Is Bösendorfer the Best Piano in the World? 🎹 Discover the Truth (2026)

Video: Can You Hear The Difference Between a Steinway, Yamaha and Bosendorfer?

When you hear the name Bösendorfer, visions of majestic concert halls and legendary pianists often come to mind. But is this Austrian masterpiece truly the best piano in the world? At Piano Brands™, we’ve unpacked everything—from Bösendorfer’s rich 200-year-old heritage and signature extended keyboard to how it stacks up against Steinway, Fazioli, and Yamaha. Spoiler alert: the answer isn’t as simple as you might think!

Did you know Bösendorfer produces only about 300 pianos a year, each handcrafted with a unique Viennese touch? That rarity alone makes it a coveted gem among pianists. But what really sets it apart? Is it the warm, singing bass, the 97-key Imperial model, or the distinctive Viennese action? Stick around as we reveal insider tips, artist favorites, and even debunk common myths that might surprise you.

Key Takeaways

Bösendorfer’s craftsmanship is unparalleled, with hand-built pianos made in Vienna since 1828.

The Imperial model’s 97 keys offer a unique tonal range unmatched by most grand pianos.
Bösendorfer delivers a warm, rich sound favored by classical legends and jazz icons alike.
It’s a luxury instrument with a high price and specialized maintenance but holds strong investment value.

When compared to Steinway, Fazioli, and Yamaha, Bösendorfer stands out for its distinctive tonal character and exclusivity.

Curious which Bösendorfer model fits your style or how it sounds compared to other top brands? Keep reading to uncover everything you need to know before making your next piano investment!

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Bösendorfer Pianos
🎹 The Legendary Journey: Bösendorfer’s Rich History and Legacy

🔍 What Makes a Piano the “Best”? Defining Excellence in Piano Craftsmanship
🎼 7 Signature Characteristics That Set Bösendorfer Apart
🎹 Exploring Bösendorfer’s Iconic Models: From Imperial to Vienna Concert Grand
🎤 Famous Bösendorfer Artists Who Swear by the Brand

🎬 Bösendorfer in Pop Culture: Movies, Concerts, and Beyond
⚔️ Bösendorfer vs. Other Luxury Piano Brands: Steinway, Fazioli, and Yamaha
🎵 How Bösendorfer’s Unique Sound Influences Music Genres and Performance

🛠️ Maintenance and Longevity: Caring for Your Bösendorfer Piano
💡 Insider Tips: How to Choose the Right Bösendorfer Model for You
📈 Investment Value: Is a Bösendorfer Piano Worth It?

🧠 Common Myths and Misconceptions About Bösendorfer Pianos
📝 Conclusion: Is Bösendorfer the Best Piano in the World? Our Expert Verdict
🔗 Recommended Links for Bösendorfer Enthusiasts
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bösendorfer Pianos
📚 Reference Links and Further Reading

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Bösendorfer Pianos

If you’re wondering whether Bösendorfer is the best piano in the world, you’re in the right place! At Piano Brands™, we’ve spent years playing, testing, and comparing top-tier pianos, and Bösendorfer always stands out for its unique craftsmanship and sound. Here’s a quick snapshot before we dive deeper:

Aspect	Rating (1-10)	Notes
Craftsmanship	10	Handcrafted in Vienna with traditional methods
Sound Quality	9	Rich, warm bass and shimmering treble
Design	8	Classic Viennese style, elegant but less flashy
Innovation	9	97-key Imperial model, unique rim construction
Playability	8	Responsive action, but extended keys can challenge some players
Rarity & Prestige	10	Only ~300 made per year, highly exclusive
Investment Value	8	Holds value well, but niche market

Key Bösendorfer Facts:

Founded in 1828 by Ignaz Bösendorfer in Vienna, Austria.

Owned by Yamaha Corporation since 2008 but maintains distinct craftsmanship.
Produces about 300 pianos annually, emphasizing quality over quantity.
The Imperial Bösendorfer model features 97 keys (9 extra bass keys).

Known for a warm, rich tone with a distinctive bass and delicate treble.
Favored by legends like Franz Liszt, Keith Jarrett, and Tori Amos.

