Yamaha C1X Grand Piano
Yamaha C1X is a minor variation of the Yamaha C1 so we think you should consider them as being the same basic beast (someone tell me if that isn’t a fair comment). Any of the C1 variations will suit most people looking for a great quality baby grand pianoIf you have any technical info or corrections for this article, please email mgpianos@gmail.com.
Pros
- It produces a beautiful, clear sound.
- It’s great for those who have a small space, but really want a grand piano.
- It’s a very popular model that will hold its value well.
Cons
- It has relatively short bass strings. Pianos with longer strings produce a much better sound quality.
- The C1X is quite rare so may be difficult/impossible to find.
When was it produced?
The Yamaha C1 began being made in the early 1990’s and the C1L model was added in the 2000’s. The C1X replaced the C1L a few years later, but they are all virtually the same.
Where was it made?
The Yamaha C1X comes from the Hamamatsu factory in Japan. This is Yamaha’s top factory and all their very best pianos are made here, including the CFX, a concert grand that sells for around £140k and is arguably the best piano in the world.
How does it differ from similar models?
The Yamaha C1, C1L, and C1X variations have only slight design changes. The G1 models are also very similar as they came first and were later replaced by the C-series. The C2 is slightly bigger, and the C3 is the first full-sized grand in this series.
Videos
Quotes
Don’t just take my word for it, this is a quote I found on a Piano World forum which I think highlights how little these models change…
“I was a Yamaha dealer when they changed from the G1 to the C1. There were no significant changes in their specs.” – source
Who should buy them?
The Yamaha C1X will please most musicians as it is essentially the same piano as the Yamaha C1 which will be cheaper to buy and easier to source. Any of the variations in this range are great for those who want a grand piano, but don’t have the space or budget for a Yamaha C3 and above. They are sought after by pianists, piano teachers, and ambitious students who want something that fits into their music room at home.
Will I need to upgrade at some point?
This piano will sound great and last a lifetime, but, you may wish to treat yourself to something bigger and more powerful.
Dimensions
Width: 149cm
Length: 161cm
New and used prices.
A Yamaha C1X will be around £15,000, a Yamaha C1 will cost around £14,499.
Alternative models to consider similar to this.
If you can’t find a C1X then just go for a C1, C1L or GC1 as they are all the same underlying piano (please someone correct me if this isn’t the case) or if you have the space then go for a C2 for a better sound quality in the bass region.
Conclusion
The Yamaha C1X is a C1 with a slight face-lift and a higher price. It is a great piano but the same can be said for any of the C1 variations. If you’re struggling to find one, go for any of C1 variations and you’ll likely never notice a difference.