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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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!
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.
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
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 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.... :-)
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.
" 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.
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.
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.
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)
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.
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...
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) .
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!
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..)
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.
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.
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.
@@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
@@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!!!
@@dynoroad ruclips.net/video/uT2X98Bf1Sc/видео.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!
@@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 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
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.
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.
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.
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!!
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:)
@@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.
Have you checked out the Casios? I have a PX560M . Excellent piano and synths. Programmable, Hex Layering for about $1000 USD. They also have a new one out now, the PX1000 and 3000. Just piano with some other stuff for mid hundreds USD.
PS: another option is the PX5S. Still an awesome keyboar/piano/controller. But that damn display is too small. An too many buttons to push to do something! I had one and returned it for that reason! I got the 560, much nice to move about!
John Nastrom just go check one out! They play awesome! The more expensive ones! The PX560M prices for $1299 USD. PLAYS a lot better then any of the other major brand boards out with weighted graded action. Not wooden keys! Awesome feel and action!
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. 👍
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: ruclips.net/video/mLwIX4Y2ze4/видео.html
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
Hello teacher, please, I need your help, I just bought a yamaha cp88 and I like it a lot, but I have a big problem, I want to use it as a usb midi controller, in Cubase to play kontakt vsts, I am not selecting it as a usb output , because I have my monitors connected to another audio interface, I'm only interested in the cp88 keys, my problem is that when I play, the vsts sound very low in volume, I can't play loud. try changing the keyboard sensitivity to the other options but no change please i have until tomorrow to return the cp88 to the store where i bought it my question is cant change the key sensitivity if i am using the cp88 as usb host midi controller, without selecting it as audio? Please, if you can help me and can you tell me if it is possible to do it, how do I do it? or if you can confirm that it is not possible, I return it to the store tomorrow. I do not want to lose my money. please. thank you very much in every way.
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
I agree with you Woody.... a Digital Piano should do the Piano... no whistles and saxophones..pls... What do you think about the keyboard action of the Nord HPs?
I had a NP1, the action was find, not amazing, and it developed a clicky sound on some notes. So my overall impression was not glowing. Loved those pianos though.
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.
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.
Did woody try this as a midi controller? I had trouble with Yamaha’s not sending the full 0-127 velocity range and being unable. I’d hate to pick one of these up used and it not work properly with my VSTs
@@WoodyPianoShack ah the man himself, thank you so much for replying! That’s reassuring, I think this is the perfect board for me right now. And thank you for all your hard work making these videos for us.
What about the Studiologic Numa Compact 2x? This 15 lb keyboard has an 88-key Fatar Keyboard, a drawbar organ, sampled pianos with dsp string resonance, and a synth engine derived from the Sledge with 1 GB Rom, and parameters adjustable from the controls including the drawbars. The street price is only $699 in the US. Oh yes, it has built in amplifier and speakers 10 watts each side.
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.
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.
The new Privia PX s3000 is great. I was able to play it at NAMM. it comes out in April. It has a fantastic feel for its slim design and has 700 sounds in it. The price will be $999(USD).
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
Why not get the Yamaha Modx8? It's missing speakers, but you could have second hand monitors hooked up easily. I went with the Modx, and thanks for your great videos on it!
@@WoodyPianoShack You are absolutely right. Just saying that Modx has some great 88 action and versatility. A+ channel my friend, and you are fierce on the keys! Love the direction of the content.
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.
The RD-2000 has both a joystick and the wheels, which is an interesting design choice. You missed something that would be an interesting turning point. CASIO CTX 5000. Sure, it's only 61 keys but...There's a ton of cool features in it.
Both wheels on the Roland are Mod wheels. The stick is the only pitch bender. And the mod wheels are "extras" as you can get mod by pushing up on the stick.
@@geoffk777 Interesting. I thought it was the same as the JD-XA, which has the same combination, but one of the wheels returns to center, like a regular pitch wheel. So, the thing is more like Roland copying the Yamaha VL-1, which has two modulation wheels.
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.
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.
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 ;-)
Have had a lot of pianos including vst pianos but never really satisfied with the sound. Now that I own a nord piano5 I know that I will not buy another piano anymore, these samples are very good and can be set up as you want. Know it is quite pricey but if you can afford it then I would definitely recommend it.
