Kawai K-500 vs Yamaha U3
The Kawai K-500 and the Yamaha U3 are the tall members of each maker’s professional upright range, both around 130cm, and both a step up in sound from a standard upright. If you want a big, full tone from an upright, these two are the natural rivals.
| Kawai K-500 | Yamaha U3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Height | About 130cm | About 131cm |
| Made in | Japan | Japan |
| Action | Composite (Millennium III) | Traditional wood |
| Tone | Warmer, fuller | Brighter, more powerful |
Why the height matters
At around 130cm both are noticeably taller than an entry upright, with longer strings and a larger soundboard. That gives a deeper bass and more power, closer to a small grand, which is why serious players and schools like them.
Which should you buy?
The U3 is the classic tall Japanese upright, bright and powerful, and the one most teachers and exam boards know. The K-500 gives you a warmer voice and Kawai’s very stable composite action. Both are superb. Play them side by side and trust your ears.
Buy reconditioned and save
Both are expensive new. We sell reconditioned Japanese uprights for a good deal less, with our lifetime warranty, free ground-floor UK delivery, a free first tuning, a matching stool and 14-day free returns. Or ask us about a reconditioned Japanese Kawai.