Yamaha GCB SH3 PE SILENT Baby Grand Piano in Polished Ebony
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Specialist Ground-Floor Delivery & Installation Included To UK Mainland
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Prepared, Checked, Regulated & Tuned Before Delivery
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10-Year Yamaha Acoustic Piano Guarantee When Registered
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Yamaha Headphones Included
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Three Pedals Including Sostenuto
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Flexible Finance Options Available
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Part Exchange Welcome – Get Your Valuation
A Grand Beyond Measure. Experience the beauty of a genuine Yamaha grand piano, with the freedom to play through headphones whenever you choose.
The Yamaha GCB SH3 PE SILENT Baby Grand Piano combines the timeless elegance, responsive touch and rich acoustic sound of a Yamaha grand piano with the convenience of Yamaha's advanced SH3 SILENT Piano system. Finished in beautiful Polished Ebony and crafted at Yamaha's renowned Kakegawa factory in Japan, it offers a sophisticated grand piano experience designed for modern living.
The GCB is the newest and most compact member of Yamaha's prestigious GC Series, developed to bring authentic grand piano performance within reach of more players. Measuring just 151cm in depth, it combines an elegant, space-conscious design with construction inspired by Yamaha's celebrated C Series and GC Series instruments.
What makes the GCB SH3 PE SILENT especially appealing is its versatility. Enjoy the natural resonance and expressive character of the acoustic piano when you want to experience the instrument in its traditional form. When you need to practise without disturbing family members or neighbours, simply activate the SILENT function and play using headphones.
In SILENT mode, the piano's hammers are prevented from striking the strings, while the SH3 digital sound system reproduces the sound of a piano through headphones. You can enjoy the sampled sound of Yamaha's renowned CFX concert grand and the Bösendorfer Imperial, alongside a selection of additional instrument voices and digital features.
Whether you are an experienced pianist, a dedicated student or someone fulfilling a lifelong ambition to own a grand piano, the Yamaha GCB SH3 PE offers the best of two worlds: traditional acoustic grand piano playing and the flexibility of modern digital technology.
Graham Blackledge - Rimmers Music, The Piano People
Dimensions
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Height: 101cm
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Width: 147cm
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Depth: 151cm
Yamaha GCB SH3 PE SILENT: Key Features
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Authentic Yamaha acoustic grand piano: Traditional strings, hammers, soundboard and grand piano action provide a genuine acoustic playing experience.
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Yamaha SH3 SILENT Piano system: Switch to quiet playing with headphones whenever you need to practise privately.
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Two playing experiences: Enjoy the piano acoustically or use the integrated digital sound system in SILENT mode.
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Yamaha CFX and Bösendorfer Imperial piano sounds: Experience digitally sampled sounds of two renowned concert grand pianos when playing in SILENT mode.
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25 built-in instrument voices: Explore a selection of piano and other instrument sounds through the SH3 system.
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Binaural sampling: Provides a natural, immersive headphone experience with the CFX and Bösendorfer Imperial piano voices.
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Virtual Resonance Modeling (VRM): Recreates aspects of the complex resonance produced by strings, soundboard and piano body.
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Grand Expression Modeling: Helps reproduce the subtle changes in tone associated with expressive playing techniques.
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Quick Escape mechanism: Designed to preserve the natural feel and expressive response of the grand piano action when playing in SILENT mode.
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Recording facilities: Record performances using the built-in recording function and save audio recordings to USB flash memory.
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Digital connectivity: Supports compatible USB and audio connections, with Bluetooth audio connectivity available on the SH3 system.
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Compact five-foot design: Measures 151cm deep and 147cm wide.
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Crafted in Japan: Manufactured at Yamaha's Kakegawa factory.
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GC Series design heritage: Incorporates Yamaha's Tone Collector structure, laminated rim construction and carefully engineered soundboard design.
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Sliding music desk: Allows adjustment for comfortable sheet music positioning.
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Elegant Polished Ebony cabinet: A classic, high-gloss black finish that suits traditional and contemporary interiors.
