Nice demo, thanks. I’ve had the YC73 for almost a month now. I’d put this against Nord Stage compact (also 73 key) any day. Like you said, this plays amazing out of the box. This is THE stage piano to get right now. 30Lbs / perfect Piano & Synth Keybed / Amazing Organ engine and Leslie speaker sim / Best combo of playable piano & electric piano & organ & synth on market in 2023 that I know of. Enjoyed the review.
The title is spot on. I've no idea why so many vids compare YC to Nord Stage range when price differential is huge. YC vs Electro is right and those were my choices as an amatuer with tight budget (and very limited chops to justify cost of a Stage or similar!). I went with YC3 for: layout/access to features (not much difference to Nord, but YC seemed subjectively easier); pitch/mod levers; USB interface, for recording to PC; ext input because I only use 2 keys and so no sub-mixer required into PA (although I see that Nord does have similar feature?); and more flexible double FX/keys1&2 configuration (e.g 2 x synth). My only regrets from Nord are: lack of sound library (that was nearly the killer feature to go red), not waterfall keys (why not? come on Yahamaha, that is an own goal) and it is not lovely sexy red. :-) I'm still happy with my YC73 choice!
I played every keyboard before I bought this and I liked the keybed on this better than all of its competitors. Feels great for piano, eps and even organ if I’m honest. But it def caters more towards pianos etc…
I ended up buying the YC 73 and I am enjoying it like the nerd dancing with the prom queen. The YC 73 went beyond my expectations. Solid build, really awesome keybed, best sounds and loving the 1.3 firmware. Very solid instrument. I am so glad I skipped the Nord.
I have this - it is excellent. It is very similar to the Electro but importantly the electro has no pitch bend. For me it was a no-regrets no-brainer to get the yamaha. Am just about to install the new 1.3 firmware, can't wait.
I am torn between this Yamaha YC73 and the Nord Electro 6D 73. This is helping me decide. Can you split the keys to have one sound for my left hand and right side play the melody? I want to play "Dirty Work" by Steely Dan where I have the Wurlitzer 200A for my left hand and the Yamaha YC30 sound on my right hand. Can this be done? It seems the Yamaha is more versatile?
Yc keybed is way better and the ability to doctor the sounds is immense. If you just play presets the nord might do it…if you like to tweak and mess with the sound then the yc kicks a$$. On a side note…..nice to finally see a review by someone who can actually play keyboards! 😎
I dont know if you ever owned a Nord stage 3 but it is way more tweaking of sounds and you can layer 6 sounds at one time and only 3 on the yc but to each their own.
your inputs are peaking like CRAZY here, in a video demonstrating a musical instrument. like, come ON man. that aside thanks for the competent playing. this thing sounds great and I'm glad the Electro's getting direct competition
I know a few fellow musicians still gigging on NS2 using the usual AP/EP/organ patches-etc. This is a long overdue option. Nice demo and presentation. ty 🎹🎧
I already owned a Yamaha CP73: great keybed, excellent piano / tines / Clavinet sounds, a few decent strings/pad sounds and great UI. But crappy organs. So for the organs I bought a second hand Hammond XK-1. Nice sound but very larger & very heavy in it’s flight case. And I missed the ability to play piano on the CP73 and Independant strings parts at the same time. So: Nord Electro 6D 61 or YC61 (I wanted the waterfall keys for the organ)? Both have excellent organ sounds I really love the UI on the Yamaha’s, but -apart from the organ- the YC sounds are 90% identical to the CP sounds. I’d be buying almost the same instrument twice. So, for that reason I decided for the Electro. I get a totally different sound palette, the ability to download new sounds and -very nice- I play the Nord piano sounds from the CP while at the same time playing organ on the Nord keyboard. To conclude I would like to mention a great feature of both the CP73 and the YC73: they have line line and XLR out: I connect the Nord to the line in of the CP and all I need from the sound guy is 2 xlr’s to plug in. No key mixer, no DI boxes, no thru cables, no ground issues.
I think l'd still go with the Nord because of the huge free library of sounds. Being able to change all the sound when you want sounding different is great. Yamaha and others you only get the few sounds they give you and then you have to hope they add more sounds in future updates. Other than the sounds the two keyboards are very similar in features and a coin toss on which to get.
Don't forget that this has a proper USB implementation - you can send audio both ways from it. The Nords don't have that, even on the new Nord Stage. It's important because you can use anything you can run on an iPad or computer back through the audio outputs on the keyboard, so it's just like another section. I currently use a Nord Stage and Korg Kronos but am looking to the future and laptop based setups for live use - but I want something that I can fall back on without the computer too. Nord stand out by not having USB audio, and the impressive price difference!
@@pianofryYou can do the same thing with the new studiologic numa x piano gt. I own both. The cp88 and the studiologic. The studiologic got way better key action. Feels like playing a real grand piano. I do prefer the piano sound quality of the cp88.
@@ispianist the USB audio feature is pretty standard now, so it's a surprise to me Clavia didn't include it. The Studiologic has the TP400 wood action, which is far better than the TP100 used on the Electro HP and the previous Stage 3 76 HP, but I find the TP40 plastic action fine too. I found both the Studiologic and the Yamaha YC88 actions pleasing to play, but from a gig-practicality perspective I think the Yamaha wins because it's got IEC power, balanced outputs, and the sockets are attached to the chassis. Still deciding... 88 note boards are probably going to be impractical for me though...
