Utah Pianos.com
Piano Dictionary
Shopping for a piano can be a daunting task. We would like to help you out in defining and describing some of the piano lingo that you might come across.
The following information is aimed at helping you understand the differences between the different piano models.
A spinet is the shortest kind of upright piano. The action is dropped below the keys in order to make the piano as small as possible. This generally (not always) makes for a softer sound. The advantage of a spinet is its size.
A console is the next size up from a spinet. It generally has a better feel and sound than a spinet. A console piano has an action that rests on top of the keys. This is called a direct blow action.
A studio is the next size up from a console. It is a more industrial piano. It is generally made for churches and schools, but is great for homes. A studio is usually easier to move around, because it has feet that extend out to the legs, so you don't have to worry about snapping a leg. They usually have a bigger, better sound than a console and spinet, but not always.
An upright or upright grand is the biggest of the upright pianos. They are usually older than the spinets, consoles, and studios. In most cases the upright pianos have the biggest and richest sound.