Colour: Black Polyester
Year: 1984

The Yamaha U3 is one of the most widely respected and recognisable upright pianos ever produced. At 131cm tall, the U3 has a longer string length and larger soundboard area than the U1, which gives it a more powerful projection, greater depth of tone, and an excellent dynamic range, making it a popular choice for advanced students, teachers, and professional musicians alike.

The action of the U3 is highly regarded for its consistency, precision, and responsive touch. This particular example from 1984 has been retrofitted with a silent system, allowing the player to practise through headphones without disturbing others, while retaining the full acoustic experience when the silent mode is switched off. At £6,500, it combines one of the finest used Yamaha uprights with the practicality of silent functionality.

This instrument has been assessed and prepared by our team at The Piano Gallery and is available to try in our Oxfordshire showroom.

Available to purchase online or to try in person. Contact us to arrange a viewing or to discuss delivery and part-exchange.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Yamaha U1 and U3?

The U3 stands 131cm tall; the U1 is 121cm. Those extra 10cm mean longer strings and a larger soundboard, which produces a noticeably fuller, more powerful sound with richer bass, greater dynamic range, and a tone that begins to approach the character of a small grand piano. For serious players who want the maximum from an upright, the U3 is the natural choice. We stock both and encourage you to play them side by side.

What does the silent system add to a Yamaha U3?

The silent system allows you to practise through headphones at any time of day or night, without disturbing others. A bar drops across the hammers so the strings are not struck, and sensors beneath the keys feed the signal to a sound module. You are still playing the full acoustic action of the U3, the feel is unchanged, you just control when you are heard. It is a significant practical benefit for anyone in a flat, terrace, or family home.

Is a 1984 Yamaha U3 reliable?

The early-to-mid 1980s are considered by many technicians to be the finest years of Yamaha U Series production. Craftsmanship and quality control were at their peak. A well-maintained 1984 U3 is a highly reliable instrument with decades of service still ahead of it. This piano has been assessed and prepared by our team and is in excellent playing condition.

Is the Yamaha U3 worth choosing over a U1?

For players who are serious about their playing, yes. The U3's bigger soundboard and longer strings produce a more powerful, expressive tone that rewards a player as they advance. If you are working through the grades, play for your own enjoyment at higher volume, or simply want the most satisfying acoustic experience from an upright, the U3 is worth the difference in price. The added silent functionality on this example makes it even more versatile.

How long will a Yamaha U3 with a silent system last?

The acoustic mechanism of a Yamaha U3 is built to last 60 to 80 years with regular maintenance. The silent system electronics are a separate component and may require servicing or updating over time. The core piano, this 1984 U3, is a robust and well-made instrument that should serve its next owner for many decades to come with regular tuning and care.