Hi Everyone,

I am about to buy a new piano and wanted some advice. I have played quite a few recently and at the moment am tempted by the Yamaha U3 which I played last week and found to be about the best I have played.

Anyone have any experience of this model, or have any other suggestions?

Many Thanks,

Ant

I'd go with what you already think!

Hi Ant,

Like you, I was really taken by the U3 when I tried it out in a huge piano showroom. It depends on where you will keep it. The salesperson (an experienced pianist for a change!) advised me against it as you don't really appreciate the acoustics in a standard living/dining room - and it could be overpowering in this setting. It's also a large upright so could potentially swamp its surroundings. I settled for a second hand UX1 (the handmade one with funny slits at the front) which I'm absolutley delighted with - and would have been happy with a U1 if the UX1 wasn't available. Of course, if you live in a large warehouse conversion, go for it!

LT

PS I'm only G5 standard so am not an 'expert'.......but I think you can 'feel' when it's right for you......

That's a good piano. Also, Yamahas are great modern patterns as they cope pretty well with central heating.

Do you have a piano tuner who visits regularly? Mine recommended my current piano - a Yamaha grand, can't remember the exact model (and can't check it as it's covered up in dust sheets at the mo, as we're having work done - poor thing!). He told us which pianos would suit the room, and heped us get one. When it was delivered, he came and played it, and told us it wasn't of a good enough standard for us, so he got it sent back and a new one delivered!

I think it's helpful for those of us who aren't so experienced in piano buying to have a real expert who knows the space and the acoustics he's buying for, to help you with getting something perfect - as well as how you feel about the piano, obviously, and how it plays!

Yes, I have a Yamaha U1A too, then now they have this U1J based on the U1A which I personally like too.
So long as you've tried many many pianos and still like it, then go ahead! Each persons taste might differ a bit, but I myself like the Yamaha pianos because I find it easier to control for the dynamics.