The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Digital Piano for Advanced Pianists

As an advanced amateur or professional classical pianist, finding a digital piano that closely approximates the touch and sound of a concert grand acoustic piano is crucial. In this article, we will explore some of the top models available as of August 2023, along with key considerations and features to look for.

Top Choices for Digital Pianos

Several high-end models stand out for their ability to accurately mimic the touch and sound of a concert grand acoustic piano. Let's dive into the details of some of the best options:

1. Yamaha Clavinova CLP Series

Models to Consider: CLP-785, CLP-795GP Touch: Graded Hammer 3X action, which mimics the heavier touch of lower keys and the lighter touch of higher keys. Sound: Uses Yamaha's CFX and Bsendorfer Imperial samples, providing a rich tonal palette.

2. Kawai CA Series

Models to Consider: CA99, CA79 Touch: Grand Feel III wooden-key action, including the feel of real piano keys with a responsive touch. Sound: Harmonic Imaging XL technology with multi-layer sampling from Kawai's concert grands.

3. Roland LX Series

Models to Consider: LX706, LX708 Touch: PHA-50 keyboard action combines wood and plastic for an authentic feel with escapement for enhanced realism. Sound: SuperNATURAL Piano technology and high-resolution samples for realistic sound reproduction.

4. Nord Piano Series

Models to Consider: Nord Piano 5 Touch: Semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, providing a responsive playing experience. Sound: High-quality samples from various grand pianos plus the ability to load custom piano sounds.

5. Korg Grandstage

Touch: RH3 keybed designed to replicate the feel of an acoustic piano. Sound: Multiple piano engines, including the SGX-2 piano engine providing high-quality grand piano sounds.

Key Considerations

When choosing a digital piano, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Touch Sensitivity

Look for models with graded hammer action and a responsive touch that mimics the dynamics of an acoustic piano. This ensures a more natural and fluid playing experience.

2. Sound Quality

Prioritize models that use advanced sampling techniques and have multiple layers of sound to replicate the nuances of a grand piano. These features can significantly enhance the realism of your performance.

3. Additional Features

Consider features such as Bluetooth connectivity, recording capabilities, and a range of voices if versatility is important to you. These features can add significant value to your learning and performance experience.

Conclusion

Each of these digital pianos offers a unique combination of touch and sound that can satisfy the demands of an advanced pianist. It is highly recommended to try them out in person if possible to see which model feels and sounds best to you. Whether you are an amateur looking to improve your skills or a professional seeking a top-quality instrument, one of these digital pianos is sure to meet your needs.