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Three grand piano pedals: Damper, sostenuto and shift pedals.
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Soft-close fallboard: Helps the keyboard cover close gently.
The Best of Both Worlds: Acoustic Grand Piano and SILENT Playing
One of the biggest considerations when buying an acoustic piano is finding the right balance between enjoying its natural sound and having the flexibility to practise at different times of day.
The Yamaha GCB SH3 PE SILENT addresses this by combining a genuine acoustic grand piano with an integrated electronic sound system. Unlike a digital piano designed to imitate the feel of an acoustic instrument, the GCB remains a real grand piano, complete with strings, hammers, soundboard and traditional keyboard action.
When you play acoustically, the hammers strike the strings and the sound resonates naturally through the instrument's body. This gives you the distinctive tonal depth, dynamic range and physical playing experience that make owning a grand piano so rewarding.
When you want to play more quietly, activate the SILENT function. The piano's muting mechanism prevents the hammers from striking the strings, and the SH3 system produces the sound electronically through headphones.
This makes the GCB SH3 PE an attractive choice for households where playing time needs to fit around work, study, family routines or neighbours.
You can enjoy an expressive acoustic performance when circumstances allow, then switch to private headphone practice without needing a separate digital piano.
Yamaha SH3 SILENT Piano Technology
The integrated Yamaha SH3 system brings a range of digital playing features to the GCB without changing its fundamental identity as an acoustic grand piano.
The system is designed to preserve the playing experience while providing a separate digital sound source for quieter practice.
Play Through Headphones
With the SILENT function activated, you can hear your playing through headphones rather than producing the piano's normal acoustic sound.
This is particularly useful for evening practice, early morning sessions or situations where other people need peace and quiet.
The system also allows you to adjust the headphone listening volume to suit your preferences.
Yamaha CFX and Bösendorfer Imperial Piano Sounds
In SILENT mode, you can choose between the sampled sound of the Yamaha CFX concert grand and the Bösendorfer Imperial concert grand.
The Yamaha CFX is renowned for its clarity, projection and expressive range, while the Bösendorfer Imperial offers a distinctive alternative tonal character.
Having these two concert grand piano voices available provides a choice of sound for different musical styles and personal preferences.
The SH3 system also includes a range of additional instrument voices, allowing you to explore sounds beyond the acoustic piano when practising or experimenting with music.
Binaural Sampling for an Immersive Experience
Binaural sampling is designed to recreate the way a piano sounds to the player sitting at the keyboard.
For the CFX and Bösendorfer Imperial voices, Yamaha uses binaural sampling techniques to create a natural, three-dimensional headphone sound. This helps the sound feel as though it is coming from a piano in front of you, rather than simply being delivered through headphones.
The result is a more immersive listening experience, particularly during longer practice sessions.
Virtual Resonance Modeling
A piano's sound is influenced by much more than the individual string struck by a hammer. Other strings, the soundboard and the piano body all contribute to the complex resonances heard during performance.
Yamaha's Virtual Resonance Modeling (VRM) technology recreates aspects of these interactions digitally, helping the sound respond more naturally to the player's performance.
Combined with the sampled piano voices, VRM helps the SH3 system reproduce some of the complexity associated with an acoustic grand piano when playing in SILENT mode.
Grand Expression Modeling
The way a pianist touches the keys influences the character of every note. Subtle changes in articulation, dynamics and playing technique all contribute to musical expression.
Grand Expression Modeling is designed to reproduce tonal variations associated with expressive playing, helping the digital sound respond more naturally to the player's touch.
Together, the SH3 sound technologies provide a sophisticated headphone playing experience while leaving the piano available for traditional acoustic performance whenever you choose.
Quick Escape Mechanism: Preserving the Grand Piano Touch
An important consideration in any silent grand piano is how the muting mechanism affects the feel of the keyboard.
The Yamaha GCB SH3 PE uses Yamaha's Quick Escape mechanism, designed specifically to help preserve the playing characteristics and expressive response expected from a grand piano when the instrument is used in SILENT mode.
