I have an Rd-2000, a Kronos2-88 (which is similar to the Grandstage) and a Montage8 (similar to the CP88). So here's my opinion: Roland RD-2000. This makes the best MIDI controller, as the sliders can be assigned to any internal or external sound. The overall panel design is great. I love the PHA50 action, which is quite heavy, even though the keys have plastic cores. It's very well-made and fairly portable. The real star is that it has both sampled "Supernatural" pianos (which are excellent) and also modeled V-Piano sounds, which have unlimited polyphony and great expressiveness. It has string resonance, which Yamaha lacks (but Korg has). It's my favorite stage piano and my primary board. There are 2000 sounds on board and most are excellent, although the organs could be better. Not the best action for organ anyway. Montage8 I don't use this primarily as a piano but I could. The action is excellent and the Bosendorfer especially just sounds wonderful. My second-favorite piano after the RD-2000, an I could live with it as my only one. No string resonance, but you don't miss it too much. The Motage isn't portable, but the CP88 is. On the other hand, the CP88 only has 57 sounds, which is a bit mean compared to the Roland or Korg. Kronos2-88. This is a brilliant instrument with a highly customizable, well-sampled piano featuring string resonance. It also has an excellent keyboard action--very similar to the Yamaha. But I just don't quite like it as well as the Roland or Yamaha. An excellent choice, though, and many people will play it and prefer it to the Yamaha or Roland. The organs are excellent. I also have a Kurzweil PC3K88, but the piano is a bit dated and I don't care for the Fatar action. I hear that the new Kurzweil pianos are very competitive, though, especially if you want a 76-key model. The same goes for Casio. Casios sound great, they're surprisingly cheap and the action is very good. They also have 76-key models. If you are a classical musician and want a piano with a true grand piano action, built by an acoustic piano maker, than the Kawaii MD-11 is unbeatable. But it's enormously big and heavy, the action is a bit noisy and the on-board sounds are limited. It's a great instrument, but it's not for everybody. Finally, don't overlook Computer-based instruments. Keyscape is one of my favorite pianos and many others, such as Pianoteq, are excellent. A computer and a good MIDI-controller would match any of these pro boards. And Nord? I just don't see the appeal. Yes they have a good sample library, but their instruments lack the memory to hold a good number of high-quality samples in memory at once. The Fatar keyboards are lousy and the polyphony is disappointing. And the pricing is simply ridiculous--way out of line with what you're getting. They sound Ok, but lack the customizability and technology of the Roland or Korg. All that said, you could buy anything mentioned above and be very happy with it. So try them all. Play before you buy and decide for yourself. And don't be swayed by brand names or prejudices.

@xp50player

5 жыл бұрын

geoffk777 -the RD-2000 doesn’t have 2000 sounds. It has 1113 sounds from the RD-800, kept in same patch numbers for compatibility, 10 new V-pisno sounds, 14 variations of the RD-800 Rhodes with the new vintage effects (2001-2014) and 11 new RD-1000 tones starting at 2015. It’s 97% the exact same tones as the RD-800, until you download more tones to the 2 expansion slots.

@geoffk777

5 жыл бұрын

Ok, so it's more like 1200 sounds. The fact is, I probably don't use more than a dozen of those, so the difference is trivial to me (plus it's the master controller for a dozen racks and a computer anyway). It compares very well with a Grandstage and blows away a CP88 in onboard sounds.

@johnpaton9587

5 жыл бұрын

Hi Geoffk777 Miles here. Thanks for your comments, especially those re the RolandRD 2000. I am thinking about upgrading from the FP-50 that my son uses to practice onThe Piano seems to tick illl the boxes for me. Piano feel, 88 keys, high level of control and daw compatibility. Just not sure on the sounds? Ive read others suggesting its very bright? Metallic. I realise sound is deeply personal but as far as pianos go what are your thoughts? And are you happy with the sound shaping abilities.

@geoffk777

5 жыл бұрын

I'm very happy with the sound of the RD-2000 and it seems very natural and authentic to me. Moreover, there are dozens of different acoustic piano sounds, so one of them is bound to fit your tastes. And the sounds are very customizable. All that said, I would make two comments: 1. Don't take my word on it. Play one and listen to it. And play the competition too. Better yet, have your son play them and get his opinion. 2. If you're not planning on using it on stage, a home piano like a Roland HP-605 might be more convenient to practice on (and wouldn't need a separate amp).

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

thx for sharing insights of a RD owner, plus other boards, agree on many points at least for the boards i've owned, i'll pin you.

for 4499$ i would be expecting to just magically be able to play piano the moment i plug it in

@christiancummings3263

3 жыл бұрын

Honestly i recommend the cp88 it has a much better feel sure the nords good but the cp88 puts the nords action to shame

Seamless transitions between presets used to be missing on all digital instruments It's so good to have them now!

Good show Woody...always informative and entertaining!

