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Buyer’s guideOriginal used, reconditioned and rebuilt pianos: what the terms mean.
Original used is a seller’s description; reconditioning and rebuilding describe work on an instrument. Ask what each term means for the particular piano, with records of its condition and any repairs.
Published 16 October 2026 · 2 minute read · Written for buyers, not for any one instrument
What each term means
The Piano Technicians Guild defines reconditioning and rebuilding by their scope of work. Music Companion uses original used to describe its own offer; it is not a PTG condition rating or certificate:
Original used
Music Companion describes its instruments as original used, not reconditioned or rebuilt. Ask for the condition, service history and any repairs to the individual piano. The description alone is not a component-by-component guarantee.
Reconditioned
The PTG defines reconditioning as putting a piano back in good condition by cleaning, repairing and adjusting, with parts replacement only where necessary. Reconditioning does not involve replacing major structural components such as the soundboard, bridges, pinblock or most action parts.
Rebuilt
Rebuilding involves complete disassembly, inspection and repair, including replacement of all worn or damaged parts. A complete rebuild covers the structure (soundboard, bridges, pinblock, strings) as well as the action, keyboard and case. A partial rebuild covers only some of these areas.
Why the distinction matters
The terms affect what you are actually buying:
- Parts quality: ask which components were replaced, why they were selected and who carried out the work. Assess the particular instrument and its records rather than judging by the label alone.
- Tonal character: play the instrument and ask a technician to explain its tone and response. Compare the actual piano with your needs rather than assuming that original or restored automatically means better.
- Price expectation: reconditioning or rebuilding represents significant work that may be reflected in the price, but a higher price does not guarantee higher quality work.
- Disclosure: a seller should tell you what has been done. Undisclosed rebuilding is a different problem from rebuilding itself.
What to ask the seller
- Is this piano in its original condition, reconditioned, or rebuilt?
- What specific work was done? Ask for a written list of parts replaced and repairs made.
- Who did the work, and are they qualified?
- Are the hammers, strings and pinblock original to the piano?
- Can a qualified technician check that the documented work and the current condition agree?
Use the viewing checklist to know what to look at inside the piano. The serial number guide explains how to check the age independently.
Music Companion’s position
Music Companion sells original used pianos. The business does not carry reconditioned or rebuilt instruments. Each piano is checked and prepared before it reaches the floor. Ask what was checked and what service or repairs the particular instrument has had.
That is one approach. Other dealers sell reconditioned or rebuilt pianos, and properly done work by a qualified technician can produce a good instrument. The question is always what was done, by whom, and whether it is documented. The dealer comparison guide covers what to ask any seller. See the sale page for what Music Companion checks on its own instruments.
Condition terms, answered.
Is a reconditioned piano bad?
Not necessarily. Reconditioning done well by a qualified technician can restore an instrument to good playing condition. What matters is the specific work done, the quality of parts used and the skill of the person who did it. Ask for a written description of exactly what was done.
Is a rebuilt piano worth buying?
A properly rebuilt piano can perform as well as or better than when it was new. The value depends on the quality of the original instrument, the skill and materials used in the rebuild, and whether the work is documented. Ask for written records of what was replaced and by whom.
How can I tell if a piano has been rebuilt?
Ask the seller for written records of work and replaced components, then have a qualified technician assess the instrument if its history or condition is uncertain. A serial number helps establish manufacturing age; it does not establish whether a piano was rebuilt. Colour, photographs and a polished case are not sufficient proof.
What does Music Companion sell?
Original used pianos. Not reconditioned, not rebuilt. Each instrument is checked and prepared before it reaches the floor. Ask for the service and repair history of the individual piano. The sale page sets out the sourcing and inspection process.
Where the rest is set out on this site: What Music Companion checks before a piano goes on the floor → Used piano viewing checklist → Serial numbers and age → Choosing a dealer → All guides →
Want to see an original instrument?
Music Companion sells original used pianos, never reconditioned and never rebuilt. Tell us what you are looking for and we will explain what is on the floor.