Yamaha Digital Pianos
Find some of the best deals on the web for Yamaha digital pianos. See all the latest models from the CLP and CVP Clavinova range, stage pianos
and the YDP pianos. You can also check out comparisons and reviews from other users on this site.
Need Advice on Yamaha Digital Pianos?...

"The most important thing you need from a digital piano when you're learning is a realistic touch. A good piano sound and a
minimum of 4 touch sensitivity levels (pp, mp, mf and f) are also important. Other factors such as: dimensions, weight,
colour, 'bells and whistles', shouldn't really be a deciding factor in your purchase", Graham Howard, Piano Advisor and
Author
If you need any advice on digital pianos you can either send an email to grahamhoward ukpianos.co.uk, call 020 8367 2080, or click on the link below to chat online...
Find out how Yamaha digital pianos compare against all other makes in my
latest report: "7 Things You MUST Know Before You Buy A Digital Piano".
Click here
to claim your free
copy!
Useful Resources
1) Click here to read the report: "Which Digital Piano To Buy" by piano advisor, Graham
Howard
2) Check out the 'ever expanding' piano questions
section on this
site.
3) The world's first and only dedicated digital piano forum. Check it out here
4) Click here to read the
report: "7 Things You MUST Know Before You Buy A Digital Piano"
UK Pianos Shop, Enfield, North London - Telephone: 020 8367
2080
... Upright and digital pianos for sale | New & used | Piano rental | Piano
lessons
|
Have You Heard Of Piano Rental?
Not sure if your child will take to playing the piano?
Are you worried about the initial investment?...
Then check out our 'rent-to-own' programme!
Click here for details.
|

Interest free finance available on selected digital pianos. Click
here to see the range.
Yamaha are famous for producing some of the world's best digital pianos. They call them Yamaha Clavinova. Read more below.
Buy or Sell a secondhand Yamaha digital piano in the Market Place.
What makes Yamaha digital pianos better than the rest?
Yamaha spent a fortune in developing their Clavinova digital pianos. They believe that a digital piano
should sound and feel like playing a real piano and this must be achieved at all cost. The piano sound on the Yamaha digital pianos is
taken from their own concert grand piano. The reproduction is quite incredible.
Also if you listen closely to the different musical instrument sounds such as strings, guitar, organ etc. you
will find that they sound remarkably like the real instruments. Lately, they have invested in the technology side of the digital piano,
introducing smart media and lots of other useful features that can be used in connection with the internet and personal
computers.
Portable Stage Pianos
Another type of digital piano is the Yamaha stage pianos, they are portable versions of the Yamaha CLP and Yamaha
CVP Clavinovas.
The advantage of having a Yamaha stage piano is the portability aspect, but there is a downside; you will need to buy a decent amplifier if you
want to get a good sound. Yamaha stage pianos are great value for money but they are up against the likes of Roland and Korg who really excel in this area.
|
Question of the
month
Hello Graham.
I was searching in the internet some information about digital pianos, and found
your website. I'm thinking about learning piano, so I alredy have all the information
about classes. But the major problem is... I need a piano!
I don't have too much space in my apartment for a upright or a grand piano, and as
I'm starting now with the lessons, I don't want the best piano of all, neither an
expensive one. I just something reliable that allows me to practice at home. The
advise some friends that play gave has no matter the brand of the piano, ensure
it has "heavy" keys, more similar to the piano in which I take the classes.
Through out my search, I found 3 pianos in the range of price that want to spend:
Classenti CDP1, ARIUS Yamaha YDP 141, and Yamanha S31. I was planning to buy
the Yamaha YDP 141, but then found some reviews claiming the keys where noisy
and that the GHS keyboard wasn't that good. After that I found the Classenti in
your website and it seemed quite good.
So, my question is..... which of them do you think is best?
Best Regards, Marta
Reply/ Hi Marta
The Yamaha YDPS31 and YDP141 are both very basic pianos... Their key touch is
not as heavy as the Classenti CDP1 or Yamaha's CLP range. The speakers on the
YDP141 are also very small (only 2 x 6 watts). This results in a thin, tinny sound.
The Classenti CDP1 would be a far better choice.
With the CDP1 you get a cleaner, more resonant sound. This is because of the
superior sound sampling, the larger speakers (2 x 15 watts), and the position of
the speakers.
But the most important aspect of the Classenti CDP1 is the heavy-weighted touch...
It feels very close to playing a real piano. And the 4 levels of sensitivity allow you
to play over a wide range of dynamics.
Yours pianistically,
Graham Howard
|
|
Get a FREE 5 part mini piano course... You will learn how to read the notes on the
piano, the music alphabet, basic rhythm, simple chords, correct sitting postions, hand positions and fingering. You will
also get tips on how to train your ear so you can play along to any song on the radio, and much more. Check out the free piano lessons here.
|
Click here to read the report 'which digital piano to buy' by piano advisor, Graham Howard
Further Reading 7 Things You MUST Know Before You Buy A Digital Piano
Should I Buy a Digital Piano or an Upright
Piano?
|
"As usual, UK Pianos offered a caring service with good advice before the purchase,
and delivery happened exactly when planned"
John Chandler, Colchester,
UK
|
All Yamaha digital pianos bought through ukpianos.co.uk come with a 3 year 'on-site'
warranty...
This means a technician will repair your piano in your home.
You won't have to send it anywhere.
Yamaha YDP Pianos
The Yamaha YDP models are basic pianos designed exclusively for beginners.