Just bought a Nord Stage 3. I don't care much about key action since I mostly do synth, with some piano and organ stuff. I highly value being able to do everything from the front panel, and I love a strong synth engine. One of the better cover bands in the area uses a Kronos and I'm shocked at how bad the organ sounds on that are. Not to mention a couple of the synth sounds had way too much resonance or the decay times were weird, and there was nothing he could do about it in a live situation. People can brag about how deep their workstations are, but when something goes wrong live you're completely SOL since you have to deep dive for everything. Plus with as many presets as they have that's all anyone will ever use. I pride myself on understanding the process of how sounds were originally created by the artist, and crafting my own sounds in a similar way rather than just relying on a 'good enough' sound anyone could use. Tl;dr... I'll take an incredibly accessible and playable interface with quality of sounds over quantity of sounds any day.

@germanshepherdlover2613

2 жыл бұрын

I agree, I find Korg sounds to be over processed and over compressed, they sound thin. I love Nord and Kurzweil sounds, some Roland pads aren't too bad either!

Great perspective Woody! I don't always agree with your sound opinions, but love your song choices and creative thoughts. I agree on your final verdict, though

Congratulation for your great video with the best information about stage pianos... Excelent work!!!

Been looking for a gigging keyboard for 3 years now. Nord is out of my range when you have a growing family. So I love the sound of the Yamaha CP73 & 88. Just order the CP73 last month on layby. Will be doing mostly Reggae, soul and RnB after the lockdown. Glad I made the right decision.

It's great that you encourage people to get second hand gear! You could even get a marvellous roland D-20 or JX-8P if you want a synth engine to your piano for less than a deepmind

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

good call, or a used microkorg for a couple hundred bucks!

I ended up going with the P121 and have been happy with it

This was really good and helpful review and I have very similar kind of needs :)

Thank you for your honest opinion and assessment !

Great presentation, very useful, I do appreciate your comments

Oooo Prezi very high-end. :) Actually, I really like Prezi presentations. Great vid, Woody. Cheers, Cliff

Bonjour Woody, thank you for this digital piano + comparison. I have been playing since the 80s with a KORG SG1-D. I just gave it to my daughter . I replaced it in my home studio with a CASIO CDP-130 realy great keys and very good piano sounds for only 250€ ... Looks to me that Casio is doing great on the digital pianos, the keyboard touch is very pleasent ... Thanks again and take it easy Woody ;-) Patrick.

@patrickbriant479

5 жыл бұрын

I forgot to mention that the CASIO CDP-130 have on board powered speakers and, I have made a power supply from a small motorcycle battery with a 12VDC buck converter so I can play for hours without an 220v outlet ... which is very cool ;-)

12:44 Woody you nailed it with this comparison!

Would love to hear your comparison including some old Yamaha models like the CP300 or Korg SP200 thanks for your smart commentary.

I mentioned the Yamy CP88 but he found the Kawai mp7, and it blew me away. Very complex and amazing feel and action.... I mean amazing

Hi Woody, Great video! One feature I'd like to see compared is the master keyboard possiblities (splits MIDI CC, DAW control). Otherwise a very good and informative video. What would I get? Given I got the budget, it would be the keyboard with best master keyboard funtionality and piano action, as a master keyboard (as well) it has to be 88 keys. Plus the Nord A1, that is a great VA synth to my ears!

I have the Kawai MP7SE. Great feel and action in the keybed. Fantastic Kawai piano sounds and electric pianos. Also very competent as a controler for my other gear. Got it new for less than 1400 Euro at the Kawai retailer in Stockholm.

Loved your Brazilian T-shirt

Last week I tried the Crumar Seven. Never heard of IT before some weeks ago. It's not for everyone but I think it sounds even better than a Korg sv-2 or Nord.

@germanshepherdlover2613

2 жыл бұрын

Crumar have some of the best organs in the business

@taloujazz9504

Жыл бұрын

Love it , best sounds for Rhodes and EP sounds, easy to play, compact, probably my next keyboard

Great video as always! BTW, thumbs up for the Brazilian Flag shirt...

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

i always get comments about that shirt

I've had Roland stage pianos for decades. I just replaced my ancient, battered and tired RD300SX which has played thousands of musical theatre shows with me sitting in front of it. It was your videos that shaped my short list; Kawai MP11SE but I *do* need something I can move without hiring a crane. It has a lovely action though. I was looking at the RD2000 in keeping with my past history but I sometimes need a reasonable Hammond sound and somehow, Roland hasn't ever cracked it. I need a good harpsichord sound too more often than you'd think but really, I need a great piano with 'other stuff'. So I went and auditioned the CP88 locally and it liked me. I liked it. I was offered it for $2700 Australian dollars which sealed the deal It lists for around $3500(ish) in stores. So far I am thrilled with it - it is perfect for my needs and I can't wait for an upcoming show to try it for realsies. I really like the channel - keep up the good work. Stu

perfect timing thanks

Buy the best you can afford. Most of us have to be realistic. Honestly, all modern keyboards are amazing.

Excellent comparison. My own experience still favors my Roland FP7F for beautiful piano and bass splits, while my Yamaha P515 offers an inspiring nylon guitar sound along with triple sound layers (I did add a sub woofer to enhance the output of the built in speakers).

The Stage 3 is just so easy to use, despite how crowded it is

@1Cor13.4-7

2 жыл бұрын

TransistorBased, That’s what I’m in the market for. Thanks for your comment. Very helpful.

