When it comes to portable digital pianos, Yamaha’s P series has long been synonymous with excellence. The Yamaha P225 is a stylish replacement for the venerable P-125a and continues this legacy by combining superb piano tones with a compact design.
As a pianist and music enthusiast, I appreciate what Yamaha has done to improve the popular P125. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore its features, performance, and overall value.
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Contents
Design and Build
The first thing that catches your eye is the P-225’s sleek, modern case design. Gone are the pronounced curves; instead, we have a more slab-sided profile. The control panel is flatter, creating a minimalist aesthetic.
You can choose between the standard matte black or an alternate white version at no extra cost. The instrument ships with a mains adapter, slot-in music rest, and a footswitch-style damper pedal.
For those seeking a complete setup, the optional L-200 wooden stand and LP-1 three-pedal unit are available.
Sound and Playability
The heart of any digital piano lies in its sound engine. The P-225 features Yamaha’s renowned CFX sound engine, which faithfully reproduces the rich tones of a concert grand piano.
Whether you’re playing delicate classical pieces or energetic pop tunes, the P-225 delivers a satisfying experience. The main piano sound has been upgraded and sounds fuller and richer.
The new Graded Hammer Compact (GHC) keyboard action provides a weighted feel without sacrificing playability. The keys themselves have a pleasant texture, and the resistance feels authentic.
USB Audio Functionality Restored
One of the P-125a’s quirks was the absence of USB audio capability. Yamaha listened to feedback and rectified this in the P-225.
Now you can easily connect your digital audio workstation or recording device via USB. This enhancement opens up creative possibilities for musicians and home studio enthusiasts.
Bluetooth Audio Streaming
In a nod to modern connectivity, the P-225 supports Bluetooth audio streaming. Pair your smartphone or tablet, and play along with your favorite tracks wirelessly. It’s a convenient feature for practicing, jamming, or simply enjoying music.
Built-in Speakers and Headphone Experience
While the built-in speakers aren’t the most impressive, they suffice for casual playing. However, where the P-225 truly shines is through headphones. When you plug headphones in, you can focus on your practice without disturbing others.
It also allows you to enjoy the instrument’s tones more fully and in better audio fidelity. If you are interested in some good-quality headphones for piano practice, take a look at the articles below.
I often use the Beyerdynamic headphones myself when practicing on my Roland FP-30X.
The Best Headphones for Piano Practice & Recording (Top 10)
Pros:
Pros
- Yamaha CFX sound engine
- New Graded Hammer Compact keyboard action
- Restored USB audio function
- Compact design
- Bluetooth audio streaming
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than its predecessor
- Connectors are hard to reach
Price
At the time of writing, the Yamaha P225 retails at around $699.
Conclusion
The Yamaha P-225 is more than a replacement; it’s an evolution. It takes the strengths of its predecessor and adds essential features like USB audio and Bluetooth streaming.
The GHC keyboard ensures a comfortable playing experience, and the sleek design complements any living space. If you’re a pianist seeking a portable instrument that marries sound quality with style, the P-225 deserves your attention.
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