Best
Intermediate Digital Piano
Digital Piano UNVEILING PERFORMANCE AND PORTABILITY
-
Overall:
Tone Generation: AMW Stereo Sampling -
Best Feature:
Comes With Pedal/Footswitch, Music Rest, AC Adaptor -
TedScore™:
9/10
Best
Overall
Digital Piano
-
Overall: With 88 Natural Wood Keys With Triple Sensors And Synthetic Ebony And Ivory Keytops
-
Best Feature: Three Premium Grand Pianos, Two Uprights, And Five Electric Pianos
-
TedScore™: 9.5/10
Best
Professional
Digital Piano
-
Overall:
Has GrandTouch-S keyboard with wooden keys and synthetic ebony and ivory keytops -
Best Feature:
Incorporates Virtual Resonance Modeling technology -
TedScore™:
10/10
Get ready to discover why the Yamaha CP88 is the ultimate companion for any performer.
In this article, we’ll explore its standout features, from its incredible weighted keys to its vast array of voices and effects. With its stunning sound quality and realistic feel, this stage piano is perfect for both professional musicians and aspiring artists.
The Yamaha CP88 is not just an instrument; it’s a gateway to creativity and expression!
Design and Build Quality
First impressions matter, and the Yamaha CP88 definitely makes a statement with its elegant design.
Sleek and Professional Appearance: The CP88 boasts a polished, modern look that fits seamlessly into any performance setting. Its sleek black finish and streamlined controls give it a professional appearance that will impress both on stage and in the studio.
Lightweight and Portable: At just under 50 pounds, the CP88 is surprisingly lightweight for a stage piano. This portability makes it easy for musicians to transport it to gigs and rehearsals without breaking a sweat.
Durable Construction: The CP88 is built with high-quality materials and is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use. You can feel confident that this instrument will be a reliable companion for years to come.
User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive layout of the controls and the clear LCD make navigating through sounds and settings a breeze. You’ll spend less time fiddling with buttons and more time creating beautiful music.
Yamaha CP88 Digital Stage Piano
PERFECT FOR: intermediate to advancing players
FEATURES: With 88 natural wood keys with triple sensors and synthetic ebony and ivory keytops for a realistic playing experience
OTHER INFO: Three premium grand pianos, two uprights, and five electric pianos
Yamaha CP88 Digital Stage Piano
- Built-in effects, EQ, and reverb for customizing your sound
- High-quality sound and feel for professional-level playing and recording
- Portable design with durable and lightweight construction
- Wide range of voices and features for a customizable playing experience
- May not have as many advanced features as some other high-end digital pianos
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Key Action and Playability
Graded Hammer Action: The CP88 features Yamaha’s Graded Hammer Action (GH) keyboard, which mimics the feel of an acoustic piano. This means the lower keys are heavier, while the higher keys are lighter, providing an authentic touch that serious pianists will appreciate.
Ivory and Ebony Key Feel: The keys are designed with a textured finish that resembles ivory and ebony, offering a comfortable grip and a luxurious feel. This attention to detail enhances the overall playing experience, making it a joy to perform on.
Velocity Sensitivity: The CP88 is equipped with velocity-sensitive keys, allowing for expressive playing. You can control the dynamics of your performance, creating a more nuanced sound that responds to your touch.
Customizable Touch Sensitivity: If you prefer a different playing feel, the CP88 allows you to adjust the touch sensitivity settings. This feature ensures that the instrument can be tailored to your playing style.
Sound Quality and Features
Now that we’ve covered design and playability, let’s explore the CP88’s heart: its sound.
Premium Sound Engine: The Yamaha CP88 is equipped with the CP series’ advanced sound engine, delivering high-quality sounds that are rich and dynamic. You’ll find a wide range of voices, from acoustic pianos to electric pianos and beyond.
Authentic Acoustic Piano Sounds: The CP88 features meticulously sampled acoustic piano sounds that capture the nuances of real instruments. Whether you’re playing a soft ballad or a powerful concerto, these sounds will elevate your performance.
Variety of Voices: In addition to acoustic pianos, the CP88 offers a diverse selection of voices, including electric pianos, organs, strings, and synths. This versatility allows you to explore different genres and styles with ease.
Built-in Effects: The CP88 comes with a range of built-in effects, such as reverb, chorus, and EQ, allowing you to shape your sound. These effects can enhance your performance and add depth to your music.
Layering and Splitting: The CP88 offers endless creative possibilities. You can layer sounds or split the keyboard, combine different voices for a richer sound, or assign different sounds to each hand for more complex arrangements.
Connectivity and Integration
In today’s digital age, connectivity is key, and the Yamaha CP88 delivers.
MIDI and USB Connectivity: The CP88 features MIDI and USB ports, allowing you to connect to computers and other devices. This makes it easy to integrate the piano into your existing setup for recording or live performances.
Bluetooth Functionality: Bluetooth connectivity allows you to wirelessly connect to your favorite music apps and software. This feature opens up a world of possibilities for practice, performance, and composition.
Audio Outputs: The CP88 is equipped with balanced XLR outputs, ensuring a clean and professional sound when connected to amplifiers or PA systems. You can trust that your sound will be clear and powerful in any setting.