I bought the p125 as well as my practice piano. Haha I use a Nord Electo, also my favorite keyboard of all time, as my stage tool.

Hi Woody, excellent review!!!..., for you, the best key action (more balanced, faster, same weight at back of keys, best for classical practice, reliable and less noisy) and sound connection (accurate, fast response for jazz and classical repertoire), between these options: Roland RD-2000, Kawai MP7, Yamaha CP4, Yamaha CP88 and Yamaha P515. Thanks...!.

Hey Woody, take a look at the Yamaha P-515. NWX wooden keys with escapement. CFX and Bösendorfer samples. Binaursl sampling for the CFX...

Hi Woody! Great, and very informative topic. The the thing is about the 3 keyboards compared to the Stage 3 is that you only get 6 synth voices on the DeepMind compared the the 34 A1 voices, which can be split into 2 panels, giving you 2 independent 17 voice synths. Also the Hammond SK1 has a terrible Leslie effect forcing you to buy a Ventilator pedal. This makes for a massive setup. If you are gigging, you also have to pay extra for stands, cables, extra cases, pedals, weight, setup and tear down time, and space. You did mention that it was convenient to have everything in one keyboard. As a Stage 3 owner, I definitely have to agree! Great video as always. Have been a long time subscriber. 👍

@tommymandel

5 жыл бұрын

I don't think the Hammond's SK-1's leslie simulation is 'terrible' my friend and co-keyboarder - especially if you use its (separate) organ Effect on a tremolo to add to the Leslie; and sometimes the Chorus. (I still have my B3, but lately use VR-09 sometimes.) Here's what I mean: kzread.info/dash/bejne/n4Crq7ptiZXglZc.html

@obwanz1921

5 жыл бұрын

Tommy Mandel gotcha, yeah that sounds good. I used to have an XK3 and couldn’t live with the internal Leslie. (Bought a 2101) was thinking it was an XK1. My bad

I had a Yamaha P125 for a few months so agree with your P121 choice.Nice action.BUT I purchased a Kawai Es8 for the action alone so it is a shame Stockholm does not have many to try..The Kawai action is just lovely!

Just to share it: I've been to a concert of Roger Hodgson some months ago, and I wondered what wonderful stage piano he uses for all the famous Supertramp sounds, but also his wonderful piano ballads. It was the Roland RD2000, connected to an Apple book for additional sounds features, I think (this for the DAW control) .

@paultumelty

5 жыл бұрын

I’ve got the RD-2000 too. It has some great on board sounds but really comes alive with Omnisphere and Keyscape, using it as controller. The only thing it’s missing is some DAW transport controls, although I use Cubase IC and an IPad for that, and it allows much more than just transport to be controlled. It is a bit of a beast though, I wouldn't like to have to move it around! If they had a smaller one, it would be perfect for you Woody!

@hanjud

5 жыл бұрын

I also noticed he played an RD-2000 but I guessed he only used it as controler.. which you could see from his cables plugged in the back...(he didnt use the audio outputs..)

@geoffk777

5 жыл бұрын

It's not really heavy. But the length is a bit of a problem sometimes. Compared to a Montage8 or a Kawai MD-11 it's practically a keytar, though. Agree totally on Omnisphere and Keyscape.

Hi Woody. Nice review. The main question was missed when comparing a stage piano in these levels. These are all considered top of the line for the lead brands but which can CUT THROUGH THE MIX? Most of us watching will get one of these bad boys as main stage piano and in this league, it's really a matter of taste; The sounds you like, the action you like on the keys etc. The one thing I learned is that some keyboards require significant EQ'ing to cut through a mix. In most cases, the sound guy will not know how or won't have the time to EQ. I already know Nord is fantastic for cutting through the mix with very little tweaking. How is CP88?

This is so subjective. Its strange how nobody else felt the way I did playing the CP88. I'm a live engineer, and get my hands on Steinways and Bosendorfers regularly, and equally have to mic up (usually Nords) all manner of stage pianos. I actually thought the Yamaha was in a completely different league to the other keyboards you mentioned above, including Yamahas own P515 and older live stalwarts like the CP300. Its something to do with the dynamic range of the sounds, both on piano and EPs. It was so much more expressive. Everything, and I mean everything, else tended to disappear into a shapeless mass too quickly. I absolutely hear what you and others say about the Nord's sounds being characterfull, and woody, but they also became a mire when you began playing songs. The Yamaha had so much more air around the notes. I really disappeared into it, like I do with a real piano. I don't know why. It had something intangibly lifelike about it. Also, the keyboard action itself is really big deal. The Nord one is significantly inferior to the others. Very much feels like a basic weighted keyboard.

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

well said that man, i agree Chris, the dynamics, touch and keybed set the CP apart from the rest.

@enginufuk

4 жыл бұрын

" I really disappeared into it, like I do with a real piano." I don't own one but this was my exact feeling when I played one at a store. I am pretty sure I have never felt that before from another non-acoustic keys before.

Thanks for sharing.I've an other question about Casio PX-5S, do you think it was a stage piano?

