Kawai BL71 vs Yamaha U3: Which Upright Piano Reigns Supreme? [2024]

Picture this: you’re sitting in a dimly lit room, your fingers gliding effortlessly across the keys of a beautiful upright piano. The rich, resonant tones fill the air, captivating everyone within earshot. But which piano should you choose to create this magical experience? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of upright pianos and compare two heavyweights: the Kawai BL71 and the Yamaha U3. So, let’s embark on this musical journey and discover which piano reigns supreme!

Quick Answer

Quick Tips and Facts
Background: The Battle of the Uprights
Materials and Construction: The Building Blocks of Excellence

Kawai BL71: A Symphony of Craftsmanship
Yamaha U3: The Legendary Workhorse
Kawai BL71 vs Yamaha U3: A Head-to-Head Comparison

New vs Second Hand: The Age-Old Debate
FAQ
Conclusion

Recommended Links
Reference Links

Quick Answer

In a nutshell, both the Kawai BL71 and the Yamaha U3 are exceptional upright pianos that offer outstanding sound quality and craftsmanship. However, when it comes to choosing between the two, it ultimately boils down to personal preference. The Kawai BL71 boasts a warm and expressive tone, while the Yamaha U3 delivers a powerful and resonant sound. Consider your musical style, playing technique, and budget to make the best decision for your needs.

CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Musician’s Friend | Sweetwater

Quick Tips and Facts

The Kawai BL71 and Yamaha U3 are both renowned upright pianos with a strong reputation in the industry.
The Kawai BL71 is known for its warm and expressive tone, while the Yamaha U3 is praised for its powerful and resonant sound.

Consider your musical style, playing technique, and budget when choosing between the two pianos.
Both pianos are crafted with high-quality materials and excellent craftsmanship.
The Kawai BL71 and Yamaha U3 are available in both new and second-hand options.

Background: The Battle of the Uprights

black and white piano keys

Upright pianos have long been a staple in homes, music schools, and concert halls around the world. Their compact size, versatility, and affordability make them a popular choice for pianists of all levels. When it comes to renowned upright piano brands, Kawai and Yamaha are at the forefront of the industry.

Kawai, a Japanese piano manufacturer, has been crafting exceptional pianos since 1927. Their commitment to innovation and craftsmanship has earned them a stellar reputation among musicians worldwide. On the other hand, Yamaha, another Japanese powerhouse, has been producing top-notch pianos since 1887. Their dedication to quality and attention to detail have made them a household name in the music industry.

Now, let’s delve into the materials and construction of these two exceptional pianos.

Materials and Construction: The Building Blocks of Excellence

Both the Kawai BL71 and the Yamaha U3 are crafted with meticulous attention to detail and high-quality materials. These pianos are built to withstand the test of time and deliver exceptional sound quality.

The Kawai BL71 features a solid spruce soundboard, which contributes to its warm and expressive tone. The soundboard is the heart of the piano, responsible for amplifying the vibrations of the strings and producing the beautiful sound we all love. Additionally, the BL71 utilizes Kawai’s Millennium III Action, a revolutionary mechanism that enhances the piano’s responsiveness and touch.

On the other hand, the Yamaha U3 boasts a solid spruce soundboard as well, ensuring a powerful and resonant sound. Yamaha’s renowned U Series pianos, including the U3, are known for their excellent sound production and durability. The U3 also features Yamaha’s renowned action mechanism, which provides a smooth and precise playing experience.

Kawai BL71: A Symphony of Craftsmanship

The Kawai BL71 is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, meticulously designed to deliver a rich and expressive sound. This piano is perfect for pianists who value warmth and nuance in their playing.

The BL71 features Kawai’s renowned Millennium III Action, which combines ABS Carbon parts with traditional wooden components. This innovative mechanism provides enhanced responsiveness and durability, allowing pianists to express their musicality with ease. The BL71’s solid spruce soundboard further enhances its tonal richness, producing a warm and resonant sound.

Whether you’re a professional pianist or an enthusiastic beginner, the Kawai BL71 is sure to captivate you with its exceptional sound quality and exquisite craftsmanship.