Sustain Pedal Input: The instrument includes a sustain pedal input, allowing you to connect a pedal for added expression. This feature is essential for pianists looking to enhance their playing dynamics.
Performance and Versatility
The Yamaha CP88 shines not only in the studio but also on stage.
With its robust build and high-quality sound, the CP88 is perfect for live performances. Musicians can rely on its performance capabilities to deliver an unforgettable show.
Whether you’re playing classical, jazz, rock, or pop, the CP88 adapts beautifully to various musical styles. Its wide range of voices allows for seamless transitions between genres.
The intuitive control layout makes it easy to adjust settings on the fly during performances. You can focus on your music without getting lost in complicated menus.
The CP88 allows you to save and recall custom settings, making it easy to switch between different configurations for various songs or performances. This feature enhances your efficiency on stage.
The instrument’s layering and splitting capabilities enable dynamic performances that captivate audiences. You can create rich, textured sounds that fill the room.
Learning and Growth
One of the best parts about the Yamaha CP88 is how it supports your musical journey.
Ideal for Beginners: With its user-friendly design and excellent sound quality, the CP88 is perfect for beginners who are just starting to explore the world of piano playing. It encourages practice and helps build a solid foundation.
Supportive Learning Features: The responsive key action and excellent intonation make it easier for new players to develop their skills. You’ll find that it’s a great instrument to grow with as you advance your playing abilities.
Community and Resources: Yamaha has a wealth of resources and a supportive community for pianists. From instructional videos to online forums, you’ll find plenty of help and inspiration as you navigate your musical path.
Performance Opportunities: As you gain confidence, the CP88 opens up opportunities for performances, whether in school bands or community events. There’s nothing quite like sharing your music with others!
Encouragement for Creativity: The CP88 inspires creativity, allowing you to experiment with different sounds and styles. This encourages you to explore your musical identity and express yourself fully.
Other Yamaha Piano Model
Yamaha CLP-745
FEATURES: Has GrandTouch-S keyboard with wooden keys and synthetic ebony and ivory keytops
OTHER INFO: Incorporates Virtual Resonance Modeling technology
- Offers a wide range of features, including multiple piano voices, a variety of built-in songs, USB audio recording and playback, and compatibility with apps like Smart Pianist
- With Virtual Resonance Modeling (VRM) technology and high-quality piano samples
- Premium price tag
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha P45 Digital Piano
PERFECT FOR: New musicians
FEATURES: A teacher's favourite for learning with graded hammer action keys
OTHER INFO: With a graded standard hammer keyboard and sustain pedal for an authentic playing feel
Yamaha P45 Digital Piano
- Legendary Yamaha quality
- Includes three months of Flowkey Premium
- You'll need to purchase a stand and bench separately, which can add to the overall cost
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Article-Title
Summary
The Yamaha CP88 is a remarkable electric piano that stands out among other stage pianos for its exceptional sound quality and feel.
With its Natural Wood Graded Hammer action, it closely mimics the touch of an acoustic grand piano, providing an authentic playing experience.
This stage piano features a wide array of piano sounds, including meticulously sampled grand pianos and electric pianos, allowing musicians to explore various tonal options.
The keys are crafted with synthetic ebony, enhancing durability while maintaining a luxurious feel under your fingers. Whether you’re performing live or practicing at home, the CP88 stage piano delivers a rich, dynamic sound that can elevate any performance.
For those seeking a high-quality alternative to other stage pianos, the Yamaha CP88 is a top choice that truly captures the essence of a grand piano.
Design: Sleek, professional appearance with a lightweight build for portability.
Key Action: Graded Hammer Action keyboard for an authentic acoustic piano feel.
Sound Quality: Premium sound engine with a wide range of meticulously sampled voices.
Connectivity: MIDI, USB, and Bluetooth options for seamless integration with devices.
Versatility: Layering and splitting capabilities for creative sound combinations.
Whether you’re performing live, recording in the studio, or practicing at home, the CP88 is a reliable companion that will elevate your musical journey.
But keep on reading…
If you’re looking to discover the best pianos on the market, check out our article on “Piano Brand Ranking” for insightful comparisons and recommendations to help you make an informed choice!
Gotta say, while everyone’s raving about the CP88, I’m sitting here thinking about how it stacks up against its competitors. Yeah, Yamaha’s reputable and all, but when you look at the price tag, I start wondering if we’re paying for the brand or the tech. Sure, the graded hammer action sounds nice, but are we overlooking equally good (or better) options from other companies just because they don’t have the Yamaha logo? Would love to see a comparison rather than just another Yamaha hype piece.
Hey Robert Emery, just read through your piece on the Yamaha CP88, and I’ve gotta say, pretty spot on! I’ve been toggling between teaching music during the week and playing gigs over the weekend, and the CP88 has definitely been a game changer for me. The key action is something else, feels so authentic like you’re on a grand piano, which my students absolutely love. The sound quality is lush! Been recommending it to all my fellow musicians. Great review!
PJ_Drumz, absolutely! It’s got great connectivity options. I’ve hooked it up with various setups, and it’s always a breeze. You’ll have no trouble integrating it with your digital gear.
Ellie, does it hook up easy with other gear? Got a digital setup goin and wondering if it’ll fit in smooth.