I have a RD2000 now and to be honest. When I was in the store to buy a board, I was trying both the rd2000 and the nord stage. Eventually bought the rd2000 because of the pricing. But I found a couple of negatieve pointe (Some personal): -playing it for a while, I just started to get annoyed by the sound, not sounding natural. -I also think the system is Kinda hard to operate. -Not much room te expand with more sounds via axial also not much available -Organs are not that great -build quality could be better Don’t get me wrong the RD2000 is still a great piano and has a lot of positives. it’s price is affordable and it is way better than most stage piano’s. But I’m probably going to trade it in for the nord stage 3.

What is the best stand for the P121. I am not a fan of X frame stands and the piano table stand style is an option. Your thoughts please?

I think he's right in talking about the Yamaha P models like the P 125 and so on I have just bought a p115 and that Yamaha Keyboard has just a couple of great sounding pianos on it acoustic grand pianos love it five hundred bucks.

Your advice to try them in person is important. Everyone has different needs and preferences and action/touch especially is very personal. That being said, here’s what I’ve found so far: Yamaha: great synths with a storied history but I just don’t like the action. Too springy/stiff for me. Nord: also a great line of synths but the action also doesn’t work for me. I’ve been able to try the Roland FP30, RD2000, and Juno DS88. The FP30 felt somewhat better to me than the Yamahas. The RD2000 was alright. The Juno DS88 came out feeling the best for me. I wouldn’t mind having one at least. I’ve played some older Casio Privias for quite some time and they’re not too bad, all things considered. I haven’t gotten much time on the PX-S1000 and haven’t been able to try the PX-S3000 at all. I’m sure they’re decent though. The action tends to be a bit on the light side. I haven’t been able to find a Korg D1 or Grandstage so far. I really want to try the Kawai ES8, ES110, MP7SE and MP11SE but I can’t find them *anywhere*. I don’t know what it is, but nobody has Kawais. I’ve got a Kawai VPC1 at home which has a great piano-like action (although it is a bit on the heavy side). But it just weighs too much to try to drag around everywhere with me. There are others like the Kurzweil SP6, the Studiologic SL88, and the Dexibell line of keyboards. I haven’t run across any of them in the wild.

Great presentation Woody. Relating to the CP121 you mentioned at the end. A very good contender in that price range, is the Korg SP280. Yeah it’s 88 key, but for those that do have the space, it’s far superior. Great piano sounds, including the electrics. Even the organs are very useable. 22w stereo speakers. And yes, it comes with it’s own stand. For around £520 i paid for it, I’m over the moon with it. I like you just wanted a simple piano, without a lot of bells and whistles. This is a nice balance with 30 voices, and a few simple effects ect. I would be very curious to hear your opinion of it.

Nice Review.

Great comparison Woody of the stage piano jungle! I like the Nord flash backs. Personally I love Yamaha (I started 20 years ago with the 52lb/24kg S80 piano/synth) and I admire Nord because of the piano/sample downloads and the organ sounds. You mentioned the Nord Electro HP73. That one is IMO the contender of the Yamaha CP73. I think you forgot the Casio Privia Pro PX-5S stage piano (88 weighted keys, great Yamaha-CFIII like piano sound and reasonable synth sounds such as pad and synth strings and all of the stuff). The Casio is only 24lb (11kg) and a lot of high quality plastic 😀 I think a great choice when: low weight (gigging pianist), low price, great piano sound, full control of 4 parts. The Casio interface (tweaking sounds, layers etc) is a bit of struggling (like the watches 😜). Bottom line: I am very excited Yamaha introduced the 1-to-1 CP73 and CP88. In the future I will try the CP73 (and experience the piano feel of the keyboard). Final choice is a very personal decisicon about sounds and feel. Good luck to you all 👍

Hi Woody. How would you compare the CP to the MODX?

It’ll be interesting to put the CP88 up against the newly-announced Nord Grand. I was thinking of replacing my NP2 with the CP88 as I’d like a better action and triple sensors but the new Nord might be the one.

@marknagle-vi7og

2 ай бұрын

I bought the CP88 a year ago and absolutely love it. Something I love to do is recreate the piano synth combo’s of songs I love and grew up on. The CP 88 has not disappointed me to date in this endeavour. The sky’s the limit with this keyboard and the best thing about this customization process is you can save your settings to the digital library tweaking the sound as many times as you like to get it just right. I’ve owned several keyboards over the years and this one does it the best in terms of recreating that special tone that sounds just like the original in bands like Journey and Foreigner for example.

I got the Kawai ES8, great key action and sounds, built in speakers (almost as good as MP11, but less controller functions and less weight). If I was to buy a NEW stage piano, I would SERIOUSLY consider the new Casio PX-S3000. Great sounds, action and portability, DAW integration, built in speakers, controllers, good looking, low price...It might be the holy grail for a lot of musician’s needs.

@nupfe

5 жыл бұрын

ES8 is great. I own a Kawai ES7. It is similar to the ES8. The Hammer Action is really nice. When I bougt it (over 6 years ago) me knowledge about Jazz and Rock wasn't as big as today (so I wasn't so much interested in E-piano sounds). So the E-Piano-sounds on the ES7 are not many and you can't add so much effects on it (no drive, no corus, no phaser). Today I look more for great E-piano-sounds (or organ) additional to great piano sounds (piano sounds on the ES8 are gorgous ... I tested one)

@GertBoers

5 жыл бұрын

The Casio PX-S3000 (or even a 1000) was also gonna be my suggestion, if Casio was to make a 73 / 76 keys model. And Woody specifically said he has no room for a 88 keys instrument. But great suggestion anyway. I also hear great stuff about those keyboard.