Yamaha YDP-S31
The most basic Yamaha piano you can buy. It's really a cut down version of the YDP140 with a cheaper keyboard action. The sound is reasonable,
but the keys are too springy resulting in a false feel. Recommended for beginners on a tight budget that want the Yamaha name, and warranty
behind them. Read more.
Yamaha YDP141 (Arius)
The Yamaha YDP141 is Yamaha's most popular piano for beginners. A very good sound for a beginner model. The touch could be
firmer. The speakers are only 2 x 6 watts each resulting in a rather quite piano sound. You have to turn the volume up to maximum to really enjoy
it. Read more.

Yamaha YDP160 (Arius)
More power than the YDP140. Top of the YDP range. Great sound, touch and looks. Read more.
Yamaha YDP161 (Arius)
Similar to the CLP320, but not as good a sound, and less polyphony. Read more

Yamaha YDP-V240 (Arius)
Top of the Yamaha Arius range. The YDP-V240 is a multi-functional, versatile piano. A cheaper alternative to Yamaha's CVP range.
Read more
Start by reading this first: 'Which digital piano brand should I buy?'
Yamaha Clavinova (CLP Series)
The Yamaha CLP models are designed to sound and feel like real pianos

Yamaha CLP320
Costing two or three hundred pounds more than the YDP140, the CLP320 is well worth it! You not only get a superb piano
sound but a firm, even touch as well. Read more
  
Yamaha CLP330
Read more

Yamaha CLP340
Read more

Yamaha CLP370
Read more
Yamaha CLP380
Read more

Yamaha CLP-S306 PE
The difference between ths CLP-S306 and the CLP-S308 is in the keys. The CLP-S306 has plastic keys, the CLP-S308 has plastic keys with wooden
sides. Is it really worth the extra money? Read more

Yamaha CLP-S308 PE
Oh it not only plays similar to a real piano... it also LOOKS like one too! Read more
Yamaha Clavinova (CVP Series)
The Yamaha CVP models are primarily function pianos and offer incredible possibilities

Yamaha CVP409 GP Grand Piano
Top of Yamaha's CVP range in a baby grand cabinet. Read more
Yamaha CLP-F01
Yamaha CLP-F01
Fabulous looking digital pianos for the modern home. The Yamaha CLP-F01 pianos are not just looks, the sound and touch are almost
identical to an acoustic piano.
Start by reading this first: 'Which digital piano brand should I
buy?'
Yamaha Stage Pianos (P Series)
The Yamaha stage pianos don't produce as good a sound as the Clavinovas, but are ideal for
gigging
Yamaha P85
The good news is the price is less than its predecessor (P70). The bad news... the quality has gone down. It doesn't have as much volume,
and the touch is not as solid. The biggest problem of all is the piano's bottom: It's rounded which makes it almost impossible
to sit firmly on most keyboard stands. Read more.
Yamaha P85S
Don't like black? The P85 is also available in an attractive looking silver colour (P85S). Read more

Yamaha P95
Latest model replaces the P85. Read more

Yamaha P155
The P155 replaces the popular P140. This stage piano is one of the best on the market. Ideal for gigs. Read
more

Yamaha's top end monstrosity -- an incredibly powerful stage piano. But a real back breaker if you have to transport it. Read more.
Yamaha CP300

Yamaha CP1
It's here.... Yamaha's greatest EVER stage piano. The price is high, but the quality of sound and touch is second-to-none. Read more

