Yamaha P145 vs P45: Which Digital Piano Reigns?
Looking for a digital piano that delivers authentic feel and sound without breaking the bank? You’re in the right place! We’re diving deep into a head-to-head comparison of two popular choices from Yamaha: the P-145 and the P-45.
Both the Yamaha P-145 and P-45 are renowned for their affordability and suitability for beginners, but which one is the better fit for you? We’ll explore their key differences, from the nuances of their keys to the subtleties of their sound, to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting your musical journey, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each model is crucial. Get ready to uncover the details that separate the Yamaha P-145 from its predecessor, the P-45, and find the perfect digital piano for your needs.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Yamaha P-145 | Yamaha P-45 |
|---|---|---|
| Keyboard | GHS 88-key | GHS 88-key |
| Polyphony | 64 notes | 64 notes |
| Voices | 10 | 10 |
| Sound Engine | Yamaha CFX Sample | Yamaha CFX Sample |
| Built-in Songs | 10 Voice Demo Songs + 10 Piano Preset Songs | 10 Voice Demo Songs + 10 Piano Preset Songs |
| Effects | Reverb, Chorus, Intelligent Acoustic Control | Reverb, Chorus |
| Connectivity | USB-MIDI, Headphone Jack, Sustain Pedal | USB-MIDI, Headphone Jack, Sustain Pedal |
| Amplifier | 7W x 2 | 6W x 2 |
| Speakers | Oval (12cm x 8cm) x 2 | Oval (12cm x 6cm) x 2 |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 1326 x 268 x 145 mm | 1326 x 295 x 154 mm |
| Weight | 11.1 kg | 11.5 kg |
| Power Supply | PA-130 or an equivalent Yamaha-specified item | PA-130 or an equivalent Yamaha-specified item |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Keyboard Action
- Yamaha P145: Features Graded Hammer Compact (GHC) keyboard action, designed for a more compact and lighter feel compared to traditional hammer actions. It simulates the feel of an acoustic piano with heavier touch in the low end and lighter touch in the high end. This action is well-suited for beginners but may feel less realistic to experienced players.
- P45: Equipped with Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) keyboard action. This action also simulates the feel of an acoustic piano, with heavier keys in the bass register and lighter keys in the treble. GHS provides a good balance between playability and affordability, but the key feel might feel a bit less refined compared to higher-end models.
- Winner: p145
Sound Engine
- Yamaha P145: Uses Yamaha’s CFIIIS concert grand piano sound, sampled with high fidelity. The sound is generally considered clear and expressive, offering a good representation of a concert grand. It may have fewer voices than some other models.
- P45: Also utilizes Yamaha’s AWM (Advanced Wave Memory) Stereo Sampling, but with a different piano sample. The sound quality is good for its price range, providing a realistic piano experience. It offers a decent number of voices and instrument sounds.
- Winner: p145
Polyphony
- Yamaha P145: Offers 64-note polyphony. This means it can play up to 64 notes simultaneously. It’s suitable for most playing styles, but can be limiting for more complex pieces or when using the sustain pedal extensively.
- P45: Provides 64-note polyphony. Similar to the P-145, this can be a limitation for advanced players.
- Winner: Tie
Connectivity
- Yamaha P145: Includes USB-C connectivity for audio and MIDI, allowing for direct connection to computers and mobile devices. It also has a headphone jack for private practice. Lacks traditional MIDI ports.
- P45: Features a USB to HOST port for MIDI connectivity. It includes a headphone jack for private practice. Does not have USB-C or audio output.
- Winner: p145
Built-in Songs & Features
- Yamaha P145: Offers a selection of built-in demo songs and a metronome. It focuses primarily on the core piano experience, without extensive additional features.
- P45: Includes a limited number of demo songs and a metronome. It provides essential features for learning and practice.
- Winner: Tie
Speakers & Amplification
- Yamaha P145: Features a built-in speaker system designed to provide a balanced sound. The amplification power is adequate for home practice.
- P45: Has a built-in speaker system with decent sound quality for its price. The amplification is sufficient for home use.
- Winner: Tie
Dimensions & Weight
- Yamaha P145: Generally more compact and lighter than the P-45, making it easier to transport and suitable for smaller spaces.
- P45: Tends to be slightly larger and heavier.
- Winner: p145
Price
- Yamaha P145: Typically priced similarly to or slightly higher than the P-45, reflecting its newer technology.
- P45: Often available at a slightly lower price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
- Winner: p45
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Value | Tie |
| Sound Quality | Tie |
| Keyboard Feel | Tie |
| Connectivity | Tie |
| Features | Yamaha P-145 (Slightly) |
What They Have in Common
- Graded Hammer Standard (ghs) Keyboard: Both pianos feature Yamaha’s GHS keyboard, providing a realistic weighted feel that simulates the touch of an acoustic piano. This is crucial for developing proper playing technique.
- Yamaha Cfx Sound Engine: Both models utilize Yamaha’s CFX concert grand piano sample, delivering a rich and expressive sound across all voices. This ensures a high-quality audio experience.
- Headphone Output: Both the P-145 and P-45 include a headphone jack, allowing for silent practice and preventing disturbance to others. This feature is essential for practicing at any time.
- USB-Midi Connectivity: They both offer USB-MIDI connectivity, enabling connection to computers and other devices for recording, using virtual instruments, and interacting with music software. This expands the possibilities for creative expression.
