The video attached to this writing validates the beauty of music-making on a well-maintained, though 1940s vintage era acoustic piano.
Baldwin Acrosonics were the Cadillacs of the spinet and console variety pianos. They had a noticeable innovation compared to their sister-size instruments. (A deeper sound chamber, especially noted in the consoles that measured 40″ or taller) Baldwin Acro’s standard 36″ spinet was still a resonating musical treasure, if properly cared for. The pianos were manufactured starting in 1936.
“Coined from the Greek word, “Akros,” meaning supreme, and the Latin, “sonus,” meaning tone, the trademark Acrosonics were famous for their tonal clarity, power, and *Full- Direct Blow action.” (Bluebook of Pianos.com)
*This action sits on top of the keys instead of being a drop action where the action connects to the key by a rod or some other “indirect” method.
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An Acrosonic with fluted legs, sequestered in a gorgeous El Cerrito Hills home lived up to its singing nightingale reputation, in the good company of “Haddy” Haddorff, one of my pianos, now in the good care of a well-regarded Central Valley piano teacher. (Both instruments have an immaculate set of ivory keys)
The Hills Acrosonic, purchased at DC Pianos in Berkeley, is accompanied by a sturdy adjustable concert bench.
And while many of my students own digitals, if they can possibly locate an acoustic of this variety in excellent condition, I would say, Go for it!
Acrosonics are easily found on Craig’s List, though a piano teacher and technician should be taken along for an assessment.
Just listen to this one and make up your own mind.
The occasion was a make-up lesson on site at my students’ home. (We were working on Chopin’s A minor Waltz, No. 19, Op. Posthumous)
More often I’m found in a separate El Cerrito Hills location that houses my Baldwin Hamilton 1929 grand, another vintage charmer.
Finally, look at these lovely representations of Baldwin Acrosonics, striking for their beauty, inside and out:
Arioso7's Blog (Shirley Kirsten) 
Since we’ve recently discussed your piano and your thoughts about it, I thought you might find this interesting. The Baldwin Acrosonic is almost universally considered the only one of the “tiny” pianos (spinets/small consoles) that is of high quality.
A3catlady/Rebecca
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Indeed we are in agreement, though I will say that the Hadorff console I own is an easy competitor with Acro. Both, however must be well-maintained to preserve their singing nightingale voice.
Thanks for sharing. SK
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There is an Acrosonic at Glen Echo Town Hall, near Washington, DC, that sounds great. It is perfect for the folk music performances (concerts and dances) that are held there. The town also maintains it very well — it’s always in tune. If I were going to buy a small piano, I would get one of those if I could find a good one. Better than a digital any day.
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Thanks for your input, Harriet. I’m glad to hear about more celebrations of Acros. I’ve lost count of how many I’ve personally located and recommended to students.
Shirley
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I have a piano like the bottom image that I am looking to sell. The wood is in good condition but it has never been tuned in my possession and keys are yellowed. It’s beautiful but not in perfect condition but definitely something worth restoring for someone.
Any thoughts on where I could post it for sale & or what it is worth?
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I guess you mean the antique style Baldwin Acrosonic. These are selling anywhere from $500 to $1000 depending on their playing condition. (even less) There are many Acrosonics out there on Craig’s List and some are sadly given away because with the rise in Digitals these old pianos, though sounding lovely are put to pasture. Not a happy situation.
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Also depends on part of the country.. and demand for used old pianos..
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