If you’re serious about learning—but not ready to drop acoustic-piano money—the Yamaha P71 is the classic “start smart” choice. It’s the Amazon-exclusive twin of Yamaha’s wildly popular P-45, delivering 88 fully weighted keys (GHS), 10 core voices, dual/layer mode, and 64-note polyphony in a slim body that fits apartments and dorms. Yamahathe greatest song

What you get in the box

• P71 digital piano (full 88-key, graded hammer action)

• Power supply

• Basic sustain pedal
  That pedal works, but many players upgrade to a more piano-like foot switch (Yamaha FC4A/FC3A) within weeks. That’s a common refrain from beginners on Reddit who otherwise praise the board. AmazonReddit

Key specs (in plain English)

• Action: Yamaha GHS (heavier in the bass, lighter in treble—like an acoustic).

• Voices: 10 essentials (concert grand, electric pianos, organs, strings, etc.).

• Polyphony: 64 notes (enough for beginners; advanced repertoire may push it).

• Modes: Dual/Layer (blend two sounds), Duo for side-by-side teacher/student.

• Effects: 4 reverbs.

• Connectivity: USB-to-Host (computer/tablet), headphone out, sustain jack, DC in.

• Form factor: Compact and lightweight (~25 lb) with built-in speakers for plug-and-play. Yamaha

Translation: it feels like a real piano under the fingers, gives you the bread-and-butter sounds you’ll actually use, and hooks up to apps/DAWs for practice or recording. Yamaha

How it plays (feel & sound)

Feel: Yamaha’s GHS action is the big win here. It’s sturdy, predictable, and helps beginners build proper finger strength and control—without feeling like you’re pressing on bricks. Most entry-level learners will find it comfortable for long sessions. (If you want something snappier later, you can always step up to P-125/P-225 or the Roland FP-10 family.) YamahaYouTube

Sound: The onboard piano voices are clean and musical—ideal for scales, chords, pop repertoires, and early classical pieces. You can layer piano + strings for a fuller tone or keep it dry for technique work. The limit to watch is 64-note polyphony: fine for beginners, but dense sustain-pedal passages in advanced pieces can reveal note drop-offs. YamahaJeremy See

Real user feedback (summarized)

• Beginner-approved: r/piano regularly recommends the P71 as a solid entry model; it’s the Amazon twin of the P-45, so you’re not buying an unknown variant. Reddit

• Pedal upgrade advised: Many owners call the included pedal “usable but flimsy”—swap to FC4A/FC3A for a proper experience. Reddit

• Value perception: Shoppers report strong satisfaction at typical sale prices; several users note they’d only “upgrade to a real piano” after outgrowing it. Reddit

On Amazon, the P71 is consistently positioned as an Amazon Exclusive and frequently marked “Amazon’s Choice” with strong recent purchase velocity—signals of sustained demand and favorable ratings at its price tier. (Details vary over time.) Amazon+1

P71 vs P-45 (and the next tiers)

• P71 vs P-45: Functionally the same instrument; the P71 is the Amazon-exclusive label. Buy whichever is cheaper/available. the greatest song

• Why you’d go up-market: Models like Yamaha P-125/P-225 (or Roland FP-10) add better actions, more voices, and higher polyphony—nice if you’re advancing quickly or want richer speakers and features. YouTube

Who the P71 is perfect for

• First-time learners who want legitimate weighted keys without overspending.

• Parents outfitting a student with a reliable practice instrument.

• Apartment players needing a compact, quiet-practice setup (headphones + USB).
  If you’re tackling high-level classical or want extensive tone editing, you’ll outgrow it; otherwise, it’s exactly what it claims to be—a right-sized, right-priced starter piano. Yamaha

Setup & upgrade tips (day-one checklist)

1. Place & power: Stable stand, stool at elbow-height, plug in.

2. Pedal: Consider upgrading to Yamaha FC4A/FC3A for half-damper feel and sturdier build. Reddit

3. Headphones: Closed-back for night practice; you’ll play longer (and better).

4. Apps/learning: Connect via USB-to-Host to a learning app (or DAW) for guided practice and progress tracking. Yamaha

5. Modes to use: Try Duo for lessons and Layer for piano+strings ballads. Yamaha

Pros & cons (at a glance)

Pros

• Authentic GHS weighted action that builds real technique. Yamaha

• Slim, lightweight board with built-in speakers—easy to live with. Yamaha

• 10 essential voices, Dual/Duo modes, USB connectivity. Yamaha

• The same DNA as the proven P-45, at Amazon-friendly availability. the greatest song

Cons

• 64-note polyphony can be limiting as you progress. Jeremy See

• Included sustain pedal feels basic—budget for an upgrade. Reddit

• Minimal interface/features vs. pricier P-125/P-225 or Roland FP-10. YouTube

FAQs (for first-time buyers)

Is the P71 the same as the P-45?
Yes—same core specs and action; P71 is the Amazon-exclusive label. Choose based on price/stock. the greatest song

Can I connect it to learning apps or a computer?
Yes. Use the USB-to-Host port for MIDI with iPad/PC and most lesson apps/DAWs. Yamaha

Will 64-note polyphony hold me back?
Not for beginners. It becomes noticeable with advanced repertoire and heavy sustain. Jeremy See

Do I need external speakers?
No, it has built-ins. Headphones are great for quiet practice; monitors are optional. Yamaha

Which accessories should I add?
A better sustain pedal, a sturdy stand/bench, and headphones. Reddit

Final verdict

The Yamaha P71 nails what matters most for a first instrument: credible piano feel, clean, motivating sound, and a no-drama setup you’ll actually use. If your goal is to learn properly without overspending—or to give a student a dependable daily practice tool—this is one of the safest, smartest buys in its class.