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Yamaha P115 Overview
The Yamaha P115 has a low price point but plays very similar to more expensive pianos. The P115 has GHS (Graded Hammer Standard) weighted action. This feature mimics the response a pianist feels when playing an acoustic piano. The keys have a heavier touch in the low end and lighter touch in the high end. When you combine this outstanding touch with its great sound – you have a piano that comes very close to the Yamaha CFIIIS concert grand piano. When you look at all these qualities, you can see why musicians highly regard the P115.
The Yamaha P115 features the Controller App that provides the ability to control the keyboard remotely via iPhone or iPad.
The built-in speakers are usually adequate for using at home. However, if you need more, you have the ability to connect external speakers by using the AUX OUT. You can also connect headphones to the 1/4″ jack, without disabling the built-in speakers.
Immediately after starting to use the Yamaha P115 digital piano, you will like the GHS weighted 88-key action. The keys have a great feel to the pianist including the weight and resistance. The lower keys are weighted more heavily to simulate the physics of a real piano. Even if you are not accustomed to such realistic keys, it may take a while to get used to the touch. However, you will soon be performing numbers that no other cheaper keyboard could manage.
When reviewing the Yamaha P115, it was noted that the piano lost quality when playing the higher notes. If the repetitions exceeded 120, the quality began to wane. However, most pianos that cost less than $1,000 usually lose quality in this same area. Keep in mind that notes in a very high range are not used often and when these notes are played, they are played in combination with others. The exceptional sound quality from this Yamaha digital piano is unsurpassed. If you have to replicate an acoustic piano, simply use the normal setting for touch sensitivity with a maximum volume. When using headphones, you may want to turn the volume down a bit so that you do not harm your hearing. The Yamaha P115 provides an adequate amount of effects and voices but do not expect the performance of an ensemble. With this piano, Yamaha provides quality over quantity. If you want a greater quantity of options, you might want to consider an upgrade to the Yamaha DGX-650 or higher. However, be prepared to spend a good bit more money as well.
To summarize, the evidence supports that the Yamaha P115 is an excellent piano for beginners as well as more advanced musicians. Anyone who wants or needs a piano but does not want to break the bank for an acoustic piano should take a look at this one by Yamaha. This digital keyboard comes close to achieving the same feel and sound as the acoustic version with a few more bells and whistles. Remember also that this piano keyboard is heavier and larger. You will definitely want a stand for the Yamaha P115.
Advantages
- Using external speakers and headphones is simple with the AUX jacks.
- The piano is made from plastic, but the quality construction ensures that your instrument will last a lifetime.
- The excellent sound produced by this piano comes close to that produced by a grand stage piano. However, for performances, some nice speakers will enhance and amplify the piano’s sound.
- The weighted keys feel wonderful to the pianist but may require a period of adjustment.
- The warranty coverage for this piano is 3 years. It covers the complete package and seems more than adequate.
Disadvantages
- With regard to the headphone jacks, the 3.5 mm would be more useful than the 6.5 mm.
- Attaching the sheet music holder is challenging.
- The piano includes older technology – the USB to HOST port. The newer tablets and phones will not connect to this piano. If you have an older phone or tablet, you will be able to connect if you have the needed cable. If you do not have one, you will need a connector that comes at a hefty price tag.
- The speakers on this piano are adequate but are not performance ready.