Hi Woody. I have purchased the Yamaha CP88 and am facing the choice of speakers for a studio/small area setting. Its either a pair of Yamaha HS8 monitors or a single QSC 10.2. What would be your recommendation? Thank you.
@@wulf67 thanks. I actually got a pair of Adam T8V and a single CP12 to compare and expand to two CP12s. But contrary to what I was expecting, the Adams proved to be far superior. What won me was the clarity and definition over loudness. I am writing this to benefit anyone in my shoes. Thanks for stopping by.
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!
good piano sound, some complementary sounds, 88 weighted keys and a rugged construction built for the road. usually folks would say no built-in speakers either.
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?
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.
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.
I'd like an opinion between yamaha's modx8, mx88 and Mofx8.... I'm going to buy one but which one...? I want a great piano, but all the bells and whistles too... I'm leaning towards the mx88, as it seems uncomplicated with presets...(at least to start)... Yes, I'd like to think I could do a gig with it...
The pianos on the MOXF8 are very disappointing and it's definitely worth getting the MODX8 instead. MX88 is much simpler than the MODX, but, if you can afford it, I'd go for the MODX, as it's newer and better in almost every way.
@@geoffk777 Hey thanks for the reply... I can eliminate one at least.. Yes, funny I did get the impression that the mx 88 was simpler.. (which in the short term, may have suited me)... But I don't want to be bored a year later lol.... Your insight helped, thank you.
@@davidplatt5957 The MODX is a great deal. You get basically the entire package of the Flagship Montage for less than half the price. And it's awesome.
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.
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
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?
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!
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 ..
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!
I was always interested in this. Many of the same powerful features of other stage keyboards. A lot of flexibility in the assignable knobs and faders, the stage settings and hex layers. Great price too. Ultimately I went with the CP4 which I love.
@@Alan_Chapman Money was an issue, so the PX-5S was the best I could get at that price. If money wasn't an issue I probably would have gone straight for a Nord Stage! :D
Peter Walker I saw one in a store used. I liked the textured feel of the keys, but the action felt short and clacky or bouncy. I’m not qualified to say whether it doesn’t work for me because it wasn’t powered so I didn’t get to see how it feels in response to your playing. Most keyboard actions grow on me after several minutes once I get adjusted.
Alan Chapman I’ve been playing my korg sv1 for a couple months, and now the action on the acoustic piano I’ve been playing for years feels odd. Lol. So I feel ya.
Hi Woody, which one do you think has the best CP70/CP80 sound (like Keane, U2,...)? I have a real CP70 but is it really hard to transport it for gigs...
you do? congrats! you could sample it and create your own library! probably the yamaha cp does it best although it's been years since i played the vintage cp.
phone is perfect for video, for audio you need to connect CP to a portable digital audio recorder, or to PC with usb audio interface and record in DAW, that is what I do.
At PMT in Birmingham, UK, they let me compare a Roland RD2000, Yamaha CP, Korg Grand Stage and a used Kawai instrument. Listening with Senheiser HD600 and Sony MDR-1000X (noise cancelling) headphones, my comparison was between piano sounds ONLY. Roland's RD2000 is a synth, with pleasant enough vanilla piano sound. Same with the others. However the Korg not only sounded more like a concert grand, it has 6 very different sampled instruments, 2 uprights and (Yamaha) electric grand. I find practicing on a synth too distracting, finding myself programming patches all the time. With the Grand Stage at home now nearly 5 months, those piano sounds still sound like unaffordable concert grands. B.t.w., the 490 other non piano sounds are also pretty fantastic.
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.
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...
What about the Roland RD88? I have one and bang for your buck it's pretty good, if it had proper organ sounds it would even better! But it is 88 keys so too big if space is at a premium.
@@WoodyPianoShack I like my RD88, but the lack of editing of the sounds is terrible. I don't think i can menu dive and even find envelope adjustment, I realise it's a piano but it would be nice to have more control over the sound. For example I wanted to play 'All my love' by Led Zep but couldn't adjust the synth sound to get the attack right for the intro. It may have Zen core but not much use if you cannot edit it.