Great vid. My YC61 is part of a multi-board rig (88 key weighted controller on the bottom midi out to YC for piano, ep). YC alone for B3. No doubt, the YC with the v1.2 update is killer.
Great demo. Any way you could share some of those organ settings? I feel like the Leslie emulation sometimes sounds off, but you’ve got the whole thing. Sounding good. No worries if too much of a hassle. Thanks!
@@markhopkinsmusic Thanks for the reply Mark! I think I'm on the latest version, must just need to tinker more. I've found the Nord's B3 emulation to be a bit better, so just trying to get this thing to sound more like the classic B3. The "fast" Leslie just sounds fake sometimes. I'll tinker. Thanks for all the great content!
Really good video, thanks. I'm wondering about the YC61 and if its waterfall keys makes such a difference for playing organ? I like the idea of having 73 keys but also the cost and portability of the 61 is enticing.
Thanks Steve!! If you are primarily a Hammond guy those keys on the 61 are more home base. I’m terrible at organ stuff so I needed more of a piano/electric piano feel
I think it's hard to compare the YC73 to a Nord Electro. Kind of like comparing Apple to Android. Both are great and really depends on the kind of user you are and what you are looking for.
I wanted to love the SV2 but the action is stiff and I honestly don't think their acoustic pianos can compete with this board. I guess there is something for everyone out there in keyboard land. Thanks for watching!
Kong has the Vox Continental 73 which is the comparison with a waterfall key bed. I’ve owned mine since Dec 2022 . Nice board but I want the YC61 instead.
I wonder what the synths sound like and if there’s some good lead sounds? Does anyone know when these will be available again? Wish i could try one out myself.
in general I wouldn't look to the Electro series or direct competitors for synthesis. their whole deal is that they give you the best keybeds/controls/interface/sounds for acoustic/electric pianos and mellotrons (i.e. samplers with high-quality sample banks) and organs (i.e. a couple of high-quality simulation engines) and explicitly exclude synth controls. it really doesn't make sense to also include a digital synthesis engine unless you also have a good set of hardware controls for changing synth parameters / routing, and those kinds of controls are really quite different to drawbars + a simple interface for samplers. the decent price difference between Nord's Electro and Stage reflects the addition of the synth controls. you *can* play regular audio samples from other synths through the Electro sampler, but the fact that no parameters can change (e.g. over time, or from your knobs/modwheel, or from key velocity) except volume and the playback pitch of the sound file, REALLY limits how alive and interesting they can sound. in general i'd say it's not worth your time whatsoever. i played lots of synth and lots of acoustic/electric keys (the latter handled by an Electro 4, 73-key) live for ages and really recommend doing synthesis with a separate hardware synth or controller + computer, unless you *really* want to only bring one piece of gear to rehearsals/gigs. often the bag that you need for cables etc can also fit your laptop & midi controller, depending on their sizes, so sometimes it's close to "free", effort-wise, to bring those, excluding setup time. if you have a tiny / desktop module synth (such as a Korg Volca), you might be able to fit it on the flat area of the Electro (or equivalent) and use the Electro's keybed for MIDI note input, which saves bringing another keyboard stand. i especially wouldn't recommend doing synths through an Electro or Stage if you're mostly planning on home/studio recording. the setup effort for any kind of computer synth or dedicated hardware synth will almost certainly be worth it to get much better controls and diversity of synth engines. Nords are very stage performance-focused and in their interface design they tend to prioritise rugged, dependable changes between premade patches over live exploration and sound design.
Hello Mark! No one ever describes the necessity for an Amplifier for the Electric Keyboards, Brands,-Models seen on TH-cam Channels. I would think THAT important. QUESTION: Would you share what Model-Brand Amplification you are using here? I've played Electric Bass Guitar, and I've played Electric guitar--- both each require an amplifier specific for that stringed instrument. So, I assume it takes a special Amplification or PA System to get those great Keyboard & Synthesizer sounds. You did a great job here!
Thanks Terrell! This was running straight into my Apollo x4. When I gig I use a Mackie monitor with on board EQ as a stage monitor and then run it direct thru the PA. I’ve had Roland Amps in the past but I am very happy with the Mackie monitor for now. But at some point I think I’ll upgrade to a better stage monitor.
How do I dial in the Rhodes "Riders on the Storm" sound? I want to dial it in and save it. Any help is much appreciated. Also are you doing anything to your Wurli sound or is it just default 3-1 setting?
All the sounds were just stock settings. I’ve since messed with em a little bit - maybe added EQ or overdrive etc.. it’s so tweakable! I’d recommend just tweak and have fun goofing with it.
Thanks for the video. Have you updated to the latest firmware? It changes the Leslie and adds extra some sounds i think. I don't own one but am keen to get a 61 or 73.
I got a thumbdrive from Sweetwater with the new update, but I haven't done it yet. It sounds so good right out of the box. 100% blew all my expectations out of the water!
@@markhopkinsmusic thanks. I tried a Nord Electro 6d 61 in my nearest store but didn't instantly love it. Couldn't work my way around it! They didn't have a Yamaha unfortunately to compare.
@@ikepre yeah, I just got it at the end of December. It did come with a thumb drive so I should check that out too. But I freaking love this keyboard so much! I’m a guitarist first and foremost but this is meeting all my expectations and then some.