When the SILENT function is activated, the mechanism stops the hammers just before they strike the strings. Yamaha's Quick Escape design helps maintain the appropriate relationship between the hammers and strings so that the playing feel remains as natural as possible.
This is particularly important for pianists who value the sensitivity of an acoustic grand piano action and do not want to compromise their technique when practising privately.
The GCB's underlying grand piano action is designed for expressive control, while the SH3 system provides an additional way to enjoy playing at home.
Important technical note: Yamaha's GCB sales manual specifies that hammer sensors are not included on the GCB SILENT Piano model. The listing therefore does not claim hammer-sensor functionality for this particular piano.
Crafted at Yamaha's Kakegawa Factory in Japan
The Yamaha GCB is manufactured at Yamaha's Kakegawa factory in Japan, a centre of the company's grand piano production that combines generations of piano-making expertise with modern precision manufacturing.
The GCB draws on the design philosophy of Yamaha's C Series and GC Series grand pianos. These instruments are built around the principle that the soundboard, frame, rim, strings and action must work together to translate the player's touch into a rich, expressive sound.
Yamaha combines carefully selected and seasoned materials with precision-engineered components and detailed finishing work. Skilled craftspeople regulate and voice the piano to help achieve a balanced tonal character and responsive playing feel.
The result is a grand piano designed to provide the traditional acoustic experience that players expect from Yamaha, alongside the additional versatility of the SH3 system.
Tone Collector Construction for Rich Resonance
The Yamaha GCB incorporates a Tone Collector structure designed to help transfer string vibrations efficiently throughout the piano body.
The back posts, back frame and iron frame form part of an integrated structure that supports the movement of vibrations through the instrument. This provides a foundation for the resonance, sustain and tonal character associated with Yamaha grand pianos.
The GCB also uses a laminated rim construction based on Yamaha's GC and CX Series design principles. The thicker wood laminations are intended to provide structural rigidity while allowing the instrument to resonate efficiently.
At Yamaha's Kakegawa factory, the soundboard is carefully fitted to the piano body to support efficient vibration transfer.
These construction details matter because the GCB is designed to provide a satisfying acoustic grand piano experience despite its compact dimensions. The SILENT system adds flexibility, but the acoustic piano remains central to the instrument.
Responsive Yamaha Action and Expressive Playing
The GCB features a Yamaha-manufactured C1X-type action designed to provide natural control, consistent response and expressive playing.
A grand piano's action translates the movement of the keys into the movement of the hammers. Its responsiveness helps the pianist control dynamics, articulation and the subtle differences between delicate and more powerful playing.
At Yamaha's Kakegawa factory, skilled artisans regulate the action and voice the piano. Regulation involves carefully adjusting the action components, while voicing includes working with the hammer felt to refine the piano's tonal character.
These processes help achieve a balanced response across the keyboard and provide a playing experience designed to reward developing musicians and experienced pianists alike.
The SH3 system adds headphone playing without replacing the acoustic action with a digital keyboard mechanism. This means you can enjoy the traditional character of the grand piano while gaining the flexibility of modern silent technology.
Elegant Polished Ebony Cabinet
The Yamaha GCB SH3 PE is finished in Polished Ebony, providing a classic high-gloss black appearance that has long been associated with grand pianos.
Its flowing cabinet lines and elegant proportions give the instrument a refined presence, making it a natural centrepiece for a music room or living space.
Despite its compact footprint, the GCB retains the appearance of a traditional Yamaha grand piano. The cabinet's proportions follow the design approach used in Yamaha's larger GC1 and GC2 models.
The sliding music desk can be adjusted to suit the player's preferred position, helping improve score visibility and support a comfortable playing posture.
The soft-close fallboard provides a practical finishing touch, allowing the keyboard cover to close gently.
The SH3 controls are integrated into the piano so that the additional digital functionality complements the traditional appearance rather than taking away from the elegance of the instrument.
Compact Dimensions for the Home
The Yamaha GCB has been developed to make grand piano ownership more practical for homes where space is an important consideration.