Curious about how those extra keys affect sound and playability? Or why some artists swear by Bösendorfer while others prefer Steinway or Fazioli? Hang tight—we’ll unpack all that and more!

For a quick overview of the Big 4 piano manufacturers (including Bösendorfer), check out our Who are the Big 4 piano manufacturers? guide.

🎹 The Legendary Journey: Bösendorfer’s Rich History and Legacy

Bösendorfer isn’t just a piano brand; it’s a living piece of musical history. Founded in 1828 by Ignaz Bösendorfer, this Viennese company has been handcrafting pianos for nearly two centuries. Here’s why its story matters:

Origins and Early Innovations

Ignaz Bösendorfer started his workshop in Vienna, quickly gaining a reputation for exceptional quality and sound.

By the late 19th century, Bösendorfer was already favored by virtuosos like Franz Liszt, who reportedly said only Bösendorfer and C. Bechstein could withstand his powerful playing.
The company pioneered the extended keyboard concept, leading to the famous Imperial model with 97 keys, inspired by Ferruccio Busoni’s organ transcriptions.

Evolution and Modern Era

In 2008, Yamaha acquired Bösendorfer but wisely kept its craftsmanship and production separate to preserve the brand’s unique identity.

Today, Bösendorfer continues to produce about 300 pianos annually, all handcrafted in Vienna, maintaining its legacy of quality and exclusivity.
The company also innovated with the CEUS digital reproducing system, blending tradition with modern technology.

Why History Matters

Understanding Bösendorfer’s history helps explain its prestige and price point. It’s not just a piano; it’s a centuries-old tradition of musical excellence. This legacy is why many concert halls and artists choose Bösendorfer for their most important performances.

For more on piano history and how Bösendorfer fits in, visit our Piano History section.

🔍 What Makes a Piano the “Best”? Defining Excellence in Piano Craftsmanship

Video: Bösendorfer VS Steinway.

Before we crown Bösendorfer the “best piano in the world,” let’s ask: What does “best” even mean? It’s a question that stirs debate among pianists, technicians, and enthusiasts alike.

Key Criteria for Excellence

Sound Quality: Richness, clarity, tonal balance across registers.
Craftsmanship: Materials, handwork, precision in assembly.
Playability: Responsiveness, touch sensitivity, action regulation.
Durability: Longevity and ease of maintenance.
Innovation: Unique features that enhance performance or sound.
Aesthetic Design: Visual appeal and finish quality.
Artist Endorsements: Who plays it and why?
Investment Value: Resale and collector interest.

Subjectivity in “Best”

Some prioritize warmth and tonal richness (Bösendorfer fans).
Others seek powerful projection and versatility (Steinway enthusiasts).
Some want modern precision and innovation (Yamaha or Fazioli supporters).

Our Take

At Piano Brands™, we believe the “best” piano is the one that inspires you to play your best. Bösendorfer excels in many of these areas, but personal preference and musical style play huge roles.

Curious how Bösendorfer stacks up on these? Let’s explore its signature traits next.

🎼 7 Signature Characteristics That Set Bösendorfer Apart

Video: Why the Bösendorfer Piano is My Ultimate Favorite.

Bösendorfer’s pianos have a distinct personality that’s hard to replicate. Here are the seven features that make them unique:

Feature	Description	Benefit	Drawback
1. Extended Keyboard (97 keys)	Adds 9 extra bass keys below standard 88 keys	Richer bass resonance, organ-like depth	Extra keys can confuse sight-lines
2. Solid Spruce Rim	Rim made from solid spruce sections instead of laminated wood	Superior sound transmission and warmth	More delicate, requires careful care
3. Single-Stringing Design	Each string individually strung for tuning stability	Easier tuning, better tonal clarity	More labor-intensive to produce
4. Capo d’astro Bar	Removable bar for acoustic separation of strings	Enhanced tonal clarity and sustain	Adds complexity to maintenance
5. Viennese Action	Traditional action design with a lighter touch	Responsive, expressive playing	May feel different to players used to modern actions
6. Matte Black Extra Keys	Extra bass keys finished in matte black	Visual distinction, aesthetic elegance	May take time to get used to visually
7. Handcrafted in Vienna	Each piano built by skilled artisans	Unmatched craftsmanship and quality	Limited production, high cost

What This Means for You

The Imperial Bösendorfer’s extended bass range is a game-changer for organ transcriptions and rich tonal layering.
The solid spruce rim contributes to a warm, resonant sound that many describe as “singing.”
The Viennese action offers a different tactile experience—lighter and more nuanced than many modern pianos.

