Colour: TBC
Year: c.2008

The Steingraeber 138 is the flagship upright piano from one of Germany's most prestigious piano builders, Steingraeber and Sohne of Bayreuth. Designed to rival and even surpass the tonal and dynamic capabilities of many grand pianos, the 138 is the ultimate upright piano and is used by concert pianists, recording studios, and the most discerning private buyers worldwide. Priced at £24,995, this example offers an extraordinary level of instrument for those who demand the very finest.

Steingraeber pianos are handcrafted in Germany to the highest possible standards, and the 138 is considered by many professionals to be the finest upright piano ever made. This instrument has been assessed by our team at The Piano Gallery. Available to purchase by private arrangement at our Oxfordshire showroom.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Steingraeber 138 special?

The Steingraeber 138 is widely regarded as the finest upright piano ever produced. At 138cm in height, it has a string length and soundboard area that approaches a full concert grand in terms of tonal potential, with a depth, power, and dynamic range that no other upright can match. It is handcrafted in Bayreuth by a family firm with over 175 years of piano-making history, using the finest materials and the most rigorous quality standards in the industry.

How does the Steingraeber 138 compare to a Yamaha U3 or Bechstein upright?

The comparison is almost unfair. A Yamaha U3 is an outstanding professional upright, consistent, reliable, and excellent value. A Bechstein upright is a premium German instrument with exceptional tonal character. The Steingraeber 138 operates at an entirely different level: it is a concert-standard instrument built by one of the world's most respected makers, with a tonal depth and expressive range that approaches the best grand pianos. It is the instrument of choice when nothing but the finest will do.

How does the Steingraeber 138 compare to a grand piano?

For many pianists who have played one, the Steingraeber 138 challenges the assumption that a grand is automatically the better instrument. Its unique construction, longer strings, a specifically designed soundboard, and exceptional action, gives it capabilities that most baby and medium grand pianos cannot match. For a player who needs the performance of a grand but the footprint of an upright, the 138 is in a class of its own.

Is this the right instrument for a serious concert pianist?

Yes. The Steingraeber 138 is used by professional concert pianists, recording studios, and major music institutions worldwide. If you are a professional pianist, a serious advanced student at the highest level, or a collector seeking the finest upright piano available, this is the instrument. We recommend a personal visit to our showroom to experience it properly before any purchase decision.

How long will a Steingraeber 138 last?

A Steingraeber, built to the highest handcrafted standards and properly maintained, should give many decades of concert-level performance. The materials and methods used by Steingraeber are among the finest in the world. Regular tuning, correct placement, and periodic attention from a highly skilled technician are the requirements for maintaining this extraordinary instrument.