How to choose the right model?
Yamaha has been producing pianos and upright pianos for over a hundred years, known for their quality, reliability, and long lifespan. Among used instruments, models made in Japan are particularly valued for their superior craftsmanship, excellent mechanics, and remarkable stability.
Since there are many different series and labels, customers often wonder what the differences are between individual models. In this guide, we present the most important Yamaha series of pianos.
Yamaha U series
The U series is the most famous and best-selling series of upright pianos in the world. Since the 1960s, it has set the standard for quality in music schools, conservatories, and the homes of pianists.
Main features:
- superior Japanese craftsmanship
- extremely precise mechanics
- stable tuning
- rich and balanced sound
- very long lifespan
Models:
- U1 (121 cm) – the most popular model for home use and music schools.
- U2 (127 cm) – slightly stronger bass and larger soundboard.
- U3 (131 cm) – professional model with the widest dynamic range.
Yamaha UX series
The UX series represents a more prestigious version of the U series.
Its greatest feature is X-Back construction, where the back frame forms a distinctive cross pattern. This design improves the rigidity of the body, increases the stability of the instrument, and allows for better transmission of vibrations.
Advantages of the UX series:
- even better sound projection
- faster action response
- higher quality hammers
- more selected materials
- excellent stability over decades
Most famous models:
- UX
- YUX
- UX1
- UX3
- UX5
- UX30A
- UX50A
For Yamaha enthusiasts, the UX series is considered one of the best upright piano series of all time.
Yamaha YUS series
YUS is the modern successor to the legendary U series.
In development, Yamaha engineers used numerous technologies from concert pianos.
Models YUS include:
- concert hammers
- improved soundboard
- higher quality strings
- richer tone
- more precise action regulation
Models:
- YUS1
- YUS3
- YUS5
These are among the best newer pianos on the market.
Yamaha SU series
SU represents the absolute pinnacle of Yamaha's upright piano offerings.
Model SU7 is made to nearly the same standards as Yamaha concert pianos.
It features:
- handcrafted
- concert hammers
- premium materials
- exceptionally rich tone
- concert dynamics
- extremely sensitive action
This is an instrument for professional pianists and the most demanding musicians.
Yamaha W series
The W series was created for pianists who want not only excellent sound but also a prestigious appearance.
Instead of the standard black lacquer finish, W models are often made from:
- walnut
- mahogany
- oak
- cherry
Many models have richly designed legs, carvings, and elegant keyboard covers.
The action is based on the U series, thus offering the same reliability.
Yamaha WX series
WX is the luxury version of the W series.
In addition to the prestigious veneer, it also includes:
- improved mechanics
- higher quality hammers
- better soundboard
- selected materials
WX models are quite rare today and highly sought after by collectors.
What do the labels on Yamaha pianos mean?
Many buyers notice labels such as:
- U3H
- U3M
- U30A
- U30BL
- UX3
- YUX
- UX30A
Letters following the base model usually indicate the generation of the instrument or construction improvements, not its size.
Example:
- U3H – third generation of the U3 model (from 1970)
- U3M – improved version from the late 70s and early 80s
- U30BL – next developmental stage with improved mechanics
- UX3 – professional version of the U3 model with X-construction
How to determine the year of a Yamaha piano?
Every Yamaha piano has a serial number from which we can determine the year of manufacture.
The serial number is located:
- open the top lid of the piano,
- on the golden cast iron plate, look for the engraved serial number,
- compare the number with the official Yamaha table or use Yamaha Serial Number Lookup.
Why choose Japan Piano Center?
Every used Yamaha piano in our offer is professionally inspected, regulated, tuned, and ready for years of use. We help customers choose an instrument based on their needs, knowledge, and space, and we ensure professional delivery and service throughout Slovenia.