Awesome playing. I have this one. My only gripe with it is it’s hard keybed. I feel I have to hammer it to get the brighter tones in pianos and epianos. I’m not a Nord fan…. but, I must say the Nord grand has a great feeling keybed. Ironically that keybed is made by Kawai. I used to have the Kawai MP7SE and not even that gets close to the Nord Grand.
I wish all the companies would agree on which keybed feels the best and let’s just manufacture them all that way. Coming from the Electro 2 this thing feels great to me, but I’ve heard the same thing about the Nord Grand.
I can’t speak to the Hammond stuff because I’ve never played it but I did play the new Nord Electro stuff and this one felt better to me on all fronts. From the keybed to the samples I just thought this one won
As you'd expect the Hammond obliterates all other attempts at organ without effort. The problem with the pro lies in the space/tech used up for synth and Piano. Ironically it's Yamaha Piano model is considered the best one on it; but its far from as good as what Yamaha is packing on its own DP modeling/samples. So unfortunately it's sort of a vice versa scenario. Where one does the other's speciality badly. If you had to pick between them for most; you'd likely go with the YC. Because since the update the clone is quite servicable whilst its other sounds (piano/synth/electric) are MUCH better than the Hammond at the price they are asking. However if you were to want to avoid wasting either a better blend would likely be the CP with a hammond above/below it doing the organ. That however is alot more money for the results. Depends on how fussy you are about the organ/key feel. I prefer waterfalls but the Yc61 is too much overlap with the CP as many state, so you'll have to mash together based on your needs and preference.
Does the YC have something like a “Multimode” so that you can play one of the parts (Organ, Key A or Key B) via an external keyboard, setting it “Local Off” at the YC? Would be interesting using the YC61 as “Piano Tone Generator”, playing it remote from a hammer action keyboard and using the YC61 keyboard itself for Organ only.
To be honest, I haven’t explored that. But remember I am a guitarist posing as a keyboard player haha. I’m sure it can knowing how awesome my other Yamaha stuff has been in the past.
I’m more of a synth player/guitarist ie. Can’t play a keyboard that well but I really appreciate keys that feel like the real deal, wish they’d just make a simple small midi controller with an awesome hammer action, don’t feel an accomplished enough player to buy something like this !!! Though wish I was, beautiful playing mate
YC73 definitely is more complete, but in acoustic pianos and organs (what matters to me) Nord Electro still ahead... The only thing a miss on my electro is the fm pianos, yamaha has the best of all
I had a Nord Electro 2 and I dug it but I haven’t played any others except for the 5D - which was great, but I definitely prefer the keybed on the YC73. It’s all subjective but glad Yamaha is in the race with this board.
@@markhopkinsmusic I'm selling my Electro 5 HP73 as the TP100 keybed is too much of a compromise and not much fun to play. The Yamaha YC73 I'm replacing it with has a far nicer action and great sounds, plus real drawbars!
@@davemcwilliam1227 I sold my Nord Electro HP73 for the same reason. Didn't like the action for piano and no mod or bend wheel and very little synthesis. I may get the YC73 instead of the Nord Stage 3 as a do it all single board set up. It would depend on the synthesizer section in the YC though.
Can I ask how the keybed is holding up? Some players have complained about clacky keys in the 61, would be interested to know if you're still getting quiet keys on the 73. Thanks! :)
Hey Mark, just one follow-up question. I ended up getting the YC88 partly from your channel's advice! Absolutely loving it, but I'm having some issues with the built in audio interface. I can't for the life of me get sound to come through Logic! Are you recording sound directly via usb, or did you use instrument line out?
@@jordanwatkins1220 I just plugged into my interface with and instrument cable. I haven’t tried plugging in via usb or anything to be honest. Glad you are digging the keyboard, I love mine!
I bought 2nd hand YC73 with "clacky" B2/C3 - I can live with it, no big deal. I suppose more "clacks" appearing would become annoying, but so far so good after 6 months.
yes, Yamaha YC is better than Nord Electro in many ways, but underrated because of Clavia's hype (i bought a YC and sell my Nord Electro). Many people unfairly compare it with the Nord Stage which costs twice as much
@@markhopkinsmusic Great chops already! Suggestion - have a section of your channel dedicated to keys. Maybe call it "Keys Korner", "Hopkins Keys Hour", "No Not That Hopkins" as in Nicky, lol.
Nice demo and nice playing. I am considering getting either the YC73 or YC88. I currently have a Roland VR 730 and I’m not that happy with it because of weak acoustic piano sounds. Also, the EP’s are OK but not that great. It has water full keys and semi weighted action. Since I am a piano player at heart, I tolerate, but I’m not in love with the semi weighted action. I have a Rock n roll band and need good acoustic pianos, electric pianos, organ, and horns. The local music stores do not carry either Yamaha models so I have been unable to play either one. The YC 73 is 30 pounds and would be much easier to gig with than the 40+ pound YC88. The question for me is will I like the keybed action of the YC 73 or would I prefer the great hammer action of the YC 88? Can you give me your insight and opinion of the keybed action of the YC73 and YC88? If I’m not that crazy about the semi weighted action of my Roland VR 730, do you think I would like the keybed action of the YC 73?
I played both and I think the keybed on the 73 is amazing! I like the feel of it more than my Yamaha upright piano to be honest. I think you’ll really dig the 73 because I am more of a piano, Wurlitzer type player and it feels like the best keyboard I’ve ever played. Fear not, it’s absolutely stunning
@@jhn1987 I’ve never played the Nord Stage 3 but I think this blows away the Electro. Honestly I haven’t messed with the horn sounds, but the strings are dope and I dig all the different synth stuff too!
