Yamaha P-71 Review (Tested with Pictures)

It’s tough to sift through all the reviews on Google about the Yamaha P-71. But in this article, I have something different for you. 

We have the P-71 in hand and want to help you make a good decision before you buy. 

So avoid spending a lot of money on the wrong thing and look this way at this Yamaha P-71 review, even if you are a beginner wanting to learn the piano. 

Let’s save you a few bucks and give you the spoiler alert… 

The Yamaha P-71 is a GREAT keyboard at a budget-friendly price and is a full-size 88-key keyboard and you can pick one up on Amazon by clicking here.

While I tested this thing, I found quite a few things about it that made me come to this conclusion. 

So whether you are a parent looking to get a piano or keyboard for your kids, or you are just looking to make an investment to impress your friends by learning your favorite tune on a piano, check out the rest of this review and make the right decision the first time. You can read our other piano and keyboard reviews here.  

Unboxing the Yamaha P-71: Beginner First Impressions

There’s something undeniably thrilling about unboxing a new piece of tech, and the Yamaha P-71 digital piano is no exception. When you first lay eyes on the box, it’s sleek and professional-looking, hinting at the quality contained within.

Upon opening up the box, I was pleased to find everything securely packed.

The piano itself was nestled securely in foam padding, with additional protective measures for delicate parts like the keys. It’s clear that Yamaha put thought into ensuring their products arrive safely to their new homes.

The accessories included with the P-71 impressed me as well. You’ll find a sustain pedal and power adapter right there in the box – essentials for getting started right away.

It’s worth noting that Yamaha includes a full-size sustain pedal rather than a smaller, less substantial foot switch, which shows they have not skimped on quality.

One of my initial observations when lifting out this digital piano was its weight – or lack thereof.

At only 25 pounds (with its stand), it’s surprisingly portable for such a full-sized instrument. This lightweight design makes it an excellent choice for musicians on-the-go or those with limited space.

Lastly, upon powering up this piano for the first time, I was greeted by a rich, loud sound that instantly caught my attention.

Even without diving into any settings adjustments or trying out different sounds yet — straight out of the box —the Yamaha P-71 produces impressive audio quality that bodes well for further exploration.

Design and Build Quality of Yamaha P-71

I have to say that the P-71 digital piano doesn’t disappoint. It’s a fine blend of simplicity and sophistication. The sleek black matte finish gives it an elegant appeal while its lightweight design makes it portable and user-friendly.

What caught my attention first is its fully-weighted 88-key keyboard. Now, if you’re familiar with pianos, you’ll know how crucial this feature is. It offers a tactile response similar to an acoustic piano, which aids in better performance and feel.

The build quality is top-notch too; Yamaha hasn’t skimped on durability here. The keys are made from sturdy plastic that promises longevity even with frequent use. Furthermore, the frame is solidly constructed ensuring stability during play – no wobbling or shaking when those high notes are hit!

On functionality front, we’ve got multiple sound effect options at our disposal here. Yamaha has incorporated Advanced Wave Memory (AWM) stereo sampling technology in this model which means you get a wide range of instrument voices aside from just classic piano sounds – there are ten different ones in total!

There’s a USB port for connecting to devices plus an auxiliary output jack for external amplifiers or speakers – handy if you want to boost your sound during performances.

What are the features of the Yamaha P-71?

Let’s dive right into the heart of this piece – the Yamaha P-71’s key features.

This digital piano, part of Yamaha’s P-series, packs a punch in terms of sound quality and versatility. It’s crafted with simplicity and performance in mind, which makes it a favorite among beginners and seasoned musicians alike.

First off, the Yamaha P-71 boasts 88 fully weighted keys giving you that realistic acoustic piano feel. It uses Yamaha’s proprietary Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) technology to emulate the touch of an acoustic piano. GHS means lower notes have a heavier touch, while higher ones are more responsive to lighter playing – just like on a traditional grand piano.