Hi Woody, I just checked the Sweetwater price for the Nord Stage 3 is a measly $5,299.00. Ha, pocket change my man. lol I think I will go with the Roland RD-2000. Keep the great videos comings.
I don't know why, but in my country Yamaha prices are up to Nord levels, so I went for The Nord Piano 5, which $1500 less than the CP88. I also have a Roland Fantom, their piano sounds (which are many and range from V-pianos, Supernatural and Zen-core) sit very well in mix, but sound kind of digital in isolation. I also have a Kawai ES8, which sounds fantastic but you are limited to the 10 acoustic piano sounds and 5 more electric samples. All in all, my new NP5 is becoming my favorite sounding piano, but I'm going to keep the ES8 because it has built-in speakers and they come in handy for practicing. Maybe I'll get rid of the Fantom, not sure yet.
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!
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.
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...!.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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
Honestly i recommend the cp88 it has a much better feel sure the nords good but the cp88 puts the nords action to shame
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.
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!
Seamless transitions between presets used to be missing on all digital instruments It's so good to have them now!
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.
Crumar have some of the best organs in the business
Love it , best sounds for Rhodes and EP sounds, easy to play, compact, probably my next keyboard
I ended up going with the P121 and have been happy with it
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
good call, or a used microkorg for a couple hundred bucks!
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.. :-)
remember to bring your headphones too! ;)
@@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.... :-)
I have the yamaha s90ES i love it!
12:44 Woody you nailed it with this comparison!
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.
well said that man, i agree Chris, the dynamics, touch and keybed set the CP apart from the rest.
" 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.
Hey Woody, take a look at the Yamaha P-515.
NWX wooden keys with escapement. CFX and Bösendorfer samples. Binaursl sampling for the CFX...
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.
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.
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)
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.
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...
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.
@Maafa 1619 Yet another one of your biased comments..
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) .
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!
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..)
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.
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.
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.
@@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
@@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!!!
@@dynoroad ruclips.net/video/uT2X98Bf1Sc/видео.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!
@@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 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
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.
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.
Nice..how about Roland RD800
i'm not familiar with that model, sorry.
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.
spoiler alert!
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.
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!!
Congratulation for your great video with the best information about stage pianos... Excelent work!!!
How about Kaiwa ES8 or ES110?
Loved your Brazilian T-shirt
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:)
i agree they sound nice and look pretty slick, if only casio would send me one...
@@WoodyPianoShack We'll arrange
Are you happy with the juno ds88. Key feel and piano sound?.
@@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.
Have you checked out the Casios? I have a PX560M . Excellent piano and synths. Programmable, Hex Layering for about $1000 USD. They also have a new one out now, the PX1000 and 3000. Just piano with some other stuff for mid hundreds USD.
The PX-S3000 is the one to get if you like Casio. They will be released in April.
@@musikone1780 Yep! good keyboard/Piano. But I do like the features on the PX560M
PS: another option is the PX5S. Still an awesome keyboar/piano/controller. But that damn display is too small. An too many buttons to push to do something!
I had one and returned it for that reason! I got the 560, much nice to move about!
Casios have a reputation of being toys.
John Nastrom just go check one out! They play awesome! The more expensive ones! The PX560M prices for $1299 USD. PLAYS a lot better then any of the other major brand boards out with weighted graded action. Not wooden keys! Awesome feel and action!
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. 👍
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: ruclips.net/video/mLwIX4Y2ze4/видео.html
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
Thanks for sharing.I've an other question about Casio PX-5S, do you think it was a stage piano?
The Stage 3 is just so easy to use, despite how crowded it is
TransistorBased, That’s what I’m in the market for. Thanks for your comment. Very helpful.
Hello teacher, please, I need your help, I just bought a yamaha cp88 and I like it a lot, but I have a big problem, I want to use it as a usb midi controller, in Cubase to play kontakt vsts, I am not selecting it as a usb output , because I have my monitors connected to another audio interface, I'm only interested in the cp88 keys, my problem is that when I play, the vsts sound very low in volume, I can't play loud. try changing the keyboard sensitivity to the other options but no change please i have until tomorrow to return the cp88 to the store where i bought it my question is cant change the key sensitivity if i am using the cp88 as usb host midi controller, without selecting it as audio? Please, if you can help me and can you tell me if it is possible to do it, how do I do it? or if you can confirm that it is not possible, I return it to the store tomorrow. I do not want to lose my money. please. thank you very much in every way.
