Yamaha U1A c.1986

The Yamaha U1A is a full-sized 121cm upright piano from Yamaha's prestigious U Series, dating from c.1986 — a period of Japanese production widely regarded as the peak of Yamaha's upright piano manufacturing. The U1 model is the most popular professional upright piano ever made, trusted by teachers, students, and professional pianists worldwide for its consistency, reliability, and characteristic bright, clear Yamaha tone.

This example is presented in polished black polyester and has been assessed and prepared by our team at The Piano Gallery. At £4,495, it represents excellent value for a professional-grade Japanese upright piano from this era.

Available to purchase online or to try in person at our Oxfordshire showroom. Contact us to arrange a viewing or to discuss delivery and part-exchange options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Yamaha U1 good for beginners?

Yes — and then some. The Yamaha U1 is widely used as a beginner piano, but it's also the instrument of choice for professional teachers, conservatoires, and serious students. It offers a level of action quality and tonal range that will serve a player well from their very first lesson right through to diploma level and beyond. Buying a U1 means you're unlikely to outgrow the piano — which makes it excellent value over time.

Is a 1986 Yamaha U1 reliable?

The mid-1980s are considered by many piano technicians to represent Yamaha's manufacturing at its finest — the period before production volumes increased and quality controls evolved. A well-maintained 1986 U1 is typically an extremely reliable instrument. This piano has been assessed and prepared by our team, and Yamaha parts remain widely available to support these instruments for decades to come.

What is the difference between the Yamaha U1 and U3?

The key difference is height: the U1 is 121cm tall, while the U3 is 131cm. The extra 10cm means longer strings and a larger soundboard, which gives the U3 a fuller, more powerful sound with greater bass resonance and dynamic range. For most domestic use and teaching, the U1 is more than sufficient. The U3 is the preferred choice for more advanced players, music rooms, and anyone who wants the maximum sound from an upright piano.

Should I buy a used U1 or a new Yamaha upright?

A used U1 from the 1980s or 90s represents exceptional value — you're getting a professional-grade instrument at a fraction of the cost of new. New Yamaha uprights offer a manufacturer's warranty and modern specification; a quality used U1 from this era is often preferred by pianists who know the instrument's reputation. As authorised Yamaha dealers, we sell both — and we're genuinely well placed to help you decide which is right for you.

How long should a Yamaha U1 last?

A Yamaha U1, well maintained, should last 60 years or more. Yamaha U1s from the 1960s and 70s are still in daily use in teaching studios across the UK. Regular tuning (twice a year), protection from damp and heat, and periodic regulation of the action are all that's needed to keep this instrument in excellent condition for the long term.