In the realm of digital pianos, Yamaha has established itself as a venerable name, synonymous with quality, innovation, and a commitment to musical excellence. Their instruments, particularly those in the Arius line, have been praised for their ability to blend the authenticity of acoustic pianos with the versatility and convenience of digital technology. The Yamaha YDP-S55 is one such instrument, positioned as a high-quality, mid-range digital piano that aims to provide an exceptional playing experience for both beginners and seasoned pianists alike.
Having spent several months with the Yamaha YDP-S55, I’ve come to appreciate the nuances of this instrument, and this review will delve into the various aspects that make this digital piano a noteworthy contender in its class. From the design and build quality to the sound and playability, I’ll cover everything you need to know to decide if the YDP-S55 is the right choice for you.
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Design and Build Quality
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Yamaha YDP-S55 is its sleek and modern design. Yamaha has clearly put a lot of thought into making this digital piano not only a functional instrument but also a stylish piece of furniture that can fit seamlessly into various home environments.
Slim Profile and Aesthetic Appeal
The YDP-S55 features a slim, compact design that makes it ideal for smaller spaces. Measuring approximately 1353 mm in width, 849 mm in height, and 296 mm in depth, this piano doesn’t require a lot of space, making it a perfect fit for apartments, dorm rooms, or any area where space is at a premium. Despite its compact size, the piano retains a full, 88-key keyboard, ensuring that you don’t have to compromise on playability.
The cabinet is available in a few different finishes, including black, white, and dark walnut, allowing you to choose a color that best matches your interior décor. The wood grain finish on the dark walnut model, in particular, adds a touch of elegance, giving the piano a sophisticated look that could easily complement both traditional and contemporary interiors.
Sturdy Construction
While the YDP-S55 is designed to be sleek and compact, it doesn’t sacrifice build quality. The cabinet feels robust and well-constructed, with a weight of around 37.5 kg, providing a stable base that doesn’t wobble during play. The keys are well-supported, and the overall structure feels solid, which is crucial for both performance and longevity.
The sliding key cover is another thoughtful feature, protecting the keys from dust and debris when not in use. The pedal unit, which includes three pedals (damper, sostenuto, and soft), is firmly attached and responsive, contributing to the overall solid feel of the instrument.
Yamaha YDP-S55 Specfications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Yamaha YDP-S55 |
| Keyboard | 88 keys, Graded Hammer 3 (GH3) action, synthetic ivory and ebony keytops |
| Sound Engine | Pure CF Sound Engine |
| Polyphony | 192 notes |
| Voices | 10 Voices (including Grand Piano, Electric Piano, Harpsichord, Strings, Organ) |
| Modes | Dual, Split, Duo |
| Effects | Reverb, Damper Resonance, String Resonance, Intelligent Acoustic Control (IAC), Acoustic Optimizer |
| Pedals | 3 (Damper with Half-Pedal Functionality, Sostenuto, Soft) |
| Recording | 2-track MIDI recorder, USB Audio Recording (WAV format) |
| Playback | Standard MIDI File (SMF) playback |
| Connectivity | USB to Host, Dual Headphone Jacks |
| Compatibility | Yamaha Smart Pianist App |
| Metronome | Yes, adjustable tempo, time signature, and volume |
| Lesson Function | Yes, with built-in practice pieces from Beyer, Burgmüller, Czerny, and Hanon |
| Amplifiers | 20W x 2 |
| Speakers | 12 cm x 2 |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 1353 mm x 849 mm x 296 mm |
| Weight | 37.5 kg |
| Finish Options | Black, White, Dark Walnut |
| Included Accessories | Music Rest, Owner’s Manual, AC Power Adapter, Online Member Product Registration |
| Power Supply | PA-300C or equivalent |
| Warranty | Typically 3 years (may vary by region) |
Sound Quality
Sound quality is arguably the most critical aspect of any digital piano, and Yamaha has equipped the YDP-S55 with a sound engine that strives to replicate the richness and depth of an acoustic grand piano. The YDP-S55 uses Yamaha’s Pure CF Sound Engine, which is based on the meticulously sampled sound of the Yamaha CFIIIS concert grand piano.
Pure CF Sound Engine
The Pure CF Sound Engine is known for its high-quality acoustic piano sound, which has been sampled from Yamaha’s renowned CFIIIS 9’ concert grand piano. The samples are meticulously recorded, capturing every nuance and detail of the original instrument, from the vibrant highs to the resonant lows. This results in a sound that is both expressive and dynamic, making the YDP-S55 capable of delivering a wide range of tones and emotions.
