That electric piano patch at the beginning of the video sounded very rich and lush. The Piano sound you played had lots of punch and realism! Another plus is the full sized MIDI din plugs. Winner winner!
Wow, that's EXACTLY what I wanted Yamaha to do. Genius. They brought in all the CP, YC, FS, _and_ DX sounds plus customizations with full-size keys. That CK61 seems like it would fit nicely above my DGX-650 on a two-tier stand, or that CK88 could just replace my DGX.
@@daniroade Nah, I can't justify it. I'm not a stage performer. I'm barely a home performer. The DGX is more than good enough for my living room, and it needs to stay in my living room because it's heavy as hell! Maybe someday, I will supplement it with a CK61, but I would have to find a killer deal on a used one first.
Having owned a Yamaha PSR SX700, I can completely agree with you that the FSB Key Action strikes a very good balance between Synth Action keys and for Piano Playing as well One of my biggest gripe in the PSR E series was the key noise, wasn't really quiet during home playing no matter if using headphones, the FSB keybed is just so quiet, it's really a breeze to play... And about Casual Live performances, it's definitely one of the best actions for almost every scenario like you said, really happy with the keyboard! Great video as always Jeremy, Your content never disappoints!
Hey just want to ask , is psr sx700 suitable for live performance? In terms of saving preset for each song and, amplification, can the built in amp active while the keybaord connect to output line to speaker?
I have a ck88 and i absolutely love it. I have a 3 tier stand full of synths, and i desperately wanted an upgrade over the psr e473. I now use the 473 as a midi controller only. The CK is absolutely beautiful and covers so many bases. Amazing value!
Excellent review Jeremy. The CK61 is the one I’ve had my heart set on. However while saving up for one the price has recently jumped up by £150 here in the UK 😳. Thanks a lot Yamaha, I’ll have to live with my (brilliant) little Casio CT-S1 for longer.
I agree, it's essential to have this 61 key version, but a no brainer to have a 76 key version if this, maybe even instead if the 88 keys. Since I have two 61 key instruments, I would get the 76 if available.
There's probably not enough demand for a 76-key version. Or we might see one introduced very late, like Juno-DS76 which came out many years after Juno-DS61 and 88 were released.
Hey Jeremy, I've been a 'beginner' keyboard player for MANY years and watching your videos just got me interested in fine tuning my skills at it again. I started out with an old Yamaha DGX205 (which I still have, and it still looks, works, and sounds pristine). That little 76 keyboard is from back in the day when Yamaha used to load up their instruments with all sorts of gimmicky 'sounds' and 'voices' (most of which no one ever used...perhaps except me). JMO, but it seems to me that though the modern day onboard features and outputs on the keyboards are fancier (and in some cases, a bit more professional) the sound is basically the same---and it is a good sound. I plug mine into an audio interface that's hooked up to high-grade speakers, and this cheap old keyboard sounds like a Baby Grand. Well, not exactly...key noise. I'm looking into upgrading to a new 88 key model, but I still love this old one.
For the record, yamaha's home keyboards still do include the random uncomonly used, sounds. Many of these are xglight voices to make things compatible with standard midi systems, but for that end of the spectrum, most of the sounds even in the panel voices are still xglight voices but slightly better. This is beginning to evolv with the lastest of the 2 higher end psr-e models, but still holds true for the most part. Same goes with the accompanyment styles. They have added some new ones over time, but the bulk of them are ones that have been revamped and ported from keyboards dating back to the 2000s if not earlier. This along witht eh sounds is a factor that puts some picky people off the home keyboards from them, but I don't mind. Would I like the better sounds from the higher end keyboards to be brought down? Yes. Do I really care that much to tell people to get something else? No I don't. I guess it let's them really show the difference by putting mostly old sounds that are going on 30 years old onto the home keyboards and better sounds that still sometimes date back a while on the higher end ones.
this year has been exceptional for Yamaha both in the home keyboards and performance keyboards. Here in India on the amateur front the PSR-E473 is on backorder, it is probably the only time such a thing has happened, and funnily being assembled here for a change.. I am hoping to get a CK88 before it runs out
This is a compelling instrument and looks like a home-run for Yamaha. If it had aftertouch I would be tempted to replace my Kurzweil SP6, but would miss the arpeggiator. Excellent demo!
