Yamaha YC88 Stage Keyboard

Loaded with 88 premium keys, the Yamaha YC88 is the ship of the line in Yamaha’s range of YC keyboards. If you don’t mind its large dimensions and extra weight compared to the 61-note and 73-note models, the YC88 is a sublime keyboard to play and, thanks to the authentic-feeling keybed, both the acoustic and electric piano sounds can be brought to life with ease and joy.

The Yamaha YC88
But let’s not forget about the organ, which for many will be the top priority when it comes to this YC. Yamaha haven’t blessed the keyboard with the YC-name for no reason, because it’s the same name that the maker’s classic organs bear. In addition to full-blown organ samples based on organ-simulation, you’re backed up by the already-renowned AWM2 sample engine as well as the arguably even more popular FM-engine, while using the YC88 on stage is made amazingly easy thanks to the many LED encoders, controls and, of course, the drawbars. After all, no one’s got time to scroll through extensive menus while playing a live show.

The finishing touch
Last but not least, Yamaha have equipped with the keyboard with a solid collection of effects. First off there’s reverb, which is not only great for the pianos and pads, but the vintage organs. On top of that, you’re provided with a rotary effect, speaker/amp, a 3-band master EQ with adjustable mid-range, and a looper so you can set your creativity free. Also, don’t worry about polyphony, Yamaha have made sure that any note-stealing will practically never be an issue.