Yamaha Arius YDP S35 Review

We rated this Yamaha Arius YDP-S35 a 9/10 because of how well the instrument suits the needs of its target audience- Beginners to intermediates. The feel and sound of this instrument are extremely high quality, and we were particularly impressed with the compact size, built-in lessons, and virtual resonance modeling. We did take off a half of a point, however, due to the small soundbank and quiet speaker system.

Yamaha Arius YDP-S35 Overview

The Yamaha YDP-S35 is a slim digital console piano that is a part of the bestselling Arius line. According to the Yamaha site,  this piano is an ‘Enjoyment that stays with you.’

‘The luxurious tone and expressive ease of playing stays true to the basics of a real piano. It almost plays itself, releasing the sound and music you have within. Start your day with music and a huge smile on your face—the ARIUS piano makes you want to play more and more.’ (Usa.yamaha.com)

So does the S35 really live up to such high praise? To hear how it sounds, check out the instrument in the review video here.

Here are some of my own thoughts after listening to the instrument in the overview: 

• This is a modern and sleek space saver
• The dainty highs are lush and delicate
• The instrument has an impressive dynamic range and a full, tasteful sustain

Features

According to this listing on Amazon.com, the piano includes the following features:

 “ The CFX Premium Grand Piano Voice recreates the power and tone of the flagship CFX concert grand piano from Yamaha.

GHS weighted action is heavier in the low keys and lighter in the high keys, just like an acoustic piano.

3 Piano Style Pedals offer authentic sustain, sostenuto, and soft pedal performance.

Virtual Resonance Modeling (VRM) allows for vivid and richly-varied expression to reflect the limitless number of factors that create the sound of a concert grand piano.

Stereophonic Optimizer adjusts the spatial distribution of sound in the listener’s headphones, creating the sensation that sound is coming directly from the piano, rather than from the headphones. “ 

 Other notable features on the Yamaha Arius YDP-S35 include:

• Synthetic ebony and ivory keys
• 10 voice demo songs
• 4 reverbs/FX
• 50 classics and over 300 lesson songs
• 2 track internal recording

Specifications

Dimensions:

• Height:31.18″
• Width:53.25″
• Depth:11.62″
• Weight: 81.5 pounds
• USB: 1 Type B
• Headphone Jacks: 2 (¼ “)

Who Is It Suitable For?

This particular Arius is most suitable for beginner to intermediate players. The experts at Sweetwater say this is a great instrument for students, parents, and music hobbyists alike, and as a music educator, I agree.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• This is a Midi-compatible keyboard
• It is available in multiple colors
• It has synthetic ivory and ebony keys for a more authentic feel
• It is compatible with Yamaha’s Smart Pianist app
• It has 3 pedals with half-pedaling support
• There is high-quality virtual resonance modeling and CFX sampling
• It has a built-in key cover to protect the piano from dust and scratches

I am impressed that this model is Midi compatible since it seems to be geared towards beginner to upper intermediate performers and learners. This is a big ‘pro’ in my book because it opens up the world of recording. 

This piano is an easy sell in the looks department, as its sleek and modern design is available in multiple colors. And let’s not forget about the feel. The synthetic ivory and ebony with not only be more authentic but will also help prevent key slipping. 

From half-pedal support to built-in lessons, stellar VRM, CFX sampling, and the built-in key cover, the YDP-S35 is a winner. But don’t let me speak too soon- Let’s look into the keyboard’s weak points. 

Cons

• There are only 10 sounds on this Arius model
• The speaker system is quiet when compared to other intermediate models

Ultimately, the big cons are that this keyboard has a small soundbank and a quiet speaker system. This limits the palette of sounds, which is probably why it is not advertised as a model for pro music performers. This also likely explains why the speakers are not beefier, but we did wish for a little more power as well. 

Comparable Instruments 

For a comparable Yamaha instrument, check out the Yamaha YDP-S55. This chart created by Yamaha is also a great reference if you are in the market for a Yamaha piano.

Quick View 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the YDP-S35 is a piano with great bones. Whether you are a teacher, student, or adult learner, we think that you will get many hours of enjoyment out of this instrument. 

References and Sources

Specs from.

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Amazon quote from.

9Expert Score

We rated this Yamaha Arius a 9/10 because of how well the instrument suits the needs of its target audience- Beginners to intermediates. The feel and sound of this instrument are extremely high quality, and we were particularly impressed with the compact size, built-in lessons, and virtual resonance modeling. We did take off a half of a point, however, due to the small soundbank and quiet speaker system.

PROS

• This is a Midi-compatible keyboard
• It is available in multiple colors
• It has synthetic ivory and ebony keys for a more authentic feel
• It is compatible with Yamaha’s Smart Pianist app
• It has 3 pedals with half-pedaling support
• There is high-quality virtual resonance modeling and CFX sampling
• It has a built-in key cover to protect the piano from dust and scratches

CONS

• There are only 10 sounds on this Arius model
• The speaker system is quiet when compared to other intermediate models