@@markhopkinsmusic One last question, I promise. 😁 Does the YC73 have a Hohner Pianet electric piano tone and Vox Continental for some of those 60’s sounds?
I have CP88 which has same keybed as YC88. I just picked up YC73 and love the keybed. The 88 might be ‘better’ for piano only but 73 is magical for everything.
@@markhopkinsmusic If you dont mind I have 2 requests. 1. Is the "Normal" and "Soft" touchresponse the same on your unit. 2. Can you examine if your unit suffers from the "black keys" issue? I demonstrate it here: th-cam.com/video/U9cGzXvnRl8/w-d-xo.html I suspect it is a general software issue that most people just do not notice.
@@sghsghdk hey, I have had zero issues with it to be honest. That's a bummer that you've had problems. Has Yamaha made any firmware updates that help? I haven't updated anything since I got it.
to be honest I have no clue- i'd have to fire it up to tell ya. I am primarily a guitarist so whenever I buy keyboards they remain stock for the most part. i'm too busy tweaking guitar tones haha@@sghsghdk
I owned and gigged with every high end Yamaha synth, in pairs, for 40 years. This thing ain't gonna replace ANY of my NORDs. (Electro 4s, Waves, Lead 3s, C2 and C2D)
Nice demo, thanks. I’ve had the YC73 for almost a month now. I’d put this against Nord Stage compact (also 73 key) any day. Like you said, this plays amazing out of the box. This is THE stage piano to get right now. 30Lbs / perfect Piano & Synth Keybed / Amazing Organ engine and Leslie speaker sim / Best combo of playable piano & electric piano & organ & synth on market in 2023 that I know of. Enjoyed the review.
Thanks Andrew, you rule!
I got dat modx 8 its the shitttt Yamaha > Nord all day
@@AdamFenton amen.
@@AdamFentondoes the modx have a leslie sim?
May I say that I bought the YC88 a few days ago and it is hands down the best stage piano I have ever had, both sound and the keybed is phenomenal
Yamaha is killing it with this thing. I don’t know why more players aren’t hip to it.
I own the YC-88. I have the drawbars mapped to all of my organ software. Plus my whole software arsenal is connected from one usb cable.
wow you can do that, can you? I always assume that all the knobs and faders on YC or CP cannot be mapped to VSTs! How stupid was I!
Absolutely love my Yamaha YC 73 👌🏼
🤘🤘🤘
The title is spot on. I've no idea why so many vids compare YC to Nord Stage range when price differential is huge. YC vs Electro is right and those were my choices as an amatuer with tight budget (and very limited chops to justify cost of a Stage or similar!).
I went with YC3 for: layout/access to features (not much difference to Nord, but YC seemed subjectively easier); pitch/mod levers; USB interface, for recording to PC; ext input because I only use 2 keys and so no sub-mixer required into PA (although I see that Nord does have similar feature?); and more flexible double FX/keys1&2 configuration (e.g 2 x synth). My only regrets from Nord are: lack of sound library (that was nearly the killer feature to go red), not waterfall keys (why not? come on Yahamaha, that is an own goal) and it is not lovely sexy red. :-)
I'm still happy with my YC73 choice!
8:53 I found it. Do I get a prize? Also I have the YC88. Looked 4 years to get the perfect stage keyboard and Yamaha did IT
Hahaha it happens. Thanks for watching. I freaking love this keyboard!
Damn, sounds absolutely killer! Wasn't even aware of this keyboard. Love the distortion characteristics and quality of the patches. Love it.
Totally mind blowing, right!?
Thanks for this really helpful review! Picked up a YC73 on CL this weekend, and I’m loving it. And my back is loving it too.😂
No problem! Yeah, I couldn’t believe how light it was when I first got it too!
@@markhopkinsmusic it’s light, but solid at the same time, thanks to the case, action, and controls all being good quality.
Got this keyboard as a future proof instrument as a complete piano noob and really enjoying it. Thanks for the review 😊
Awesome! I get lost every night playing it with headphones on. I love it!
Thanks for this video. I am about to replace (or complement) my SV1 with SV2 or YC61 or YC73. The keybed was exactly my concern.
I played every keyboard before I bought this and I liked the keybed on this better than all of its competitors. Feels great for piano, eps and even organ if I’m honest. But it def caters more towards pianos etc…
I ended up buying the YC 73 and I am enjoying it like the nerd dancing with the prom queen. The YC 73 went beyond my expectations. Solid build, really awesome keybed, best sounds and loving the 1.3 firmware. Very solid instrument. I am so glad I skipped the Nord.
Awesome!!! I still love it too; feels great, sound great, what's not to like?
It's best to demonstrate a clavinet sound first without a wah effect, and then add the wah afterwards. Thanks.
I have this - it is excellent. It is very similar to the Electro but importantly the electro has no pitch bend. For me it was a no-regrets no-brainer to get the yamaha. Am just about to install the new 1.3 firmware, can't wait.
Nice!!!
Mark - Nice demo - I am a guitarist and own one too - sold a Motif XF6 and moved here.
@@radicaster1 heck yeah! I keep finding things I love about it too.