Yamaha CP5
From Yamaha's new range of professional stage pianos. Read more

Yamaha CP50
The CP50 excells in all areas. Read more
Yamaha Digital Baby Grand Pianos
Yamaha CLP265 GP
An absolutely fantastic piano! It's digital, but you wouldn't believe it! The sound is superb (better than some acoustic baby grands) and
certainly better than all the cheap Chinese digital grands -- by a long way. If you can't afford the expensive Rolands (£4,500 +) then this
should be your only choice.
Discontinued Models
Yamaha CVP Digital Pianos
Yamaha CVP301, CVP303, CVP305, CVP307, CVP309, CVP401,
Yamaha CVP403, CVP405, CVP407, CVP409
Yamaha CLP Digital Pianos
Yamaha CLP115, CLP120, CLP130, CLP140, CLP150, CLP170,
Yamaha CLP220, CLP230, CLP240, CLP270, CLP280
Yamaha YDP
Yamaha YDP113, YDP131, YDP-S30,
YDP140
Stage Pianos
Yamaha P60, P70, P70S, P80, P90, P155, P155S,
P250
Grand Pianos
Yamaha CLP175, CVP309GP
What Our
Customers Say...
|
"Thanks once again. We need more people like you in this
world."
"Hi Graham:
Thank you very much for sharing your opinion on the best piano brand to buy. I wish I knew you a long time ago before I bought
mine. After looking at the different brands, I ended up choosing Casio. I
thought it was better than Yamaha because it had a screen that beginners can see which finger is being placed on each note as a
song is played from the song bank.
Although I have not chosen the better brand, I think that I have made a wise choice (for a beginner). However, I must assure you
that if I happen to migrate I will have to buy another piano because this one is a bit too big to travel with. Then, I will
choose Yamaha.
Thanks once again. We need more people like you in this world."
Patricia
|
|
I am glad to finally find a website that offers good digital piano buying
advice.
Thanks a lot, Lalitha
|
|
"Hi Graham, I'm a guitarist and am a relative beginner at piano. Thanks to your advice i
bought a Yamaha Clavinova CLP220R for £699 at The Piano Warehouse. Its Great! Cheers"
Andrew Ballm
|
Do you want to ask piano advisor Graham Howard a question? Just send an email.
Questions and Comments
--
I'd like to ask a few questions, I'd be grateful for any feedback.
1. In Yamaha's current Clavinova range, which is the nearest to
being equivalent to the older model CLP150 (circa 2004)? The CLP150
had sympathetic string resonance.
2. Is it true that Yamaha's Clavinova after-sales and spares supply
services in the UK are not so good as they used to be?
3. Do any digital pianos offer a temperament option which is the one
specified by J.S. Bach on the title page of The Well Tempered
Clavier? Which is the closest of the Clavinova options to that
specification?
Regards, Paul
Reply/ Hi Paul
The CLP340 and CLP370 would be the closest to the CLP150.
I would put the CLP150 somewhere in between the two.
Yamaha has gone through some changes recently. They've
moved their production of digital pianos to Indonesia.
The quality is still good, but it does appear to have dipped
a little since their move. I don't have any information about
their spares service.
What makes you worried about obtaining spare Yamaha parts?
The different temperament option might be available on
the high end CVP range... but I'm not certain of this.
Yours pianistically,
Graham Howard
Further/ Thanks for your comments. The background to my querying
whether Yamaha's spares and after-sales service had declined is as follows:
Last year I was in communication with a retired electronic musical
instrument technician who had temporarily come out of retirement as
a favour to a previous employer. He said he had waited months for a
set of Clavinova contact strips to be sent from Japan and that even
after that wait it was sent incomplete. He said that in earlier times
yamaha would have had the parts with him in a day or two.
'Yamaha isn't the company it used to be', he said. He said that Yamaha
used to have a spares depot in the UK at the Kemble factory but this
had now gone with the closure of the factory. He said there were
rumours that yamaha were going to replace the UK Clavinova depot
with one in Belgium.
Anyway, I'm reassured to an extent by your not knowing of any decline
but I'm sure you'll understand why a prospective Clavinova purchaser
might be worried.
Regards, Paul
--
Hi Graham,
thanks so much for your guide to buying a digital piano. I found it
incredibly interesting and useful. I believe I have more or less decided, after reading your recommendations along with other internet reviews and also having now tried one out in a shop, to go with a Yamaha CLP 340. You place the CLP 370
three places above the CLP 340 in your top 20 pianos above £1000 list, may I ask what are the main reasons you had for this?
I haven't decided where to buy from yet but probably from one of the main internet sites. Do you have an opinion on the online store
