C. Bechstein Academy A 160: European grand piano for expression, control and sound presence in 160 cm

The C. Bechstein Academy A 160 is a European grand piano designed for those who want to step into the grand piano experience: more control, a more direct response and a sound with greater depth and natural development. At 160 cm, it’s a very balanced size for living rooms, dedicated spaces and studios, offering real presence without requiring the dimensions of a larger grand. At MestresDaMúsica, in Viseu, you get expert advice to choose the right configuration and ensure safe delivery across mainland Portugal.

C. Bechstein Academy A 160 sound: depth, balance and natural dynamics

In a 160 cm grand piano, the sound tends to develop more organically, with more natural sustain and smoother connection between notes. The C. Bechstein Academy A 160 offers bass with body, full mids and clear treble, while keeping balance and definition. It responds well to nuance and gives you more room to shape dynamics and phrasing, making it an excellent choice for advanced study and expressive performance.

• More natural sound with greater depth
• Longer sustain and smoother note connection
• Good dynamic headroom for expression and control

Touch and control: grand piano action for repetition, nuance and precision

One of the main benefits of a grand piano is the action response: it tends to feel more direct and allows finer control over repetition and articulation. On the C. Bechstein Academy A 160, that translates into more stable playing and an easier time shaping detail, contrasts and subtle changes in intensity—especially in demanding repertoire.

Video: “The grand piano” — the sound philosophy of the C. Bechstein Academy series

In this video, the story begins in a modern setting and ends with an upright piano—a stylish way to highlight the ambition behind the C. Bechstein Academy series: delivering a rich, expressive sound experience with presence and depth, even in compact formats. It’s a great reference to understand the sonic identity of the Academy range (uprights and grands).

Video: Bechstein factory in Germany and the manufacturing process

This video introduces the Bechstein factory in Germany and shows the care applied throughout the manufacturing process. It’s a great way to understand the building philosophy and quality standards behind these instruments.

Connectivity and upgrades: C. Bechstein Connect (standard / ex works), Connect Pro and Vario Duet Silent-System

C. Bechstein Connect (standard / ex works): in the Academy series, all pianos leave the factory with C. Bechstein Connect installed as standard (ex works).

Upgrade option 1 (extra, priced separately): Connect Pro
If you want additional/more advanced digital features beyond the standard Connect, Connect Pro can be installed as an optional upgrade. This option has its own price.

Upgrade option 2 (extra, priced separately): Vario Duet Silent-System
If you need to practice without disturbing others, the Vario Duet Silent-System can be installed as an optional system to play with headphones. This option has its own price.

Wood finishes: Walnut | Mahogany | Oak (Satin or Polished)

In the C. Bechstein Academy series, there are three wood finish options: Walnut, Mahogany and Oak. For each of these woods, you can choose between a Satin (satin/matte) or Polished (high-gloss) finish.

• Available woods: Walnut | Mahogany | Oak
• Options per wood: Satin or Polished

Satin (satin / matte)
The Satin finish has very subtle sheen (or almost none), with a more natural and contemporary look. It’s great if you want the elegance of wood without strong reflections.

• Look: softer, fewer reflections, modern style
• Fingerprints: usually hides small marks better
• Maintenance: tends to be easier day to day

Polished (high gloss)
The Polished finish is the classic high-gloss, mirror-like look with more visual impact. It’s the finish most associated with a traditional living-room piano and a premium appearance.

• Look: high gloss, more presence, mirror effect
• Fingerprints: tends to show fingerprints and micro-scratches more
• Maintenance: may require more care to keep it looking perfect

Quick choice:
If you want a more discreet look and easier day-to-day care, choose Satin. If you want maximum visual impact and the classic piano look, choose Polished.

Delivery and setup in mainland Portugal

Delivery and setup: we deliver the piano to your home in mainland Portugal and set it up on site (we remove it from the crate and leave everything assembled and ready). If there are stairs or difficult access, transport must be quoted separately. For that reason, we ask customers to call before purchasing so we can confirm access conditions, delivery details and the final service cost.

1st tuning included

1st tuning included: we include the first tuning of the piano. For the best result, this tuning should be done only after about 3 weeks, so the instrument can settle and stabilize in the new environment. If the tuning is outside the Viseu district, the customer only pays the technician’s travel cost.

Who is the C. Bechstein Academy A 160 for?

• For anyone who wants a European grand piano in a balanced size (160 cm)
• For advanced students and musicians who value nuance, repetition and dynamic control
• For those looking for a grand piano for home, a dedicated room or a studio, with real presence
• For those who want the option to play with headphones (optional Vario Duet Silent-System)

If you’re considering the C. Bechstein Academy A 160, talk to us before purchasing so we can confirm delivery (especially if there are stairs) and help you choose the best configuration—including Connect Pro and the Vario Duet Silent-System, if it makes sense for your space.