- Built-in Metronome: Both models include a built-in metronome to help with timing and rhythm. This feature is essential for improving musical precision and skill.
- Sustain Pedal Included: Both come with a sustain pedal, which is a critical accessory for playing piano music, allowing for expressive phrasing and sustain.
Yamaha P145 Vs P45 Buying Guide
Sound Quality and Piano Action
Both the Yamaha P-145 and P-45 offer excellent sound quality for their price range, but there are nuanced differences. The P-145 features the Graded Hammer Compact (GHC) keyboard action, a newer design that aims to provide a more compact and responsive feel compared to the P-45’s Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) action. While both simulate the feel of an acoustic piano, the P-145’s action is generally considered slightly lighter and potentially faster for playing. The P-45 offers a slightly fuller sound due to its older technology, but the P-145’s sound engine is still very good and more modern.
Portability and Design
The design of both pianos prioritizes portability, making them ideal for musicians on the go or those with limited space. The P-145 is notably more compact and lighter than the P-45, making it easier to transport and store. This makes the P-145 a better choice if you frequently move the instrument or have a smaller living area. The P-45, while still portable, has a slightly larger footprint and weight. Both offer a sleek design aesthetic, with a focus on functionality and ease of use.
Connectivity and Features
Both models offer basic connectivity options, including a headphone jack for silent practice and a sustain pedal input. However, the P-145 comes with a USB-C port for connecting to a computer or mobile device, which the P-45 lacks. This allows for easier integration with music production software, online lessons, and other digital tools. The P-45 relies on a MIDI connection, which can be less convenient. The P-145’s updated features include a more streamlined interface and improved compatibility.
Price and Value
Both the P-145 and P-45 are positioned as budget-friendly digital pianos, offering excellent value for their respective price points. The P-45 is often found at a slightly lower price point, making it an attractive option for beginners or those on a tight budget. The P-145, while marginally more expensive, justifies its price with its improved keyboard action, enhanced connectivity, and more modern features. Consider your budget and specific needs when making your decision.
Learning Experience
Both pianos are excellent choices for beginners, providing a solid foundation for learning to play the piano. The graded hammer action on both models helps to simulate the feel of an acoustic piano, making the transition to a more advanced instrument easier. The P-145, with its improved key action, might offer a slightly more responsive and enjoyable playing experience for beginners. The P-45, with its simpler interface, might be easier to get started with. Both support the use of headphones for private practice.
Overall Performance and Comparison
When comparing the Yamaha P-145 and P-45, the P-145 edges out slightly due to its enhanced features and improved key action. The P-45 is still a capable instrument, especially considering its lower price. The P-145 offers a more modern experience, with better connectivity and a more responsive feel, making it a better choice for those prioritizing these aspects. Consider your individual needs and preferences when making your final decision.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Yamaha P-145 If…
- You want a more compact and slightly lighter digital piano.
- You prefer a slightly updated design.
- You’re looking for a digital piano with the latest Yamaha technology.
- You want slightly updated speaker design.
Buy Yamaha P-45 If…
- You are on a tighter budget.
- You prefer the classic Yamaha digital piano design.
- You don’t need the very latest model.
- You can find a good deal on a used or discounted model.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Yamaha P-145 and P-45?
The primary differences lie in the keyboard action and connectivity. The P-145 features the newer Graded Hammer Compact (GHC) action and includes a USB-C port, while the P-45 uses the older Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) action and relies on MIDI. The P-145 is also generally more compact and lighter in weight.
Which piano has a better keyboard action?
The Yamaha P-145’s Graded Hammer Compact (GHC) action is generally considered a slight improvement over the P-45’s Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) action. The GHC action is designed to be more compact, responsive, and potentially quicker to play. However, both simulate the feel of an acoustic piano.
Does the P-145 or P-45 have more built-in sounds?
Both pianos come with a selection of built-in sounds, primarily focusing on piano voices. The P-145 and P-45 have a comparable number of sounds, including electric pianos, organs, and strings, in addition to the core piano sounds. The focus of both models is on providing a realistic piano experience.
Which piano is better for beginners?
Both are excellent for beginners. The P-145 might offer a slightly more responsive keyboard action, while the P-45’s simpler interface could be easier to learn. The choice depends on personal preference. Both models offer a solid foundation for learning to play the piano and offer realistic key feel.
Can I connect headphones to either piano?
Yes, both the Yamaha P-145 and P-45 have a headphone jack, allowing for silent practice without disturbing others. This is a standard feature for digital pianos, making them ideal for practicing at any time of day or night. The headphone jack is crucial for private lessons.
What kind of connectivity does each piano offer for external devices?
The P-145 features a USB-C port for connecting to computers and mobile devices, enabling use with music software and online lessons. The P-45 uses MIDI for connectivity. Both pianos have a sustain pedal input. The P-145’s USB-C offers a more modern and versatile connection.
Which piano is more portable?
The Yamaha P-145 is more portable due to its more compact and lighter design. This makes it easier to transport and store, making it a better option for musicians who move frequently or have limited space. The P-45 is still portable but slightly larger and heavier.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the Yamaha P-145 and the P-45 depends on your priorities. The P-145 offers a slightly enhanced playing experience with its improved key action and modern USB-C connectivity. However, the P-45 remains a solid choice, especially for those seeking a more budget-friendly option. For features and portability, the P-145 is the better choice.
Winner: Yamaha P145