Next up is its Advanced Wave Memory (AWM) sampling system which provides rich tones with deep resonance. AWM is all about digitally capturing and recreating authentic sound by recording samples from the original instrument at various volumes.

In addition to these impressive tech aspects, let’s not forget about its portability factor. Weighing in at only 25 lbs., it’s one of the most portable full-sized keyboards out there – perfect for gigging musicians who need something easy to transport.

Finally, it offers Dual Mode functionality allowing two voices to be layered simultaneously creating richer soundscape. From classic grand pianos to strings ensemble – you can mix any two from 10 preset voices!

Here are some key features at glance:

• 88 weighted keys with GHS technology
• AWM sampling
• Lightweight design for maximum portability
• Dual Mode functionality
• Ten preset voices

So whether you’re just starting your musical journey or looking for a reliable practice instrument that delivers professional sound quality without breaking your bank account, I’d say give this beauty serious consideration!

How is the Yamaha P-71’s Music Sound Quality?

When I first laid my hands on the Yamaha P-71, I couldn’t help but marvel at its stunning design.

But, let’s be honest, it’s not the look of a digital piano that makes or breaks it – it’s the sound quality. With this in mind, I started examining just how well the P-71 performs.

The most striking feature is the aforementioned AWM stereo sampling. This technology captures sounds with incredible clarity and detail. It accomplishes this by using pairs of waveforms captured via microphones from different perspectives – left and right – to generate a more dynamic and rich tone.

Another noteworthy aspect is that Yamaha didn’t skimp on the number of voices you get with this model. Boasting 10 different instrument voices including grand piano, electric piano, organ and strings among others, it gives me plenty to play around with.

Honestly, I wish it had more, but I can live with 10, who am I to be so picky! 

I was, however, pleasantly surprised by how authentic these voices were; particularly the grand piano voice which made me feel like I was sitting in front of an actual acoustic grand!

You can even use Dual Mode to combine multiple voices. 

The voices include: 

• Grand Piano 1 & 2
• Electric Piano 1 & 2
• Pipe Organ
• Strings
• Vibraphone
• Harpsichord

What didn’t I like about the P-71?

However, it wouldn’t be fair if I didn’t mention some areas for improvement, too.

The onboard speakers aren’t particularly powerful; they’re rated at only 6W on each side. This isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker as you can always plug in external speakers or headphones for better audio performance. But still, it would’ve been better to have more robust built-in speakers.

Another thing is that is not very clear that you will need a stand in most instances. When you buy on Amazon, they will offer you a stand that works quite well, but don’t get disappointed when it arrives and you realize that there is not one in there. 

Also the lack of an LCD screen can make navigating menus more difficult that it needs to be, but it’s not too bad once you get used to it. Here is a list of other more expensive Yamaha brands that have LCDs.

Lastly but not leastly, there’s no denying that Yamaha has done a great job when it comes to recreating the resonance and depth typical of an acoustic piano in their digital counterparts – thanks largely to their Pure CF Sound Engine used in the P-71.

This technology is derived from Yamaha’s renowned CFIIIS 9′ concert grand piano and has been used to create a sound that is both rich and expressive.

In summary, if it’s realistic sound quality you’re after, the Yamaha P-71 truly does deliver. 

What is Key Action on the P-71?

What makes a digital piano feel like an actual acoustic one?

The answer is key action. And let me tell you, Yamaha’s P-71 nails it in this department.

The P-71 features fully weighted 88 keys with what Yamaha calls “Graded Hammer Standard” (GHS) technology.

We talked about it briefly earlier, but let’s get more granular.

Simply put, GHS simulates the experience of playing on an authentic grand piano by replicating the heavy touch in the lower keys and lighter touch in the higher ones. It’s all about providing that realistic acoustical piano feel.