Yes, this homerun is so good that Yamaha is abandoning the CP61, CP76, and CP88. Those users are getting screwed, it is pretty funny. Good thing I'm not one of them. 🤣🤣
Such a bunch of regulators on the panel is just a dream! The display is too small, once it was the reason for my rejection of MOX, now it also makes you think... Thanks for the feedback.
And here we are again, I paired this with my go piano 88 by Roland and I could not be happier. small clubs and bars are my wheel house....This is great, awsome stuff ,man.
Not sure I’d pick this over a YC but it is a better value. I have the Reface DX and combining the them of sorts into the CK was a good idea a few years ago. The Refaces hit the market back 2016 or so. Now it seems like Yamaha isn’t really trying anymore in 2023. MODX -> MODX+. No updated Montage yet. Genos is long in the tooth.
I have this. Nothing bad to say. With the organ section you will need a seperate leslie pedal, like always, but otherwise i think this is close to perfection.
Thank you so much for your effort and a lot of details you put into these videos. I wqtched at least 10 if not 15 other videos of this keyboard and non of them showed (not even mentioned) the speakers' On/Off button for example.
Its nice. Its also costs more than double than this and weighs 9kg more than a CK88. It fits nicely between the Yamaha CK and the absolute best (Nord Stage). For someone who wants improved sounds over the CK and is willing to pay for it it's a great option.
I was watching Yamaha and Casio keyboard videos lately, and it seems like Casio makes a home run with Casio CT-S1, and Yamaha makes a home run with Yamaha CK61. (Of course they are not the same leage keyboards, but both keyboards took some suggestions from customers, which seems to turned out a nice move, beneficial for both Casio/Yamaha and their customers respectively.)
This video along with a few others convinced me to pull the trigger on this awesome keyboard. Itll compliment my modest synth collection well and integrate perfectly. Tomorrow ill put my order in.😊
Hey, Jeremy. Nice to see a new video from you. I hope all is well with you and your family. Big changes at work, on back on the midnight watch working overnight again after five years as I relocated to the bigger store, since my old store was closed down. This is an incredible keyboard!!! I want one now, and will probably get it later, in addition to the Roland FP-E50. And I think this time, it will be all the keyboards I ever need, replacing the Roland RD 88 and V-Combo VR-09B. Masataka Kono has reviewed and has been currently featuring this keyboard for a while on his current videos. To me, my two 61 note keyboards are great for what they are at that price range, you know which ones, but I still wanted at least three of the 4 Reface series keyboards, but like Roland, the hit the ball out of the park to complete my wish list. This is the best pro level 61 note keyboard, and is very affordable at $1000, and is the same price as the FP-E50. But at the price, you have a choice between the smaller, more portable format with battery power, or a full 88 note expandable stage pianos with incredible, innovative auto arranger functions. But both together are still affordable for the perfect two keyboard pro studio or gigging rig. They are both a bargain, but realistically, if they were both sold at the price they are with, the CK61 should be at least $1500, and the FP-E50 should be at $2000. But we're glad they are not. The FP-E50 will be great for my church keyboard with the CK61 a great second keyboard for more versatility, but also by perfect to tote and have at home with more limited space. The graphics, design, controls, sounds and features are excellent. Things keep getting better, and with my pay raise, and planning to kick in my Social Security checks a few years early, I will have more accessibility to these keyboards and peripheral gear, including a ln iPad Mini and a loaded new Mac Mini Desktop computer later. I agree that the CK61 should have a music holder, and a 73 key version for those that would want and could use it. A major reason I want the 88 keys. I gotta go eat dinner and get ready for work, and may comment more later, but I think I mention most of what I wanted. Great review of this keyboard, as always. T
Always a pleasure to have you share your vast experience with us buddy. We live in exciting times. Loads keyboards for us to choose at competitive prices.
This sounds perfect! The drawbacks are pluses to me. I already have 76, 88 weighted & 37 keys, so don’t need that. Just a simple light-weight versatile keyboard for playing with my rock band is fine. I don’t wanna pay for a workstation I’m never gonna use because I already have music production tools up the ying-yang.