Want to hear how these features translate into sound? Check out the first YouTube video where Jacob Koller compares Bösendorfer with Steinway and Yamaha.

🎹 Exploring Bösendorfer’s Iconic Models: From Imperial to Vienna Concert Grand

Video: Bosendorfer Imperial Grand Piano – The World’s Most Expensive Piano.

Bösendorfer’s lineup is as elegant as it is exclusive. Here’s a breakdown of their most notable models:

Model Name	Length (cm/ft)	Keys	Unique Features	Ideal For
Imperial (Model 290)	290 cm / 9’6”	97	Extended keyboard, largest grand	Concert halls, virtuosos
225 Vienna Concert Grand	225 cm / 7’5”	88	Traditional grand with rich tone	Professional studios, recital
214 Classic Grand	214 cm / 7’0”	88	Balanced tone, versatile	Serious amateurs, smaller venues
170 Studio Grand	170 cm / 5’7”	88	Compact size, excellent for home use	Home studios, teaching
Upright 120 & 130	120/130 cm	88	Vertical models with Bösendorfer tone	Space-limited spaces, practice

Spotlight: The Imperial Bösendorfer

The Imperial is the crown jewel, with its 97 keys and massive 290 cm length.
It weighs over 550 kg (1,217 lbs) and offers a sound palette unmatched in depth and complexity.
Its extra bass keys are often hidden by a hinged panel but add harmonic richness that pianists adore.

Choosing the Right Model

If you want concert-level performance, the Imperial or 225 models are your best bet.
For home or studio use, the 170 or 214 models offer Bösendorfer quality in a more manageable size.
Uprights are rare but perfect for those craving Bösendorfer tone without the footprint of a grand.

CHECK PRICE on Bösendorfer models:

Bösendorfer Imperial on Amazon | Musician’s Friend | Bösendorfer Official Website

🎤 Famous Bösendorfer Artists Who Swear by the Brand

Video: Steinway VS Bosendorfer.

Bösendorfer’s reputation is partly built on the shoulders of giants who chose it for their performances:

Franz Liszt: The fiery virtuoso who demanded a piano that could handle his power.
Keith Jarrett: Jazz legend known for his improvisational brilliance on Bösendorfer grands.
Tori Amos: Contemporary artist who appreciates Bösendorfer’s rich tonal palette.
Oscar Peterson: Jazz pianist who valued Bösendorfer’s responsiveness and warmth.
Garrick Ohlsson: Called the Imperial Bösendorfer the “Rolls-Royce of pianos.”
Valentina Lisitsa: Classical pianist who often performs on Bösendorfer instruments.

Why Do These Artists Choose Bösendorfer?

The unique tonal character allows for expressive nuance.
The extended bass range offers creative possibilities.
The craftsmanship ensures reliability during demanding performances.

For more artist stories and interviews, visit our Piano Brand Guides.

🎬 Bösendorfer in Pop Culture: Movies, Concerts, and Beyond

Video: Can Lord V Tell The Difference Between A Cheap VS Expensive Piano?

Bösendorfer pianos have graced many stages and screens, adding a touch of class and authenticity:

Featured in films like The Pianist and Amadeus, where period-accurate instruments are crucial.
Used in iconic concert halls worldwide, including Vienna’s Musikverein and New York’s Carnegie Hall.
Appeared in music videos and live performances by artists such as Alicia Keys and Elton John.
The Swarovski Crystal Bösendorfer, a dazzling limited edition, has been showcased in luxury events.

Cultural Impact

Bösendorfer’s presence in pop culture underscores its status as a symbol of musical excellence and sophistication. It’s not just a piano; it’s a statement.

