Yamaha YDP-165 vs Yamaha YDP-S55 – Which Piano is Best?
If you’re interested by the Yamaha Arius line of digital pianos, then you just might be seeking an in-depth comparison between the Yamaha YDP-165 vs Yamaha YDP-S55. So in this article, I’ll break down the similarities and differences between these two pianos, with the goal of helping you determine which one best fits your needs.
| PHOTO | PIANO |
|---|---|
 | Yamaha YDP-145 |
 | Yamaha YDP-S55 |
 | Yamaha YDP-165 |
 | Yamaha YDP-105 |
 | Yamaha YDP 184 |
Yamaha YDP-165 vs Yamaha YDP-S55 (TLDR)
When it comes to choosing between the Yamaha YDP-165 and the Yamaha YDP-S55, the Yamaha YDP-165 is the best option (for several reasons). First, the YDP-165 has a richer sound quality that truly mimics the sound of a concert grand piano, thanks to its Pure CF Sound Engine.
With this feature, you can expect a more immersive piano-playing experience that closely resembles the sound of an acoustic piano. The YDP-165 is certainly one of the best sounding digital pianos on the market.
It also has a higher polyphony count, which allows you to play more complex pieces without worrying about notes dropping out. Moreover, the Graded Hammer action of the YDP-165 provides some of the best key action you can find, as it does a great job of simulating the feel like an acoustic piano. You can enjoy a more authentic playing experience that allows you to feel the weight and responsiveness of the keys.
Finally, the biggest advantage is the price. The YDP-S55 costs roughly $1,600 on average, while the YDP-165 comes in around $1,500. With the YDP-165, you not only get a beauty of a piano, but you get to save about $100 when compared to the YDP-S55, as well. With the $100 savings, you can put that money to buying certain accessories like headphones (if you practice at night while loved ones are sleeping).
| BEST SELLERS |
|---|
| 1) Casio PX-770 |
| 2) Yamaha YDP-145 |
| 3) Roland RP-701 |
| 4) Yamaha YDP-165 |
| 5) Casio PX-870 |
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Design and Build Quality
The Yamaha YDP-165 and YDP-S55 digital pianos are both designed to be sleek and stylish instruments. The YDP-165 has a more traditional look with its larger and heavier cabinet, while the YDP-S55 has a more modern and compact design.
Dimensions at a glance
Yamaha YDP-165:
- Width: 1357mm (53-7/16″)
- Height: 815mm (32-1/16″)
- Depth: 422mm (16-5/8″)
- Weight: 42kg (92lbs., 10oz)
Yamaha YDP-S55:
- Width: 1353mm (53-1/4″)
- Height: 792mm (31-3/16″)
- Depth: 309mm (12-3/16″)
- Weight: 35.9kg (79lbs., 1oz)
Looking at the dimensions, the Yamaha YDP-165 measures 53-7/16 inches in width, 32-1/16 inches in height, and 16-5/8 inches in depth, with a weight of 92 pounds and 10 ounces. Meanwhile, the Yamaha YDP-S55 measures 53-1/4 inches in width, 31-3/16 inches in height, and 12-3/16 inches in depth, weighing 79 pounds and 1 ounce.
As such, the YDP-165 is larger and heavier than the YDP-S55, which has a slimmer design that may be more convenient for those with limited space. The differences in size and weight between the YDP-165 and YDP-S55 are worth considering when choosing the right digital piano for your needs.
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Key Action
The key action of a digital piano is an important factor to consider when purchasing one. It refers to the mechanism used to replicate the feel and touch of an acoustic piano. The key action technology used in the Yamaha YDP-165 and YDP-S55 is different and can impact the playing experience.
Here are some points to consider:
- The YDP-165 uses Yamaha’s GH (Graded Hammer) keyboard technology, which simulates the weight and touch of an acoustic piano. The keys are heavier in the lower register and lighter in the higher register, just like a traditional piano.
- The YDP-S55, on the other hand, features Yamaha’s GHS (Graded Hammer Standard) keyboard technology. This technology also simulates the feel of an acoustic piano, but the keys are slightly lighter and more responsive than the GH technology.
- Both pianos use synthetic ivory keytops, which provide a comfortable and natural feel when playing.
Some players may prefer the heavier touch of the GH technology, while others may prefer the lighter and more responsive feel of the GHS technology.
| PHOTO | PIANO |
|---|---|
| Yamaha YDP-145 |
| Yamaha YDP-S55 |
| Yamaha YDP-165 |
| Yamaha YDP-105 |
| Yamaha YDP 184 |
Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, the YDP-165 and YDP-S55 digital pianos both offer a high-quality sound that is representative of the grand piano. However, there are some differences in the sound engines used in each model.
The YDP-165 uses Yamaha’s PureCF sound engine, which is known for its realistic sound and dynamic range. This sound engine samples the sounds of Yamaha’s CFIIIS concert grand piano to produce a highly accurate and detailed sound.
