Yamaha C2X Grand Piano

The C2X is the grand we suggest more than any other to families who want a “real” grand but do not have a huge room. It is a little longer than a baby grand, and that extra length makes a real difference to the sound.

What is the C2X?

Yamaha launched the CX series in October 2012, replacing the C series that had run since 1967. The range runs C1X, C2X, C3X, C5X, C6X and C7X. The C2X sits just above the C1X and just below the very popular C3X.

How is it different from the older C2?

The C2X shares the CX series upgrades: better hammer felt and European music wire inspired by Yamaha’s CFX concert grand, a back frame more than 20% thicker than before, a soft-close fallboard and Ivorite key tops that feel closer to real ivory.

More recently, Yamaha refreshed the C2X again and now sells it as the “C2X espressivo”. This version takes the curved soundboard design and German hammer felt from the newest CFX, and a rim made from fewer, thicker layers to strengthen the bass and middle notes.

Where is it made?

The C2X is made in Japan, at Yamaha’s Hamamatsu factory.

When was it made?

From late 2012 to today. As a guide, a C2X made in 2013 will have a serial number in the 6.3 millions. Use our free serial number lookup to check the exact year.

Sizes

• Length: 173cm (5’8”)
• Width: 149cm
• Height: 101cm
• Weight: about 305kg

That is only 12cm longer than a C1X, and 13cm shorter than a C3X. In most homes, if a C1X fits, a C2X will too.

Silent versions

You will often see the C2X-SH or C2X-SH2, and the latest is the C2XSH3. These have a Yamaha silent system built in at the factory. Flick a lever and the hammers stop before they hit the strings, and you play through headphones instead. They are brilliant for flats, late-night practice and busy households.

When buying one, check the silent system works on every key, that the headphones and power supply come with it, and ask whether it has ever been serviced.

The pros

• Noticeably fuller sound than a baby grand, without needing a big room.
• Modern Japanese build with the CX upgrades.
• Very popular, so it holds its value and is easy to sell later. We had one in stock earlier this year and it sold in two days.
• Silent versions are widely available second-hand.

The cons

• It costs more than an older C2 or G2 of a similar size.
• The step up to a C3X gives a richer bass again, so if you have the room, it is worth playing both.
• A silent system adds parts that can go wrong. Make sure it works before you buy.

What to check when buying a used C2X

• The serial number matches the model and age you are told.
• Tuning history and where it has lived (away from radiators and direct sun).
• The case, especially the lid and legs, for moving damage.
• On silent models, every key in silent mode.
• If you can, an independent inspection by a piano technician.

Who should buy one?

• Families buying their first serious grand for a growing player.
• Teachers who want more than a baby grand but are short of space.
• Adults returning to the piano who want something they will never outgrow at home.

Alternatives to consider

• C1X. A little smaller and a little less money.
• C3X. More bass and more power, if you have 13cm more room. See our Yamaha C3X guide.
• Older C2 or G2. A well-restored one is great value. See our Yamaha C2 guide and Yamaha G2 guide.

Conclusion

For most homes, the C2X is the sweet spot in the Yamaha range. It sounds like a proper grand, fits where a baby grand fits, and holds its value well. As always, buy the individual piano, not just the name.

Thinking of selling your Yamaha C2X?

The C2X is one of the most popular grands we sell. Our last one sold within two days of arriving, so we are always keen to hear from owners.

We have specialised in Yamaha pianos since 2002. You can sell to us in one of two ways.

• Sell outright. We make you an offer, collect the piano, usually within a week, and pay you by bank transfer.
• Sell on commission. We collect your piano, bring it back to showroom condition, and sell it from our showroom. You get a fixed, guaranteed amount when it sells. If it hasn’t sold within 12 months, we pay you anyway.

Either way, collection from a ground floor room anywhere in the UK is free. There is no obligation, and we won’t add you to a mailing list.

What we need from you

• The serial number. On a Yamaha grand it is stamped on the iron frame, near the tuning pins. Lift the lid and look just behind the music desk.
• A few photos: the whole piano with the lid up, the keys, and the serial number.
• Your postcode, and whether the piano is on the ground floor.
• If it has a silent system, tell us which one (SH, SH2 or SH3).