Quick context: the earlier model was discontinued in 2023, and its successor has an updated design and sound. This guide helps you decide whether to buy one from remaining stock or choose the newer model in 2025.
In practice, the move from an AWM sound engine and GHS keyboard to a CFIIIS sound engine and GHC keyboard changes the feel and resonance. Speaker power rises from 2 × 6 W to 2 × 7 W, while the instrument becomes more compact and about 400 g lighter, making it easier to carry to lessons or small performances.
Both models have 88 weighted keys, 10 voices, 64-note polyphony, Duo mode, a metronome and a USB to Host connection. The newer model adds an input for a three-pedal unit and Smart Pianist compatibility.
Who it is for: beginners, hobbyists and returning players who want a simple interface and reliable quality in this entry-level to midrange series. The detailed comparison covers key feel, sound, polyphony, connections, portability and price. For figures and observed offers, see this full comparison.
Quick overview and verdict for 2025
In 2025, the choice is simpler: the older model has been discontinued, and the updated version is the default option for a piano at home.
Availability and positioning
Availability: the older model is mainly found secondhand or in remaining stock. The newer version is still available new, with an observed average price of around €500 to €550 in France and occasional lower-priced offers.
Who should choose which model today
The successor offers improved sound, with the CFIIIS engine and damper resonance, a more ergonomic design, an input for a three-pedal unit and compatibility with a control app.
| Feature | Older model | Newer model |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (mm) | 1,326 × 295 × 154 | 1,326 × 268 × 129 |
| Weight | 11.5 kg | 11.1 kg |
| Speaker power | 2 × 6 W | 2 × 7 W |
| Key features | Essential features (metronome, Dual/Duo) | Essential features, Smart Pianist and three pedals |
Quick verdict: for a new purchase in 2025, choose the newer version for its updated design, compact size and features. If you already own the older instrument and it is in good condition, keep it: there is no urgent need to replace it.
Key specifications: what really changes between the P-45 and P-145
These are the specifications that make a practical difference to playing and portability.
Keyboard and key feel
Keyboard: the GHS action gives way to Graded Hammer Compact (GHC). The keys remain weighted and graded, but the action is shorter, allowing a more compact design without sacrificing control.
The feel remains close to that of a traditional graded hammer keyboard, with a design suited to smaller spaces. This change preserves good playing quality for practice, whether you are a beginner or a hobbyist.
Sound engine and resonance
The AWM Stereo sound engine gives way to CFIIIS with damper resonance. The result is richer harmonics and a more natural sound, particularly for the grand piano voice.
“CFIIIS + resonance = deeper, more nuanced notes”
Speakers, polyphony and content
Both models retain 64-note polyphony, enough for most pieces played with a pedal. Speaker power rises from 2 × 6 W to 2 × 7 W for greater clarity and projection.
Effects: both models offer four reverb settings. The newer one adds Sound Boost and broader access to songs through the app.
| Feature | Older model | Newer model |
|---|---|---|
| Keyboard | GHS (88 keys) | GHC – Graded Hammer Compact (88 keys) |
| Sound engine | AWM Stereo | CFIIIS + damper resonance |
| Speakers | 2 × 6 W | 2 × 7 W |
| Dimensions and weight | 1,326 × 295 × 154 mm; 11.5 kg | 1,326 × 268 × 129 mm; 11.1 kg (more compact) |
In short: GHC, CFIIIS, the 2 × 7 W speakers and the more compact body improve the experience at home without changing the series’ basic technical foundation.
Keyboard and key feel: playing sensations close to an acoustic piano
Key feel affects learning and a pianist’s confidence from the first hours of playing. Both models have an 88-key graded keyboard, with keys that are:
- heavier in the bass,
- lighter in the treble,
- designed to feel like an acoustic piano and provide good dynamic control.
GHS and Graded Hammer Compact: grading, key surface and size
GHS has weighted keys and a matte surface on the black keys, providing good grip during long practice sessions.
Graded Hammer Compact (GHC) reduces the height and depth without sacrificing stability. This compact action retains the repetition and response needed for technical exercises.