Its dimensions are:
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Height: 101cm
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Width: 147cm
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Depth: 151cm
This compact footprint makes the GCB worth considering for rooms where a larger grand piano may not be suitable.
When planning your purchase, remember to allow additional space for the piano bench, the pianist and comfortable movement around the instrument. Access through doorways, hallways and staircases should also be checked before delivery.
The GCB SH3 PE combines these space-conscious dimensions with the flexibility of headphone practice, making it a particularly versatile option for modern homes.
Three Traditional Grand Piano Pedals
The Yamaha GCB SH3 PE retains the three pedals specified for the GCB grand piano.
Damper pedal: Allows the strings to continue resonating after the keys are released, creating sustain and helping notes blend together musically.
Sostenuto pedal: Sustains selected notes while allowing other notes played afterwards to remain unaffected, supporting more advanced pedalling techniques.
Shift pedal: Alters the piano's response and tonal character when depressed, allowing the pianist to achieve a softer, more delicate sound.
These pedals provide the traditional control and flexibility expected from an acoustic grand piano.
Recording, Connectivity and Additional Digital Features
The Yamaha SH3 system offers more than quiet practice. Its additional features can support learning, musical exploration and performance review.
Record Your Playing
The built-in recording function allows you to record a performance and listen back to it. This can be useful when working on a particular passage, checking your timing or monitoring progress over time.
The system also supports recording audio to a USB flash drive in WAV format, allowing recordings to be transferred to a compatible computer for playback and review.
Additional Instrument Voices
Alongside the CFX and Bösendorfer Imperial piano sounds, the SH3 system provides a selection of other instrument voices. These include sounds such as electric piano, harpsichord and organ, offering further possibilities for musical exploration.
The system specifies 25 preset instrument voices, with additional voices available for song playback.
Rhythm Patterns
The SH3 system includes 20 rhythm patterns that can provide accompaniment while you play. These can add variety to practice and make exploring different musical styles more engaging.
Digital Connections
The SH3 system supports compatible USB connectivity, Bluetooth audio and stereo audio connections. These facilities can help you integrate the system with suitable external devices.
For example, Bluetooth audio can be used to listen to audio from a compatible device through the connected headphone setup, subject to the system's supported functions.
The system also provides USB recording and compatible digital connections for broader use.
Smart Pianist App Compatibility
Yamaha's Smart Pianist app is supported by the SH3 system. With a compatible smart device, the app can provide an alternative way to access supported functions and manage aspects of the digital playing experience.
Compatibility and available functions may depend on the connected device and software version.
Built for Long-Term Performance
Yamaha places considerable emphasis on the materials and manufacturing processes used in its acoustic pianos.
Wood seasoning is particularly important because changes in moisture content can affect the stability of wooden components. Yamaha combines natural drying with controlled artificial seasoning to help stabilise the wood and support reliable performance.
The GCB also benefits from precision-manufactured Yamaha components and a frame produced using Yamaha's V-Pro casting technology. Yamaha manufactures its own tuning pins, and the precision of these components supports tuning retention.
As with any acoustic piano, long-term performance depends partly on the environment and ongoing maintenance. Appropriate positioning, stable indoor conditions and regular professional tuning will help you get the best from your instrument.
The SH3 system adds digital functionality, but the piano remains a substantial acoustic instrument that benefits from proper care and maintenance.
