Choosing the right piano can make a significant impact on your musical journey, whether you’re a beginner, an experienced player, or someone simply looking for a high-quality instrument for your home. Boston upright pianos, designed by Steinway & Sons and built by Kawai, are known for their excellent craftsmanship and superior sound. Two popular models in the Boston series are the Boston upright – model UP120 vs 118, which offer exceptional quality but have a few differences that might influence your decision. In this article, we’ll compare their design, sound quality, features, and more.
Design and Build Quality
General Features of Boston Pianos:
Boston pianos inherit the design philosophy and craftsmanship of Steinway & Sons, ensuring each instrument is built to last. Both models are crafted with high-quality materials and undergo strict quality control to meet Steinway’s standards. The precision in construction results in durable pianos that offer a satisfying playing experience.
UP118 Design:
- Height: 46.5 inches (118 cm) – this compact size makes it perfect for smaller spaces without compromising on sound quality.
- Manufactured in Indonesia: The UP118 is built with the same precision as other Boston pianos, although it is manufactured in Indonesia. This gives it a slightly more affordable price point.
- Backposts: The UP118 features staggered spruce backposts, which help maintain the stability of the piano structure.
UP120 Design:
- Height: 47.3 inches (120.3 cm) – a slightly taller model, which can offer a more resonant sound.
- Manufactured in Japan: The UP120 is built in Japan, known for its high-end craftsmanship in piano manufacturing.
- Backposts: It has full-length laminated spruce backposts, which are designed to provide superior structural support and longevity.
Sound Quality
The sound quality of a piano is one of the most important factors for any musician. The height of an upright piano often influences its tone. Taller pianos typically have larger soundboards, leading to fuller, richer tones.
UP118 Soundboard and Tone:
- The UP118 features a solid Sitka spruce soundboard, which provides excellent tonal resonance. The sound quality is clear and balanced, making it a great choice for beginner and intermediate players.
- The piano offers a tone that is suitable for smaller spaces, where deep bass or extended sustain might not be as important.
UP120 Soundboard and Tone:
- The UP120 also boasts a solid Sitka spruce soundboard, but its larger size allows for a more expansive tonal range. This model delivers a richer, more resonant tone with better sustain, making it ideal for advanced players or anyone who wants a deeper, fuller sound.
- The lower tension scale of the UP120 results in a smoother, more sustained sound, which is particularly noticeable in the bass notes.
Key Features Comparison
Both models share some features that are typical of high-quality pianos, but there are distinct differences that may sway your decision.
Shared Features:
- Pinblock: Both models are equipped with the Octagrip 11-ply maple pinblock, which ensures stability in tuning. This is a feature typically found in higher-end pianos, making tuning maintenance easier.
- Soundboard: Both models feature a solid Sitka spruce soundboard for maximum resonance, a hallmark of Boston pianos.
Differences:
- The UP120 is slightly taller and has a larger soundboard compared to the UP118, which contributes to a richer, more sustained sound.
- The manufacturing location of the UP118 in Indonesia may affect its price, with the UP120 being made in Japan, known for its exceptional craftsmanship, which can result in a slightly higher price point.
Aesthetics and Finishes
Both the UP118 and UP120 are available in classic, elegant finishes such as polished ebony and satin walnut, making them a fitting addition to any home or studio. Despite their similar aesthetic options, the taller UP120 may have a slightly more commanding presence due to its increased height.
Suitability for Different Users
UP118:
- The UP118 is perfect for beginners or anyone who needs a more affordable yet high-quality piano. Its compact size makes it suitable for smaller spaces, such as apartments or smaller rooms.
- It offers a balanced sound that will suit players who don’t need the deep bass or extensive tonal range of a larger model.
UP120:
- The UP120 is best suited for advanced players or those looking for a professional-quality sound. The larger soundboard and refined features make it an excellent choice for more demanding musical environments.
- With its deeper sound and sustain, the UP120 is a great fit for larger rooms or concert venues, and it will continue to serve advanced musicians well as they grow in their playing.
Price and Value
Both models are great investments, offering excellent value for their respective price points.
- The UP118 is more affordable, especially since it is manufactured in Indonesia. It’s ideal for those who are on a budget but still want a high-quality piano.
- The UP120 comes at a higher price due to its larger size and being built in Japan. However, the superior craftsmanship and enhanced sound make it worth the extra investment for serious musicians.
Pros and Cons of Each Model
UP118:
Pros:
- Compact, making it a great choice for smaller spaces.
- Affordable yet high-quality sound.
- Stable tuning and easy maintenance.
Cons:
- Limited tonal depth compared to larger models.
- Not as suitable for advanced musicians looking for deeper bass and sustain.
UP120:
Pros:
- Richer, fuller sound with better sustain.
- Higher craftsmanship quality.
- Suited for advanced players or professional use.
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive.
- Larger size may not fit in smaller spaces.
Conclusion
Both the UP118 and UP120 are excellent choices within the Boston series, each catering to different needs. The Boston upright – model UP120 vs 118 comparison highlights that the UP118 is a great entry-level option for those seeking an affordable, reliable piano with solid sound quality, while the UP120 is ideal for those who require a more robust sound, deeper tonal richness, and superior craftsmanship.
Ultimately, your decision between the two models will depend on your budget, the size of the space where you plan to place the piano, and the sound quality you desire. Both models carry the legacy of Steinway & Sons, ensuring that either choice will provide an exceptional musical experience.
Additional Tips for Buyers
- It’s always a good idea to test both models in a store if you have the opportunity. This will give you a direct sense of how each piano sounds and feels to play.
- Regardless of which model you choose, regular maintenance will help preserve the piano’s sound and structural integrity over time. Be sure to have it tuned and serviced as recommended by the manufacturer.
FAQs
What is the difference in height between the Boston UP120 and UP118?
The Boston UP120 is 47.3 inches tall, while the UP118 is 46.5 inches, offering slightly more tonal depth in the UP120 due to its taller build.
Are the Boston UP120 and UP118 suitable for beginners?
Yes, both models are suitable for beginners, though the UP118 is more affordable and compact, making it ideal for smaller spaces or limited budgets.
Where are the Boston UP120 and UP118 pianos made?
The Boston UP118 is made in Indonesia, while the UP120 is built in Japan, known for its refined craftsmanship and quality control.
Which model has better sound quality, the UP120 or UP118?
The UP120 offers a richer, more resonant sound with better sustain due to its larger size and refined tension scale, ideal for more advanced players.
Can the Boston UP118 fit in small apartments?
Yes, the Boston UP118 is compact and perfect for smaller spaces like apartments, providing excellent sound quality without overwhelming the room.
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