SILENT Piano
43AudioFu
Index↓ 2.6%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$21,805 · Aug 14$21,246 now$21,246€18,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight256 kg
- Keys88 keys
The U3 TA3 PE is a fantastic choice for serious pianists who appreciate a traditional acoustic feel with modern versatility. The TransAcoustic system is a brilliant addition, allowing for silent practice or a beautifully amplified sound without external equipment. It's ideal for educators, professionals, and dedicated hobbyists wanting a premium instrument.
Pros
- TransAcoustic tech offers unique practice flexibility without headphones.
- Yamaha’s renowned U3 action provides a responsive, reliable playing experience.
- Solid spruce soundboard delivers a warm, resonant acoustic piano tone.
Cons
- Significant weight makes moving and installation challenging, requiring professional assistance.
- Premium-priced, placing it beyond the reach of many casual or student pianists.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$20,127 now$20,127€17,990 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight239 kg
- Keys88 keys
The YUS 1 TA3 PE is a serious instrument for the dedicated pianist. It’s built to the standards of professional institutions and offers a fantastic blend of traditional acoustic piano feel and modern digital versatility thanks to the TransAcoustic system – perfect for advanced students or seasoned performers wanting a premium practice and performance tool.
Pros
- U Series reputation ensures exceptional tonal clarity and sustain across the range.
- TransAcoustic function provides unique practice options without external amplification.
- Hammer action mimics acoustic piano feel; avoids string contact when digital mode engaged.
Cons
- Significant weight and size make moving or placement challenging for some.
- Premium-priced positioning limits accessibility for budget-conscious buyers.
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$19,792 now$19,792€17,690 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 49 pianos
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Yamaha SU 118 C PEYamaha49Stable$18,337€16,390$18,337€16,390Check ↗
- 12
Blüthner Haessler Model HB 116Blüthner Haessler · 2 finishes30Stable$18,897€16,890$18,897€16,890Check ↗
- 13
Seiler 132 KonzertSeiler34↓ 5.9%$17,890€15,990$17,890€15,990Check ↗
- 14
Seiler 116 Konsole ChromSeiler · 2 finishes40↑ 4.2%$16,771€14,990$16,771€14,990Check ↗
- 15
Kawai K-500 Aures 2 E/P PianoKawai · 3 finishes51↑ 3.7%$15,652€13,990$15,652€13,990Check ↗
- 16
Seiler 116 Impuls Walnut waxedSeiler39Stable$15,988€14,290$15,988€14,290Check ↗
- 17
Seiler 116 Ritmo, black pol. AdsilentSeiler37↑ 3.7%$15,652€13,990$15,652€13,990Check ↗
- 18
Grotrian-Steinweg Concerto G-113 WHP PianoGrotrian-Steinweg34Stable$15,652€13,990$15,652€13,990Check ↗
- 19
Seiler Piano 116 AccentSeiler · 2 finishes42Stable$14,981€13,390$14,981€13,390Check ↗
- 20
Seiler 116 Impuls S ChromSeiler39Stable$15,093€13,490$15,093€13,490Check ↗
- 21
Seiler 126 KonsoleSeiler35↓ 7.1%$14,533€12,990$14,533€12,990Check ↗
- 22
Kawai K-200 AURES 2 E/P PianoKawai · 15 finishes65↓ 4.2%$10,282€9,190$10,282€9,190Check ↗
- 23
Yamaha B10 PEYamaha · 12 finishes63Stable$4,800€4,290$4,800€4,290Check ↗
- 24
Yamaha B20 PEYamaha · 12 finishes63Stable$6,478€5,790$6,478€5,790Check ↗
- 25
Yamaha B30 PEYamaha · 12 finishes63Stable$7,664€6,850$7,664€6,850Check ↗
- 26
Kawai K-300 ATX 4 E/P PianoKawai · 11 finishes62↓ 2.3%$9,499€8,490$9,499€8,490Check ↗
- 27
Yamaha P 116 M PE Upright PianoYamaha · 2 finishes54↓ 2.9%$7,597€6,790$7,597€6,790Check ↗
- 28
Kawai K 15 ATX 3-L E/P PianoKawai · 4 finishes53↑ 3.3%$6,925€6,190$6,925€6,190Check ↗
- 29
Yamaha b1 SC3 PECYamaha52↓ 6.5%$6,478€5,790$6,478€5,790Check ↗
- 30
Kawai E 200 PianoKawai · 2 finishes51Stable$5,032€4,498$5,032€4,498Check ↗
- 31
Yamaha b3 PWHYamaha · 3 finishes51↓ 9.1%$6,702€5,990$6,702€5,990Check ↗
- 32
Kawai K-400 E/P PianoKawai · 2 finishes51↑ 1.1%$10,729€9,590$10,729€9,590Check ↗
- 33
Yamaha P 121 M PEC "Silver Edition"Yamaha · 5 finishes50Stable$9,387€8,390$9,387€8,390Check ↗
- 34
Yamaha B2 TC3 PEYamaha · 2 finishes49↓ 8.2%$8,827€7,890$8,827€7,890Check ↗
- 35
Kawai E 300 PianoKawai48Stable$5,807€5,190$5,807€5,190Check ↗
- 36
Kawai K-600 E/P PianoKawai46↑ 4.2%$13,862€12,390$13,862€12,390Check ↗
- 37
Seiler 122 Ritmo, black polishedSeiler41↓ 4.0%$10,617€9,490$10,617€9,490Check ↗
- 38
Seiler 122 Konsole black polishedSeiler41↓ 3.9%$13,974€12,490$13,974€12,490Check ↗
- 39
Seiler 116 Ritmo Modern blackSeiler40↓ 2.2%$10,058€8,990$10,058€8,990Check ↗
- 40
Seiler 116 Ritmo, black matSeiler39Stable$11,065€9,890$11,065€9,890Check ↗
- 41
Seiler 116 Ritmo, black polishedSeiler39Stable$11,177€9,990$11,177€9,990Check ↗
- 42
Seiler 116 Ritmo, white polishedSeiler39Stable$11,848€10,590$11,848€10,590Check ↗
- 43
