Yamaha SE122 upright piano
The Yamaha SE122 is based on the professional U1Q series, crafted by the piano builders usually reserved for the concert grand CFX programme, these are a newer model. The SE122 is manufactured with high-quality European materials to make a beautiful instrument. If you have any technical info or corrections for this article, please email mgpianos@gmail.com.
The pros of buying a Yamaha SE122
- It is great for smaller spaces, at only 122cm it is smaller than full-size models that tend to be around 131cm.
- The Yamaha SE122 has been crafted in Yahama’s best factory in Japan from quality European materials.
What are the cons of buying a Yamaha SE122?
- Shorter pianos mean shorter strings, longer strings tend to produce a higher quality of sound and a wider range of tone. .
- They are a rather expensive piano, and as a new model can be hard to source reconditioned.
When was it produced?
The YSE122 is being manufactured in 2021 and is a new model.
Where was it made?
The Yamaha SE122 is made in Yamaha’s top factory in Hamamatsu, Japan. This is the same factory that makes Yamaha’s professional grade pianos, including its concert grand, the CFX, which sells for £140k.
What differences between similarly named models?
A similar model to the Yamaha SE122 is the U1, a similar sized piano that also comes from the Hamamatsu factory. The main differences are the materials used and the age, both are premium smaller models. There is also the YSE132, a full-size model in the SE range.
Videos
Quotes
Don’t just take my word for it, here is what I found about it on Piano World forums…
‘‘I was quite impressed with the SE122 and having played that model along with a U3, YUS5 and SU7, I liked this the most. I thought the SE122 had a very controllable action and a direct tone meaning that I could voice the music well and bring out the melody where I wanted to.”
-http://forum.pianoworld.com/ubbthreads.php/topics/2832433/yamaha-se-series-upright-pianos.html
Who should buy them?
The Yamaha SE122 is perfect for those looking for a smaller premium piano that will last a life-time and see any ambitious students through their grades. It really is a top range piano that will keep a pianist happy for a long time.
Will I need to upgrade at some point?
You may wish to upgrade to a full-size model with a greater range of tone. Larger pianos tend to have a superior sound and you may eventually wish to size up, but you certainly wouldn’t need to.
Dimensions
Height: 122cm
Width: 152cm
Depth: 65cm
New and used prices.
It can be difficult to find a used Yamaha SE122, a new one will cost around £14,000.
Alternative models to consider similar to this.
An alternative model to the Yamaha SE122 is the U3, a full-sized piano that will be easier to source in a used showroom-worthy condition for a fraction of the price. If size is an issue, you could also consider the U1, similar in size to the SE122, but again, easier to source if looking for a reconditioned model.
Conclusion
This piano is a wonderful one for those who want something small but mighty. You definitely wouldn’t regret owning one, but the cost may put you off, and there are more cost-effective options available.
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I hope this summary was helpful to you, and as always your feedback, thoughts and questions are welcomed, so don’t hesitate to reach out.