When looking to purchase a Steinway piano, the variety of models available can be quite overwhelming. Known for their unmatched quality and exceptional craftsmanship, Steinway & Sons has developed a wide range of piano models throughout its rich history. Each model is distinct, crafted to meet different musical needs and fit various spaces.
For enthusiasts, musicians, and potential buyers, figuring out the differences between these models can be both challenging and intriguing. From the compact Model S to the grand Model D concert piano, understanding which models are best for small rooms and which are built for large concert halls, or why some models are no longer made, requires a good look into Steinway’s long tradition and the sophisticated engineering behind their pianos.
This post aims to clear up the confusion about the different Steinway models, shedding light on the design purpose, historical importance, and ideal use for each of the different Steinway Models today.
Steinway Model S: The Compact Grand (5’1”)
Introduced in 1935, the Steinway Model S grand piano was meticulously crafted to deliver the prestigious Steinway sound within a compact frame, making it an ideal choice for those with limited space. Measuring just 5 feet 1 inch, this model combines the elegance of a grand piano with the practicality needed for smaller living spaces, such as apartments or cozy music rooms.
Craftsmanship and Sound Quality
Despite its size, the Steinway Model S does not compromise on the quality that Steinway & Sons is renowned for. It features a diaphragmatic soundboard, a hallmark of Steinway pianos, designed to be thicker in the middle and thinner towards the edges. This unique construction allows for a richer and more resonant tone, rare in pianos of this size. Additionally, the same meticulous handcrafted action found in larger Steinway models is present in the Model S, ensuring each key responds with precision and allowing for expressive and dynamic playing.
Ideal for Intimate Spaces
The Model S is particularly suited for personal use in domestic settings. Its compact size allows it to fit seamlessly into smaller rooms, making it a perfect piece for music enthusiasts who wish to experience the luxury of playing a Steinway without needing a concert hall-sized space. The sound projection is ideal for intimate performances, ensuring that neither quality nor volume overwhelms the setting.
View our Steinway Model S pianos for sale here: Steinway S Inventory
Steinway Model M: The Versatile Grand (5’7”)
The Steinway Model M, introduced in 1911, strikes a perfect balance between manageable size and robust sound, making it a popular choice among both private owners and institutions. With a length of 5 feet 7 inches, the Model M fits beautifully in private homes, smaller concert spaces, and educational institutions, offering the classic Steinway sound without requiring the space of a full-sized concert grand.
Craftsmanship and Acoustic Design
The Model M embodies the exquisite craftsmanship synonymous with Steinway & Sons. It features the same innovative diaphragmatic soundboard found in larger models, which varies in thickness to optimize tone and resonance. This soundboard, combined with the meticulously designed action mechanism, ensures that the Model M delivers a powerful and clear sound with every note. Its scale design allows for a large sound spectrum, providing both powerful bass and singing treble tones, making it versatile for various musical genres and styles.
Ideal for Medium-Sized Rooms
This model's dimensions make it particularly suited for medium-sized rooms where a full-sized grand might overwhelm the acoustic space. Whether it's used for practicing complex classical pieces, teaching students, or entertaining guests with evening recitals, the Model M performs exceptionally well. Its size and sound volume are perfect for venues that demand high-quality sound but cannot accommodate larger pianos.
View our Steinway Model M pianos for sale here: Steinway M Inventory
Steinway Model L: A Harmony of Elegance and Performance (5’10.75”)
The Steinway Model L, introduced in 1923, is a grand piano that offers a superb blend of size and musicality, making it an attractive option for both private and institutional settings. Measuring 5 feet 10.75 inches, the Model L is slightly larger than the Model M, providing a richer and deeper sound that resonates beautifully in medium to large rooms.
Exquisite Craftsmanship
Steinway's commitment to craftsmanship is evident in the Model L, which features the same intricate design elements found in all Steinway pianos. The diaphragmatic soundboard enhances the vibrancy and richness of each note while the action and hammers are meticulously designed to respond to the subtlest nuances of touch, allowing pianists to express a wide dynamic range and tonal color.
