Yamaha C5X Grand Piano

The Yamaha C5X is a concert level piano that every pianist longs to own. Don’t let the letter X fool you into thinking it is very different to the C5, they are essentially the same piano, with a few minor design changes, and you would be very lucky to own any of the C5 models. If you have any technical info or corrections for this article, please email mgpianos@gmail.com.

If you have anything to add to this article, please get in touch via mgpianos@gmail.com

The pros of buying a Yamaha C5X

The Yamaha C5X is a concert level grand piano, made from the very best materials.
It offers full sostenuto.
It is a top level instrument and if you have the space it will be the perfect addition to any home, studio, rehearsal room or concert hall.
With lovely long strings to produce a deep, rich tone, the Yamaha C5X comes in at 2m long.
It will last a lifetime.

What are the cons of buying a C5X?

The Yamaha C5, C5L and C5X (and any other variations in the C5 range) are essentially the same instrument, the design changes are so slight that many would struggle to spot them. It can be hard to find a C5X in a great condition and it may be more expensive than the C5, so don’t get bogged down in that extra letter.
It is a very large piano and may be a bit too big for some homes and smaller venues.
It is an expensive piano, especially if buying brand new. Used prices are also quite high.

When was it produced?

The Yamaha C5X is still being made today, it began being produced in 2008.

Where was it made?

The Yamaha C5X comes from Yamaha’s best factory in Hamamatsu, Japan. Here is where the best pianos tend to be made, including the concert grand CFX, which sells for £140k.

Videos

Quotes

Don’t just take my word for it, here is what an article from Audiofanzine has to say about the C5 (which we have established is essentially the same as the C5X)…

“It’s an easy piano to play, with a nice touch and good action. It has the feel that you’d expect from any professional piano. … Whether you’re looking for a grand piano for your recording studio or for your home, the Yamaha C5 is a stellar piano at an even stellar price.”
Ask anyone at all in the piano world for their opinion on the Yamaha C5 and you won’t find anyone who doesn’t like it. It’s a winner.

And a quote from a piano world forum from a guy who owns TWO Yamaha C5’s…

“I own two Yamaha C5s, both from 1987, and they are both good instruments.”
http://forum.pianoworld.com/ubbthreads.php/topics/2673837/thoughts-on-1986-yamaha-c5.html

Who should buy them?

You’ll find Yamaha C5 pianos (and their variations), and all their variations, in concert halls, music studios, piano teachers’ houses, universities, wedding venues, and in the home of concert pianists. Anyone who wants a piano with an amazing sound will love the C5X, but do remember, it is not very different from the C5 so if you’re struggling to find the X variation, any C5 model will make you just as happy.

Will I need to upgrade at some point?

If you really wanted to treat yourself you could trade up for a Yamaha C7 or a CFX but, realistically, the Yamaha C5X will last a lifetime if properly maintained.

Dimensions

The Yamaha C5X is 149cm wide and 200cm long.

New and used prices.

You can buy a used Yamaha C5 for around £14,000 to £17,000, depending on the age and condition of the piano. The C5X may be slightly more expensive, mostly because it is likely to be newer and because sellers may push the upgraded option.

Alternative models to consider similar to this.

The Yamaha C3 is slightly shorter but still has a fantastic sound. The Yamaha C7 is slightly longer with an even fuller, richer, sound. If you don’t have the budget for a C5X, but love the piano, you could also consider a Yamaha G5. The Yamaha G5 is the predecessor of the C5 and like the C5X, the differences are slight.

Conclusion

With regular maintenance any of the pianos in the C5 range will keep you smiling for a lifetime and will never ever let you down, so if you are struggling to find the Yamaha C5X, you would be just as happy with any of the other C5 range. If you don’t have the budget, give the older G5 a try instead.

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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.