'SoundsLive'? Also, is there a particular dust cover that you recommend for this model? The one on your guide doesn't seem to be designed for the
340.
I do have a couple more questions if that is alright. I note that Thomann offer the T.bone HD800 as part of a digital piano set. Do you have an
opinion on which headphones are best for digital pianos? Is there a noticeable difference between models that you have noticed?
Also, does this model always come with a matching stool that you know of? Some places seem to charge extra for one and some say that it is
included.
Thanks again,
Joe O'Grady
Reply/ Hi Joe
The CLP370 is rated higher than the CLP340 because:
(1) It has wooden keys.
I don't find this improves the touch, but physcologically,
if you're used to playing an upright or grand piano, it
does improve the experience.
(2) The CLP370 also has a sturdier and more impressive
cabinet.
(3) The quality of sound - especially in the bass - is
slightly better. This is to do with the speaker
positioning and acoustics of the cabinet.
Yours pianistically,
Graham Howard
--
Hi Graham,
thanks for your email. Im currently considering a Yamaha CLP 340 since it is on sales. I have tried on the piano myself and is quite satisfied
with most of the functions. I have a few questions which I would like you to advise before I make my final decision.
1) Is it worthed getting the CLP 340 at the sales price of 2599 SGD (1300 pounds)? Other models I have considered is CLP 330 (1950 SGD) and
CLP 370 (3999 SGD). CLP 380 is way out of my budget (5000+ SGD)
2) Is there a big difference between rosewood and polished ebony? Im actually deciding between the two. The difference in price between the 2
is about 600 Singapore dollars which translates to roughly 300 pounds. What would you recommend?
3) I understand that the number of levels of AWM is one of the crucial factors I should consider. The CLP 340 has 4 levels. Is that sufficient
in terms of playing music across a wide genre (e.g. classical, pop etc)?
4) In terms of maintainability, are there any particular issues I should take note of? (e.g. not to put near window etc)What are the delicate
parts that are likely to be damaged? How long can a digital piano typically last?
5) I foresee that I might be arranging some of my furnitures after the current house renovation. What is the proper way if I have to shift the
piano around the house without damaging it?
Thanks in advance and look forward to your replies!
Yours pianistically
Hin
Reply/ Hi Hin
The price for the CLP340 is really good. I would go
with that.
There's really no major advantage to go for the CLP370.
There is no difference in sound between the rosewood
and the polished ebony.
It's best to keep the piano out of direct sunlight or
too near a heat source.
The piano is light enough for two people to carry around.
My free piano guide will answer your questions in more
detail. You can get it here:
http://www.ukpianos.co.uk/7-things-you-must-know-before-you-buy-a-digital-piano.html
Yours pianistically,
Graham Howard
--
Question/ Hello,
My name is Gloria and I live in a small southern city in
the U.S. I am contemplating purchasing a digital piano and today went to a dealer who sells the Roland brand. I have been trying
to research this digital but can find no really good comparisons on the web between this piano and the Yamaha, Casio, et al.
Would you be so kind as to offer your opinion on these pianos. I have an acoustic piano and am getting along in years. I play for
my own enjoyment but have granddaughters and thought that they might really enjoy the digital. An comments from you would be greatly
appreciated. I enjoyed reading your comments about pianos.
Thank you.
Gloria Dugger
Senoia, GA USA
Answer/Hi
Gloria Personally I prefer the sound and touch of the
Yamaha Clavinova. The Roland is a decent digital piano, but I think that the Yamaha feels closer to playing the real thing.
You can read one of my articles about digital pianos here: http://www.ukpianos.co.uk/digital-pianos-which-brand-should-i-buy.html
Regards,
Graham Howard Telephone: 020 8367 2080
email: grahamhoward ukpianos.co.uk
Further comments from Gloria/
I have definitely decided on the Yamaha,
primarily because of your recommendation. Today I visited a friend who has a Yamaha Clavinova and I was very pleased with the sound and
especially the touch. My father purchased a Chickering studio console for me when I was 14 years of age and so I very much want the
digital to approximate that of a real piano. Thank you again for taking the time to
answer my inquiry. Cheers, Gloria Dugger
--
Hi Graham, this is Barry here.
I still haven't managed to buy a piano yet! My daughter has now started learning, so the issue is more urgent than before.
Originally, I was looking for a stage piano which had a good piano sound, a good real piano-like action, and also had strings and other