Ideal for Varied Musical Settings
The Model L's dimensions make it exceptionally versatile, fitting comfortably in private homes, music studios, and smaller concert halls. Its sound projection is more pronounced than smaller models, making it ideal for solo recitals, chamber music, and accompaniment. The additional length over the Model M allows for longer strings and a larger soundboard area, which together produce a fuller bass and more powerful overall sound.
The Steinway Model L, was discontinued in 2005 and replaced by the Model O.
View our Steinway Model L pianos for sale here: Steinway L Inventory
Steinway Model O: The Perfect Balance of Grandeur and Practicality (5’10.75”)
The Steinway Model O, often known for its balance between size and powerful sound, has an interesting history marked by periods of production, discontinuation, and reintroduction. Originally introduced in 1900, the Model O was designed as a mid-sized grand piano, offering a substantial sound in a size that was more suitable for private homes and smaller concert venues than the larger Steinway models.
Reasons for Original Discontinuation
The decision to discontinue the Model O in the early 1920s was primarily driven by overlapping offerings within Steinway's lineup. At the time, the Model O and the similarly sized Model L (introduced in 1923) were quite close in size and performance characteristics. To streamline production and reduce internal competition between models, Steinway decided to focus on the Model L, which continued to be popular among pianists and in various markets.
Reintroduction in 2005
Steinway reintroduced the Model O in 2005, recognizing a renewed market demand for this versatile size. The reintroduction was also part of a broader strategy to cater to a diverse range of spaces and acoustical environments, acknowledging that different customers have different needs in terms of piano size and sound capacity. The reintroduced Model O offered modern improvements in materials and construction techniques while maintaining the classic dimensions and tonal qualities that originally made it popular.
Modern Significance
The Model O's return filled a niche in Steinway's product line, providing an option that combines the compactness of smaller grand pianos with the richer sound typically found in larger models. This makes it especially suitable for today’s varied living environments, from private residences to smaller professional venues. Its modern incarnation respects the historical design while incorporating contemporary piano-making advancements, ensuring it meets the high standards expected of new Steinway pianos.
Craftsmanship and Sound Excellence
The Steinway Model O is a testament to Steinway & Sons' legendary craftsmanship. It features a diaphragmatic soundboard, and includes the full spectrum of Steinway innovations designed to produce the richest possible sound, including a responsive action and hammers that allow precise control and expression.
Designed for Versatility
The Model O's length makes it large enough to deliver a powerful, resonant sound that fills a room without overwhelming it, yet it is compact enough to fit comfortably in private living spaces or small performance venues. Its size and scale provide a substantial tonal volume and depth, making it a favorite for both practicing and performing a wide range of musical genres.
View our Steinway Model O pianos for sale here: Steinway O Inventory
Steinway Model A: The Quintessential Parlor Grand (6’2”)
The Steinway Model A, often referred to as the "Parlor Grand," has been a significant part of Steinway & Sons' lineup since its introduction in the late 19th century. Initially debuted in various forms, the most current iteration, the Model A-3, measures approximately 6 feet 2 inches. This model has evolved over the years but consistently offers a superior balance of size and acoustic power, making it ideal for both residential and professional settings.
Exemplary Craftsmanship and Sound
The Model A features a diaphragmatic soundboard and precision-engineered action and hammers allow pianists to capture a wide dynamic range and articulate subtle musical nuances, making the Model A highly responsive and a joy to play.
Versatile and Powerful
This medium-sized grand piano is perfectly suited for larger living rooms, music studios, and small concert halls. Its length allows for longer bass strings and a larger soundboard compared to smaller models, resulting in a richer, fuller sound with more profound bass responses. The Model A's robust construction and design enable it to produce a sound that rivals larger grand pianos, making it a popular choice for both serious amateur pianists and professional musicians.