One of the standout features of the Pure CF Sound Engine is its ability to respond to the player’s touch, allowing for expressive performance that mirrors the dynamics of an acoustic piano. Whether you’re playing soft, delicate passages or powerful, fortissimo chords, the YDP-S55 responds with remarkable accuracy, giving you a sense of control and connection with the instrument.
192-Note Polyphony
The YDP-S55 comes equipped with 192-note polyphony, which means that it can handle up to 192 notes being played simultaneously without any note dropouts. This is particularly important when playing complex pieces that involve a lot of sustained notes, layered sounds, or when using the damper pedal extensively. The high polyphony ensures that every note is heard clearly and that the sound remains rich and full, even during the most intricate passages.
Damper Resonance and String Resonance
To enhance the realism of the piano sound, Yamaha has included damper resonance and string resonance effects in the YDP-S55. These features mimic the behavior of an acoustic piano, where the strings resonate sympathetically when the damper pedal is pressed or when certain keys are played together. This adds a layer of depth and complexity to the sound, making the digital piano feel more like an acoustic instrument.
The damper resonance effect is particularly well-implemented, providing a natural and organic sound when using the pedal. This effect is especially noticeable in pieces that require a lot of pedal work, such as Chopin’s Nocturnes, where the interplay between the sustained notes and the resonance adds to the overall expressiveness of the performance.
Acoustic Optimizer and Intelligent Acoustic Control (IAC)
Yamaha has also included two additional features aimed at enhancing the sound experience: the Acoustic Optimizer and Intelligent Acoustic Control (IAC). The Acoustic Optimizer is a physical design element within the piano that regulates the flow of sound and control over tone, resulting in a more balanced and natural sound. This helps ensure that the sound is evenly distributed, whether you’re playing in a small room or a larger space.
The Intelligent Acoustic Control (IAC) adjusts the sound automatically based on the volume level. At lower volumes, it enhances the bass and treble frequencies to compensate for the loss of sound dynamics, ensuring that the piano sounds full and rich even when played softly. This is particularly useful for practicing at night or in situations where you need to keep the volume low without sacrificing sound quality.
Keyboard and Action
The feel of the keyboard is another crucial factor in determining the quality of a digital piano, and the Yamaha YDP-S55 excels in this regard. It features Yamaha’s Graded Hammer 3 (GH3) keyboard action, which is designed to replicate the feel of an acoustic piano as closely as possible.
Graded Hammer 3 (GH3) Action
The GH3 keyboard action is one of Yamaha’s most advanced key actions, and it’s a significant step up from the standard graded hammer actions found in many entry-level digital pianos. The GH3 action uses a three-sensor system that accurately detects and interprets the player’s touch, providing a responsive and expressive playing experience.
One of the key features of the GH3 action is the graded hammer weighting, which means that the keys are heavier in the lower register and lighter in the upper register, just like an acoustic piano. This provides a more authentic playing experience, particularly for pianists who are used to the feel of a grand piano. The weight of the keys is well-balanced, offering a good level of resistance that allows for precise control over dynamics and expression.
Another important aspect of the GH3 action is its ability to replicate the key return and repetition of an acoustic piano. The three-sensor system ensures that the keys respond accurately to rapid playing and repeated notes, making it easier to execute fast passages and trills without losing control or clarity.
Synthetic Ivory and Ebony Keytops
To enhance the tactile experience, Yamaha has equipped the YDP-S55 with synthetic ivory and ebony keytops. These materials are designed to replicate the feel of real ivory and ebony, providing a slightly textured surface that offers a better grip and a more comfortable touch, especially during extended playing sessions.
The synthetic keytops also have moisture-absorbing properties, which helps prevent your fingers from slipping, even after hours of playing. This is a small but significant detail that adds to the overall quality of the keyboard and makes the YDP-S55 a pleasure to play.
Features and Functionality
In addition to its excellent sound and keyboard action, the Yamaha YDP-S55 is packed with features that enhance its versatility and make it a well-rounded instrument for various musical activities, including practice, performance, and recording.
Built-in Voices and Sound Options
The YDP-S55 comes with a selection of 10 high-quality voices, including various piano tones, electric pianos, organs, strings, and harpsichord. While the focus is clearly on the piano sounds, the additional voices offer some variety for those who enjoy experimenting with different sounds or need a specific tone for a particular piece of music.
