Yamaha U3H (used) or Wendl & Lung 122 Universal (new) upright ?

We've written this page to help you decide which piano to choose between these two pianos, which many musicians regard as the best uprights available under £4000. We've sold over 100 Yamaha U3H and about 30 Wendl and Lung 122 upright pianos, and regard them both as an excellent choice. NB since 2011 Wendl & Lung have amalgamated with Feurich and now use that name.

Yamaha U3H upright	Wendl and Lung univesal 122 upright
RRP £3000 - 3500 when precisely reconditioned	RRP £3300 - 3450 NEW
Dimensions: 130 high x 154 long x 65 deep	Dimensions: 122 high x 152 long x 60 deep. Smaller than the U3 but with the same quality .
Maximum bass string length 120.6cm, tenor 92cm The U3H sounds strong in the bass but improves greatly when fitted with top quality German bass strings (cost about £650 inc fitting).	Maximum bass string length 120cm, tenor 91cm. Almost the same string length as the U3, since the strings have a greater angle across the piano. Deep rich and even bass and excellent break point.
Good quality hammers; as they have been played for some years, they are very even, but without refacing they are softer in tone. This is frequently preferred by musicians as the sound is more classical.	Well toned with clear bright sound, but not played in. They are already excellent and will become more even toned over the years.
Book holders difficult to fit: Used by most musicians,these can be fitted but there is a risk of damaging the music desk as it is plastic, too thin and brittle.	Book holders: These can be fitted for £35 extra, as the desk is much thicker. Modern pianos are not fitted with book holders because of the risk of damaging the polish, so if fitted take care to make sure they are folded sideways before closing the lid.
Celeste (practice felt) fitted with wing nut for removal when tuning; a bit awkward.	Celeste just slots in; this removes in an instant and is the best design so far on any upright.
Hinged top lid; if any water gets on the top of the piano and goes down the hinge it will seriously damage the dampers.	One-piece top lid; more sensible design, though must have enough space above the piano to open upwards for tuning.
CONCLUSION: The most popular musician's upright ever; highly recommended both for touch, tone and stability.	CONCLUSION: A piano of great integrity, at least equal to the Yamaha U3H. New pianos not so well played in as the U3H but with an excellent touch and tone and are very stable.

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