@@markhopkinsmusic Here is the god of Yamaha demos on the YC73. It sold me! .....th-cam.com/video/aVaSM3mW0I0/w-d-xo.htmlsi=colXFpCNSgyOoHwW
I am torn between this Yamaha YC73 and the Nord Electro 6D 73. This is helping me decide. Can you split the keys to have one sound for my left hand and right side play the melody? I want to play "Dirty Work" by Steely Dan where I have the Wurlitzer 200A for my left hand and the Yamaha YC30 sound on my right hand. Can this be done? It seems the Yamaha is more versatile?
Yes, it definitely splits sounds!
Yc keybed is way better and the ability to doctor the sounds is immense. If you just play presets the nord might do it…if you like to tweak and mess with the sound then the yc kicks a$$.
On a side note…..nice to finally see a review by someone who can actually play keyboards! 😎
Oh man, thanks so much! Keys aren’t my main instrument but I love playing em!
I dont know if you ever owned a Nord stage 3 but it is way more tweaking of sounds and you can layer 6 sounds at one time and only 3 on the yc but to each their own.
your inputs are peaking like CRAZY here, in a video demonstrating a musical instrument. like, come ON man. that aside thanks for the competent playing. this thing sounds great and I'm glad the Electro's getting direct competition
Yup - it was new and i was still getting used to it. Plus, this is what happens when a guitarist does a demo - overdrive everything haha
I know a few fellow musicians still gigging on NS2 using the usual AP/EP/organ patches-etc. This is a long overdue option. Nice demo and presentation. ty 🎹🎧
my pleasure!
I already owned a Yamaha CP73: great keybed, excellent piano / tines / Clavinet sounds, a few decent strings/pad sounds and great UI. But crappy organs. So for the organs I bought a second hand Hammond XK-1. Nice sound but very larger & very heavy in it’s flight case. And I missed the ability to play piano on the CP73 and Independant strings parts at the same time. So: Nord Electro 6D 61 or YC61 (I wanted the waterfall keys for the organ)? Both have excellent organ sounds I really love the UI on the Yamaha’s, but -apart from the organ- the YC sounds are 90% identical to the CP sounds. I’d be buying almost the same instrument twice. So, for that reason I decided for the Electro. I get a totally different sound palette, the ability to download new sounds and -very nice- I play the Nord piano sounds from the CP while at the same time playing organ on the Nord keyboard. To conclude I would like to mention a great feature of both the CP73 and the YC73: they have line line and XLR out: I connect the Nord to the line in of the CP and all I need from the sound guy is 2 xlr’s to plug in. No key mixer, no DI boxes, no thru cables, no ground issues.
Crappy organs?... after the update they are great!
Download 1.3 and then comment.. Plus you can tweak the crap out of the draw bars to get virtually any organ sound ever played.
@@epluribusfunk514 He was talking about the CP when he said crappy organ, not the YC 😊
Thanks for the great review.
No problem, thanks for watching it!
I think l'd still go with the Nord because of the huge free library of sounds. Being able to change all the sound when you want sounding different is great. Yamaha and others you only get the few sounds they give you and then you have to hope they add more sounds in future updates. Other than the sounds the two keyboards are very similar in features and a coin toss on which to get.
I will say compared to the previous electro I had this keybed feels way better too. But I hear ya in the library.
Don't forget that this has a proper USB implementation - you can send audio both ways from it. The Nords don't have that, even on the new Nord Stage. It's important because you can use anything you can run on an iPad or computer back through the audio outputs on the keyboard, so it's just like another section. I currently use a Nord Stage and Korg Kronos but am looking to the future and laptop based setups for live use - but I want something that I can fall back on without the computer too. Nord stand out by not having USB audio, and the impressive price difference!
@@pianofry Ohh man, that is awesome - I did not know that. Thanks James!
@@pianofryYou can do the same thing with the new studiologic numa x piano gt. I own both. The cp88 and the studiologic. The studiologic got way better key action. Feels like playing a real grand piano. I do prefer the piano sound quality of the cp88.
@@ispianist the USB audio feature is pretty standard now, so it's a surprise to me Clavia didn't include it. The Studiologic has the TP400 wood action, which is far better than the TP100 used on the Electro HP and the previous Stage 3 76 HP, but I find the TP40 plastic action fine too. I found both the Studiologic and the Yamaha YC88 actions pleasing to play, but from a gig-practicality perspective I think the Yamaha wins because it's got IEC power, balanced outputs, and the sockets are attached to the chassis.
Still deciding... 88 note boards are probably going to be impractical for me though...
Great vid. My YC61 is part of a multi-board rig (88 key weighted controller on the bottom midi out to YC for piano, ep). YC alone for B3. No doubt, the YC with the v1.2 update is killer.
Love it! Thanks for watching Sam
Great demo. Any way you could share some of those organ settings? I feel like the Leslie emulation sometimes sounds off, but you’ve got the whole thing. Sounding good. No worries if too much of a hassle. Thanks!
Hey Sam! It might be because of when I bought it, it came with a firmware update. Did you update to the most recent version yet?
@@markhopkinsmusic Thanks for the reply Mark! I think I'm on the latest version, must just need to tinker more. I've found the Nord's B3 emulation to be a bit better, so just trying to get this thing to sound more like the classic B3. The "fast" Leslie just sounds fake sometimes. I'll tinker. Thanks for all the great content!
@@samcabot8664 anytime!
nice. great playing and thanks for sharing! dig it
Thanks Matt!!
Really good video, thanks. I'm wondering about the YC61 and if its waterfall keys makes such a difference for playing organ? I like the idea of having 73 keys but also the cost and portability of the 61 is enticing.