@matszh

5 жыл бұрын

Maafa 1619 I didn’t say it was the same, but I played all Rolands, Yamahas, Nords, Korgs, Kawais and Casios, and to me the ES8 had the optimal key action, I even tested it side by side to an 100000$ Steinway, but OK, I couldn’t afford the Steinway, neither carry it under my arm...

@MatthewFant

5 жыл бұрын

You’re not wrong. The latest Casio boards look pretty promising. I was always a fan of the Casio cgp line in general. Good bang for the buck.

@ItsThatJahncke2

5 жыл бұрын

@Maafa 1619 Yet another one of your biased comments..

The Yamaha CP-88 is an excellent professional stage piano....I played one at Guitar Center here in Sacramento, CA. The key action is excellent and the Grand Piano and Electric Piano sounds are great!!! This is the perfect stage piano for any type of gig!!! This would be an excellent professional entry level stage piano. However, Yamaha has a tendency to introduce new stage pianos with extreme high prices!!! This is not good for their business....$2,500 is too high for the CP-88...the better price would be $1,650. So, if you can afford $2,500 for a new stage piano, then get the Roland RD-2000 at $2,600!!

Hi Woody, I made the decision my self a couple years ago to get an 88 key piano/ synth. Fortunately for me Sweetwater is only a 4 hour drive away, in the same state. Personally I picked up the Roland FA-08. I did look at the Nord line and the Yamaha line as well but the cost difference made the choice for me. Great video. Have a great day.

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

hi, i used to have the FA08, it falls into the synth category, but does everything a stage piano can do, plus a lot more, so a great all-round choice!

What a great video.

Great choice! I bought my P 121 a mounth ago, and I love it. I'm a giging musician and I like the the weight of it...10 kg.

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

spoiler alert!

Now Nord has the Nord Grand with Kawai action and the great sound of Nord.And only 20 kg.Game changer.

How about Kaiwa ES8 or ES110?

Great channel sir! What are your thoughts on Casio Privia PX360 for all of us on low budget?

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

never tried one, as I mentioned, the availability is a bit hit and miss on some of the casio models depending on your region.

I’m so happy I live in Sweden! My buddy bought his stage 3 88 for 2800$ brand new

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

what a great deal!

Hello Woody. Thanks for the informative video. Have you ever played the CP73 with the BHS Keys? What is the quality of the keyboard of the CP73? Is this quality better than the simple GHS from Yamaha? Thanks a lot

@Elazarko

3 жыл бұрын

Same question

Great review Woody. How would one of these two - Yamaha CP88 and Nord Stage 3 - compare with the new Yamaha Genos? Or are we looking at two different things? Thoughts?

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

completely different category of keyboard! but all are great :)

I've always liked the idea of buying 2nd hand gear. Last year i sold my (loved) Kurzweil SP4-7 and my Waldorf Blofeld Keyboard (not so much love to that) in order to get my first Nord. I already have enough synth with my Novation BS2 so i just needed a really nice stage keyboard. So i bought a used Nord Electro 4 HP. Right now... i just miss my Kurzweil so much. Is not that Nord is a bad keyboard, actually i think the sound and the layout is amazing. It's just the keybed... i really hate it right now. I just want to try the SW on the Electro 6 to sold this NE4HP right now. How can you describe the keybed on the Yamaha CP 73? Something important is that i don't like 88 keys, not enough space and not easy for gigs in my opinion. Thanks!

@cristianozank7456

4 жыл бұрын

I have a Nord Electro 5D SW 73 and my previous keyboard was a SP-88. I loved the keybed of the SP-88, but for long time playng, i'm not a pianist, it was to heavy to me. The keybed of the Electro 5D SW 73 is realy good for the music that I play. Isn't so heavy and had a good compromise to play pianos, organs and synth. Oher advantages is that the Electro 5D is very portable in comparsion whit the quality: is short, compact and very roubust. I usualy don't use modulation whell or pitch, so, this don't matter for me. To play synth sound I bought a nord lead 2X and the keybed is not so good like the Electro 5, because they don't have the same propouse, but is a good keybed to play synths. And the fast access to all the effects on the electro 5 can change the vision of a need to a lot of sounds. Using effects you can shape the sound that what you need and the timbre will sound great. Sorry for my bad english, isn't my first language.

What studio monitors do you use?

Got the Kawai MP7SE, feels like a great musical investment, it has so many good features. It's great to practice piano on, it's superb as a Master Keyboard, and a great production tool with a good DAW. Also, it looks classy and timeless, fits great into a small apartment room.

@VadimShinnik

5 жыл бұрын

My friend I have Kawai MP7 for 3 years, and I'm very disappointed. Piano sound is not bad if you play single, same ballads or romances...on stage if you play with band sound no good, it's catastrophe!!!! Also after 2 years have issues with keyboard, for example if you play chord with bass, note on bass have no sound, if I press just bass, like one note is working. Now my Kawai MP7 is in the repair center, something burnt inside and I ordered some piece to replace...no confidence more in Kawai! But action on Kawai MP7 SE is good compare to MP7.

