Young Chang 47” Pro-upright Piano

The Young Chang PE-118 is a particularly appealing studio upright for anyone looking for a substantial, full-sized upright with a strong musical presence. Standing approximately 47 inches tall, it occupies the desirable studio-piano range, where the additional soundboard area and longer strings can provide a richer, more resonant tone than smaller console or spinet instruments. Contemporary piano listings and price references place the PE-118 among Young Chang’s more substantial vertical models, with finishes including polished mahogany and ebony.

A particularly attractive aspect of the PE-118 is its association with the Pramberger Signature Series. John Pramberger, a piano designer and engineer with experience at Steinway & Sons, worked with Young Chang to develop this higher-end line. The PE-118 Pramberger version was positioned as a premium studio instrument, incorporating upgraded materials and design elements intended to give it a more refined musical character. One dealer describes the 47-inch PE-118 as the company’s top-of-the-line piano in its 2005 lineup.

The PE-118 also has a very attractive traditional upright-piano scale and appearance. Its 47-inch height gives it enough physical presence to produce a satisfying bass foundation while retaining the compact footprint that makes an upright practical for a home, studio, church, or teaching environment. The polished mahogany versions in particular have a warm, elegant appearance, while the polished ebony versions have a more formal presentation. The model was sold in both satin and polished finishes and was priced substantially above Young Chang’s smaller vertical models, reflecting its position in the lineup.

Overall, a well-maintained Young Chang PE-118 can be a very rewarding instrument: large enough to deliver a full, powerful upright sound, refined enough for serious playing, and attractive enough to serve as a centerpiece in a music room. Its combination of 47-inch scale, substantial construction, Pramberger design influence, and handsome cabinetry makes it an especially interesting choice for someone who wants considerably more piano than a typical console without stepping up to the space and expense of a grand.

Hand made in Korea, this instrument features a Sitka spruce soundboard and comes complete with a matching bench along with a 5 year guarantee on parts and labor.