Thanks Steve!! If you are primarily a Hammond guy those keys on the 61 are more home base. I’m terrible at organ stuff so I needed more of a piano/electric piano feel
@@markhopkinsmusic Thanks for that Mark, I must admit I'm no great organ player myself!
@@steveglossop it’s a whole other technique I haven’t delved into yet
I think it's hard to compare the YC73 to a Nord Electro. Kind of like comparing Apple to Android. Both are great and really depends on the kind of user you are and what you are looking for.
if u are in to sounds electro is no2 compared to this one
I wonder what is Korg's answer to this, Kronos 73? But Kronos isn't really a stage keyboard like this and the Grand-stage and SV2 are old.
I wanted to love the SV2 but the action is stiff and I honestly don't think their acoustic pianos can compete with this board. I guess there is something for everyone out there in keyboard land. Thanks for watching!
Kong has the Vox Continental 73 which is the comparison with a waterfall key bed. I’ve owned mine since Dec 2022 . Nice board but I want the YC61 instead.
I wonder what the synths sound like and if there’s some good lead sounds? Does anyone know when these will be available again? Wish i could try one out myself.
Synth sounds are cool! Would it be helpful to do a short follow up video on that sometime?
in general I wouldn't look to the Electro series or direct competitors for synthesis. their whole deal is that they give you the best keybeds/controls/interface/sounds for acoustic/electric pianos and mellotrons (i.e. samplers with high-quality sample banks) and organs (i.e. a couple of high-quality simulation engines) and explicitly exclude synth controls.
it really doesn't make sense to also include a digital synthesis engine unless you also have a good set of hardware controls for changing synth parameters / routing, and those kinds of controls are really quite different to drawbars + a simple interface for samplers. the decent price difference between Nord's Electro and Stage reflects the addition of the synth controls.
you *can* play regular audio samples from other synths through the Electro sampler, but the fact that no parameters can change (e.g. over time, or from your knobs/modwheel, or from key velocity) except volume and the playback pitch of the sound file, REALLY limits how alive and interesting they can sound. in general i'd say it's not worth your time whatsoever.
i played lots of synth and lots of acoustic/electric keys (the latter handled by an Electro 4, 73-key) live for ages and really recommend doing synthesis with a separate hardware synth or controller + computer, unless you *really* want to only bring one piece of gear to rehearsals/gigs. often the bag that you need for cables etc can also fit your laptop & midi controller, depending on their sizes, so sometimes it's close to "free", effort-wise, to bring those, excluding setup time. if you have a tiny / desktop module synth (such as a Korg Volca), you might be able to fit it on the flat area of the Electro (or equivalent) and use the Electro's keybed for MIDI note input, which saves bringing another keyboard stand.
i especially wouldn't recommend doing synths through an Electro or Stage if you're mostly planning on home/studio recording. the setup effort for any kind of computer synth or dedicated hardware synth will almost certainly be worth it to get much better controls and diversity of synth engines. Nords are very stage performance-focused and in their interface design they tend to prioritise rugged, dependable changes between premade patches over live exploration and sound design.
Hello Mark! No one ever describes the necessity for an Amplifier for the Electric Keyboards, Brands,-Models seen on TH-cam Channels.
I would think THAT important. QUESTION: Would you share what Model-Brand Amplification you are using here? I've played Electric Bass Guitar, and
I've played Electric guitar--- both each require an amplifier specific for that stringed instrument. So, I assume it takes a special Amplification
or PA System to get those great Keyboard & Synthesizer sounds. You did a great job here!
Thanks Terrell! This was running straight into my Apollo x4. When I gig I use a Mackie monitor with on board EQ as a stage monitor and then run it direct thru the PA. I’ve had Roland Amps in the past but I am very happy with the Mackie monitor for now. But at some point I think I’ll upgrade to a better stage monitor.
I use two EV 8 inch powered monitors on stage. Excellent sound with limited bass response, but who needs tons of bass on a stage?
@@jovermars oh man, that sounds like a dope setup!
Hey Mark, very nice review, did you happen to notice the infamous black keys issue?
Thanks for watching! No issues at all for me - it's been nothing but fantastic.
Curious, what is the issue?
How do I dial in the Rhodes "Riders on the Storm" sound? I want to dial it in and save it. Any help is much appreciated. Also are you doing anything to your Wurli sound or is it just default 3-1 setting?
All the sounds were just stock settings. I’ve since messed with em a little bit - maybe added EQ or overdrive etc.. it’s so tweakable! I’d recommend just tweak and have fun goofing with it.
@@markhopkinsmusic I thought you might have added some special sauce to make them sound better and had a magic button stored
@@epluribusfunk514 I wish, I’m mostly a guitarist so I get option paralysis with this keyboard if I spend too much time on it haha
Thanks for the video. Have you updated to the latest firmware? It changes the Leslie and adds extra some sounds i think. I don't own one but am keen to get a 61 or 73.
I got a thumbdrive from Sweetwater with the new update, but I haven't done it yet. It sounds so good right out of the box. 100% blew all my expectations out of the water!
@@markhopkinsmusic thanks. I tried a Nord Electro 6d 61 in my nearest store but didn't instantly love it. Couldn't work my way around it! They didn't have a Yamaha unfortunately to compare.
@@adamandlorraine no comparison necessary, get the Yamaha... trust me when I say it crushes the Electro.
Firmware 1.2 is incredible - it’s like a whole new organ! With how new this video is, I bet it has 1.2 on it.