@dynoroad

5 жыл бұрын

@@VadimShinnik Can't say I agree about sound, since there's so many parameters to change. And if I'm completely honest, if you can't get a good live sound, it's not the board's problem, but rather a lack of sound engineering skills and knowledge. And I have no problem with the keybed, yet... ;P

@VadimShinnik

5 жыл бұрын

@@dynoroad That's the right answer - SO MANY PARAMETERS and as a result piano sound is caput!!!! Board problem is board problem! I mentioned separately about sound! In all ways Nord pianos sound good! Keyskape from spectrasonics! But not Kawai my friend, i'm shure if you make comments like this you are not professional musician or who have good ears!!! FACT!!!

@VadimShinnik

5 жыл бұрын

@@dynoroad kzread.info/dash/bejne/p4hmuptxcsmXg8Y.html Very nice piano sound, as I said....but in mix with band is big problem!!!! Also with sound techinician try to record in studio piano and nobody was happy....had to borrow from others different keyboard! Now in few days I will have Sequential Prophet XL from Dave Smith and samples from 8dio. And I'm shure that I will not have problem with piano sound!

@dynoroad

5 жыл бұрын

@@VadimShinnik Kind of unecessary with the personal attacks though, as if you're some big cat yourself. I never heard of any Vadim Shinnik before, and even if you've played in a "professional" band, you're still a fucking nobody in the greater picture. So get off your high horse.

Great music at 5:36 and 10:50 Woody!!! Are they of your creation? For me, Yamaha CP-300 and Casio Privia PX-330, and of course Yamaha Montage are most wonderful instruments for playing piano. Korg's Pa-1x, though 61 keys unweighted, also is very playable. No offense against your countrymen, but I never fell for the Nords except for their EP's, a fine Upright, and the occasional Clav. Roland's XV-88 was my piano of choice for years, (the plastic keys break with age though) and I also enjoy some of their FP's, though the newer ones like the FP-60 have become quite heavy! Where Casio rules is in Weight. (Otherwise Kawai would be way up there too!) . . .But in this particular video of yours, the focus is on home use only, so weight isn't an issue: in fact, heavier may be better - it means it won't shake around! - understood. Thanks for your educated and useful tutorial!

Good final choice, the Yamaha p121 is mine as a student, and it's just fine (compact, good hammer action, good piano sounds even electric piano)

Woody, nice playing, especially Steppin' Out. have you played a Roland VR-09? I'm not sure if that qualifies as a stage piano because it features organ draw bars but every video I have seen just sounds awesome.

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

i have not, and yes I think it should qualify, it has same features as NE I think. thanks

@xp50player

5 жыл бұрын

VR-09 is a 61 key synth-action combo organ.

@eaviking

5 жыл бұрын

I had one. Sounds neat, plays horrible. Furthermore, Roland have messed up the midi implementation. I sold mine after a few months.

@christopherkahn6522

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the feedback. I was thinking of getting one but I'm going to wait.

@garys-617

5 жыл бұрын

@@christopherkahn6522 Check out the VR-730.... Exact same architecture as the VR-09, but an entirely different 73 note keybed.....

Casio Privias should definitely be considered. I bought a used Casio Privia PX-5S a few years ago. It sounds great and is super lightweight to carry around. There is a deep synth engine in it if you take the time to delve into it. I like the action and whenever I start to crave a Stage 3 too much I control my Electro 6 from the Casio. It is triple sensor and is a great controller. I think I like the feel of the Casio triggering the Nord piano library from the Casio more than the action on the State 3 88. The PX-5s synth can handle most of what I am looking to do so I don't feel the loss of the A1 synth.

Great! I liked the idea of the CP73 until I read one of the comments below Turn It On Again!!

I bought the CP-88 a year ago after looking at all the reviews, yours and Dr. Mix, and just love this keyboard. If I got stranded on an island alone, the CP-88 is what I would choose to have with me. Who needs water or food.. :-)

@WoodyPianoShack

4 жыл бұрын

remember to bring your headphones too! ;)

@TheBluemanBenny

4 жыл бұрын

@@WoodyPianoShack Dammit, your right, I forgot, that would've sucked! Well, in that case might as well bring my Kali LP8s and my DAW.. and the piano seat.... :-)

@christiancummings3263

3 жыл бұрын

I have the yamaha s90ES i love it!

Hi, have you checked out the Waldorf Zarenbourg?