Yamaha GCB SH3 PE SILENT Full Specifications
General
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Brand: Yamaha
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Model: GCB SH3 PE
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Product name: Yamaha GCB SH3 PE SILENT Baby Grand Piano
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Series: Yamaha GC Series
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Instrument type: Acoustic baby grand piano with integrated SILENT Piano system
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Finish: Polished Ebony
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Country of manufacture: Japan
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Manufacturing facility: Yamaha Kakegawa factory
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SILENT system: Yamaha SH3
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Material code: VJU6480
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EAN: 4957812731867
Dimensions
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Height: 101cm
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Width: 147cm
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Depth: 151cm
Weight
Keyboard
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Number of keys: 88
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Keyboard range: 7¼ octaves
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White key surfaces: Acrylic resin
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Black key surfaces: Phenolic resin
Acoustic action and construction
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Action: Yamaha-manufactured C1X-type action
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Hammer design: Specially designed for the GCB
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Soundboard material: Sitka / European spruce
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Soundboard construction: Solid soundboard
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Soundboard ribs: Spruce
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Bass bridge: Overhanging construction
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Aliquot system: Yes
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Duplex scaling: Front duplex scaling
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Agraffes: Yes
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Plain strings: Japanese-made
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Bass strings: Kakegawa-made, machine-wound
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Back beams: Three, incorporating the Tone Collector structure
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Frame: Yamaha V-Pro casting technology
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Rim: Laminated construction based on GC/CX Series design principles
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Tuning pins: Yamaha-made
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Inner rim drying process: Regular seasoning process
Cabinet and fittings
Pedals
Yamaha SH3 SILENT Piano system
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Playing modes: Acoustic and SILENT
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Muting mechanism: Motorised muting system
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Grand piano mechanism: Quick Escape
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Sound generation: Digital piano sound system
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Maximum polyphony: 256 notes
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Preset instrument voices: 25
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Concert grand piano sounds: Yamaha CFX and Bösendorfer Imperial
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Binaural sampling: Yes, for the specified CFX and Bösendorfer Imperial voices
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Virtual Resonance Modeling (VRM): Yes
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Grand Expression Modeling: Yes
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Key-off samples: Yes
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Smooth Release: Yes
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Effects: Reverb and other supported sound-processing functions
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Rhythm patterns: 20
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Song playback voices: 480 XG voices plus 12 drum/SFX kits
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Recording: Built-in recording and USB audio recording
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USB audio recording format: WAV
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Digital song format support: Standard MIDI, subject to system compatibility
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Connectivity: USB TO HOST, Bluetooth audio, stereo audio input and balanced stereo audio output
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Headphone connections: Two mini-stereo headphone connections
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App compatibility: Yamaha Smart Pianist
Important model-specific note: Yamaha's GCB sales manual states that hammer sensors are not included on the GCB SILENT Piano model. The SH3 features above describe the system's documented capabilities, with this model-specific exception retained.
Why Buy Your Yamaha GCB SH3 PE from Rimmers Music?
At Rimmers Music, we understand that choosing a grand piano is an important decision. You are investing in a musical instrument that can become a valued part of your home for many years.
Our specialist piano team can help you explore the Yamaha GCB SH3 PE, understand the differences between acoustic and SILENT playing, and consider whether this model is right for your home and musical needs.
We aim to make buying your piano as straightforward as possible, whether you prefer to order online or speak to our team for assistance.
Why choose Rimmers Music?
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Specialist knowledge of acoustic and digital pianos.
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A dedicated piano retail business established in 1978.
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Help comparing suitable Yamaha piano models.
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Assistance understanding acoustic and SILENT Piano functionality.
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Support with product information and purchase enquiries.
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The convenience of shopping online through the Rimmers Music website.
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The opportunity to contact our team for advice before placing your order.
For help with your Yamaha GCB SH3 PE SILENT purchase, contact Rimmers Music on 01772 622111 or visit https://www.rimmersmusic.co.uk/.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Yamaha GCB SH3 PE SILENT Baby Grand Piano?
The Yamaha GCB SH3 PE SILENT is an acoustic baby grand piano finished in Polished Ebony, with Yamaha's integrated SH3 SILENT Piano system. It combines traditional grand piano performance with the option to play privately through headphones.
Can I play the Yamaha GCB SH3 PE acoustically?
Yes. The instrument is a genuine acoustic grand piano and can be played in its normal acoustic mode, producing sound from its strings, soundboard and resonant body.
How does the SILENT function work?
When you activate SILENT mode, a motorised muting mechanism prevents the hammers from striking the strings. The SH3 system then produces a digital piano sound through headphones, allowing you to practise without the normal acoustic sound of the piano.
