Understanding Upright Piano – Types and Sizes
Vertical pianos or most regularly known as Upright pianos are the most common pianos found in homes. Uprights are popular because they are more compact and usually cost less than a grand piano depending on the model, although some uprights can be more expensive than a grand.
What are vertical/upright pianos?
Answer: The frame and strings of an upright piano is vertical (position straight-up), and the hammers move horizontally. Hence, we have the vertical or upright piano.
There are 4 standard types of vertical/upright pianos:
Spinet Piano
A spinet piano is the shortest and the smallest of the vertical pianos. It is typically less than 40″ tall (below 101cm) when measured from the top of the lid to the bottom of the piano.
The top of the piano comes just a few inches above the keys, and spinet pianos have a drop action mechanism where the action is located just below, operated by vertical wires that are attached to the backs of the keys.
The shorter keys and rods connect each key to the rest of the action, and as there is no full length key that interacts directly with the action, it is known as indirect blow action (drop action).
Spinet pianos are compact and is a great option for confined spaces. They cost less than other upright pianos. However, the quality of sound may be less than satisfying due to their configuration of keys and strings.
Spinets are currently no longer manufactured and we hardly import them here in Setapak showroom. Find more information about spinets here [Wiki].
Console Piano
A console piano generally measures between 40″ to 44″ (102cm to 111cm) tall. The action of this piano sits directly on top of the keys, with the hammers and strings in a vertical position stretching downwards.
Due to its non drop action mechanism in which the keyboard engages the hammers directly, the sound quality of a console piano is considerably better than that of a spinet piano.
Most home pianists and hobby players find the sound quality of a console piano satisfactory for daily playing. It retains much of the volume and dynamic range as compared to spinets.
Yamaha M1A is an example of a console piano
Studio Piano
A studio piano measures between 44″ to 48″ (112cm to 120cm) tall.
It has a slightly different feel and location of the action as the studio piano features a full size action sitting directly on the keys.
The studio has a larger soundboard and longer strings. The increased height of the studio piano gives it a more resonant and richer tonal quality sound. It is also very durable and stable as well.
It is ideal for beginners or budget owners who have just started playing the piano. You may also find more affordability in most models especially in the secondary or pre-owned market.
Kawai KST-3 is an example of a studio piano
Professional or Upright Piano
This is the tallest of the vertical pianos as it measures 48″ (121cm) and above. It has full sound quality because of its large soundboard, and can rival many baby grand pianos.
Upright’s rich tone can lasts for a long time if it is well maintained. Ideal for music schools (for teaching, student practising) and professional musicians (for performances).
- Yamaha professional uprights e.g U1, U2, U3, MX, SX series
- Kawai professional uprights e.g K, KS, KU, BL, NS, BS series
Yamaha U1H is an example of a professional upright piano
There was also a popular term used in the early days known as the “Upright Grand“. This instrument type usually had string lengths and musical capabilities equal and often superior to an actual grand piano. It is a step-up (upgrade/improvement) version of the standard professional upright.
Kawai US-65 is an example of a upright grand piano
Summary:
Depending on the quality of sound you wish to attain, and the space available to place your pianos, talk to us about buying the right upright for your pleasure.
Disclaimer: the height for each vertical piano type may vary from various online sources.
