Should You Buy a New Steinway Piano or Restore an Older One?

Not sure if you should restore or replace your instrument?. Each option has its pros and cons, and the best choice often depends on your needs, preferences, and budget. At Bradfield Piano, we’ve had the pleasure of helping many musicians, families, and collectors make this decision. With decades of experience bringing classic instruments back to life through expert Steinway piano restoration, we’ve seen that a properly renewed piece can often match the quality of a new one.

What You Get With a New Steinway

A new Steinway is a freshly built, never-played instrument made with precision and care. It comes straight from the factory in perfect condition, with all components brand new. Plus, it includes a full manufacturer’s warranty to protect your investment.

What to Expect

Built using the latest techniques and materials
Minimal maintenance needed in the early years (just tune it twice a year)
Option to select custom finishes and styles at purchase

A new Steinway comes with a significant cost, usually starting around $80,000-$100,000 or more, depending on the series.

What You Get In A Restored Vintage Steinway

Restoring a vintage Steinway is about bringing a well-built, time-tested instrument back to life. At Bradfield Piano, we use traditional restoration techniques and original-quality parts to preserve the piano’s unique voice, touch, and character.

A professional restoration offers

Classic craftsmanship is rarely found in modern instruments
Seasoned wood that adds warmth and depth to the sound
Custom adjustments to match your preferred feel and tone
A more affordable option than purchasing brand-new

When done properly, a restored Steinway can rival—and in some cases surpass—the performance of a new one, thanks to its aged materials and expert craftsmanship.

Which Option Holds Its Value?

This is where restoration often shines. A vintage Steinway that has been properly restored usually holds its value well. In some cases, it can even appreciate over time, especially if original features are preserved.

New instruments start to lose value as soon as you buy them. You’re mostly paying for them being brand new.

What’s Right for You?

If you’re looking for a brand-new instrument with the latest materials and available styles a new Steinway may be the right choice. But if you value the history, craftsmanship, and unique character of an older model, restoring it can be deeply rewarding.

For many, the decision goes beyond cost—it’s about honoring memories, preserving a legacy, and continuing a musical tradition. A professionally restored Steinway can offer decades of beautiful performance while keeping its story alive.

Conclusion

There’s no single right answer—only what’s right for you. If you’re unsure about your next step, Bradfield Piano is here to help. Whether you’re considering a full restoration or weighing the benefits of a new purchase, we’ll walk you through every option.

Ready to bring your Steinway back to life?
Give us a call today to schedule an evaluation or learn more about our restoration services.

BRADFIELD PIANO

Final Thoughts

While it can be tempting to seek a faster turnaround, restoring a Steinway is not a process that should be rushed. Each step is essential to preserving the quality, sound, and feel that makes a Steinway piano special. If you’re considering a restoration, patience will reward you with an instrument that looks, plays, and sounds like new—for decades to come. At Bradfield Piano, we specialize in restoring Steinway pianos with precision and care. If you’re curious about how long your specific restoration will take, reach out to us today for a consultation. We’ll assess your piano and give you a detailed estimate of the timeline and process involved