Can I use headphones at any time of day?
Yes. The SILENT function is designed for quiet practice, making it useful for evening playing, early mornings and situations where you need to be considerate of family members or neighbours.
Remember that while the piano's acoustic sound is muted, some mechanical noise from the keys and action may still be audible nearby.
Which piano sounds are available in SILENT mode?
The system includes sampled sounds of the Yamaha CFX concert grand and Bösendorfer Imperial concert grand, together with additional instrument voices such as electric piano, harpsichord and organ.
Does the Yamaha GCB SH3 PE have a realistic headphone sound?
The SH3 system includes binaural sampling for the CFX and Bösendorfer Imperial voices. This is designed to recreate a natural, three-dimensional listening experience that makes the sound feel as though it is coming from a piano in front of you.
Does the SILENT system change the feel of the keyboard?
The GCB retains its Yamaha grand piano action. The SH3 system uses Yamaha's Quick Escape mechanism to help preserve the natural playing feel when the hammers are prevented from striking the strings.
Does the GCB SH3 PE have hammer sensors?
Yamaha's GCB sales manual specifically states that hammer sensors are not included on the GCB SILENT Piano model. This listing therefore does not claim that hammer-sensor functionality is present on this instrument.
Can I record my playing?
Yes. The SH3 system provides a built-in recording function and supports audio recording to USB flash memory in WAV format. This allows you to listen back to performances and review your playing.
Can I connect the piano to other devices?
The SH3 system supports compatible USB connections, Bluetooth audio and stereo audio connections. It also supports Yamaha's Smart Pianist app. The exact functions available depend on the device and connection being used.
What are the dimensions of the Yamaha GCB SH3 PE?
The piano measures 101cm high, 147cm wide and 151cm deep. Allow additional room for the bench, the pianist and comfortable access around the instrument.
Where is the Yamaha GCB SH3 PE manufactured?
The GCB is manufactured at Yamaha's Kakegawa factory in Japan, using Yamaha's grand piano design principles and production expertise.
Is the Yamaha GCB SH3 PE suitable for beginners?
It can be suitable for developing pianists, experienced players and hobbyists. The responsive grand piano action supports musical development, while the SILENT system provides flexibility for private practice.
What is the difference between the Yamaha GCB PE and the GCB SH3 PE?
The standard GCB PE is the acoustic Polished Ebony model. The GCB SH3 PE adds Yamaha's integrated SILENT Piano system, allowing the player to switch between acoustic playing and headphone practice, with additional digital sounds, recording and connectivity.
Is the Yamaha GCB SH3 PE the same as the Disklavier model?
No. The GCB SH3 PE is the SILENT Piano version, designed for quiet playing through headphones. Yamaha also offers a separate Disklavier ENSPIRE Standard model with automated performance capabilities. They are different versions of the GCB range.
How should I care for my Yamaha GCB SH3 PE?
Keep the piano in a suitable indoor environment away from direct heat sources and significant changes in temperature or humidity. Arrange regular professional tuning and maintenance. Because it is a substantial instrument, relocation should be carried out by experienced piano movers.
Can I buy the Yamaha GCB SH3 PE online?
You can purchase through the Rimmers Music website, subject to availability. If you need further information before ordering, contact our piano team for assistance.
Discover the Yamaha GCB SH3 PE SILENT at Rimmers Music
The Yamaha GCB SH3 PE SILENT Baby Grand Piano brings together traditional grand piano craftsmanship and the flexibility of modern headphone technology.
Its elegant Polished Ebony cabinet, compact dimensions, responsive Yamaha action and Tone Collector construction provide the foundations of an authentic acoustic grand piano. The integrated SH3 system adds the freedom to practise quietly, explore alternative instrument sounds and record your performances.
For pianists who want the experience of owning a genuine Yamaha grand piano without being limited to acoustic playing at all times, the GCB SH3 PE is a compelling option.
Discover the Yamaha GCB SH3 PE SILENT at Rimmers Music and enjoy the freedom to play your way.
