Yamaha PKBB1 Adjustable Padded Keyboard X-Style Bench
$44.99 in stock
7 used from $40.02
The Piano Dad’s Review
One of Yamaha’s top selling piano benches, the PKBB1 is more of a stool really.
It is smaller than a full-size bench. Because it is smaller though, it folds, is very lightweight, and is easy to take with you about anywhere.
Firm But Comfortable Seat
The seat is about 17″ long and 12″ wide which is only big enough to be a single seater.
The cushion is made of 2″” of firm, dense foam padding and is covered by a thick and durable vinyl covering. It does have a leather like grain and appearance.
What about comfort?
Well, that depends on your preference. Many online reviewers enthusiastically stated how comfortable it is and that they sat on it for hours. But, others acted like they were sitting on a brick.
So, if you prefer firmer seats, you are probably going to like this one.
Three Height Adjustments
Using a slide pin and adjustable screws with knobs, you can quickly and easily set the height of the bench.
There are three settings. The low setting is around 18″, the standard setting is about 19.5″, and the tallest setting is about 21″.
That way, you can customize the height to fit your leg length or piano height for comfort. And, of course, sitting at the proper height will affect your piano playing as well.
Almost No Assembly
There is next to no assembly to be done when you get it.
Carefully unbox it, then flip up the leg. You’ll secure the leg with an adjustable screw that has a large knob on it. This will literally only take seconds to do.
Need to transport it? Just loosen the knob and fold it!
Quality
Online reviewers are also a little across the board on quality too.
The issue seems to be around whether or not Yamaha actually makes it. Several people thought they were getting scammed because the product in the box did not say “Yamaha” on it. So, I researched the matter. Yamaha does claim the product on their website, so it is theirs.
Here is what is going on. Many companies buy products from other manufacturers and have the maker put their name on it. This is called private label manufacturing. It is a common practice in tons of industries.
So, yes, this product is made in China in a factory not owned by Yamaha.
It will not have Yamaha’s name on it specifically when you get it. But they do represent the product and aren’t going to put their name on anything bad. Don’t like products from overseas? Choose another bench.
Other than that, there aren’t many consistent complaints. A few have stated the rubber caps on the feet have come off. A few more have complained that it wobbles a little too.
But, there aren’t any glaring quality concerns out there.
Review Summary
Yamaha Adjustable Padded Keyboard Bench (PKBB1)
Pros:
- Portable, folding piano stool
- Good for traveling musicians
- Three height settings
- Almost no assembly
Cons:
- Some say seat is too firm
Final Thoughts
The Yamaha PKBB1 is an adequate, lightweight, portable piano bench. It is easy to fold, unfold, and travel with. But, it is a basic, sub $30 product so keep that in mind.
Given its strengths, this might be one of the best piano benches for traveling musicians with portable keyboards or synthesizers. It’s not a bad choice for people who want a budget bench for home use too.
Do you have any experience with this piano bench? Leave your own review below!
Hello! My Name is Scott and I am the Piano Dad! I started taking piano lessons as an adult to spend time with my 8 year old daughter and love every minute of it. I created this site to help other pianists learn more about playing piano as an adult. Hope you enjoy and learn a little something!