The sound selection is easily accessible via the function button and corresponding keys on the keyboard, allowing you to switch between voices quickly. While 10 voices may seem limited compared to some other digital pianos, the quality of each sound is exceptional, and the YDP-S55 prioritizes quality over quantity.
Dual and Split Modes
The Dual mode allows you to layer two voices together, creating a richer and more complex sound. For example, you can layer the grand piano voice with strings to create a lush, orchestral sound that’s perfect for certain types of music. The balance between the two voices can be adjusted, giving you control over the mix.
The Split mode, on the other hand, allows you to assign different voices to the left and right hand, essentially dividing the keyboard into two sections. This is particularly useful for playing bass and melody parts simultaneously or for educational purposes, where the teacher can play one part while the student plays another.
Recording and Playback
For those who like to record their performances, the YDP-S55 includes a built-in two-track recorder. This allows you to record two separate parts and play them back together, making it easier to practice duets or complex pieces with multiple parts. The recording is stored in MIDI format, which means you can also transfer the data to a computer for further editing or playback using
external software.
Playback of recorded pieces is straightforward, and you can choose to play back only one track or both tracks simultaneously. This feature is particularly useful for practice, as you can record one hand and practice the other while listening to the playback.
Connectivity
The Yamaha YDP-S55 offers several connectivity options that enhance its versatility and integration with other devices. It includes a USB to Host port, which allows you to connect the piano to a computer or mobile device. This opens up a world of possibilities, including using the piano as a MIDI controller, integrating with digital audio workstations (DAWs), or using music apps for practice and learning.
One of the standout features of the YDP-S55 is its compatibility with Yamaha’s Smart Pianist app. This app provides an intuitive interface for selecting voices, adjusting settings, and even learning new pieces. It also includes a unique feature that can analyze the music stored on your device and create a chord chart, allowing you to play along with your favorite songs.
The YDP-S55 also includes dual headphone jacks, making it easy for two people to practice together in silence. This is a great feature for teachers and students or for those who want to play duets without disturbing others.
Pedals and Half-Pedal Functionality
The YDP-S55 comes with a three-pedal unit that includes a damper, sostenuto, and soft pedal, just like a traditional acoustic piano. The damper pedal also supports half-pedal functionality, which allows for more nuanced control over sustain. This is an important feature for advanced pianists, as it enables a greater range of expression, particularly in pieces that require delicate pedal work.
The pedals are well-constructed and responsive, providing a realistic feel that mimics the action of an acoustic piano’s pedals. The half-pedal functionality, in particular, is very well implemented, allowing for subtle variations in sustain that can make a significant difference in performance.
Educational and Practice Features
Yamaha has always placed a strong emphasis on education, and the YDP-S55 includes several features designed to aid in learning and practice. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced pianist, these features can help you improve your skills and get the most out of your practice sessions.
Built-in Metronome
The YDP-S55 includes a built-in metronome, which is an essential tool for practicing timing and rhythm. The metronome can be easily adjusted for tempo, time signature, and volume, providing a flexible and customizable practice experience. Practicing with a metronome is crucial for developing a strong sense of timing, and the convenience of having one built into the piano means you don’t need any external devices.
Duo Mode
Duo mode is another educational feature that splits the keyboard into two identical halves, allowing two players to sit side by side and play the same notes simultaneously. This is particularly useful for teaching, as it allows the teacher to demonstrate on one side of the keyboard while the student follows along on the other. It’s also a great feature for parents who want to practice alongside their children or for two students to practice together.
Lesson Function
The YDP-S55 includes a built-in lesson function that features a collection of popular practice pieces, such as those from Beyer, Burgmüller, Czerny, and Hanon. These pieces are organized into three levels of difficulty, making them suitable for players at different stages of their learning journey. The lesson function allows you to practice one hand while the piano plays the other, or to listen to the piece in its entirety before attempting to play it yourself.
USB Audio Recording
In addition to the MIDI recording feature, the YDP-S55 also supports USB audio recording. This allows you to record your performances directly to a USB drive in high-quality WAV format. This is a fantastic feature for those who want to share their performances, create recordings for self-assessment, or simply archive their progress over time.
Performance and Playability
The Yamaha YDP-S55 excels in terms of performance and playability, making it a joy to play for both beginners and experienced pianists. The combination of high-quality sound, responsive keyboard action, and a range of features designed for practice and performance creates an instrument that feels both intuitive and rewarding to play.