"pad"-like voices. I tried a Yamaha P155(?) in a local store and nearly bought it, because I liked the look of the instrument, and thought
the sounds were quite good, though the action was a bit "lumpy".
However, delays set in and when I went back to the shop recently, the P155 had been sold and only an entry-level stage Yamaha was available,
and I didn't care much for its appearance, tone or action. I was advised that the P155 is now obsolete.
The sales guy was encouraging me to buy a piano in the CLP range, because he said the speakers made a much better sound than the small ones in
the stage piano. However, he also said that the P155's sound wasn't anywhere near as good as the CLPs, or even the YDP140, because of the
speakers, whereas I saw on a website that the P155 sound samples were the same as those in the CLP 340!
I quite liked the CLP 330 and 340 (which were priced at £1499 and £1799, respectively) - the instruments looked quite nice, and the tone, in
the bass especially, was really life-like.
I've also just visited a "real" piano shop, where there was a range of uprights from around £2000 to about £6,500, and some small grands from
£5,500 to £9,500. Trouble is, I liked the sound of the more expensive pianos!!
So, I don't know whether to go for a CLP 340 (or 330), whether to look for a P155 that might still be available somewhere, or whether to wait
until we find out what if any new Yamaha digitals are coming out after April, when I understand they are bringing out their new range.
Hope this is of interest. As before, any advice would be welcome.
Best wishes, Barry
Reply/ Hi Barry
The Yamaha P155 is still a current model and can
be found here: ukpianos.co.uk/yamaha-p155.html
What the salesman was saying is correct. The
speakers in the CLP range are bigger. The
size and placement of the speakers enhances
the sound of the piano. This actually makes
a BIG difference to the sound.
I've yet to hear which new models are coming
out and which ones are being replaced in April.
If you want a decent piano for your home then
I recommend going for the Yamaha CLP340.
The CLP340 is one of the best digital pianos
available at the moment. And it costs a lot
less than the top end Rolands and Kawais.
Yours pianistically,
Graham Howard
Hi Graham,
By all means you are welcome to use my comments on your website. As you know, we all are restricted to sampling only those pianos that are in
our immediate area unless we're willing to travel. It's prophetic that you suggested the CLP320. Yesterday I found another store and spent some
time trying the CLP330 and 340. I was quite impressed with the sound funneling through 2 x 40 watt speakers in the 340, the great MIDI/USB
capabilities and the extra feel of the GH3 keys with the synthetic ivory keytops. I admit these extras inflate the final pricing. But I feel
confident that if I choose the CLP340 I will be happy that I spent the extra cash for something that should provide years of enjoyment.
Sincerely,
Bill Lewis
Hi Graham,
Thank you for your email recommending digital pianos.
You're right, the Yamaha CLP 220 is a little out of my
price range, but I've had a look at it and am rather taken
by it. I also tried the CLP 230 which I thought was
better still.
Do you think it is worthwhile waiting to see if I can get
one second hand? Also, do you think that the 230 is worth
the extra money?
Thanks again for your help,
Charlotte.
Reply/ Hi Charlotte
The new model CLP320 is coming out soon, so there
may be some bargains around for the CLP220.
Many shops will want to clear their display models, so
it is worth phoning around.
Yours pianistically,
Graham Howard
Hi,
I'm looking to upgrade my Yamaha stage piano P80. I use it at home &
to accompany my choir so it needs to be portable & powerful enough for
a small hall or church. The P80 doesn't have inbuilt speakers so it
would be nice to have less "clutter" to carry, even if I do need to
supplement it with a smallish amp. What is your opinion of the P250? -
it looks quite heavy but the sequencing capacity could be useful.
Thanks in anticipation,
Nicky
Reply/
Hi Nicky
The Yamaha P250 is not available anymore. Besides...
I never liked it.
The sound was not very good and it was just too large to carry
around. It was a monster!
There are some nice stage pianos around these days.
Take a look at either the Yamaha P85:
http://www.ukpianos.co.uk/yamaha-p85.html
Or/
The Roland FP7:
http://www.ukpianos.co.uk/roland-fp7.html
Both have built-in speakers and offer a good sound and touch.
Yours pianistically,
Graham Howard
Futher comments/
Thanks Graham, that's really helpful. I thought the P250 looked rather heavy!
One more question: apart from the built-in speakers, what are the advantages of the P85 over the older P80 that I already have? I quite like
the touch & sound of the P80 & am wondering whether to just get a better quality, lighter amp - I believe Roland do a smallish keyboard