Understanding the Yamaha PureCF Sound Engine
The Yamaha PureCF Sound Engine is a sound technology used in some of Yamaha’s digital pianos, including the YDP-165. It is designed to replicate the sound of Yamaha’s CFIIIS concert grand piano by digitally capturing its unique acoustic properties. The result is a digital piano that sounds remarkably similar to an acoustic piano, with all the benefits of digital technology, such as easy portability, headphone connectivity, and digital recording capabilities.
On the other hand, the YDP-S55 uses Yamaha’s Advanced Wave Memory (AWM) Stereo Sampling technology. This sound engine produces high-quality sound, but it is not as detailed as the PureCF sound engine used in the YDP-165.
What is Yamaha’s Advanced Wave Memory (AWM)?
Yamaha’s Advanced Wave Memory (AWM) is a type of sound sampling technology used in their digital instruments, including digital pianos, keyboards, and synthesizers. It captures the sound of actual instruments, such as acoustic pianos, and converts them into digital format for playback on the instrument. The AWM technology uses high-quality sampling techniques to ensure that the resulting sound is as realistic and expressive as possible.
The YDP-165 offers a more accurate and realistic sound, while the YDP-S55 offers a high-quality sound that is suitable for most players.
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Features
Aside from the physical characteristics and sound quality, another important aspect to consider when choosing a digital piano is the additional features that come with it. The Yamaha YDP-165 and YDP-S55 both offer unique features that can enhance the playing experience of pianists, but they differ in terms of the available features.
Yamaha YDP-165 features:
- 10 voices including grand pianos, electric pianos, organs, and strings
- Dual voice mode for layering two voices simultaneously
- 4 types of reverb effects
- 2-track MIDI recorder
- Metronome
- 50 preset songs with sheet music
- Built-in speakers and headphone output
- USB to Host connectivity for use with computer software
Yamaha YDP-S55 features:
- 10 voices including grand pianos, electric pianos, organs, and strings
- Dual voice mode for layering two voices simultaneously
- Intelligent Acoustic Control for optimal tone at any volume
- Stereophonic Optimizer for a natural, spacious sound when using headphones
- 10 demo songs and 50 piano songs with sheet music
- Built-in speakers and headphone output
- USB to Host connectivity for use with computer software
- Compatible with Yamaha’s Smart Pianist app for iOS devices
| PHOTO | PIANO |
|---|---|
| Yamaha YDP-145 |
| Yamaha YDP-S55 |
| Yamaha YDP-165 |
| Yamaha YDP-105 |
| Yamaha YDP 184 |
Smart Pianist App
The Smart Pianist App is a powerful tool that allows users to enhance their playing experience on both the YDP-165 and YDP-S55 digital pianos. This app is compatible with both iOS and Android devices and can be downloaded for free from the App Store or Google Play. Once connected to the digital piano via USB, the app provides access to a variety of unique features that allow users to customize their playing experience.
Some of the features offered by the Smart Pianist App for the YDP-165 and YDP-S55 include:
- Virtual Technician: This feature allows users to adjust various aspects of the piano’s sound, such as the touch sensitivity and string resonance, to create a more personalized sound.
- Audio Recorder: The app allows users to record their playing and save it to their device or share it with others.
- Music Library: The app provides access to a wide range of sheet music, allowing users to learn new songs and practice their skills.
- Session Mode: This feature provides an interactive accompaniment that adjusts to the user’s playing in real-time, allowing for a more engaging and dynamic playing experience.
- Remote Control: The app can also be used as a remote control for the piano, allowing users to adjust various settings without having to access the piano’s control panel.
For anyone interested in enhancing their playing experience on the YDP-165 and YDP-S55 digital pianos, the Smart Pianist App is a valuable tool. Its unique features and compatibility with both iOS and Android devices make it a versatile and powerful tool for musicians of all skill levels.
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The Yamaha YDP-165 or Yamaha YDP-S55?
In conclusion, we’ve compared the Yamaha YDP-165 and YDP-S55 digital pianos based on their sound quality, polyphony count, key action, and design. We found that the YDP-165 has a superior sound quality thanks to its Pure CF Sound Engine, a higher polyphony count, a more realistic key action with its Graded Hammer action, and a more modern design. On the other hand, the YDP-S55 is more affordable and compact, which may be better suited for beginners or players with limited space.
Ultimately, the choice between the Yamaha YDP-165 vs Yamaha YDP-S55 will depend on the player’s needs, preferences, and budget. Players who prioritize sound quality, key action, and design may find the Yamaha YDP-165 to be a better investment, while those who are just starting out or have limited space may prefer the Yamaha YDP-S55 for its affordability and compactness.
Overall, both the Yamaha YDP-165 and YDP-S55 digital pianos offer excellent value and quality for their price range and are highly recommended for players of all levels.
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