View our Steinway Model A pianos for sale here: Steinway A Inventory
Steinway Model A-3: The Rare and Revered Parlor Grand (6’4.5”)
The Steinway Model A-3, a variation of the Model A series, is particularly celebrated for its unique blend of size and acoustic richness. Introduced in the early 20th century, this model measures approximately 6 feet 4.5 inches, making it slightly larger than the standard Model A. The A-3 was produced until the 1940s and remains highly prized by pianists and collectors alike for its exceptional sound and craftsmanship.
Exceptional Craftsmanship and Sound Quality
Steinway's Model A-3 features the iconic diaphragmatic soundboard, enhancing the piano's tonal quality and volume, allowing for a deep, resonant bass and clear, singing trebles. The larger size of the Model A-3 compared to the standard Model A allows for longer strings and a bigger soundboard area, contributing to its powerful sound projection and rich tonal palette.
Designed for Performance
The A-3's slightly larger size makes it an excellent choice for medium-sized venues and serious home studios where space allows for a bit more piano. It fits well in environments that benefit from a grand piano's presence but may not have room for a concert grand. The Model A-3 is adept at filling these spaces with its robust and enveloping sound, making it ideal for both solo performances and ensemble settings.
Collectibility and Investment
Due to its limited production period and outstanding qualities, the Steinway Model A-3 is considered a collector's item and holds significant value among enthusiasts. Its rarity adds to its appeal as an investment piece, with well-maintained examples often appreciating in value over time.
View our Steinway Model A3 pianos for sale here: Steinway A-3 Inventory
Steinway Model B: The Versatile Classic Grand (6’11”)
The Steinway Model B, also known as the "Music Room Grand," is one of the most popular and versatile pianos in Steinway & Sons' lineup. Introduced in the late 19th century, this grand piano measures approximately 6 feet 11 inches, striking an excellent balance between the concert grand's power and smaller grands' intimacy. It is favored by educational institutions, professional musicians, and discerning home pianists alike.
Superior Craftsmanship and Acoustic Design
The Model B features Steinway's iconic diaphragmatic soundboard and is quipped with a responsive action and precision-engineered hammers. The Model B allows pianists to express a wide array of musical nuances, making it suitable for a broad spectrum of musical genres and styles.
Ideal for Various Venues
The Model B's size makes it an ideal choice for both private and public settings. It is large enough to fill a medium-sized concert hall with its powerful sound, yet compact enough to be a centerpiece in a residential music room or a professional studio. Its versatility in performance settings is matched by its capability to handle everything from solo recitals to accompaniments and chamber music.
Widely Recorded and Celebrated
The Steinway Model B is perhaps the most recorded of all Steinway models due to its balance of size and sonorous quality. It is often the piano of choice in recording studios for its ability to capture a full spectrum of sounds, from powerful bass lines to crystal-clear high notes.
View our Steinway Model B pianos for sale here: Steinway B Inventory
Steinway Model C: The Semiconcert Grand (7’5”)
The Steinway Model C, known as the "Semiconcert Grand," is a distinguished member of Steinway & Sons' lineup of grand pianos. Typically measuring around 7 feet 5 inches, the Model C offers a substantial increase in size and sound volume compared to the Model B, bridging the gap between the smaller grand pianos and the full-sized concert grand, Model D. This model is especially popular in larger music rooms, small concert halls, and conservatories where its impressive sound projection is most advantageous.
Exceptional Craftsmanship and Sound Quality
The Model C features the renowned Steinway diaphragmatic soundboard, meticulously crafted to optimize the piano's tonal quality and dynamic range. This soundboard, thicker in the middle and thinner towards the edges, coupled with Steinway's precise action mechanism, allows for exceptional sound production and responsiveness. The larger scale of the Model C accommodates longer strings and a larger soundboard, enhancing its ability to project a rich, resonant sound with deep bass and vibrant trebles.
