Yamaha Ym 4900a

Historical Context and Positioning Within the Range

Part of a professional range developed from feedback by top musicians, this marimba continues a demanding craftsmanship tradition inspired by experience gained around a benchmark "Grand Concert" model (YM6000). The goal is clear: to offer a concert instrument with a fiery timbre, stable tuning, and modern ergonomics, without compromising on build quality.

Who This Marimba Is For

This marimba is aimed at intermediate to professional percussionists seeking an extended range and an instrument capable of meeting repertoire demands. It is perfectly suited for conservatory, orchestra, percussion ensemble, and contemporary music settings, while remaining highly relevant for music schools thanks to its quick height adjustment. Its response and projection make it comfortable both in concert halls and studios.

Features and Innovations

The highlight of this model lies in its height adjustment system : a gas-compressed spring allows for smooth, fast, and secure adjustment by a single person. This is a decisive advantage when multiple musicians share the same instrument (lessons, auditions, rehearsals). The frame is also designed for mobility: fully detachable, it simplifies transport and setup while maintaining stability suited to dynamic playing, fast passages, and subtle nuances.

Sound

The Honduras rosewood bars provide a sought-after sonic signature for marimbists: a very musical harmonic warmth, a clear but never aggressive attack, and a sustain that remains clear even in dense passages. This type of wood favors a wide expressive palette, useful both for virtuosic runs and singing melodic lines.

The work on the resonators directly contributes to projection and balance across registers. The presence of a Helmholtz resonator on the low F reinforces the foundation in the lower spectrum, while the rectangular design with rounded edges from F# to C# supports clarity and consistent response. The result: a marimba with ample bass, balanced midrange, and precise treble, with intonation designed for concert use.

Technical specifications

Number of blades	56	Material	rosewood
Number of octaves	4	Accessories included	Cover
Category	orchestra

Range	F-C4, 4.5 octaves	Height adjustment system	gas-compressed spring, easy and quick adjustment by one person
Tuning	A=442 Hz (other tunings available on special order)	Frame	fully and easily detachable for simplified transport
Bar width	65-41 mm	Dimensions (L x W)	235 x 96 cm
Bar thickness	24-20 mm	Weight	78 kg
Type	Helmholtz on low F