Yamaha U1 vs U3
One of the most popular questions we get is what’s the difference between the Yamaha Model U1 and U3. In fact, some customers even come into the store asking, “Do you have a Yamaha U1 or U3 model?”
It is no surprise that there is and always been a huge demand for Yamaha pianos. Yamaha has a long-standing track record for building high-quality pianos using precision engineering and with such attention to detail.
On top of that, it is even sold at a competitive price compared to big names such as Steinway and Bösendorfer.
Even among the numerous upright pianos to choose from, the Yamaha U1 and U3 have always remained the most sought after. Let’s take a closer look at the differences between these two models.
Height Difference
Yamaha U1
Yamaha U3
The first thing you will notice is that the U3 model is taller (131cm) than the U1 (121cm). The taller the piano is, the longer the strings can fit inside. This result in a fuller and deeper sound compared to the U1.
In addition, the U3 can house a larger soundboard which produces a warmer and more resonant tone.
Finally, the U3 extra cabinet size allows for taller action and longer keys. This gives it a touch that is very similar to that of a grand piano.
To sum up, the U3 gets you closer to a grand piano sound than the U1 does. Similarly, this is why concert grand pianos sound so much better as it is due to their long strings and large soundboard.
Most homes in Singapore do not have space for a grand piano; hence the U3 is a good alternative and is suitable even beyond Grade 8.
Room Consideration
Despite the better sounding U3 model, U1 is still very popular mainly because of how appropriate the tone and sound is for a small room in many homes. If a piano isn’t the right size for the room, it can significantly affect the sound of your piano.
Too large a piano can overload a room with sound, while one that’s too small may not be able to project the tone well.
As most piano studios are relatively small and rent sensitive, many acousticians and piano technicians recommend the U1H medium size.
That is why since around 1980, Yamaha Music replaced most of their studio pianos with the U1 series model. In addition, since most of the ABRSM piano exams are conducted at Yamaha Music at present, the U1H model became the reference standard for examinations, further increasing the demand for the U1 series.
Price
Brand New Yamaha U1 (Source: https://shop.sg.yamaha.com/u1pe-non-adjustable-bench.html)
Brand New Yamaha U3 (Source: https://shop.sg.yamaha.com/u3pe-non-adjustable-bench.html)
For used pianos, the price difference between U1 and U3 series is small compared to new pianos. A used U3 costs $300 more than a used U1.
On the other hand, a brand new U3 costs $2000 – $4000 more than a brand new U1.
Regardless whether you choose the U1 or U3, there are so many people looking to buy a good used Yamaha piano that you are guaranteed to achieve a high resale value if you decide to sell yours in future.
Summary
If you have a limited budget and space, both the Yamaha U3 and U1 are excellent choices. With such excellent build quality, it can easily last a lifetime.
The U3 has better tonal quality with its longer strings and a larger soundboard while the U1 is still considered to be one of the best values among all pianos.
In addition, we noticed that once a customer has decided to spend this much money, they don’t mind stretching the budget a bit further to get the best sound quality. Since there is a $300 difference between a used U1 and U3 of the same age.
With all of that said, Zadok Music Shoppe is aware of the importance of personal preference. We will never know which piano will win you over in the end.
Therefore, we advise you to visit our piano showroom to discover which piano is the best fit for you. Particularly if you’re learning to play so that we can talk you through the differences.
If you’d like to get in touch and arrange an appointment, drop us an email or give us a call today!