Effects for beginners and playing control
In practice, the newer model retains four touch-sensitivity settings. They help beginners adjust the response to their finger strength.
“A consistent key feel helps you develop clean legato, control dynamics and improve finger independence.”
| Criterion | GHS | GHC |
|---|---|---|
| Weight grading | Progressive, from bass to treble | Similarly progressive |
| Key surface | Matte black keys | Similar feel, good grip |
| Ergonomics | Standard | More compact, better suited to narrow desks |
Conclusion: for the keyboard alone, the difference is small for most pianists. GHC offers a slight ergonomic advantage without unsettling beginners or compromising learning.
Sound quality and speakers: realism, resonance and projection
Sound quality directly affects the playing experience at home. The sampling engines determine the clarity of note attacks and richness of the harmonics.
AWM and CFIIIS samples: nuance, clarity and dynamics
AWM provides a clean sound for everyday practice. It is more limited in subtle nuances and the definition of successive note attacks.
CFIIIS brings greater clarity, more natural note sustain and better depth to the grand piano voice. Damper resonance adds a subtle interaction resembling the mechanics of an acoustic piano.
2 × 6 W versus 2 × 7 W: what you actually hear
The move to 2 × 7 W is a modest change on the specification sheet, but it improves projection and clarity in a living room. The newer model sounds fuller and more balanced.
The four reverb settings help tailor the sound to the room; a subtle setting preserves precision.
- PHONES jack: ideal for playing late and hearing the details of the CFIIIS voices through headphones.
- No dedicated line outputs: for the stage or a sound system, you need to use USB or external equipment.
| Feature | Older engine | New generation |
|---|---|---|
| Sound engine | AWM (10 voices) | CFIIIS + damper resonance (10 voices) |
| Speaker power | 2 × 6 W | 2 × 7 W |
| Reverb settings | 4 | 4 (clearer sound) |
Conclusion: for a digital piano at home, the improvements in sound quality and projection make the newer model more enjoyable. Follow this link for more digital piano comparisons.
Polyphony, effects and modes: everyday expressiveness
Understanding polyphony and the available modes helps you get the most out of the keyboard.
64-note polyphony: limits and good practice
64-note polyphony is enough for most study pieces and beginner to intermediate repertoire. Very dense passages or layered sounds, however, require careful use of the sustain pedal.
Practical tip: release and press the pedal again more often in busy passages. This helps avoid abrupt note cutoffs and keeps your playing clear.
Effects, reverb and playing modes
Both instruments offer four reverb settings and simple effects. Use them sparingly to keep the sound clear.
- Dual: layers two voices, such as piano and strings, for greater expression.
- Duo: splits the keyboard into two equal zones, which is ideal for lessons.
- Useful features: a metronome and transposition for practising rhythm and adapting the pitch range.
“Damper resonance improves the feel without using up the available voices.”
Practical point: there is no built-in recorder. To record your ideas, connect by USB to a computer or smartphone.
In conclusion: used well, 64-note polyphony allows expressive everyday playing. Adjust your pedal use and choice of voices to get the best sound quality.
Connections and apps: play, record and learn
Connections matter when you want to play, record or follow lessons. The available ports make practice easier at home or in a small studio.
USB, headphones and pedal input: music production uses
Both models offer a USB to Host connection, a 6.35 mm headphone output and a sustain-pedal input. USB supports computer-based music production, recording in dedicated software and the use of virtual instruments.
The headphone output lets you practise quietly, listen closely to the sound or connect closed-back studio headphones. To amplify the instrument, you often need to use the headphone jack and adjust the levels.
App and content: Smart Pianist
Smart Pianist, which is compatible with the newer version, lets you control voices, display sheet music and access around 303 lessons and songs via USB. The app simplifies settings so you do not have to navigate the piano’s controls.
Three-pedal unit and ergonomics for playing at home
A sustain footswitch is included to get started. The newer model accepts a three-pedal unit, ideal for a more realistic setup.
- Suggested use: connect by USB and use the app for learning, along with the metronome and computer recording.
- Recommendation: a stable stand, such as the L-100, and approximately 80-ohm studio headphones to hear nuances more clearly.