@@ikepre yeah, I just got it at the end of December. It did come with a thumb drive so I should check that out too. But I freaking love this keyboard so much! I’m a guitarist first and foremost but this is meeting all my expectations and then some.
Awesome playing. I have this one. My only gripe with it is it’s hard keybed. I feel I have to hammer it to get the brighter tones in pianos and epianos. I’m not a Nord fan…. but, I must say the Nord grand has a great feeling keybed. Ironically that keybed is made by Kawai. I used to have the Kawai MP7SE and not even that gets close to the Nord Grand.
I wish all the companies would agree on which keybed feels the best and let’s just manufacture them all that way. Coming from the Electro 2 this thing feels great to me, but I’ve heard the same thing about the Nord Grand.
Hi Mark, why did you not record this great machine in Stereo? (sounds 'poor' now)
I’m curious where you think the Hammond sk Pro stacks up against this board (or the Nord for that matter)?
I can’t speak to the Hammond stuff because I’ve never played it but I did play the new Nord Electro stuff and this one felt better to me on all fronts. From the keybed to the samples I just thought this one won
As you'd expect the Hammond obliterates all other attempts at organ without effort. The problem with the pro lies in the space/tech used up for synth and Piano. Ironically it's Yamaha Piano model is considered the best one on it; but its far from as good as what Yamaha is packing on its own DP modeling/samples.
So unfortunately it's sort of a vice versa scenario. Where one does the other's speciality badly. If you had to pick between them for most; you'd likely go with the YC. Because since the update the clone is quite servicable whilst its other sounds (piano/synth/electric) are MUCH better than the Hammond at the price they are asking.
However if you were to want to avoid wasting either a better blend would likely be the CP with a hammond above/below it doing the organ. That however is alot more money for the results. Depends on how fussy you are about the organ/key feel. I prefer waterfalls but the Yc61 is too much overlap with the CP as many state, so you'll have to mash together based on your needs and preference.
@@ErraticFaith Thanks for chiming in, that's awesome!
Thank you for the demo, but why did you do it in mono?
@@keyboardheuvelrug just a classic guitar player faux pas
@@markhopkinsmusic Guitar also shines better in stereo 😀
I noticed you missed the Leslie effect on the YC. That will really blow your mind on the organs.
@@indymac7 chalk it up to a guitarist reviewing a keyboard lol
Does the YC have something like a “Multimode” so that you can play one of the parts (Organ, Key A or Key B) via an external keyboard, setting it “Local Off” at the YC? Would be interesting using the YC61 as “Piano Tone Generator”, playing it remote from a hammer action keyboard and using the YC61 keyboard itself for Organ only.
To be honest, I haven’t explored that. But remember I am a guitarist posing as a keyboard player haha. I’m sure it can knowing how awesome my other Yamaha stuff has been in the past.
pretty good for a guitarist!
if i could play like Hornsby, I'd never touch my guitar again haha I love keys!
Is your recording clipping or distorting because I'm getting it on my end with hard hits on every voice.
It did peak in a few sections. I had just bought a new interface and wasn’t used to it yet.
I’m more of a synth player/guitarist ie. Can’t play a keyboard that well but I really appreciate keys that feel like the real deal, wish they’d just make a simple small midi controller with an awesome hammer action, don’t feel an accomplished enough player to buy something like this !!! Though wish I was, beautiful playing mate
Thanks so much. Yeah, that would be dope if they made a small controller that feels like this!!
I have one and also a Guitarist as my main instrument and play keys in a coverband and it just sits in the mix without having to do anything
Which piano sound do you gravitate towards? Just curious because mine started as one and I switched to another.
@@markhopkinsmusic Live CF3 and sometimes Nashville
Hey Mark. Guitar may be 'Your thing', but you can still crush it on keys.... Nice demo man.
Aww man, you are too kind!
Damn I want the yc61 so bad, hopefully next year 🗽♥️
I love this keyboard. Even after owning a Nord I still lean towards Yamaha.
I know this is an old thread, but any comments on the compression sound on that piano?
Hey! I responded to your comment on my recent video 🤘
YC73 definitely is more complete, but in acoustic pianos and organs (what matters to me) Nord Electro still ahead...
The only thing a miss on my electro is the fm pianos, yamaha has the best of all
I had a Nord Electro 2 and I dug it but I haven’t played any others except for the 5D - which was great, but I definitely prefer the keybed on the YC73. It’s all subjective but glad Yamaha is in the race with this board.
@@markhopkinsmusic I'm selling my Electro 5 HP73 as the TP100 keybed is too much of a compromise and not much fun to play. The Yamaha YC73 I'm replacing it with has a far nicer action and great sounds, plus real drawbars!
@@davemcwilliam1227 Heck to the yeah!!!
@@davemcwilliam1227 I sold my Nord Electro HP73 for the same reason. Didn't like the action for piano and no mod or bend wheel and very little synthesis. I may get the YC73 instead of the Nord Stage 3 as a do it all single board set up. It would depend on the synthesizer section in the YC though.
Can I ask how the keybed is holding up? Some players have complained about clacky keys in the 61, would be interested to know if you're still getting quiet keys on the 73. Thanks! :)
Hey - I haven't had any issues thus far - I really love the keybed
Thanks so much@@markhopkinsmusic
Hey Mark, just one follow-up question. I ended up getting the YC88 partly from your channel's advice! Absolutely loving it, but I'm having some issues with the built in audio interface. I can't for the life of me get sound to come through Logic! Are you recording sound directly via usb, or did you use instrument line out?