Yamaha U3: The Legendary Workhorse

The Yamaha U3 is a legendary workhorse that has earned its place in the hearts of pianists worldwide. This piano is known for its powerful and resonant sound, making it a favorite among professionals and music institutions.

The U3 features Yamaha’s renowned U Series design, which includes a solid spruce soundboard and a sturdy construction. The U3’s taller height, measuring 131cm, contributes to its powerful and robust sound. Yamaha’s attention to detail and commitment to excellence shine through in every aspect of the U3’s construction.

Whether you’re performing on stage or practicing at home, the Yamaha U3 is a reliable and versatile instrument that will inspire you to reach new musical heights.

Kawai BL71 vs Yamaha U3: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Now that we’ve explored the individual strengths of the Kawai BL71 and the Yamaha U3, let’s compare them side by side to help you make an informed decision.

Feature	Kawai BL71	Yamaha U3
Sound Quality	Warm and expressive	Powerful and resonant
Action Mechanism	Millennium III Action	Yamaha U Series Action
Soundboard	Solid spruce	Solid spruce
Height	131cm	131cm
Craftsmanship	Exquisite and meticulous	Legendary and reliable
Price Range	$$$	$$$

Both the Kawai BL71 and the Yamaha U3 offer exceptional sound quality and craftsmanship. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a warm and expressive tone, the Kawai BL71 is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you crave a powerful and resonant sound, the Yamaha U3 will not disappoint.

Shop Kawai BL71 on: Amazon | Musician’s Friend | Sweetwater

Shop Yamaha U3 on: Amazon | Musician’s Friend | Sweetwater

New vs Second Hand: The Age-Old Debate

When it comes to purchasing an upright piano, you have the option of buying new or second hand. Let’s explore the benefits of each to help you make an informed decision.

Buying a new piano offers several advantages. Firstly, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing that your piano is in pristine condition and has never been played before. Additionally, new pianos often come with warranties, ensuring that any potential issues will be taken care of by the manufacturer. Lastly, buying new allows you to choose from the latest models and features, ensuring that you have access to the most advanced technology and design.

On the other hand, buying a second-hand piano can be a cost-effective option. Second-hand pianos often come at a lower price point, making them more accessible to budget-conscious buyers. Additionally, older pianos may have a more mature sound, as the soundboard has had time to age and develop its unique tonal characteristics. However, it’s important to thoroughly inspect and test a second-hand piano before making a purchase to ensure its quality and condition.

Ultimately, the decision between buying new or second hand depends on your budget, preferences, and the availability of high-quality used pianos in your area.

FAQ

white and black piano keyboard

Is Kawai BL71 good?

Absolutely! The Kawai BL71 is an exceptional upright piano that offers a warm and expressive tone. Its exquisite craftsmanship and innovative features make it a favorite among pianists who value nuance and musicality.

Is a Yamaha U3 piano OK for a beginner?

Yes, the Yamaha U3 is an excellent choice for beginners. Its reliable construction, powerful sound, and responsive action make it a versatile instrument that can accommodate pianists of all levels.

How long will a Yamaha U3 last?

With proper care and maintenance, a Yamaha U3 can last for several decades. Yamaha pianos are known for their durability and longevity, making them a wise investment for pianists who are in it for the long haul.

What is the difference between U30A and U3?

The U30A and U3 are both models within Yamaha’s U Series. The main difference lies in their age and design. The U30A is an older model, while the U3 is a more recent iteration. The U3 features improvements in design and construction, resulting in a more refined sound and enhanced playability.

Conclusion

selective focus photography of piano keys

In conclusion, both the Kawai BL71 and the Yamaha U3 are exceptional upright pianos that offer outstanding sound quality and craftsmanship. The Kawai BL71’s warm and expressive tone is perfect for pianists who value nuance and musicality, while the Yamaha U3’s powerful and resonant sound is ideal for those seeking a commanding presence.

After careful consideration of your musical style, playing technique, and budget, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and choose the piano that resonates with you. Whether you opt for the Kawai BL71 or the Yamaha U3, you can rest assured that you’ll be bringing home a masterpiece that will inspire you for years to come.