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
The CP88 1.5 update would probably change a few minds.
I agree with you Woody.... a Digital Piano should do the Piano... no whistles and saxophones..pls...
What do you think about the keyboard action of the Nord HPs?
I had a NP1, the action was find, not amazing, and it developed a clicky sound on some notes. So my overall impression was not glowing. Loved those pianos though.
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.
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.
Buy the best you can afford. Most of us have to be realistic. Honestly, all modern keyboards are amazing.
Did woody try this as a midi controller? I had trouble with Yamaha’s not sending the full 0-127 velocity range and being unable. I’d hate to pick one of these up used and it not work properly with my VSTs
i did never that, but would be astonished if it did not do a good job, these are premium keyboard and keybeds.
@@WoodyPianoShack ah the man himself, thank you so much for replying! That’s reassuring, I think this is the perfect board for me right now. And thank you for all your hard work making these videos for us.
What piano would you buy if you could accommodate a 88 key sized keyboard?
Hi, have you checked out the Waldorf Zarenbourg?
What about the Studiologic Numa Compact 2x? This 15 lb keyboard has an 88-key Fatar Keyboard, a drawbar organ, sampled pianos with dsp string resonance, and a synth engine derived from the Sledge with 1 GB Rom, and parameters adjustable from the controls including the drawbars. The street price is only $699 in the US. Oh yes, it has built in amplifier and speakers 10 watts each side.
very rarely see them in the stores, but yeah, they always make interesting, slightly obscure, stuff.
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.
i have not, and yes I think it should qualify, it has same features as NE I think. thanks
VR-09 is a 61 key synth-action combo organ.
I had one. Sounds neat, plays horrible. Furthermore, Roland have messed up the midi implementation. I sold mine after a few months.
Thanks for the feedback. I was thinking of getting one but I'm going to wait.
@@christopherkahn6522 Check out the VR-730.... Exact same architecture as the VR-09, but an entirely different 73 note keybed.....
Are you sure the Korg SV isn't already the newer and improved version?
Why not choosing the piaggero NP-32 which is less expensive at 380€ ?
that's a different category, we are comparing professional stage pianos here
Now Nord has the Nord Grand with Kawai action and the great sound of Nord.And only 20 kg.Game changer.
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.
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.
What about new CASIO piano offering?
they make soe nice dps, do they have something in the stage piano category?
The new Privia PX s3000 is great. I was able to play it at NAMM. it comes out in April. It has a fantastic feel for its slim design and has 700 sounds in it. The price will be $999(USD).
Are you sure that nord has best hammond emulation? Did you try new Crumar products? Mojo?
Crumar makes a FANTASTIC EP!!
But Nord does seem to be the best in B3 sound articulation.
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
Same question
Why not get the Yamaha Modx8? It's missing speakers, but you could have second hand monitors hooked up easily. I went with the Modx, and thanks for your great videos on it!
today we focused on stage pianos, the 88 modx does much more and doesn't really fit into that category for me. congrats on yours!
@@WoodyPianoShack You are absolutely right. Just saying that Modx has some great 88 action and versatility. A+ channel my friend, and you are fierce on the keys! Love the direction of the content.
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.
Nope, NOT THE PX-S1000, For a with more hundrend bucks, you can have the PX-S3000 and get 700 sounds.
The RD-2000 has both a joystick and the wheels, which is an interesting design choice. You missed something that would be an interesting turning point. CASIO CTX 5000. Sure, it's only 61 keys but...There's a ton of cool features in it.
Wait for the Casio PX s3000. It will be released in April. You will love it.
Both wheels on the Roland are Mod wheels. The stick is the only pitch bender. And the mod wheels are "extras" as you can get mod by pushing up on the stick.
@@geoffk777 Interesting. I thought it was the same as the JD-XA, which has the same combination, but one of the wheels returns to center, like a regular pitch wheel. So, the thing is more like Roland copying the Yamaha VL-1, which has two modulation wheels.