@@jordanwatkins1220 I just plugged into my interface with and instrument cable. I haven’t tried plugging in via usb or anything to be honest. Glad you are digging the keyboard, I love mine!
I bought 2nd hand YC73 with "clacky" B2/C3 - I can live with it, no big deal. I suppose more "clacks" appearing would become annoying, but so far so good after 6 months.
Lovely video but next time please do a stereo recording. It makes a TON of difference especially for the organs!
Classic guitarist mistake haha
Would you recommend it over a Nord Electro 6D ?
I liked it more than the Nord for the money. It’s a great board and I keep finding cool features I wasn’t aware of.
yes, Yamaha YC is better than Nord Electro in many ways, but underrated because of Clavia's hype (i bought a YC and sell my Nord Electro). Many people unfairly compare it with the Nord Stage which costs twice as much
100% agree!!
Yeah, it crushes! Sounds fantastic!
I love it! Now I gotta get in the shed and get my chops up lol
@@markhopkinsmusic Great chops already! Suggestion - have a section of your channel dedicated to keys. Maybe call it "Keys Korner", "Hopkins Keys Hour", "No Not That Hopkins" as in Nicky, lol.
@@MarksGASStation Hahahaha - BRILLIANT!
The YC-73 is THE One.👍
1000%
Whoah its got a mellotron!Nice!
Sounds killer too, right!?
Best Hammond organ clone, best digital rotary spk. simulation, best rotary spk. overdrive simulation
100% Accurate. I freaking love this keyboard.
Nice demo and nice playing. I am considering getting either the YC73 or YC88. I currently have a Roland VR 730 and I’m not that happy with it because of weak acoustic piano sounds. Also, the EP’s are OK but not that great. It has water full keys and semi weighted action. Since I am a piano player at heart, I tolerate, but I’m not in love with the semi weighted action. I have a Rock n roll band and need good acoustic pianos, electric pianos, organ, and horns. The local music stores do not carry either Yamaha models so I have been unable to play either one. The YC 73 is 30 pounds and would be much easier to gig with than the 40+ pound YC88. The question for me is will I like the keybed action of the YC 73 or would I prefer the great hammer action of the YC 88? Can you give me your insight and opinion of the keybed action of the YC73 and YC88? If I’m not that crazy about the semi weighted action of my Roland VR 730, do you think I would like the keybed action of the YC 73?
I played both and I think the keybed on the 73 is amazing! I like the feel of it more than my Yamaha upright piano to be honest. I think you’ll really dig the 73 because I am more of a piano, Wurlitzer type player and it feels like the best keyboard I’ve ever played. Fear not, it’s absolutely stunning
Thanks! That helps. How does the YC73 compare to the Nord Stage 3? Also, what do you think of the horn sounds on the YC73?
@@jhn1987 I’ve never played the Nord Stage 3 but I think this blows away the Electro. Honestly I haven’t messed with the horn sounds, but the strings are dope and I dig all the different synth stuff too!
@@markhopkinsmusic One last question, I promise. 😁 Does the YC73 have a Hohner Pianet electric piano tone and Vox Continental for some of those 60’s sounds?
I have CP88 which has same keybed as YC88. I just picked up YC73 and love the keybed. The 88 might be ‘better’ for piano only but 73 is magical for everything.
Sounds like the first motif to me.
Is your OS up to date the latest firmware?
I just got it in December so it must have come with the latest firmware.
@@markhopkinsmusic were u able to check status thru utility option?
@@musikman337 I'm running V1 20.1 right now
@@markhopkinsmusic o ok
How is the keybed when playing organ ? Is it similar to the MX88?
I've never played the MX88 but I'd say it feels pretty dang good for Organ - although I know the 61 is supposed to be more organ keybed friendly.
@markhopkinsmusic yeah I have the yc61 and it's great but I find I need more keys and thought about upgrading to the yc73
@@itsmaistro I think it's doable, to be honest!
@@markhopkinsmusic thank you
Do you still have the YC73 ?
Yes, indeed - still love it!
@@markhopkinsmusic If you dont mind I have 2 requests.
1. Is the "Normal" and "Soft" touchresponse the same on your unit.
2. Can you examine if your unit suffers from the "black keys" issue? I demonstrate it here:
th-cam.com/video/U9cGzXvnRl8/w-d-xo.html
I suspect it is a general software issue that most people just do not notice.
@@sghsghdk hey, I have had zero issues with it to be honest. That's a bummer that you've had problems. Has Yamaha made any firmware updates that help? I haven't updated anything since I got it.
@@markhopkinsmusic which version are you running? Can you confirm that Soft=Normal or are they different for you?
to be honest I have no clue- i'd have to fire it up to tell ya. I am primarily a guitarist so whenever I buy keyboards they remain stock for the most part. i'm too busy tweaking guitar tones haha@@sghsghdk
5:40 Take the long way home!
13:20 Doctor my eyes!
I owned and gigged with every high end Yamaha synth, in pairs, for 40 years. This thing ain't gonna replace ANY of my NORDs. (Electro 4s, Waves, Lead 3s, C2 and C2D)
And another thing Yamaha supposed to Add new sound every six months they hadn’t add anything new yet but
I’ll keep my eyes out for updates, thanks
I have the CP 88. Love it.
Definitely kills anything from Roland
100%
Way too hot going into your interface, constant digital distortion when you're playing hard.