Seiler 122 Ritmo, white polishedSeiler39Stable$12,743€11,390$12,743€11,390Check ↗
- 44
Seiler 126 Ritmo, black polishedSeiler39Stable$12,855€11,490$12,855€11,490Check ↗
- 45
Johannes Seiler Piano 114 Modern ChromJohannes Seiler37↓ 6.8%$6,142€5,490$6,142€5,490Check ↗
- 46
Thomann UP 123 E/P PianoThomann36↓ 2.5%$4,352€3,890$4,352€3,890Check ↗
- 47
Thomann UP 121 E/P PianoThomann35Stable$3,345€2,990$3,345€2,990Check ↗
- 48
Seiler Piano 116 ImpulsSeiler35↓ 7.9%$12,865€11,499$12,865€11,499Check ↗
- 49
Seiler 132 RitmoSeiler34↓ 6.0%$12,296€10,990$12,296€10,990Check ↗
Pianos by the numbers
Measured across all 652 models we track, not a sample.
Median $10,506 — half of all pianos here cost less.
median of 620 models · 9 kg–308 kg
median of 213 models · 73–88
most common · 344 models
How to choose the best pianos
Action
This is everything. A sloppy action that feels inconsistent or heavy will kill your articulation and dynamics. We're looking for something that mimics the responsiveness of a real acoustic grand - a nuanced feel that allows for everything from delicate trills to powerful chords. It's the biggest dealbreaker.
Sound Engine/Sampling
Forget bright, sterile sounds. You want a piano with a complex sound engine that captures the nuances of a real instrument - the subtle hammer noise, the sympathetic resonance, the way the tone shifts with different dynamics. A good piano shouldn't just sound 'good'; it should feel real.
Polyphony & Voicing Layers
Pro players need headroom. Complex arrangements, layered sounds, and sustained chords demand high polyphony (at least 256 voices, ideally more) and a sound engine capable of handling multiple voicing layers without glitching or dropping notes. Dropped notes in a live setting are brutal.
Connectivity & Features
MIDI connectivity is a given, but look for advanced features like multiple outputs for routing to different amps/consoles, USB audio interfaces for direct recording, and a robust effects section (reverb, chorus, tremolo) for adding character without needing outboard gear. Stage-ready connectivity is key.
Build Quality & Reliability
Gigs can be rough. The piano needs to withstand constant transport and use. Solid construction, reliable components, and a good warranty are essential - you don't want to be stranded mid-set with a dead instrument.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're a pro looking for a piano. Forget those beginner-friendly digital pianos with cartoon sounds; we're talking serious instruments here. You need something that can handle a punishing gigging schedule, lay down a nuanced track in the studio, and inspire you during those late-night writing sessions - and that means looking beyond the marketing hype. Let's break down what separates a workhorse from a novelty.
Don't be fooled by the number of sounds - a piano with 500 cheesy presets is useless if the core piano sounds are garbage. Pay attention to the action; if it feels off in the store, it'll feel worse on stage. And remember, a higher price doesn't always mean better; some manufacturers prioritize flashy features over fundamental quality.
Spend your money on a piano with a fantastic action and realistic core sounds, even if it means sacrificing some bells and whistles.
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 143 pianos from the Thomann catalogue (of 652 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 deal with weighted vs. graded hammer action?
Weighted action is generally heavier and more consistent, good for rock or funk. Graded hammer action tries to mimic the feel of an acoustic piano - lighter in the treble, heavier in the bass. It's really about personal preference and the style of music you play.
Are hybrid pianos (like Yamaha NU1) worth the hype?
They're interesting. The acoustic element adds a unique resonance, but it's a compromise. You get some of the feel of an acoustic, but you're still relying on digital sounds - and the price can be steep for what you get.
How important is the speaker system?
Crucial if you're playing solo or in smaller venues. A weak speaker system will make even the best sounds thin and lifeless. Look for pianos with high-quality speakers and ample power.
Can I realistically replace a grand piano with a stage piano?
It's a trade-off. A stage piano offers portability and versatility, but it'll never perfectly replicate the experience of playing a grand. Consider your needs and priorities - if you need the absolute best sound and feel, an acoustic is still the king.
What's the best way to test the action?
Play scales, arpeggios, and some of your favorite pieces. Pay attention to how the keys respond to your touch, how consistent the feel is across the entire range, and how much effort it takes to produce different dynamics. Don't just noodle around - really play it.