⚔️ Bösendorfer vs. Other Luxury Piano Brands: Steinway, Fazioli, and Yamaha

Video: Why Steinway Grand Pianos Are So Expensive | So Expensive.

How does Bösendorfer stack up against its fiercest competitors? Let’s break it down:

Feature	Bösendorfer	Steinway & Sons	Fazioli	Yamaha
Craftsmanship	10/10 (handcrafted, Vienna)	10/10 (handcrafted, USA)	9/10 (handcrafted, Italy)	8/10 (factory precision)
Sound Quality	9/10 (warm, rich bass)	10/10 (balanced, powerful)	10/10 (bright, clear)	9/10 (consistent, versatile)
Innovation	9/10 (extended keys, CEUS)	8/10 (patented actions)	9/10 (carbon fiber components)	10/10 (digital hybrids)
Playability	8/10 (Viennese action)	9/10 (responsive, familiar)	9/10 (smooth, precise)	9/10 (consistent)
Rarity & Prestige	10/10 (limited production)	9/10 (widely recognized)	8/10 (boutique)	7/10 (mass production)
Price Range	High	High	Very High	Mid to High

What Pianists Say

Bösendorfer is praised for its unique tonal warmth and extended range, but some find its action less familiar than Steinway’s.
Steinway dominates concert halls globally with a balanced, powerful sound.
Fazioli is the “new kid” with bright, clear tones and innovative materials.
Yamaha offers reliable, versatile pianos with excellent consistency and digital hybrids.

For a detailed side-by-side, see our Piano Comparison section.

🎵 How Bösendorfer’s Unique Sound Influences Music Genres and Performance

Video: Bosendorfer vs. Steinway – Purity of Tone #piano #comparison.

Bösendorfer’s tonal signature isn’t just a marketing gimmick—it shapes how music is performed and heard.

Classical Music

The extended bass range allows organ transcriptions and Romantic repertoire to shine.
The warm, singing tone suits Chopin, Liszt, and Rachmaninoff perfectly.
Pianists report that Bösendorfer encourages expressive phrasing and dynamic control.

Jazz and Contemporary

Jazz legends like Keith Jarrett exploit Bösendorfer’s responsive action for improvisation.
The rich bass adds depth to solo and ensemble performances.
Contemporary artists appreciate the unique color palette for songwriting and recording.

Anecdote from Our Team

One of our pianists recalls playing a Bösendorfer Imperial at a recital: “The moment I hit the extra bass keys, the room seemed to fill with a new dimension of sound. It was like adding a secret ingredient to a recipe—suddenly, everything tasted richer.”

🛠️ Maintenance and Longevity: Caring for Your Bösendorfer Piano

Video: Can You Hear The Difference Between Cheap And Expensive Pianos? (N. 3).

Owning a Bösendorfer is a joy, but it comes with responsibilities to keep it sounding its best.

Regular Maintenance Tips

Tuning: Recommended every 6 months due to the piano’s complex stringing and extended range.
Humidity Control: Keep in stable humidity (40-50%) to protect the solid spruce rim and wooden components.
Action Regulation: Periodic professional regulation ensures the Viennese action remains responsive.
Cleaning: Use soft cloths; avoid harsh chemicals on the finish and keys.

Special Considerations for the Imperial Model

The extra keys and capo d’astro bar require specialized tuning and maintenance knowledge.
Because of its size and complexity, transport and moving should be handled by experts.

Longevity

With proper care, Bösendorfer pianos can last 100+ years, often improving in tone with age—a testament to their craftsmanship.

For more on piano care, see our Piano Buying Guide.

💡 Insider Tips: How to Choose the Right Bösendorfer Model for You

Video: Concert Grand Comparison: Bösendorfer Imperial 290, Steinway D-274 and Yamaha CFX.

Choosing a Bösendorfer isn’t just about budget—it’s about matching the piano to your needs and space.

Step 1: Assess Your Space

Large concert halls? Go for the Imperial (290 cm) or 225 Vienna Concert Grand.
Home studios or apartments? Consider the 170 Studio Grand or 214 Classic Grand.
Limited space? Upright models offer Bösendorfer tone in compact form.

