Yamaha U3H, Certified Reconditioned by Yamaha, c.1974

For decades, Yamaha's U Series has been the benchmark for professional musicians and serious piano enthusiasts. This Certified Reconditioned Yamaha U3H, restored by Yamaha's own Technical Services Division and officially Yamaha Approved, offers a remarkably cost-effective way to own one of these exceptional instruments.

The U3H, produced from the early 1970s, is the tallest model in the U Series at 131cm and the most powerful upright Yamaha ever produced. Each reconditioned instrument undergoes meticulous restoration; every worn component is replaced while the piano's original character and craftsmanship are carefully preserved. Every instrument comes with a Certificate of Authenticity and a five-year Yamaha-backed warranty, giving you the confidence of a factory-backed instrument at a fraction of the cost of new.

Priced at £4,995, this is an outstanding opportunity to own one of Yamaha's finest uprights, prepared to an exceptionally high standard.

Available to purchase online or to try in person at our Oxfordshire showroom. Contact us to discuss availability, delivery, and part-exchange options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'Certified Reconditioned by Yamaha' mean for a U3?

It means the piano has been returned to Yamaha's factory in Japan and overhauled by Yamaha's own Technical Services Division, using Yamaha parts and to Yamaha's exacting standards. It is not a third-party refurbishment or a local service; it is a proper factory rebuild, which is why each instrument comes with a Certificate of Authenticity and a five-year Yamaha warranty. This is a fundamentally different level of quality assurance to a standard used piano.

What is the difference between the Yamaha U1 and U3?

The U3 is 131cm tall, which is 10cm taller than the U1. That extra height gives the U3 significantly longer strings and a larger soundboard, producing a fuller, richer, and more powerful tone with greater bass depth and dynamic range. The U3 is the preferred instrument for advanced players, music teachers who want the best, and anyone who wants the maximum acoustic experience from an upright piano. We stock both and are always happy to let you compare them.

Is a 1974 Yamaha U3 reliable, especially one that has been factory reconditioned?

The 1970s are widely regarded by piano technicians as one of Yamaha's finest manufacturing eras. A factory-reconditioned U3H from this period combines the quality of 1970s Japanese craftsmanship with a comprehensive Yamaha overhaul and a five-year warranty, making it one of the most reliable used pianos you can buy. The reconditioning process addresses the wear that comes with age, restoring the piano to a condition that matches its original quality.

How does a Certified Reconditioned U3 compare to buying new?

New Yamaha uprights offer the latest specification and a fresh start. A Certified Reconditioned U3H, by contrast, often represents better value for a serious pianist; you are getting a larger, more powerful instrument with a five-year Yamaha warranty at a significantly lower price. As authorised Yamaha dealers we sell both, and we are well placed to give you an honest comparison based on your playing level and budget.

How long will a reconditioned Yamaha U3H last?

A Yamaha U3 is built to last 60 to 80 years. A factory-reconditioned example has had its worn components replaced, effectively resetting the clock on many of the parts that would otherwise limit its life. With regular tuning twice yearly and sensible care, a reconditioned U3H should provide exceptional service for many decades to come.