This 1975 Yamaha Model U3 represents the absolute pinnacle of Yamaha’s vertical piano engineering. Standing at a commanding 51 inches, the U3 is the larger sibling to the famous U1 and is widely considered the world’s most respected professional upright. This particular instrument is a rare find, featuring a warm Satin Walnut cabinet accented with sophisticated Satin Ebony details, creating a unique, high-end furniture aesthetic.

Flagship Professional Performance: The U3 is designed for the most demanding musicians. At 51″ tall, it features a soundboard area and string length that rival many small grand pianos. This results in a thunderous, rich bass and a “singing” treble that can easily fill a large home, sanctuary, or teaching studio. The 1970s “Golden Era” Yamahas are particularly prized for their use of premium old-growth spruce and a level of hand-finishing that provided incredible structural longevity.

Custom Aesthetic Design: While most professional U3s are found in standard black, this model features a beautiful Satin Walnut finish. The natural wood grain provides a warm, organic feel, while the Satin Ebony accents—on the legs, lid, or fallboard—provide a sharp, contemporary contrast. This “tuxedo” look makes the piano a stunning piece of interior design that looks as impressive as it sounds.

Concert-Grade Action: The U3 features an expanded action with longer keys and a specialized bridge design, providing a level of control and repetition speed that is virtually unmatched in the upright world. The touch is precise and responsive, making it the ideal tool for advanced students preparing for university auditions or professionals who need a grand-quality feel in a space-saving vertical format.

Ideal For:

• Advanced Pianists: Who require the largest possible sound and the most responsive action in an upright.
• Design-Conscious Homes: Seeking a world-class instrument that serves as a unique piece of custom furniture.
• Professional Studios: Looking for the “U3 sound”—famous for its clarity and recording-friendly tone—with a distinct visual flair.
• Teachers: Who want a flagship instrument that can withstand decades of heavy daily use.

Comparison to New

New Yamaha U3 (Polished Ebony):

• MSRP: Approximately $18,500 – $21,000.
• The Custom Factor: Yamaha does not offer the Walnut/Ebony “tuxedo” finish in their standard professional lineup. A custom-finished new upright of this caliber would be a special-order item with a significant price premium.
• Value Analysis: At $6,999, this 1975 model is roughly one-third of the price of a new one.

Why Choose the 1975 Model? Beyond the $12,000+ in savings, many technicians believe the “Golden Era” Yamahas of the mid-70s used higher-density tonewoods than modern production models. The U3 is built to last 80+ years, meaning this 1975 model is still in its prime. You are acquiring a flagship, professional-grade instrument with a unique, custom aesthetic for a fraction of the cost of a new mass-produced model.