Yamaha P-515B Digital Keyboard

The Yamaha P-515B is the flagship portable digital piano in Yamaha's P-series. It is a high-end instrument that combines the authentic sound and feel of a grand piano with a wide range of modern features and a stylish, portable design. The "B" in the model name indicates its black finish.

Here is a detailed breakdown of its key features:

Core Concept & Sound

• Dual Grand Piano Samples: A major highlight of the P-515B is its inclusion of two of the world's finest concert grand pianos: the Yamaha CFX and the B�sendorfer Imperial. This gives the player the ability to choose between two distinct and world-class piano sounds.

• Natural Wood X (NWX) Keyboard: This is a professional-grade key action that is a significant step up from Yamaha's lower-end models. The NWX keyboard features white keys made from solid wood, topped with synthetic ivory, while the black keys have a textured synthetic ebony finish. This action is designed to replicate the feel and response of a grand piano, complete with an escapement mechanism that simulates the subtle "click" you feel in a grand piano's action.

• Enhanced Virtual Resonance Modeling (VRM): The P-515B uses an advanced version of Yamaha's VRM technology to reproduce the complex sympathetic vibrations of a real piano's strings, soundboard, rim, and frame. It also includes Aliquot resonance, which adds to the richness of the upper octaves.

• Binaural Sampling: For a truly immersive experience when playing with headphones, the P-515B features Binaural Sampling on the CFX Grand Voice. This technology uses special microphones to capture the sound from the player's perspective, creating a realistic, three-dimensional acoustic soundscape.

• Powerful Speaker System: The piano has a powerful 15W + 5W speaker system with a two-way design and a Twisted Flare Bass Port. This system provides an immersive, authentic piano experience with astonishing clarity and a clear, precise bass sound.

Features & Connectivity

• "Piano Room" Function: This feature allows you to quickly and easily customize your piano sound by adjusting parameters like the lid position, reverb, touch response, and various resonance settings. It's a convenient way to get the exact sound you want without a complex menu-diving process.

• Built-in Rhythms: The P-515B includes 40 different rhythm patterns (drums and bass) that are perfect for practice or for inspiring new song ideas.

• Bluetooth Audio & MIDI: The piano has built-in Bluetooth audio, allowing you to stream music from a smartphone or tablet through the piano's powerful internal speakers. It also has Bluetooth MIDI for wireless connection to apps like Yamaha's Smart Pianist.

• USB Connectivity: It has both a USB-to-Host port for connection to a computer and a USB-to-Device port for connecting a flash drive to record MIDI and audio (WAV) directly.

• Stereophonic Optimizer: This feature is active when using headphones and provides a wide, spacious sound, making it feel like the sound is coming from the piano itself rather than directly from the headphones.

• Connectivity: The P-515B has two headphone jacks, MIDI In/Out, and AUX Out (L/L+R, R), which is crucial for connecting to a PA system for live performances.

Overall Impression

The Yamaha P-515B is an excellent choice for:

• Professional Pianists: Its professional-grade key action, dual piano samples, and advanced sound modeling make it a fantastic and reliable instrument for gigging, studio work, and home practice.

• Advanced Students and Serious Hobbyists: It provides a top-tier piano experience with the feel and sound that will help them continue to develop their skills.

• Anyone who wants a premium digital piano: It is the pinnacle of Yamaha's portable P-series, offering a no-compromise solution for those who demand the very best in sound and feel in a portable package.