Overall, the connections cover the essentials for playing, practising and sharing, while the app and recording options make the piano easier to use. For a detailed comparison, see the full comparison.
Portability, size and design: a digital piano that is easy to carry
A compact size is an advantage for urban musicians who often move their instrument. The newer model is shorter and shallower, making it easier to set up day to day.
Reduced height and depth: a real space saving
The dimensions and weight speak for themselves: 1,326 × 268 × 129 mm versus 1,326 × 295 × 154 mm. That saves about 27 mm in depth and 25 mm in height.
The compact action reduces the size of the mechanism without compromising keyboard stability. The result is a less bulky body that weighs about 0.4 kg less, a noticeable difference when carrying it frequently.
The design is cleaner and fits better in a modern interior. Its smaller size makes it easier to store under a desk or against a wall.
- Transport: one person can carry it alone over short distances.
- Protection: a padded case is recommended for longer journeys.
- Comfort: a dedicated stand, such as the L-100, improves stability and pedal use.
“More compact and lighter, it meets the needs of a portable digital piano for apartments and rehearsals.”
Build quality remains strong: the body is sturdy, the speakers are retained and the more compact shape makes it easier to handle.
Yamaha P-145 vs P-45: Which Should You Buy?
Depending on whether you are a beginner, a returning pianist or a musician who rehearses at home, one model will suit your needs better than the other.
Practical cases: starting, returning and rehearsing
For a young pianist or newcomer, prioritise simplicity and motivation. The more expressive sound engine and app compatibility can help you progress.
If you are returning after years away, an updated Graded Hammer action and richer sound may renew your enthusiasm. The sustain pedal remains useful, while the three-pedal option lets you recover more of the nuance of an acoustic piano.
For rehearsals at home, the increased speaker power provides more clarity in a living room. You can still play through headphones to limit noise.
When to keep the older model or switch to the newer one
- Keep the older model if you like its key feel, mainly play through headphones and do not need apps or a three-pedal unit.
- Switch to the newer model if you want better sound, a more compact instrument, app access and the option of a three-pedal unit.
| Use | Main advantage | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Beginners | App and expressive sound | Choose the newer model |
| Returning players | Updated Graded Hammer feel | Choose the newer model |
| Rehearsals at home | 2 × 7 W for greater clarity | Prefer the newer model |
Prices, availability and bundles in France
Observed prices in France vary with stock and promotions. The older model is mainly found secondhand or in remaining stock. The newer model is widely available from major retailers.
Price ranges and availability
Observed ranges: the discontinued model previously cost around €400 to €450, compared with a recommended price of around €500 to €550 for the newer one. Offers for the P-145 can nevertheless be found at approximately €385 to €465, depending on the time and retailer.
Always check the warranty and after-sales service before buying. Where available, favour a retailer that offers a three-year warranty.
Useful accessories
A common bundle pairs the instrument with an L-100 stand for around €529, a practical way to create a complete piano space.
- L-100 stand: around €160.
- Padded case: around €175 to make travel easier.
- Sustain footswitch included; optional three-pedal unit for classical repertoire.
- Closed-back headphones are recommended for quiet playing; allow for them in your budget.
“A well-chosen bundle reduces additional purchases and makes playing more comfortable from day one.”
Practical note: there is no dedicated line output. For amplification or recording, use the headphone output with an adapter and adjust the levels.
Conclusion
To sum up in a few points, the newer model replaces the older one with clear improvements in sound, ergonomics and connectivity. Its CFIIIS audio quality, GHC keyboard and compact size make a difference for playing at home.
For a new purchase in 2025, choose the P-145: it offers more features without making the piano harder to use. Pianists who are happy with their P-45 can still keep it, especially if they mainly play through headphones.
The series remains a dependable choice in the entry-level and midrange categories thanks to its reliability and value for money. Consider a good stand, suitable headphones and, if needed, a three-pedal unit for a feel closer to an acoustic piano or a Yamaha concert grand.
In France, bundles and extended warranties make buying easier. Set up properly, this model can support years of practice and enjoyment.