Now, if we dive deeper into how Yamaha has achieved this feat, it’s pretty fascinating stuff. The mechanism behind GHS involves actual hammers – just like those found in acoustic pianos – situated within each key bed. Here are some quick facts to illustrate:

Key Feature	Description
Number of Keys	88 full-sized
Technology	Graded Hammer Standard (GHS)
Hammers	Actual mechanical hammers under each key

For musicians transitioning from acoustic to digital or vice versa, this feature might be a game-changer. It means you can practice on your P-71 at home and not miss a beat when you switch to an acoustic piano for your performances.

For me I can imagine that being a big deal even though I don’t play on acoustic piano’s very often.

Interestingly enough, Yamaha didn’t stop at making their keys feel real; they went ahead and made them sound real too! Each key produces sound recorded from Yamaha’s concert grand pianos – impressive!

How Durable is the P-71?

Let’s quickly address durability – another crucial factor when considering any digital piano purchase. Rest assured, despite its lightweight design (only 25 lbs.), the P-71 doesn’t compromise on robustness. Its keys are built to withstand hours of intense playing, ensuring your investment stands the test of time.

It’s solid and feels solid. That doesn’t mean test its durability by letting it hit the ground. But it may survive a crash or two. 

What are the Connectivity Options on Yamaha’s P-71 Digital Piano and Pedals?

I think you are going to love this as much as I did! The P-71 offers a robust set of connection capabilities that make it a versatile tool for both beginners and seasoned pianists. So, buckle up as we delve into these various features.

First off, I’ve got to mention that the P-71 comes with a USB to HOST port. This is huge.

It allows you to connect the piano directly to your computer or smart device. Imagine being able to use music software or apps with your digital piano – it just opens up so many possibilities!

Next up, let me share about its MIDI functionality. The Yamaha P-71 supports MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) which means you can control other electronic musical instruments or be controlled by them. It’s like having an entire orchestra at your fingertips!

Where would we be without headphones? Well, I’m glad you asked because the Yamaha P-71 has thought of that too! There are two headphone jacks available for those times when you want some privacy in your practice sessions, or maybe when you want to do some late-night playing without disturbing others.

Lastly, let’s not forget about its sustain pedal jack – a non-negotiable feature for serious players seeking authentic sound expressions. And kudos to Yamaha; they’ve included one with each purchase of the P-71!

In summary:

• USB to HOST port for connecting with computers/smart devices
• MIDI capability for controlling other electronic music instruments
• Dual headphone jacks for private practice sessions
• Sustain pedal jack providing enhanced sound expressions

So whether you’re sketching out compositions or simply practicing scales, these features ensure that everything runs smoothly and efficiently!

How does the Yamaha P-71 compare with Other Keyboard Models?

Now, I’m sure you’re wondering how it stacks up against its siblings and rivals in the market. 

The Yamaha P45, a close sibling to the P-71, shares many similarities but also has some differences that set them apart. They both have 88 fully weighted keys with graded hammer standard (GHS) technology for an authentic piano experience. But while the P-71 is exclusive to Amazon and comes at a lower price point, the P45 is widely available through various retailers like Sweetwater.

Moving onto another model in comparison – Casio Privia PX160. This one steps up with its Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action II keyboard which offers even more nuanced control over dynamics compared to GHS technology of Yamaha models.

However, despite this advantage, some players might still prefer Yamaha’s simpler interface and robust build quality.

And then there’s Alesis Recital Pro – an entry-level keyboard that stands out due to its affordability and beginner-friendly features like lesson modes and adjustable touch sensitivity.

Yet, when it comes down to key action and sound realism, our dear Yamaha P-71 takes the lead.

So here are my comparisons:

Models	Key Action	Sound Realism	Beginner Friendly
Yamaha P-45	Graded Hammer Standard (GHS)	High	Yes
Casio Privia PX160	Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action II keyboard	Very High	No
Alesis Recital Pro	Semi-weighted keys with adjustable touch response	Moderate-High	Yes

In terms of value for money though? It’s clear that each model brings something unique to the table. And while the Yamaha P-71 isn’t without competition, it’s certainly a strong contender in this digital piano race.