amp that might be suitable?
All the best,
Nicky
Reply/ Hi Nicky
The Yamaha P80 was a fantastic piano!
I think you should keep this and just buy a decent Roland keyboard amp. Either the KC60 or KC150.
Check them out here:
http://www.ukpianos.co.uk/roland-kc60.html
http://www.ukpianos.co.uk/roland-kc150.html
Yours pianistically,
Graham Howard
Hi Graham
Just an e-mail to thank you for your excellent advise. I did get the Yamaha P85, but as my eldest daughter is very picky about the sound, I
was concerned that it might not get used alot. How wrong could I be, both my daughters seem to actually prefer the Yamaha over the
traditional piano as it doen't go out of tune at all and it has more options on it.
Thanks again
Best wishes
Anna
Hi,
I'm looking to buy a digital piano to learn on, and for my budget it
looks like the SDP-131 or P-85 models by Yamaha would be best. If I
don't need to take the piano gigging (which I don't), should I opt for
the SDP? Is the sound quality / keyboard action better? Or is there a
better beginner's model out there?
Your site has been very useful while I've been trying to make sense of
this complex market - thank you!
Best wishes,
Chris
Reply/
Hi Chris
I recommend you buy the Yamaha YDP140. This is the replacement
for the YDP131.
The sound is slightly better than the P85. The touch is as good.
You can read more about it here:
http://www.ukpianos.co.uk/yamaha-ydp140.html
Yours pianistically,
Graham Howard
Further comments/
Hi Graham,
Thank you for your recommendation of the YDP140. Since I wrote to you,
I have also come across the YDP-S30, and was wondering whether you had
any thoughts on that - I cannot find any information that tells me how
it differs from the YDP140/131 etc. It is not a portable model, and it
is a similar price, so do you know what the difference is?
Thanks again,
Chris
Reply/ Hi Chris
I wouldn't consider the Yamaha YDP-S30. I don't like
it at all. The touch is false and too springy on the up-stroke.
Yours pianistically,
Graham Howard
Hi Graham,
My sincere compliments with your website, I've really enjoyed it (and stil do). And the same goes for your lessons and information for
beginners.
Because I'm on the look out for a piano, I've also read the review on digital piano's. Pff, so many choices and possibilities....I'll
like to do some research, but I've found myself rather lost in the forrest of the various brands. Would it be possible for you to give me
some directions what specific types/series of the Clavinova are recommendable. I'm just a beginner, so, I think, my wishes for a piano are
fairly modest: I would like a full piano keyboard with a nice sound/touch. I don't need much digital extra's or the newest gadgets.
I'm from the Netherlands, and as you obviously can see English is not my first language. I do my utmost, but nevertheless I'll appologize
for the inevitable language errors.
Kind regards,
Ellen Beringen
the Netherlands
Reply/ Hi Ellen
The Yamaha CLP220 or the new Yamaha YDP140 will be
a good choice for you.
The CLP220 has a better sound and touch over the YDP140.
Yours pianistically,
Graham Howard
Dear Graham Howard
After visiting Japan recently I looked at a "YDP-223c" Digital Piano and
beautiful it was too.
Do you know if it is available in the UK and who is the supplier ?
Regards
John R Lowry
Reply/ Hi John
The Yamaha YDP-223 is not available in the UK. It is
primarily a US product.
The pianos to watch out for (coming to the UK very soon)
are the Yamaha YDP140 and YDP160.
The YDP140 will probably replace the YDP131 and the
YDP160 is a more powerful piano with a higher spec;
bigger and warmer piano sound and more realistic touch.
I guess it's similar to the YDP-223 you've seen in Japan.
I'll be reviewing (quite extensively) both the YDP140 and
YDP160 fairly soon. Keep an eye out on the ukpianos.co.uk
for more information.
Yours pianistically,
Graham Howard
Hi, I'm looking to buy a digital piano. I'm grade 7 standard at the moment and am looking to progress further. I would like a digital piano
that sounds and feels like an acoustic one (and one who's pedals work like the real thing) or as close as you can get to one. I'm not that
interested in all the 'bells and whistles' that you get. My price range is under £1000 and preferably around the £500-£600 mark.
I've looked at the Yamaha Clavinova CLP-220 and the Yamaha YDP-131 but the Clavinova is quite expensive, and I was wondering if you could
reccommend me a digital piano that fits this specification.
Thank you,
Michelle
Reply/ Hi Michelle
From what you're looking for in a digital piano, there is
only one that I recommend, the Classenti CDP2.
This piano has a nice, realistic tone and the touch is
at least as good as the Yamaha.
You can read more about it here:
http://www.ukpianos.co.uk/classenti-cdp2.html
Yours pianistically,
Graham Howard
Further comments/