Couldn't agree with you more about what's missing in such a tempting package. Like 73 keys etc Just the same you made it very tempting Jeremy. Thanks❤❤❤❤
I just wanted to thank you for this review! I've been trying to figure out what would make a better organ-style keyboard (I'm a guitar/drum guy currently) and no review even mentioned it. You've actually got video of the action of the keyboard. My hero!
I don't know. IMO it's worth geting the 88 weighted key version because for me at least every time I play on nonweighted keys it just feels rong. Dynamics IMO are a lot easier to control on weighted keys🎹🎶
I tend to agree and prefer weighted keys. But, if you have to carry your keyboard to gigs, you might want to opt for the CK61 because it weighs so much less. Plus, it's a few hundred dollars less.
It's almost perfect but they should imitate Clavia and offer both semi and fully-weighted for people who play mostly piano, it would be a dream to have a fully weighted 61 or 64 key version but I'd settle for 73
I wanted to add that Yamaha was brilliant in coming out with this. The N-word Keyboard that those with deep pockets are buying are financially impractical for the rest of us, particularly if we are trying to be good stewards over the finances that we have. This keyboard is great for the public musician that has little experience and for those like me that have been playing for quite a while. The worst part is that with so many controls at your fingertips one must settle themselves to not get addicted to "over-tweeking". 😁 I got mine before I saw your video, but your video confirmed my impressions. Great Job again, Sir. Be Blessed. 🙌 & 👐🙏.
I just got my Yamaha CK61 today! I've been using Yamaha MM6, which I love, for about 10 years but it's slowly breaking down. I was thinking of getting Yamaha MX61, but I visited Guitar Center and tinkered with the CK61. It feels solid and polished, with nice sounds, so I decided to get it.
You're the 1st l've heard mention this keyboard is the Reface series in one. That's an eye opener. Seems like it takes a few keyboards to learn what you can live with, and live without.
Would also be rad if it's not in the typical black color. I think it would look updatedly (if there's even a word) aesthetic, Instagramably appropriate or better yet distinguishably photogenic on live stage performance in 2023. Even far distances of onlookers can be delighted that your keys are not the boring black casings. Haha! 😅
I think this Yamaha is a better "portable organ" option than the Roland v-combo vr-09, that thing is terrible, it stores the transpose position in the registers so it's impossible to switch registers during a song if you use transpose. Not replacing my Numa Compact x2 yet, the Yamaha is double the price and does not have after-touch. I guess the price will come down after a while. Two features all these keyboards miss: - waterproof (or at least rain proof) - powertool slots for Makita, DeWalt and Bosh batteries (I have home-made adapters, but built-in would be more convenient)
Jeremy, thanks so much for introducing me to this keyboard! It really does seem like (nearly) the best of all worlds, as a kind of Swiss Army Knife of stage boards. Can't wait to go get my hands on one and try it. I have been schlepping around a Korg SV1; love the sounds and key action, but it's HEAVY - and somewhat limited. Also a Hammond XK-1 for organ. Hmmm - maybe this board might replace both?? We'll see. Keep doing what you do!
That was a SUPER informative and awesome video. I've been researching this keyboard for about six months now, and I still learned new things here. I've got a question though. I'm a high school student, and I'm entering concert band in my next year of school, (which starts less than a month at the time I'm typing this). My school doesn't have a piano, but it has multiple keyboardists. Do you think the CK88 would be worth buying for playing in a high school band (and daily at home use), or should I go for something a bit more advanced, like a nord or higher-end yamaha?
Jeromey i use a direct box from the headphone jack for recording and i have to say it brings the impedence to low so PSR E ,WK,CS any cheezy keyboards types as well to bring it to professional sound quality. Try it some time. Clean sound. Keyboard with speakers work in my studio
I think us reface users that didn't like the minikeys, literally wanted the same thing but with 37 regular sized keys. the reface series has a great aesthetic quality to it and the controls are specialized and intuitive. still waiting on a true reface update with normal keys. it wouldn't really increase the size all that much,,,
I was about to go RE-BUY a Yamaha yc mini. Then I looked at the YC full size board but no speakers and no batteries. I mainly want organ. So would you say that this CK61 is the perfect balance at this point for organ, better then or should I say more playable then the mini 37 yc, yet with more features and playability?. IS THIS THE PERFECT organ keyboard for price and options.?. Thanks.