Expressive Capability
One of the most impressive aspects of the YDP-S55 is its ability to convey expression and emotion through its sound and touch. The Pure CF Sound Engine, combined with the GH3 keyboard action, allows for a wide dynamic range, from soft pianissimo to powerful fortissimo. The ability to control dynamics with precision gives the player the freedom to explore different musical styles and interpretations, making the YDP-S55 suitable for a wide range of repertoire.
The inclusion of damper resonance, string resonance, and half-pedal functionality further enhances the expressive potential of the instrument, allowing for a level of detail and nuance that is often missing in lower-end digital pianos. Whether you’re playing a delicate classical piece or a lively jazz tune, the YDP-S55 responds beautifully to the player’s touch, making it a versatile instrument for any musical genre.
Pedal Responsiveness
The responsiveness of the pedals is another highlight of the YDP-S55. The half-pedal functionality on the damper pedal allows for subtle variations in sustain, which is essential for achieving the correct sound in certain pieces of music. The pedals themselves are well-constructed and provide a realistic feel, making it easier to execute techniques that require precise pedal control.
The soft pedal (una corda) and sostenuto pedal also perform well, providing additional layers of expression and control. These pedals are particularly useful for more advanced repertoire, where the ability to manipulate the sound using the pedals can make a significant difference in the overall performance.
Overall Playing Experience
Playing the Yamaha YDP-S55 is an overall satisfying experience, thanks to its combination of high-quality sound, responsive keyboard, and thoughtful features. The instrument feels solid and reliable, with a sound that is both rich and detailed. The keyboard action is comfortable and responsive, making it easy to transition from an acoustic piano to the YDP-S55 without losing any of the nuances of your playing.
The additional features, such as the built-in metronome, lesson function, and recording capabilities, enhance the overall experience, making the YDP-S55 not just a piano, but a comprehensive tool for practice, performance, and learning.
Value for Money
The Yamaha YDP-S55 is positioned in the mid-range of digital pianos, offering a balance between quality and affordability. While it’s not the cheapest digital piano on the market, it offers a level of sound quality, build, and functionality that justifies its price. For those looking for a digital piano that closely replicates the experience of playing an acoustic piano, the YDP-S55 represents excellent value for money.
Comparison with Other Models
Yamaha YDP-S55 vs Yamaha YDP-165
The Yamaha YDP-165 and YDP-S55 are both part of Yamaha’s Arius series, offering high-quality digital pianos designed to replicate the feel and sound of an acoustic piano. However, they cater to slightly different needs and preferences.
Sound Engine and Polyphony:
Both the YDP-165 and YDP-S55 are equipped with Yamaha’s Pure CF Sound Engine and offer 192-note polyphony, ensuring rich, detailed sound and the ability to handle complex pieces without note dropouts. The sound quality is comparable between the two, with both delivering the authentic sound of a Yamaha CFIIIS concert grand piano.
Keyboard Action:
The YDP-165 features the Graded Hammer 3 (GH3) keyboard, providing a realistic touch with synthetic ivory keytops. The YDP-S55 also has the GH3 action with synthetic ivory and ebony keytops, offering a similar tactile experience. The key action and response are nearly identical, making both models excellent for players who seek authentic piano feel.
Design and Portability:
The primary difference lies in the design. The YDP-165 has a traditional upright cabinet style, making it more substantial in appearance and slightly larger. The YDP-S55, on the other hand, has a slim, space-saving design, ideal for smaller spaces or those who prefer a more modern aesthetic.
Additional Features:
Both models include features like dual and split modes, a two-track recorder, and compatibility with Yamaha’s Smart Pianist app. However, the YDP-S55’s compact design may appeal more to those with limited space or a preference for minimalist furniture.
In summary, the YDP-165 is better suited for those seeking a traditional digital piano, while the YDP-S55 is ideal for those who need a more compact and modern-looking instrument.
Yamaha YDP-S55 vs. Roland RP-102
The Yamaha YDP-S55 and Roland RP-102 are both mid-range digital pianos, offering solid performance and key features for serious learners and intermediate players. The YDP-S55 features Yamaha’s Pure CF Sound Engine, which provides a rich and authentic grand piano sound. In contrast, the Roland RP-102 utilizes Roland’s SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine, known for its expressive tonal quality and dynamic range.
