Kawai K-800 vs Yamaha U3
The Kawai K-800 is the flagship of Kawai’s upright range, and at about 134cm it is taller than almost any other upright, including the Yamaha U3. If you want the most piano you can get without buying a grand, these two are worth comparing.
| Kawai K-800 | Yamaha U3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Height | About 134cm | About 131cm |
| Made in | Japan | Japan |
| Action | Composite (Millennium III) | Traditional wood |
| Tone | Rich, close to a small grand | Bright, powerful |
Which should you buy?
The K-800 is a premium instrument, taller than the U3, with a rich tone that approaches a small grand and Kawai’s finest upright action. The U3 is the trusted tall Japanese upright, brighter and a familiar choice for teachers and exam boards. If tone warmth and outright size matter most, the K-800 leads. If you want the proven, bright U3 voice, it remains a benchmark. Play both if you can.
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.