Hi Woody,
I have a P515. How does the action on the CP88 compare with the action of the P515
check the spec sheets, have a hunch they might be the same.
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.
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!
You didn't mention Arturia's KeyLab 88 MkII nor the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88.
Yes, because both are midi controlers, not stage pianos! Not the same usage. ☺
I have the arturia, big fan, but wish I had a stage piano instead though.
Hi Woody. What about the Nord Electro 6. I'm thinking that's the one I need. Colin
I'm a big fan of the Electro, although lacks the midi controller features of stage pianos, but the new YC61 looks right up my alley
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.
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 ;-)
Good show Woody...always informative and entertaining!
Have had a lot of pianos including vst pianos but never really satisfied with the sound. Now that I own a nord piano5 I know that I will not buy another piano anymore, these samples are very good and can be set up as you want. Know it is quite pricey but if you can afford it then I would definitely recommend it.
Between the action of a nord piano 4 and that of the cp88. Which one do you prefer?
cp all day long for me, much higher quality and with the wooden cores. i've had issues with NP keys...
Hi Woody. I have purchased the Yamaha CP88 and am facing the choice of speakers for a studio/small area setting. Its either a pair of Yamaha HS8 monitors or a single QSC 10.2. What would be your recommendation? Thank you.
It's a year later, and you didn't ask me, but the QSC 10.2 is the correct answer.
@@wulf67 thanks. I actually got a pair of Adam T8V and a single CP12 to compare and expand to two CP12s. But contrary to what I was expecting, the Adams proved to be far superior. What won me was the clarity and definition over loudness. I am writing this to benefit anyone in my shoes. Thanks for stopping by.
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!
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.
What is the definitions of a stage piano? Is it possible that one "slab" piano is considered stage and another "slab" piano is not ?
good piano sound, some complementary sounds, 88 weighted keys and a rugged construction built for the road. usually folks would say no built-in speakers either.
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?
completely different category of keyboard! but all are great :)
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.
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.
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.
I'd like an opinion between yamaha's modx8, mx88 and
Mofx8.... I'm going to buy one but which one...? I want a great piano, but all the bells and whistles too... I'm leaning towards the mx88, as it seems uncomplicated with presets...(at least to start)...
Yes, I'd like to think I could do a gig with it...
The pianos on the MOXF8 are very disappointing and it's definitely worth getting the MODX8 instead. MX88 is much simpler than the MODX, but, if you can afford it, I'd go for the MODX, as it's newer and better in almost every way.
@@geoffk777 Hey thanks for the reply... I can eliminate one at least.. Yes, funny I did get the impression that the mx 88 was simpler.. (which in the short term, may have suited me)... But I don't want to be bored a year later lol....
Your insight helped, thank you.
@@davidplatt5957 The MODX is a great deal. You get basically the entire package of the Flagship Montage for less than half the price. And it's awesome.
Hey woody, if u had to compare the piano sound of the montage vs the cp88, which do you think feels more authentic?
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.
Woody Piano Shack - trigger the MODX from the CP88 for sound/feel comparison.
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.
for sure, there are new sounds on the CP88 that you don't get in the Mont, in the grand, upright and ep categories..
Hi Woody. How would you compare the CP to the MODX?
what do you use for keyboard monitors
How about the Nord Electros (5 and 6)? Are they not considered pianos?
i set the scope to 88 or weighted stage pianos, otherwise just too many to mention, but for sure, they are worthy contenders, love the electro!
I’m so happy I live in Sweden! My buddy bought his stage 3 88 for 2800$ brand new
what a great deal!
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
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?
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!
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?
Hope to see you get your hands on the new Yamaha YC61 👍
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 ..
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!
I bought a Casio PX-5S a few years ago. :)
I was always interested in this. Many of the same powerful features of other stage keyboards. A lot of flexibility in the assignable knobs and faders, the stage settings and hex layers. Great price too. Ultimately I went with the CP4 which I love.
So is the Casio PX-5S action as good as they say???