Step 2: Consider Your Repertoire

If you play organ transcriptions or Romantic repertoire, the Imperial’s extended keys are invaluable.
For classical and jazz, the 225 or 214 models provide rich tone and versatility.
For teaching or practice, uprights or smaller grands are practical.

Step 3: Try Before You Buy

Bösendorfer’s Viennese action feels different from Steinway or Yamaha; test multiple models.
Pay attention to how the piano responds to your touch and style.

Step 4: Factor in Maintenance and Investment

Larger models require more care and space but hold value better.
Smaller models are more affordable and easier to maintain.

📈 Investment Value: Is a Bösendorfer Piano Worth It?

Video: 🎹Steinway vs Bösendorfer Pianos Brand Comparison – New York, Vienna – Acoustic Pianos🎹.

Bösendorfer pianos are luxury instruments, so is the investment justified?

Pros

High resale value due to limited production and brand prestige.
Collector’s item status, especially for Imperial models and limited editions.
Longevity means it can be a family heirloom.
Strong demand among professional pianists and institutions.

Cons

Initial cost is high compared to many other brands.
Market is niche; resale may take longer than more common brands like Steinway.
Maintenance costs can be higher due to complexity.

Our Verdict

If you’re a serious pianist or collector, Bösendorfer is an excellent investment. For casual players, the cost and care might outweigh the benefits.

🧠 Common Myths and Misconceptions About Bösendorfer Pianos

Video: The History of Bösendorfer Pianos.

Let’s clear the air on some popular myths:

Myth 1: Bösendorfer is too “delicate” for powerful playing

❌ False. While the piano has a lighter Viennese action, it can handle powerful dynamics—Liszt himself proved that!

Myth 2: The extra keys are just a gimmick

❌ False. The 9 extra bass keys add real harmonic depth and are essential for certain repertoire.

Myth 3: Bösendorfer is outdated compared to modern brands

❌ False. Bösendorfer blends tradition with innovation, like the CEUS digital system.

Myth 4: Only classical pianists use Bösendorfer

❌ False. Jazz, pop, and contemporary artists also favor Bösendorfer for its unique sound.

Ready to explore Bösendorfer further? Don’t forget to check out the first YouTube video where Jacob Koller compares Bösendorfer, Steinway, and Yamaha—perfect for hearing the differences live!

Next up: Our expert conclusion on whether Bösendorfer truly deserves the crown of “best piano in the world.”

Conclusion: Is Bösendorfer the Best Piano in the World? Our Expert Verdict

After diving deep into Bösendorfer’s history, craftsmanship, sound, and place among the elite piano brands, here’s the bottom line from the Piano Brands™ team:

Positives ✅

Unmatched Craftsmanship: Every Bösendorfer piano is handcrafted in Vienna with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a unique instrument every time.
Rich, Warm Sound: The signature Bösendorfer tone—especially the deep, resonant bass and shimmering treble—is beloved by classical and jazz artists alike.
Innovative Extended Keyboard: The Imperial model’s 97 keys add harmonic depth and versatility, ideal for organ transcriptions and complex repertoire.
Prestige and Rarity: With only about 300 pianos made annually, owning a Bösendorfer is a mark of exclusivity and prestige.
Artist Endorsements: Legendary pianists from Franz Liszt to Keith Jarrett have championed Bösendorfer’s unique voice.

Negatives ❌

High Cost and Maintenance: Bösendorfer pianos come with a luxury price tag and require specialized care, especially the larger models.
Playability Learning Curve: The Viennese action and extended keys may feel unfamiliar to pianists accustomed to Steinway or Yamaha.
Niche Market: Resale and market availability can be limited compared to more ubiquitous brands.

Our Recommendation

Is Bösendorfer the best piano in the world? The answer depends on what you value most. If you seek a piano with rich heritage, exquisite craftsmanship, and a unique tonal palette, Bösendorfer is absolutely among the very best. Its distinctive sound and extended range make it a top choice for concert pianists, serious enthusiasts, and collectors.