I would really like to know more about the keyboard feel. Can I play precise classical on it or is it more a compromise of electric keyboards and organ?
Quando ero giovane ho posseduto il Rhodes 73 mk1, l'organo Pari elettromagnetico con Leslie 760, Solina, organo Farfisa, Mini Moog e tante altre tastiere...tutte tragicamente vendute, errori di gioventù. Negli ultimi anni ho sempre cercato qualche testiera che emulasse questi grandi strumenti. Qualche giorno fa ho acquistato il CK88 e... sorpresa, senza nemmeno che me lo aspettassi ho ritrovato in un sol colpo tutti questi strumenti nel CK88. Semplicemente fantastico. Qualcuno potrebbe pensare che stia esagerando, ebbene niente affatto. Partendo dai suoni base e lavorando poi con molta attenzione sugli effetti generali e sugli effetti Hammond si riesce a riprodurre in maniera incredibilmente fedele tutti questi strumenti. Per alcuni versi la sezione sintetizzatore permette addirittura di ampliarne le possibilità sonore. Comodissima la possibilità di avere con lo split point, la tastiera superiore e quella inferiore Hammond con suoni totalmente indipendenti. In questo la tastiera 88 tasti fornisce un grande aiuto pratico nelle performance dal vivo. Complimenti al signor Jeremy per le sue attente valutazioni che condividono totalmente.
Does is support soft pedal like the s90-es does? Also for a midi controller it needs more knobs,fades and a few pads for drums. I love the sound of Yamaha pianos No I am not a keyboard or piano player. I think Toto for Yamaha Pianos.
Hey Jeremy, can you tell us about the Yamaha's brand-new I-300 , and also a comparison with e373 , i personally own a e373 , is it good to get a i300 or stay with e373
I'm a guitarist and i'm learning piano to put more sensibility in my creation. I have buy studio one and now i'm searching a keyboard with hp to start in my musical compositions for listening and very good conectivity to go after in my computer to register. What models do you advise me to look for who coud be the goodest for me and wich i will keep for a very long time Thank you Jeremy.
NO ARPEGGIATOR XX $999.99 XX 👉🏻 $949.99 But i agree: exelent quality, and i love the chasis. Looks very clean and relaxing. And sounds awasome. Could be easily a $2,000 keyboard or so. I mean $1,949.99.
To me as an ex keyboard player all of these modern stage keyboards seem to have far too many controls. How can you change them while playing or between songs?
You are right. A live performer needs to be able to make changes very quickly with a stage keyboard. From my experience the more complicated a keyboard LOOKS it is often EASIER to play live. For instance having lots of knobs and switches looks intimidating at first. But if they are laid out logically in sound-groups like this CK or the Nords it’s actually pretty easy to learn them and make quick changes. Which is what a live-performer needs to be able to do. (You can also have up to 10 presets IMMEDIATELY available on these CKs). Many of the other keyboards with lots of features and functions just aren’t useful for live performances because all that functionality is buried deep in menus that you have no time to navigate!
Thinking of trading in my Roland FA-08 for the CK88. I think the Roland would be fine if I did more studio work, but I only play occasionally with other people, so I find the CK88 one-to-one control attractive. Any thoughts?
Hey Jeremy, great review as always! May I know what is the difference of this from the psr e473? I'm planning of buying a keyboard for home use for the most part. Thanks!
Excellent presentation. I’ve been on the fence w this keyboard, as I already have the Casio Pxs-3000 and I have the reface cop and the red reface organ mini keyboard.
I am looking for something portable myself, but I think the lack of arpeggiator breaks this for me... But it looks like the FSB keyboard is a better action than what's on MODX. Am I right?
So annoying that a cheap all-in-one Casio will even throw in an arpeggiator, but when it comes to Yamaha and Roland, "OMG adding an arpeggiator will break teh bAnK!!11" But is there a third party foot pedal-sized arpeggiator that might work with this?
Read most of the manual and I think this would work. You could use a MIDI pedal like MIDI pal or my favorite Arpie, MIDI out to arpie back to in on c/m. you would have to set the CK up so it doesn’t play itself, local control off, and recieves Midi.
