W. Hoffmann V175 Grand Piano

Product Overview

The W. Hoffmann Vision Series is entirely designed and manufactured by Bechstein Europe, and utilizes the highest quality CNC machinery, top grade woods, the latest design trends, and hand-craftsmanship right from Europe. They offer an excellent value, and provide a welcomed alternative to the Japanese-dominated mid-range.

The W. Hoffmann V175 is a mid-sized option at 5’9” in length, and one of three W. Hoffmann Vision series grand pianos available. At 5’9”, this instrument was made with music conservatories and personal music rooms in mind, though it packs enough punch to be suitable for use in a smaller venue. The W. Hoffmann V175 is a must try for anyone seeking a handmade piano with a truly European tone, with a budget in mind that previously offered Japanese made instruments as the dominant option.

Action

The W. Hoffmann V175 features C. Bechstein’s “Silver Action”. This action is made by Bechstein themselves; a relative rarity among European piano builders. This action is also featured in all of the W. Hoffmann models as well as the German made Bechstein Academy line of pianos.

The Silver Action is quite similar to the Renner actions found in the majority of European made pianos, there are a few differences however; The Silver action gives the sense of a slightly deeper key depth, and feels designed and regulated to give added control in the lower dynamic ranges. You might expect this to come at the expense of upper dynamic output, but the Hoffmann rims are so well made and fitted to the soundboards that there’s plenty of response at every volume level.

Tone

The W. Hoffmann V175 has a distinctly European voice; a clear bell like treble, and responsive but not overpowering bass register. The v175 definitely punches above its weight and compares quite well with the W. Hoffmann Tradition T177, an instrument that costs approximately $10,000 CAD more. Overall, the v175 compares exceptionally well with its Japanese counterparts; achieving greater clarity than a Kawai GX-2, but without the brightness of a Yamaha C2X. For those already considering a Yamaha or a Kawai but hoping for something that sounds more European, the V175 should definitely be played.

Hammers

Every W. Hoffmann features hammers built by C. Bechstein in Germany. The W. Hoffmann V175 features A or AA grade, high-quality English felt that meets or exceeds Bechstein’s stringent quality control standards. These are double felted hammers that are voiced by hand by experts at the Czech factory before the pianos are deemed ready for shipping.

Soundboard

While comparable Japanese instruments use Sitka spruce for their soundboards, the W. Hoffmann V175 features a soundboard of premium European Alpine solid spruce, which is one of the primary reasons for the noticeable difference in tone. The soundboards are specially processed for use in any climate.

Rim/Cabinet

The W. Hoffmann V175 features an inner hardwood rim of pinewood and medium-density fibreboard.