Yamaha P115 Features
- 88 semi-weighted keys
- 11.8kg
- 2 x 7w speakers
- 128 note polyphony
- Graded Hammer Action
- 14 sounds, including split and layer modes
- Sounds 8.5/10
- Features 9/10
- Build 8.5/10
- Overall Value 9/10
Yamaha P115 Pros
- Good piano sounds
- Fantastic action and expression
- Light enough to carry to gigs
- Easy to use music rest
- Dedicated line out for performances
- Option to add stand and pedal unit
- Split keyboard option for piano teachers
- Good for beginners and more experienced players
Yamaha P115 Cons
- E.P. sounds are weak
- Power supply unit rather than kettle lead
- Body is quite deep making it high on some stands
Introduced in 2015 to replace the P105, the Yamaha P-115 is the mid-range model of the current P (for Portable) Series that also includes the P45 and the P255. It comes in both black and white with optional extras that include a matching stand and a pedal unit. Although intended for the home market, it will also be appreciated by more seasoned players due to it’s expressive playing.
The P115 Build
At first look this piano seems to be aimed more at the home market by the fact that it has a power supply rather than the preferred kettle lead and a small on button rather than a solid switch. It also has onboard speakers. There is an energy saving timer that powers the unit off after 30 minutes but you can override this by holding down the far left key while powering up – three flashes from the on-button will indicate that the energy saving feature has been disabled.
The unit itself is quite deep although still fairly lightweight, so it could be gigged if that’s your intention. On the rear of the unit is the power supply socket, a dedicated Left and Right Aux out for amplification, a sustain pedal socket and a USB connection for computer connectivity. There’s also a socket for adding the optional triple pedal board unit. An app is available for controlling certain features remotely, such as voice selection – you’ll need to purchase a special cable to connect your phone to use these features. There are two headphone sockets on the front of the unit, a useful feature for teachers who have to keep noise to a minimum.
This P115 features Yamaha’s (GHS) Graded Hammer Standard Keys to simulate a real piano feel, which means that there’s a heavier touch in the lower end and lighter touch in the high end. Unlike many other digital pianos available in this price bracket, the P115 offers the opportunity for some beautifully expressive playing on a very nice action keyboard. However it is only classed as semi-weighted as it’s still not as heavy as some of the higher-end pianos. The black keys are utilising the new anti-slip technology that is now being used on many keyboards to absorb excess sweat that comes from extended periods of playing (the P255 features this on both the black and white keys).
The optional wooden stand and pedal unit turn your piano into a more attractive piece of furniture and allow for Sostenuto and Damper control.
P115 Sounds
The P115 comes with fourteen onboard sounds that can be layered or a split point set. The pianos are of a very nice, decent quality with the grand itself being sampled from Yamaha’s own Yamaha CFIIIS Concert Grand.
The ‘Rhodes’ E.P. sounds are really lacking in bite and don’t cut through so well, even with touch sensitivity switched off. The Jazz Organ stands out as a very usable sound and the strings work nicely when layered with the piano, with a gentle fade on key release.
There are a couple of bass sounds to use with split point, the acoustic bass being the strongest of the two. For piano teachers, it’s possible to set a piano on each side of the split in the same octave range for easier teaching.
Extra Features
The P115 comes with a metronome function for practise but also with 14 drum beats, which allows for more advanced practise options or performance. Press the button to stop the beat and it rounds off neatly with an ending.
Also included are ten Rhythmic Effects, which provide a chord comp based on what you’re playing in the left hand while you play the melody on the right. This is a great feature for practising improvisation.
A simple record function allows you to quickly capture an idea or to create a simple track that you can play along with.
Summary
If you’re looking for a great digital piano that’s not too expensive but will last for a while due to it’s playability then this is a great choice for both home use and performance. Even experienced players have expressed how good the keyboard feels, with an authentic Grand Piano sound, good action and great range of expression. Yamaha have another winner.