Thx u 4 sharing

Hey Woody, not sure if you realize this or not. The Yamaha CP73 DOES NOT have the same keybed as the CP88. It is much lower quality. I went to NAMM and was able to compare the CP73, CP88, Korg Grand stage, Roland RD-2000, Dexebell VIVO and the Kawai MPSE 11. And as everyone would expect, the KAWAI has the best feel. I was very disappointed with the CP88 and CP73. To be honest, kinda shocked they would put out a lack luster stage piano to compete with the other manufactures. The CP4 was already long in the tooth, yet they come out with the CP88 that doesn't even nearly catch up with my RD-2000. A fellow pianist at NAMM was waiting for the CP88 because he currently has the CP4. He was very disappointed with the keybed and the lack luster sounds. He and I both agree, it was basically a stripped down black nord. if I were shopping for a new digital stage piano it would be: With a lower budget: 1. The KORG D1 Other wise: 1. KAWAI MPSE11 (if I didn't plan on moving it much as it is 76#) or 1. Roland RD-2000 (if a was taking it on gigs) 2. Korg Grand Stage

@MatthewTomich

Жыл бұрын

The CP88 1.5 update would probably change a few minds.

Hi Woody, maybe the Studio Logic Compact 2 or 2x could fit your needs.

Hope to see you get your hands on the new Yamaha YC61 👍

what do you use for keyboard monitors

GrandStage all day long for the money, were I starting over. Some corrections on the RD-2000 mention: the primary piano engine in this unit is the modeled V-Piano technology with its own full polyphony , the SuperNatural resynthesized/PCM sounds being in a secondary engine with 128 note polyphony. The RD-2000 does not have, as stated, a multichannel audio interface, though 2-channel stereo is technically “multi”. You mIght be thinking of the Montage and to a lesser extent, the MODX.

@coscrupi

5 жыл бұрын

Yes it does have a USB audio interface to connect to DAW software to blend with onboard sounds. Google pics of the back. Its on almost all demo vids.

Lucky for me I can download for free really good samples of others makes of pianos for my Nord Stage 3, they’ve recently uploaded some new enhanced electro instruments with added dynamics for a more specific sound.

@TransistorBased

3 жыл бұрын

Nord's library conveniently gets forgotten or downplayed in a lot of arguments like this. It's an ever-expanding library of incredibly-nice sounds that's all free!

Hey Woody, its 5am here in Melbourne. Cant help but stop what I'm doing once YT gives me a notification that Woody is at it again and watch your reviews. Hey a few people here have mentioned CASIO and some of the older models PX 5S and the CT range. However It would tickle my fancys if you considered reviewing Casios new PX S3000 or PX S1000 digital piano as recently showcased at NAMM '19. These things look amazing and sound amazing. I nearly purchased a PX 560 but then somehow ended up my Roland Juno DS88. But I think Casio products would continue to contend with some of these brands you reviewed and from a cost perspective:)

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

i agree they sound nice and look pretty slick, if only casio would send me one...

@ringodingo6945

5 жыл бұрын

@@WoodyPianoShack We'll arrange

@wereoursouls3472

5 жыл бұрын

Are you happy with the juno ds88. Key feel and piano sound?.

@ringodingo6945

5 жыл бұрын

@@wereoursouls3472 Gday Geoff, It took me a while to get used to it, I really wanted the buy the FA08 which has the Supernatural Piano sounds etc...but at the time I couldn't afford it. The Feel of the DS is fantastic and the Ds Grand piano is very nice. I'm looking at Yamaha MODX 61 and an 88 key controller of some kind.

You should really consider the new Casio PX-S1000 for your next purchase! Also, for the head to head comparison you should also throw in the Casio PX-5S it has a superb Steinway piano sound, a nice synth sound, bread and butter sounds and a killer keybed plus midi controller features.

@musikone1780

5 жыл бұрын

Nope, NOT THE PX-S1000, For a with more hundrend bucks, you can have the PX-S3000 and get 700 sounds.

Thanks!!

Sorry if you've already addressed this, but why haven't you reviewed / compared against the Roland RD-2000? That seems like an amazing instrument and feature packed tool.

What piano would you buy if you could accommodate a 88 key sized keyboard?

There is none mentioned here that I'm familiar with. Truly I love the Yamaha MOX F8.

What about the Roland FA08 vs the CP?

I'm just starting to look for a replacement for my now quite old and obsolete General Music PRO1 "stage piano" (only used at home). I only play classical music and want A) fully weighted grand piano action, B) concert grand sound(s) (to my dedicated v.g. external sound system) C) string resonance modeling (the old GEM does this very well) and, of course, 88 keys and 3 pedals. Nice to haves include MIDI/USB and a few other voices, e.g. pipe organ. I'm not sure I want to pay for a "virtual piano" system, but I like the idea of setting up different acoustical piano sounds to compare with recordings. My first steps? To check out the youtube videos and the piano forums, then kick the tires at music shops... Please wish me luck!

lol im away into my music room to play stepping out lol, great work woody, my wife is looking pissed off because i always go into what i call the broom cupboard and start playing stuff at max volume after your vids lol, and phil colins at the end of you vid is happening too now lol music lovers rejoice lol :)

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

that makes me very happy (apologise to the wife from me)

Yamaha CP vs MODX? Are the sounds between the two keyboards different from one another (piano, rhodes, wurliz, synths)? If feel was out of the question, I feel like a MODX7 would be way more bang for your buck than a CP73 because of how much more it has and does.

@geoffk777

5 жыл бұрын

The CP has more piano samples built in. Also, the CP88 has a better action than the MODX 8, but I think that the difference is minimal on the 73s. If you only (or mostly) want a piano and want hands-on control with simple knobs than the CP might be better. But the MODX is much more versatile and flexible and definitely more keyboard for the money.

i got a nord electro 2 the other day for $600. i was thinking of taking it back but now after watching this, and hearing you say its the best, im going to give it another try.