Designed for Performance and Versatility
With its substantial size, the Model C is ideal for venues that require powerful sound projection but may not accommodate a full concert grand. It excels in a variety of musical settings, from solo performances and accompaniment to chamber music and ensemble play. Its robust construction and design enable it to handle complex, demanding musical pieces, making it a favorite among professional musicians and institutions.
Aesthetic Appeal and Lasting Value
Steinway pianos, including the Model C, are not only instruments but also significant investments in art and craftsmanship. The Model C's elegant design and aesthetic appeal make it a focal point in any setting, while its build quality ensures longevity and durability, often appreciating in value over time if well-maintained.
Ideal for Serious Musicians and Large Venues
The Model C's size and sound capabilities make it particularly suitable for serious musicians who require a piano that can deliver a concert grand-like performance in slightly smaller spaces. It is also a preferred choice for educational institutions and performance venues looking for an instrument that offers both grandeur and versatile performance capabilities.
View our Steinway Model C pianos for sale here: Steinway C Inventory
Steinway Model D: The Premier Concert Grand (8’11”)
The Steinway Model D is the pinnacle of Steinway & Sons' grand piano offerings, revered as the ultimate concert grand piano. Measuring approximately 8 feet 11 inches, the Model D is the largest and most powerful model in the Steinway lineup, designed to meet the demanding needs of concert performers and major venues around the world.
Superior Craftsmanship and Unparalleled Sound
The Model D boasts Steinway's exemplary craftsmanship, featuring the iconic diaphragmatic soundboard which is meticulously engineered to enhance tonal richness and dynamic range. This soundboard allows for optimal vibration and sound projection across the entire range of the piano. Coupled with the longest strings found in any Steinway model, the Model D produces a powerful, resonant sound with deep bass and crystal-clear high notes that can fill concert halls without any loss of sound quality.
The Choice of World-Class Performers
The Steinway Model D is the preferred instrument at many of the world's foremost concert venues, music conservatories, and international piano competitions. Its robust construction and responsive action make it ideal for the rigors of solo and orchestral concert performances, allowing pianists to express a full spectrum of emotions and dynamics. The precision and clarity it provides make it particularly beloved among classical musicians who perform complex and demanding works.
Aesthetic Elegance and Investment Value
Beyond its musical capabilities, the Model D is also a magnificent centerpiece in any space. Its grandeur and elegant design reflect Steinway's commitment to not only musical excellence but also visual beauty. As with all Steinway pianos, the Model D is built to last for generations, making it not just a musical instrument but a valuable heirloom that often appreciates in value over time.
Versatile Across Genres
While predominantly seen on the classical stage, the Model D's versatility makes it a popular choice among jazz and contemporary musicians as well. Its ability to handle subtle nuances and powerful fortissimos equally well allows performers of all genres to explore and express a wide range of musical styles and textures.
View our Steinway Model D pianos for sale here: Steinway D Inventory
In exploring the diverse range of Steinway piano models, from the compact and beloved Model S to the grandeur of the Model D, we gain not only insights into the meticulous craftsmanship and innovation that define each piano but also a deeper appreciation for the unique characteristics that suit different musical and spatial needs. Whether you are a seasoned performer, an avid collector, or someone looking to enrich your home with the sound of music, Steinway & Sons offers a piano that not only meets but exceeds expectations. As you consider your options, remember that choosing a Steinway is not just about purchasing a piano; it's about investing in a legacy of musical excellence that will inspire generations to come.
Contact Us
If you have questions about the different piano models that Steinway produces, have a piano that requires restoration, or are looking to buy a used Steinway grand piano for sale, we invite you to contact us for a consultation. We're eager to explore your options and help determine which instrument is best for you. If you're unsure about what size piano will fit in your space, we can mail you a floor template to use in your home to see which size piano is appropriate. With over 180+ pianos in our inventory, Lindeblad Piano is one of the best places to buy a used Steinway or to restore your cherished heirloom.
Phone: 888-896-1582 // Email: info@lindebladpiano.com
Website: www.lindebladpiano.com
