Yamaha U1

^# 5

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$1,499.99

3 Critic Reviews

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Page last updated May 30, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated May 30, 2026.

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5.0 (2)

$1,499.99 25 available Used

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Description

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The Yamaha U1 Upright Piano is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, offering musicians a chance to experience a rich, resonant sound that is synonymous with Yamaha's craftsmanship. Renowned for its exceptional build quality and consistent performance, the U1 stands as a testament to Yamaha's dedication to excellence. Crafted in their Japanese factory, this upright piano is designed for both seasoned pianists and ambitious beginners aiming to elevate their musical journey.

Measuring the balance between form and function, the U1's compact frame makes it an ideal choice for intimate spaces without compromising on the depth of sound. Its precise action and enduring tone provide an authentic acoustic experience, making it a favorite in both homes and studios. Whether you're refining your skills or composing new pieces, the Yamaha U1 delivers a dynamic range that is both expressive and versatile.

Key Features:

88 keys with responsive action
Crafted in Yamaha's Japanese factory
Compact design suitable for smaller spaces
Renowned for its rich, resonant sound quality
Ideal for both home and studio use

Product specs

Brand	Yamaha
Model	U1 Acoustic Piano
Finish	Polished Ebony
Year	2014 - 2025
Categories	Upright Pianos
Analog / Digital	Digital
Key Size	Full Size
Keyboard Action	Synth Action
Number of Keys	88 Keys
Number of Pedals	2 Pedals
Scale Length	25.5"

FAQs

What is the key action like on the Yamaha U1 upright piano?: The Yamaha U1 features a synth action keyboard, providing a responsive and smooth playing experience suitable for both beginners and advanced pianists.
How does the Yamaha U1 compare to the Yamaha U3?: The Yamaha U3 offers a more balanced touch and greater tonal power, especially in the bass section, compared to the U1, which has a slightly shallower feel.
Is the Yamaha U1 upright piano suitable for professional use?: Yes, the Yamaha U1 is renowned for its durability and rich tone, making it a popular choice for both professional musicians and advanced students.
Does the Yamaha U1 have a bright sound?: The Yamaha U1 is known for its smooth, rich tone rather than an excessively bright sound, distinguishing it from some of the smaller Yamaha models.
How many keys and pedals does the Yamaha U1 have?: The Yamaha U1 features a full-size 88-key keyboard and includes two pedals, facilitating a wide range of expressive playing techniques.

Videos

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Merriam Music

🎹Yamaha U1 vs Kawai K-300 Upright Piano Comparison, Review, & Demo🎹

Merriam Music

Why is the Yamaha U1 so popular?

ThePianoforever

Yamaha U1 VS Yamaha U3 | Comparison Demonstration | Sherwood Phoenix

Sherwood Phoenix

Yamaha U1 vs Steinway & Sons 1098 | Which One Is Best?

Alamo Music Center - Pianos and Keyboards

Yamaha NEW From The Factory Model U1 Demo - Atlantic Music Center

Atlantic Music Center

Used Yamaha U1 Upright Piano Review & Demonstration | Refurbished By Yamaha

Rimmers Music

Used Yamaha U1 Upright Piano Demonstration & Review | Piano For Sale

Rimmers Music

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha U1.

Comparisons

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The U3 provides a "fuller" sound with longer strings and a bigger soundboard, leading to a louder, more powerful tone than the U1.
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Optical sensors, like Yamaha's and Kawai's, are non-contact but still necessitate hammer shank stop rail adjustments, altering the action feel.
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User experience

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Owners mention the U3 can be too loud for small spaces, suggesting suitability depends on room size.
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The U1 is favored for practice due to its manageable volume and comparable key feel to the U3.
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Silent systems do not enhance resale value and may become liabilities due to their limited lifespan compared to the piano's longevity.
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Value and pricing

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Refurbished U3 models from Japan offer a cost-effective alternative to new pianos, with high-quality restoration.
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A 45-year-old U1 in excellent condition is priced around $3,500-$4,500, though a piano technician's evaluation is advised before purchase.
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Use cases and applications

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The U3 is considered ideal for those seeking a "forever" piano due to its expressive sound capabilities.
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Pianos used in schools or institutions likely endured heavy use, impacting their condition and making them less desirable purchases.
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Setup and maintenance

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Vintage Yamaha U1 pianos over 30 years old require tuning twice annually and might need future maintenance.
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It's crucial to avoid "grey market" U1 pianos, as they may be unsuitable for your climate, affecting longevity and performance.
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Features and functionality

0 0

Yamaha U1 silent systems require significant letoff adjustment, potentially affecting sensitivity and aftertouch, especially in upright pianos.
Source

Critic Reviews

Yamaha U1 Upright Piano Review from a Piano Tuner

pianotechniciantuner.com

The Yamaha U1 stands tall in the world of upright pianos, offering exceptional tuning stability, ease of repair, and a sound that resonates with professional musicians. With its consistent key feel and robust construction, it’s a favorite among technicians and pianists alike. The U1’s design ensures it’s easy to tune, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned and novice technicians. While it doesn’t boast the larger sound of the U3 or YUS5, its sound quality and affordability make it a standout in its price range. The soft-close fallboard is a welcomed addition, enhancing its user-friendliness. Overall, the Yamaha U1 is a superb investment, delivering unparalleled performance and value.

positive

Full Review

Yamaha U1 Review: The Best Upright Piano? - Piano Reviewer

pianoreviewer.com

The Yamaha U1 is a stalwart among upright pianos, celebrated for its robust construction, versatile and rich tone, and precise action. Its high-quality Japanese manufacturing ensures reliability and longevity, making it a favorite for institutions and musicians alike. While the bright tone may not appeal to all, especially those preferring a mellower sound, it remains a solid choice for a wide range of musical genres. The U1's ability to hold tuning and its strong resale value further add to its appeal. However, new models are pricey, and the market is flooded with older, potentially life-expired units. Overall, the U1 delivers exceptional value and performance, justifying its cost for serious pianists.

positive

Full Review