{"product_id":"yamaha-u3-2","title":"Yamaha U3","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Yamaha U3 (5069) is a full-sized 131cm upright piano from Yamaha's celebrated U Series, one of the most highly regarded professional upright pianos ever produced. Taller and more powerful than the U1, the U3 offers a longer string length, larger soundboard, and a fuller, richer tone that approaches the quality of a small grand piano. Dating from 1978 and presented in polished black polyester, this is a genuine professional instrument from Japan's golden era of piano manufacturing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis example has been assessed and prepared by our team at The Piano Gallery. At £4,595, it represents outstanding value for a full-sized Yamaha U3 from this era, one of the most sought-after used pianos in the UK market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvailable 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat is the difference between the Yamaha U1 and U3?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe U3 is 131cm tall; the U1 is 121cm. That extra 10cm means longer strings and a larger soundboard, which produces a noticeably fuller, more powerful sound with richer bass, greater dynamic range, and a tone that begins to approach the character of a small grand piano. Both are professional instruments, but the U3 is generally preferred by more advanced players and anyone who wants the maximum sound from an upright.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs a 1978 Yamaha U3 reliable?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe late 1970s are considered by many piano technicians to be among the finest years of Yamaha U Series production. The craftsmanship and quality control of this era are well regarded. A 1978 U3 that has been properly maintained is a highly reliable instrument. This piano has been assessed and prepared by our team at The Piano Gallery, and Yamaha parts remain readily available to support these instruments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs the Yamaha U3 worth the extra cost over a U1?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the right player, yes. The U3's bigger sound, longer strings and greater dynamic range make a real difference if you are playing repertoire that demands it, or if you simply want the most satisfying acoustic experience from an upright. For beginners and casual players, a U1 is perfectly adequate. For intermediate to advanced players, the step up to a U3 is often money very well spent, particularly when the price difference is as modest as it is here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs an older Yamaha better than a cheap new piano?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor most serious players and teachers, yes. A quality Yamaha U Series piano from the late 1970s will typically outperform a new entry-level piano from a lesser brand in terms of action feel, tonal character, and long-term durability. The Yamaha U Series has a 60-year track record of reliability. As authorised Yamaha dealers, we sell new Yamaha pianos too and can give you an honest, informed comparison if you would like to consider both.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow long will a Yamaha U3 last?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Yamaha U3 that is well maintained should last 60 to 80 years or more. This 1978 piano is almost 50 years old and still performing at a professional level, a testament to Yamaha's construction quality. With twice-yearly tuning, correct placement, and periodic regulation of the action, this instrument should give its next owner many decades of excellent service.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yamaha","offers":[{"title":"Black \/ Polyester \/ 1978","offer_id":56891654799742,"sku":"5069","price":5295.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0670\/0335\/1316\/files\/E9300085-C686-4DC2-9A8A-638261173C45.jpg?v=1779896790","url":"https:\/\/thepianogalleryonline.co.uk\/products\/yamaha-u3-2","provider":"The Piano Gallery Online Shop","version":"1.0","type":"link"}