Yamaha Pedal Unit LP-5A

What is the LP-5A?

The LP-5A is a three-pedal unit designed to attach to Yamaha’s P-series portable digital pianos (e.g. P-145, P-223, P-115, P-105 etc.).

The three pedals are:

• Sustain (damper) – the right pedal: lets notes ring after you release the keys.

• Sostenuto – the middle pedal: sustains only notes held down when the pedal is pressed.

• Soft (una corda-type) – the left pedal: softens/lowers volume / changes timbre, like in acoustic pianos.

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What are the Benefits?

The LP-5A is considered a strong accessory, especially compared to simpler one-pedal / two-pedal units or using no pedals at all.

1. Full expressive control
   With three pedals, you get all the main expressive tools of an acoustic grand piano: sustain, sostenuto, soft. For serious piano playing (classical, jazz, expressive pop etc.), this gives much more control over dynamics, phrasing, and subtlety.

2. Half-pedal support on sustain
   The ability to partially depress the sustain pedal (“half pedaling”) allows more nuanced control over how long the sustain kicks in / how much resonance. That’s especially important for pieces where pedal timing and resonance are part of the art. Without this, the sustain is “on/off,” which limits expressiveness.

3. Better feel and realism
   Using a proper three-pedal board gives a more realistic playing experience, closer to acoustic pianos. For piano students, or anyone wanting to keep good technique, it’s much more satisfying. It makes dynamic control, control of tone colour, etc. more possible.

4. Secure, stable setup
   The LP-5A bolts to Yamaha’s matching stand models (L-100B, etc.), so the pedals are stable and don’t shift. This matters, because unstable pedals interfere with performance and feel.

5. Value
   It’s a relatively affordable accessory compared to buying higher-end digital pianos with built-in three-pedal consoles. If you already have a P-series instrument or plan to get one, adding the LP-5A gives you a lot of added functionality without having to jump to a much more expensive piano. Also, for many users, once you have the full three pedals you don’t feel limited.

6. Improvement in performance repertoire
   Some pieces require or are greatly enhanced by the use of sostenuto or soft pedal (e.g. classical works, romantic piano literature). The LP-5A allows you to genuinely use those, which broadens what repertoire you can play well.

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Some limitations to consider

To be balanced, here are some drawbacks or things to check if you consider the LP-5A:

• Cost and added bulk: It’s an extra accessory. The unit is about 6 kg and adds to the setup dimensions. If you frequently move the piano or need to travel light, that might matter.

• Plastic in construction: Some users report that parts are plastic, and over time with heavy use (especially the sustain pedal) wear may show. That said, often acceptable for expected usage.

• Pedal feel / resistance: Though good, perhaps not as “heavy” or as premium-touch as the pedal mechanisms on high-end stage pianos or acoustic grand pedals. Some find the feel different / less refined underfoot.

• Compatibility with stand: To use properly in a stable way you need an appropriate stand (so the pedals are at the correct height and angle). The stand might be extra cost. If you don’t bolt it properly, pedal placement or stability may be compromised.

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Who benefits most from using LP-5A

Putting all that together, the LP-5A is especially beneficial for:

• Piano students who want the full suite of pedals for classical pieces and technique.

• Intermediate or advanced players who care about expressive nuance (pedal timing, soft pedal colour, etc.).

• Players who already own or plan to own Yamaha P-series digital pianos and want to enhance them without buying a bigger model.

• Those who perform live or record and want improved dynamics / sound control.

• Anyone moving towards more serious repertoire where the sostenuto / soft pedal matters (Romantic, Impressionistic, etc.).