I have one query about the digital piano that your recommended - everywhere I've read, I've been told it's a beginners piano. Is this
accurate?
Reply/ Hi Michelle
The Classenti CDP1 digital piano has been designed
with the needs of the beginner in mind.
The CDP1 and CDP2 pianos are not just for beginners. Intermediate to
advanced level pianists will still be very happy to play on this piano.
The quality of sound and touch is even better on the CDP2. You might prefer to choose this one instead.
Yours pianistically,
Graham Howard
Hi Graham,
I was wondering if you can give some advice on buying a digital piano. I have never played but I always wanted to.
I am looking at Yamaha YDP 131 and Yamaha CLP 220 and less probably clp 230.
Is the 220 justify the price diference compared with 131? is the gh on 220 so much better than the standard touch on 131? or is it worth to
upgrade from clp 220 to clp 230 for gh3 touch?
Many thanks,
Lucian
Reply/ Hi Lucian
The first thing I advice you is not to spend too much money.
There is absolutely no point in spending extra money on a Yamaha CLP230 -- or even a CLP220.
The YDP131 is a great starter piano and has a graded hammer action, touch sensitive keys, a nice touch and realistic piano sound...
What more could you ask for?
Here is the link to the YDP131 on the ukpianos.co.uk website: http://www.ukpianos.co.uk/yamaha-ydp131.html
Regards,
Graham Howard
Hi Graham,
Your advice is based on the fact I have never played ?
Reading in the forum on your site I have noticed you like Clavinova clp 220 followed by YDP 131. So the difference in touch it is not
that significant for a beginner?
Thank you,
Lucian
Reply/ Hi Lucian
All I'm saying is that a beginner would probably not notice the difference in touch between the YDP131 and CLP220.
The sound IS better on the CLP220 and I do rate it as a better piano. It all comes down to what you are preprared to pay for your first
piano.
Regards,
Graham Howard
Dear Graham
After reading your advertisment on your website, I have a few questions which I hope you wil be so kind to answer.
For some time I have been looking for a quality digital piano, which should be a nice furniture as well. ( I already have a quality Roland
stage piano)
1 ) The Yamaha CLP 265 GP is what I think I can afford, but what is the big differens between this piano and the Yamaha GT2 ( except from the
price which is marked in Denmark)
2) When I look at your web, CLP 265GP come up with 2 differnt prices: 2080.80£ - and another, about 200£ more.
What is the real price incl. shipping to Denmark?
3)- and do you have any experience with tax and custom from UK to DK, which you could communicate to me.
In other words: how much should I pay altoghter before the piano is ready to play in my room :-)
4) And last. Is it possible to hide the buttons and mechanism with the lid, like on the cheaper Yamaha models.? (You drow the lid
out in half possition)( I want a piano to look like a piano- not a mechanic tool)
My English vocabulary and spelling is limitid. I hope you undersatand, and ythat I don't take too much of your time.
Regards
Erling Jakobsen
Reply/ Hi Erling
The current price for the CLP265GP is £2226 including delivery to Denmark.
I believe you can cover the control panel with the lid.
The GT2 is no longer available.
Yours pianistically,
Graham Howard
Dear Graham,
As most people I'm a first time digital piano buyer and have a question.
As far as I understand it the CLP-240 is better in following areas:-
The weight grading of the CLP-240 is GH3 instead of just GH.
The sampling of the CLP-240 is dynamic (i.e. depending on
how hard you press a key a different sample is used).
To me it seems that this should give a more realistic feel & sound.
Are you saying that the difference is not noticeable or just not worth
the extra money?
Like you, I'm not concerned about 'extras' but am more concerned about
getting a more realistic feel and sound out of the piano especially the
ability to produce more subtle nuances and expressions of sound.
Although we're all beginners in my family we would not want to have to
replace the piano after a few years because suddenly we become more
attuned to its' shortcomings'.
Currently I'm looking at buying one of following:-
CLP-240 - GH3 grading + dynamic sampling
CLP-270 - GH3 grading + dynamic sampling + iAFC accoustics
I guess my next step should be to find a piano store and compare them
in real life.
Would you agree that Yamaha is (still) the best at the moment in
recreating the most accurate feel & sound of a real piano or should
I also include other brands in my quest?
Thanks and regards,
Ruud Mantingh
Reply/ Hi Ruud
You bring up some valid points here.
It is true to say that the sound and touch is slightly
better as you go up the range.
But..
The difference is so slight that buying a more
expensive model should be because you want
the added instrumental voices, rhythms etc.
NOT really because of a better sound and touch.