Who is the Yamaha P-71 Best Suited For?

So, who would benefit most from this musical marvel?

First off, I’d say this piano is a dream for beginners. It’s no secret that learning a new instrument can be daunting, but the P-71 makes it easier than you’d think. The model features fully weighted keys providing a realistic feel akin to an acoustic piano – excellent for novices cutting their teeth on keyboard basics.

Then there are students and intermediate players who could find their perfect practice partner in the P-71. With dual mode allowing two tracks to be played simultaneously, it aids immensely in learning harmonies or practicing duets without a second player.

Let’s not forget about those of us living in smaller spaces like apartments or dorm rooms. The sleek design of the P-71 along with its lightweight nature (just 25 lbs!) make it ideal for tight quarters where traditional pianos just won’t fit.

Lastly, gigging musicians shouldn’t overlook this gem either. Thanks to its portability and impressive rich sound quality produced by Advanced Wave Memory Stereo Sampling technology, it delivers big on stage while remaining easy to transport.

So whether you’re just starting your musical journey or looking for a reliable workhorse for gigs and practice sessions alike, the Yamaha P-71 has got you covered!

Is the Yamaha P-71 Worth It? (Current Price and Value)

Now, let’s talk about value. You’re probably wondering if the Yamaha P-71 is worth your hard-earned dollars. Well, I’m here to help you figure that out. Let’s dive right into it.

The first point to consider is quality of sound. The Yamaha P-71 comes equipped with AWM stereo sampling, which means it makes the sound deeper, akin to an acoustic piano in a spectacular manner.

From low notes to high, each key has its own unique sample which ensures an overall balanced and natural performance.

Then again, we can’t ignore the fact that this digital piano boasts of 88 fully weighted keys providing GHS (Graded Hammer Standard) action—a feature typically found in higher-end models. With GHS action, you’ll feel heavier touch in the low end and lighter touch in the high end just like traditional pianos!

Price-wise? This model comes at a surprisingly affordable rate for all it offers. Here are some comparisons:

Digital Piano Model	Price Range
Yamaha P-45	$450 – $500
Casio Privia PX160	$500 – $550
Yamaha P-125	$600 – $650
Yamaha P-71	$400 – $450

Another aspect not to overlook is its simple design and portability—it’s lightweight and slim build makes it convenient for those who need mobility or have limited space.

Let’s also remember that this model includes necessary accessories such as power adapter and sustain pedal—some brands will make you purchase these separately!

So when pondering over “Is the Yamaha P-71 worth my money?” take into account its superior sound quality, graded hammer standard action keys, reasonable pricing compared to other similar models in market and its easy-to-carry design.

It’s quite a package.

So, My Final Thoughts on The Yamaha P-71

Now it’s time to wrap up my thoughts about this digital piano.

Firstly, I must say I’m impressed with its performance and versatility. It’s a solid pick for both beginners and seasoned players alike. What sets it apart is its simplicity combined with top-notch sound quality.

Let’s not forget its impressive full-sized weighted keys that give an authentic acoustic piano feel. Plus, the dual mode allowing combination of two voices together creates a richer musical experience.

However, it isn’t without flaws. The absence of a LCD screen makes navigating through settings slightly difficult. Moreover, there’s no option for battery power which limits portability.

But considering all aspects – from quality sound, to feel, to affordable price to feature set – I genuinely believe that the Yamaha P-71 offers remarkable value for money in its segment.

Here are the key takeaways:

• Affordable yet high-quality digital piano
• Full-sized weighted keys offer amazing feel
• Accurate Sound quality is exceptional with great voice options
• Dual mode enhances your musical experience
• Limited portability due to no battery power option

If you’re on a budget but don’t want to compromise too much on sound and performance – this could be your ideal choice! The Yamaha P-71 strikes an excellent balance between cost-effectiveness and superior craftsmanship.

Click here to check out the keyboard on Amazon as it is exclusive to them.