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

not the best in the range, but my personal favorite, sometimes less is more

What’ the song at 17:30?

what are your thoughts on the .. uhm .. "new" general music promega2+? i could not find very much new compared to the almost 20 years old promega 2, except that it now has OLED display and USB.. but to me it sounded exactly like the old one... actually i own a promega3, which of course still sounds great and it just looks so awesome. i love the wooden parts on the sides, the 4 sound divisions are really easy to use (yamaha did quite the same thing with their CPs..) and those motor faders are just fancy. :D ... so it would have been nice to see something like a promega 3+ but with redesigned sounds and of course a 3-sensor keyboard etc ..

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

the promega3 was and is an incredible machine with the physical modelling and motorized faders, and what a presence! they started making a new version again in Finland and contacted me about demoing one on the channel but I thought at the time it was a bit too niche for my channel. congrats on your 3, awesome board!

How can you overlook the Korg SP280 or Korg D1? They feel and sound a lot more realistic than the Yamaha P121 you ended up with. Same price range.

Woody, i have the nord stage 3 compact (i had advice from you, thanks again). As a organ/ synth guy with also focus on EP’s, this is a dream machine man. It has it all. I understand it doesn’t belong in this video (not fully weighted etc) but i see no real competition. What’s your view on this? Also, as mentioned in the comments, prices for nords are al lot cheaper here. Grtz from Holland and keep up the good stuff man 🎹👌🏻

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

probably should have mentioned the 73, it overlaps into the electro territory but yeah definitely a stage piano worthy of mention, thanks for bringing it up. organ, clav (and synth to some extent) on a weighted board is horrible, like playing in treacle, so I agree this model is a fantastic compromise for piano and organ and a real powerhouse! congrats on yours, I wouldn't say no to one myself! :)

Are you sure the Korg SV isn't already the newer and improved version?

your enthusiasm is infectious ! I didn't hear if your Yam P series had midi out ( controlling your digital piano VST collections)? yamaha makes a good meat and potatoes product.

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

cool! cheaper p-series don't have the round DIN midi in/out, but they have usb midi, which is better for connecting to pc. not good for controlling other synths and hardware devices though...

Man, I just bought a Roland Juno DS88 for $1600AU and it's an awesome thing. I dont feel like I'm missing out on anything by not spending 3 times as much!

Hey woody, if u had to compare the piano sound of the montage vs the cp88, which do you think feels more authentic?

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

a lot of you have asked me that, but the cp88 has much better action and feel than the (modx) so hard to compare, i might do a midi-file shootout of the two for a comparison of the sound.

@xp50player

5 жыл бұрын

Woody Piano Shack - trigger the MODX from the CP88 for sound/feel comparison.

@geoffk777

5 жыл бұрын

The main Bosendorfer and CFX samples ought to be the same, but I think that the CP88 has some additional samples that the Montage is missing.

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

for sure, there are new sounds on the CP88 that you don't get in the Mont, in the grand, upright and ep categories..

What about the Korg D1?

Are you sure that nord has best hammond emulation? Did you try new Crumar products? Mojo?

@vanessajazp6341

5 жыл бұрын

Crumar makes a FANTASTIC EP!! But Nord does seem to be the best in B3 sound articulation.

We are in 2022 and the Nord Stage 3 88 is $5,299 on Sweetwater now.

Hi Woody :) Thanks for the review, as always very entertaining. As a father of a young boy learning to play the piano, key action is the major factor in my desire to upgrade from our current Roland FP-50. I think the "Stage Piano" market is very confused and generally underperforming in relation to other product ranges. Firstly a piano in my opinion needs to be exactly that, a piano, with piano action. This for the main part excludes Nords don't you think? I think a Nord electro is a classic piece of gear, but I can't take their synths or piano's seriously :) The CP88 was a real opportunity for Yamaha to come out kicking and screaming with a polished up to date pro stage piano, sadly on so many levels this gorgeous looking piano just doesn't cut it. Great sounds though.

@geoffk777

5 жыл бұрын

If your #1 criteria is a great action, than you won't go wrong with a Roland RD-2000. The action is the same as in their most expensive home pianos and it blows away the Nord.

I'm curious how the CP88 might compare to the Yamaha MX88? I haven't seen many reviews of the MX88, but for the price ($1000) the specs seem great.

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

i dunno paul, never played one, the MODX should be on the list of 88 key synths as well!

I’m one of those odd people that bought the 10 year old tech in the korg sv1 88. I love it. Will it be my only board? By no means. I love your buyers guide analysis, which is, you don’t need the latest and greatest to practice. You need something that moves and motivates you. I also recently checked out the Yamaha p125/121 and was very impressed with the quality for the cash. I think it looks pretty good on the stand in the pic too.

@WoodyPianoShack

5 жыл бұрын

hello again matt, i've got a strange urge to buy an sv as well, always thought they were quirky and very cool. although I'm cheap so looking second hand, glad you're enjoying yours! :)

So long as I'm dreaming , I'll take both please.