Yamaha vs Roland vs Korg Sustain Pedals: A Detailed Review

Choosing the right sustain pedal can significantly impact your playing experience. This review compares four popular options: Yamaha, Roland, Korg, and unbranded sustain pedals, offering a detailed analysis of their strengths and weaknesses. We'll delve into build quality, cable length, compatibility, and overall durability to help you make an informed decision. Whether you prioritize portability, cable length, or budget-friendliness, this comparison will guide you toward selecting the ideal sustain pedal for your needs and playing style.This in-depth review examines each pedal's design, construction, and functionality. We'll explore the pros and cons of each brand, considering factors like portability, cable length, and compatibility issues. Discover which pedal boasts superior build quality, which offers the most flexible cable, and which might require more frequent repairs. Ultimately, our aim is to help you choose a sustain pedal that enhances your musical experience and provides reliable performance for years to come, balancing initial cost with long-term value.

Pros And Cons

Read more: 5 Best Piano Pedals for Your Digital Piano

Yamaha Sustain Pedal: Slim, Durable Design

The Yamaha sustain pedal stands out for its remarkably thin profile, a feature I personally appreciate. This slim design doesn't compromise durability; it's a robust pedal that has held up well over time. I acquired mine as a free gift with a Yamaha P125 purchase, further highlighting its value.

Its compact nature makes it ideal for players who prioritize portability or prefer a less bulky pedal. The build quality feels solid, ensuring it can withstand frequent use without issues.

Roland Sustain Pedal: Durability and Long Cable

In contrast to the Yamaha, the Roland pedal is noticeably thicker and more substantial. Despite its bulkier design, it remains surprisingly durable. The key advantage here is the significantly longer cable length, providing more flexibility in placement.

While the added bulk might be a drawback for some, the long cable is a considerable asset, particularly for those who use a keyboard setup with the pedal positioned further away.

Korg Sustain Pedal: Repair Issues and Reverse Polarity

My Korg sustain pedal has unfortunately required repairs in the past, primarily due to a less durable cable and a faulty contact strip. This indicates a lower build quality compared to the Yamaha and Roland.

A more significant issue is the reverse polarity. While it functions correctly with some keyboards (like Casio), it's incompatible with others (Yamaha, Roland). This means the sustain action might be reversed, causing unexpected behavior.

No-Brand/Stencil Pedals: Budget Option with Caveats

These inexpensive, unbranded pedals are readily available online at extremely low prices (around $5-10). While tempting due to their cost, they typically lack the durability and quality of the name brands.

They often come with issues like unreliable wiring, easily damaged mechanisms, and potentially poor contact. This could lead to frequent repairs or complete failure. While they might function initially, the long-term reliability is questionable.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Sustain Pedal

For optimal durability and compatibility, the Yamaha and Roland sustain pedals are top contenders. The Yamaha excels with its slim design and solid build, while the Roland offers a longer cable. However, neither is universally compatible with all keyboard brands.

Korg pedals, despite their affordability, suffer from quality issues and polarity problems. Unbranded options might seem attractive due to their low price, but ultimately lack longevity and reliability. Consider the long-term cost versus initial savings. Prioritize a durable pedal for a more satisfying playing experience.