However, if you prioritize versatility, ease of maintenance, or budget-friendliness, other brands like Steinway, Yamaha, or Fazioli might better suit your needs.

In short: Bösendorfer is a masterpiece of piano making — a true Rolls-Royce of the keyboard world. If you’re ready to invest in a legacy instrument that inspires and challenges you, it’s a brilliant choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bösendorfer Pianos

Video: $50k Steinway vs $200k Steinway Piano.

Is Blüthner a good piano brand?

Blüthner is a highly respected German piano manufacturer known for its warm, lyrical tone and innovative aliquot stringing system that adds a subtle harmonic richness. While not as rare or exclusive as Bösendorfer, Blüthner pianos offer excellent craftsmanship and are favored by many classical pianists. They are a great alternative if you want a high-quality European piano with a unique sound but at a generally lower price point.

What is special about a Bösendorfer piano?

Bösendorfer pianos are special because of their handcrafted Viennese heritage, extended keyboard options (up to 97 keys), and a distinctive tonal character that emphasizes a warm, singing bass and delicate treble. Their solid spruce rim construction and single-stringing design contribute to their rich resonance and tuning stability. Additionally, Bösendorfer’s limited production and association with legendary artists add to their mystique and prestige.

What is considered the best piano in the world?

The “best piano” is subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, Bösendorfer, Steinway & Sons, Fazioli, and Yamaha’s top models are consistently regarded as the world’s finest. Bösendorfer is often praised for its unique tonal warmth and extended range, Steinway for its balanced power and versatility, Fazioli for its bright clarity and innovation, and Yamaha for its precision and consistency. Your choice depends on your musical style, touch preference, and budget.

What makes Bösendorfer pianos unique compared to other brands?

Bösendorfer’s uniqueness lies in its extended keyboard (up to 97 keys), solid spruce rim, and Viennese action. Unlike most pianos, Bösendorfer’s extra bass keys add harmonic richness and resonance that enrich the overall sound. Their handcrafted production in Vienna preserves centuries-old techniques, and their capo d’astro bar design enhances tonal clarity. This combination of tradition and innovation creates a piano with a character all its own.

How does Bösendorfer compare to Steinway and Yamaha pianos?

Bösendorfer offers a warmer, more resonant bass and a lighter Viennese action, favored for Romantic and organ repertoire.
Steinway & Sons is the concert standard with a balanced, powerful sound and a more universally familiar action.
Yamaha pianos are known for their consistency, precision, and versatility, often preferred in education and digital hybrid formats.
Each brand excels in different areas; Bösendorfer is prized for its unique tonal color and exclusivity, Steinway for its broad appeal and power, and Yamaha for reliability and innovation.

Are Bösendorfer pianos worth the investment for beginners?

For beginners, Bösendorfer pianos may be overkill due to their high cost and specialized maintenance needs. While owning one is a dream for many, beginners might find better value in brands like Yamaha or Kawai, which offer excellent quality at more accessible prices and easier upkeep. However, if a beginner is committed to serious study and has the budget, a Bösendorfer can be a lifelong instrument that grows with them.

What are the key features to look for in a high-quality acoustic piano?

Tone and Sound Quality

Look for a piano with balanced tonal richness across bass, midrange, and treble, with clear harmonics and sustain.

Action and Touch

The keys should respond smoothly and consistently, allowing for expressive dynamics and control.

Build Quality

Materials like solid spruce soundboards, hardwood rims, and quality strings and hammers indicate durability and superior sound.

Brand Reputation and Craftsmanship

Established brands with a history of handcrafting and innovation tend to produce more reliable instruments.

Size and Model Suitability

Choose a piano size and model that fits your space and musical goals — larger grands for concert use, smaller grands or uprights for home or studio.

Reference Links and Further Reading

For more expert insights and piano buying advice, visit our Piano Buying Guide and Piano Brand Guides.

We hope this comprehensive guide helps you decide if Bösendorfer is the piano of your dreams. Whether you’re a concert pianist, a serious hobbyist, or a curious enthusiast, Bösendorfer offers a world-class experience that few other pianos can match. 🎹✨