@@Alan_Chapman Money was an issue, so the PX-5S was the best I could get at that price. If money wasn't an issue I probably would have gone straight for a Nord Stage! :D
Peter Walker I saw one in a store used. I liked the textured feel of the keys, but the action felt short and clacky or bouncy. I’m not qualified to say whether it doesn’t work for me because it wasn’t powered so I didn’t get to see how it feels in response to your playing. Most keyboard actions grow on me after several minutes once I get adjusted.
Alan Chapman I’ve been playing my korg sv1 for a couple months, and now the action on the acoustic piano I’ve been playing for years feels odd. Lol. So I feel ya.
Hi Woody, which one do you think has the best CP70/CP80 sound (like Keane, U2,...)? I have a real CP70 but is it really hard to transport it for gigs...
you do? congrats! you could sample it and create your own library! probably the yamaha cp does it best although it's been years since i played the vintage cp.
@@WoodyPianoShack Thank you!
Hello. a week ago i got my cp 88 and i wanna record digital and video record as done in this video, how can this be done? I have a iphone 13 pro max.
phone is perfect for video, for audio you need to connect CP to a portable digital audio recorder, or to PC with usb audio interface and record in DAW, that is what I do.
What’s that song name at min 6:40?
That's "Steppin' Out" by Joe Jackson. music.ruclips.net/video/PJwt2dxx9yg/видео.html
At PMT in Birmingham, UK, they let me compare a Roland RD2000, Yamaha CP, Korg Grand Stage and a used Kawai instrument. Listening with Senheiser HD600 and Sony MDR-1000X (noise cancelling) headphones, my comparison was between piano sounds ONLY. Roland's RD2000 is a synth, with pleasant enough vanilla piano sound. Same with the others. However the Korg not only sounded more like a concert grand, it has 6 very different sampled instruments, 2 uprights and (Yamaha) electric grand. I find practicing on a synth too distracting, finding myself programming patches all the time. With the Grand Stage at home now nearly 5 months, those piano sounds still sound like unaffordable concert grands. B.t.w., the 490 other non piano sounds are also pretty fantastic.
cool to hear from a GS owner, intriguing instrument!
What about the Roland FA08 vs the CP?
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.
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...
What studio monitors do you use?
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)
What about the Roland RD88? I have one and bang for your buck it's pretty good, if it had proper organ sounds it would even better! But it is 88 keys so too big if space is at a premium.
RD is a very interesting option, believe it has great pianos and zencore synth engine onboard?
@@WoodyPianoShack I like my RD88, but the lack of editing of the sounds is terrible. I don't think i can menu dive and even find envelope adjustment, I realise it's a piano but it would be nice to have more control over the sound. For example I wanted to play 'All my love' by Led Zep but couldn't adjust the synth sound to get the attack right for the intro. It may have Zen core but not much use if you cannot edit it.
Watabt Yamaha YC?
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.
i dunno paul, never played one, the MODX should be on the list of 88 key synths as well!
In studio, why not use Keyscape with a studiologic midi controller 900 all in
Great channel sir! What are your thoughts on Casio Privia PX360 for all of us on low budget?
never tried one, as I mentioned, the availability is a bit hit and miss on some of the casio models depending on your region.
Hi Woody, I just checked the Sweetwater price for the Nord Stage 3 is a measly $5,299.00. Ha, pocket change my man. lol I think I will go with the Roland RD-2000. Keep the great videos comings.
How come you didn't mention the Roland Rd88...it is also great.
I don't know why, but in my country Yamaha prices are up to Nord levels, so I went for The Nord Piano 5, which $1500 less than the CP88. I also have a Roland Fantom, their piano sounds (which are many and range from V-pianos, Supernatural and Zen-core) sit very well in mix, but sound kind of digital in isolation. I also have a Kawai ES8, which sounds fantastic but you are limited to the 10 acoustic piano sounds and 5 more electric samples. All in all, my new NP5 is becoming my favorite sounding piano, but I'm going to keep the ES8 because it has built-in speakers and they come in handy for practicing. Maybe I'll get rid of the Fantom, not sure yet.
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!
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.
This was really good and helpful review and I have very similar kind of needs :)
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...!.
Would love to hear your comparison including some old Yamaha models like the CP300 or Korg SP200 thanks for your smart commentary.