The touch and sound on the CLP220 is good
enough for any player - no matter what their
standard.
All these GH3 grading, dynamic sampling, iAFC accoustics
are fancy terms to SELL you a more expensive piano - which
any shop will be happy to do ;-)
It's not worth it!
I practiced for my grade 8 on the basic Yamaha
Clavinova (15 years ago). It did me well.
To wrap it up, yes I still believe that Yamaha
offer the best sound and touch. No point in
looking at other makes.
Yours pianistically,
Graham Howard
Further comments/
The thing is, I've just spoken with my son's piano teacher and she
recommends to go for as high within the CLP range as my budget
allows. She obviously feels that the better touch and sound will help
him in switching between Clavinova and her acoustic grand that
she teaches on.
However, I must admit that the price hikes between models seem too
high to justify the benefits (especially between the CLP-270 and CLP-280
where you almost pay £500 more for the privilege of having wooden keys!).
I still have some more thinking to do :-)
Regards,
Ruud Mantingh
I am glad to finally find a website that offers good digital piano buying advice. I am looking at YDP-213, YDP-223 & P140 and would
like your opinion on which one is the best of all? Meaning which one has the most piano sound and feel?
I am gravitating towards YDP223 and wanted to know if there will be better brands in that price range?
Thanks a lot for your time, Lalitha
Hi Lalitha, I believe the Yamaha YDP-213 and YDP-223 have been discontinued. The latest model is the YDP-131. You can check this out here:
http://ukpianos.co.uk/yamaha-ydp131.html
The Yamaha YDP131 or Yamaha CLP220 are the best digital pianos in the low to mid-end price bracket.
The P140 has a poor sound and touch. The only way to improve the sound quality is to hook it up to an amp - which rather defeats the object of
having a compact and easy-to-move piano.
Regards,
Graham Howard
I'll tell you why I've been investigating piano lessons. I'm coming up to retirement and I'd like to learn the
piano purely for my own satisfaction. I'm trying to decide if this is feasible for a sixty year old and if it is, what sort of piano would
I look for and do I need personal lessons or is teach yourself from the internet better. I've looked at the Rocket piano website and it
looks a bit American for my taste but it does seem to feature in most recommended lists. I've been thinking about a Yamaha Clavinova
regards, Alan
Hi Alan
You are completely right about the Rocket Piano course - it is
'a little bit American'. BUT, nevertheless, it is the best 'complete'
piano course available at the moment.
It is nice to hear that you want to take up the piano as you near
retirement. It seems that more and more people are learning
piano around this of their life. I can't think of ANY hobby that offers
such a sense of fulfillment and joy.
As far as choosing a digital piano goes. A Yamaha Clavinova is
definitely the BEST CHOICE.
The model I recommend is the Yamaha CLP220. The CLP220 is
BY FAR the most popular digital piano today.
You can check out more details here:
http://www.ukpianos.co.uk/yamaha-clp220.html
You might also want to read an article I wrote (if you haven't
already) about the different digital piano makes and what
I think about them. Click on the following link:
http://www.ukpianos.co.uk/digital-pianos-which-brand-should-i-buy.html
Regards, Graham Howard
Hi Graham. I was thinking of changing my Yamaha Calviona 206 but having read your article doesnt seem to be much
better out there than i have. I have had the piano for 4 years now did I read somewhere they go out of tune,or is it just real
pianos. I must say some cords you have to play sound really awfull unless its just my bad playing.
Charles Grimmer.
Answer/ Hi Charles -- GREAT QUESTION!
Digital pianos cannot go out of tune because the sound you hear when you press a key is a digital recording of an acoustic piano.
It sounds like you have sensitive hearing. This is a possible reason that the chords sound awful to you. When a piano is tuned, the intervals
between notes are not perfect -- this is known as equal temperament.
The unison and octave are the only intervals that are tuned perfectly, the fourths and fifths are tuned slightly
flat and the thirds and sixths tuned sharp. Your sensitive hearing is probably picking up the higher harmonics of the thirds and sixths.
Being an ex piano tuner, I notice that these harmonics (or overtones) are more prominent in digital pianos.
Regards,
Graham Howard
Check out the resources below for other digital pianos similar to Yamaha.
More Digital
Pianos Gem digital pianos
Korg digital pianos
Kawai Digital Pianos
Roland digital pianos Casio digital pianos
Suzuki Digital Pianos
Classenti Digital Pianos
Kurzweil Digital Pianos
Mantova Digital Pianos
Browse All digital pianos
Visit the Yamaha UK website
|