In terms of keyboard action, the YDP-S55 uses Yamaha’s Graded Hammer 3 (GH3) action with synthetic ivory and ebony keytops, offering a highly realistic feel. The RP-102 uses Roland’s PHA-4 Standard keyboard, which also provides a responsive and natural touch, though some players may prefer Yamaha’s heavier, more traditional feel.
Design-wise, the YDP-S55 has a sleek, modern, and space-saving design, making it ideal for smaller spaces. The RP-102 has a more traditional, bulkier design but comes with Bluetooth connectivity, which the YDP-S55 lacks, allowing for easier integration with apps and wireless MIDI control.
Both models offer essential features like dual and split modes, but the RP-102 includes a larger variety of voices. However, Yamaha’s sound quality and keyboard action often appeal more to classical pianists, while Roland’s modern features may attract those interested in tech integration.
Yamaha YDP-S55 vs. Kawai KDP-120
The Yamaha YDP-S55 and Kawai KDP-120 are both excellent options in the mid-range digital piano market, each with strengths that cater to different preferences. The YDP-S55 features the Pure CF Sound Engine, which delivers a detailed and expressive piano tone sampled from Yamaha’s CFIIIS concert grand. Kawai’s KDP-120, on the other hand, uses the Harmonic Imaging sound technology, known for its warm and rich sound that resonates well with classical and jazz musicians.
The YDP-S55 offers Yamaha’s Graded Hammer 3 (GH3) keyboard action, providing a firm and responsive touch that mimics an acoustic piano. The KDP-120 uses Kawai’s Responsive Hammer Compact (RHC) action, which is slightly lighter but still offers a realistic feel, particularly appreciated by those who prefer a more sensitive touch.
In terms of design, the YDP-S55’s slim and contemporary style makes it ideal for modern living spaces with limited room, while the KDP-120 has a more traditional cabinet design that gives a more substantial, piano-like presence.
Both pianos include features such as built-in lessons, dual and split modes, and connectivity options, but Kawai’s Virtual Technician feature allows for more in-depth customization of the piano’s sound and touch, something the YDP-S55 lacks. Ultimately, the choice between these two comes down to whether you prioritize Yamaha’s slightly heavier action and sharper sound or Kawai’s warmer tone and customizable features.
Yamaha YDP-S55 vs. Casio PX-870
The Yamaha YDP-S55 and Casio PX-870 are two popular digital pianos in the mid-range segment, each offering unique strengths. The YDP-S55’s Pure CF Sound Engine delivers an authentic and detailed piano sound, sampled from Yamaha’s renowned CFIIIS concert grand. The Casio PX-870 uses Casio’s AiR Sound Source, which also provides a realistic and nuanced piano sound but with a slightly brighter character.
The keyboard action is another area of differentiation. The YDP-S55 features Yamaha’s Graded Hammer 3 (GH3) action, which is well-regarded for its realistic feel and heavier touch, closely mimicking an acoustic grand piano. The PX-870 uses Casio’s Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action II, which offers a lighter, faster response, appealing to those who prefer a more sensitive and agile touch.
In terms of design, both pianos are designed to be space-saving, but the PX-870 features a unique integrated sound projection system with four speakers, providing a more immersive sound experience compared to the YDP-S55’s traditional speaker setup.
While the YDP-S55 excels in replicating an acoustic piano feel and sound, the PX-870 offers more modern features, such as a powerful speaker system and a variety of sounds. The choice between the two often comes down to whether you prefer Yamaha’s traditional piano experience or Casio’s innovative features and slightly more versatile sound.
Long-Term Investment
The YDP-S55 is built to last, with a robust construction and high-quality components that ensure durability over time. The instrument’s timeless design and classic sound mean that it will remain relevant and enjoyable to play for many years, making it a good long-term investment for serious pianists.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Yamaha YDP-S55 is an outstanding digital piano that offers a compelling blend of quality, functionality, and value. It excels in key areas such as sound quality, keyboard action, and expressiveness, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced pianists. The range of features, including advanced connectivity options, educational tools, and recording capabilities, further enhance its appeal, making it a versatile instrument that can grow with you as a musician.
Whether you’re looking for a digital piano for home practice, teaching, or performance, the Yamaha YDP-S55 is a solid choice that delivers on all fronts. Its combination of a realistic piano experience, elegant design, and thoughtful features make it a worthy addition to any home or studio. If you’re in the market for a digital piano that offers the best of both worlds—authenticity and modern convenience—the Yamaha YDP-S55 should definitely be on your shortlist.