The only thing missing from this keyboard is a dust cover. I don't want the hazzle of putting in and taking out of the case everytime I want to play the keyboard.
When I used to take my Casio 61 key out to play at times I left it in the case on the stand. I would flip the top down and the sides inside out so that it hung like a table cloth. It was pretty cool because it gave it a professional look and I could hide anything I needed to under the stand.
I bought the Yamaha CK-88. I LOVE it! But ya know what I CAN'T DO? Find a case that will fit THE MUSIC REST - it's 26" long and will NOT fit in the DEDICATED $449 case! Nor in a Gator case, etc. There is NO case that carries the instrument AND the music rest.
Since the Yamaha CK88/61 models don't have a built-in arpeggiator, could you create an arpeggio effect in real time, while still using the voices on the Yamaha CK88/61, by adding an external device like a USB midi keyboard controller that has an arpeggiator function? Thanks! 🙂
me to. I have the reface CP I got for christmas, and I like it for what it does, but eversince I heard about the CK61, I wanted it. I just hope they have it at the music stors where I live in canada.
When you talk about connecting another keyboard via the 5 pin MIDI Ports. Does that mean you can connect a 61-key midi Keyboard to the CK-61 just like with the Reface keyboards thus enabling you turn the CK-61 into makeshift dual Keyboard Organ? Speaking of expression pedals for Organ Players…. This also means that we could get some MIDI Bass Foot Pedals and plug them into one of the 5 Pin MIDI Ports, Correct?
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That electric piano patch at the beginning of the video sounded very rich and lush. The Piano sound you played had lots of punch and realism! Another plus is the full sized MIDI din plugs.
Winner winner!
Wow, that's EXACTLY what I wanted Yamaha to do. Genius. They brought in all the CP, YC, FS, _and_ DX sounds plus customizations with full-size keys. That CK61 seems like it would fit nicely above my DGX-650 on a two-tier stand, or that CK88 could just replace my DGX.
Me too I'm thinking of replacing my DGX-650. Did you end up swapping?
@@daniroade Nah, I can't justify it. I'm not a stage performer. I'm barely a home performer. The DGX is more than good enough for my living room, and it needs to stay in my living room because it's heavy as hell! Maybe someday, I will supplement it with a CK61, but I would have to find a killer deal on a used one first.
its not the full reface series. It's more like the YC, CP (not sure if 1:1), but only some sounds from DX and CS, as they are standalone synthesizers
Having owned a Yamaha PSR SX700, I can completely agree with you that the FSB Key Action strikes a very good balance between Synth Action keys and for Piano Playing as well
One of my biggest gripe in the PSR E series was the key noise, wasn't really quiet during home playing no matter if using headphones, the FSB keybed is just so quiet, it's really a breeze to play...
And about Casual Live performances, it's definitely one of the best actions for almost every scenario like you said, really happy with the keyboard!
Great video as always Jeremy, Your content never disappoints!
IMHO the keyboard action of the SX700 and SX900 leaves a lot to be desired for how much they cost, particularly the SX900.
Hey just want to ask , is psr sx700 suitable for live performance? In terms of saving preset for each song and, amplification, can the built in amp active while the keybaord connect to output line to speaker?
la unica diferencia entre el fsb key action es solo el ruido ???
The piano sound is so awesome! Thanks Jeremy, not only for the sharing but also for your wonderful demos and performances! 😊
It's not the keyboard that's amazing, but your hands on every keyboard that are amazing. You're awesome, my friend !
Thank you for your kind words, buddy. 😍
I have a ck88 and i absolutely love it. I have a 3 tier stand full of synths, and i desperately wanted an upgrade over the psr e473. I now use the 473 as a midi controller only. The CK is absolutely beautiful and covers so many bases. Amazing value!
Only 80 sounds?
Excellent review Jeremy. The CK61 is the one I’ve had my heart set on. However while saving up for one the price has recently jumped up by £150 here in the UK 😳. Thanks a lot Yamaha, I’ll have to live with my (brilliant) little Casio CT-S1 for longer.
A 76 key version would probably have sold me on this. It sounds great and looks fun to play.
I agree, it's essential to have this 61 key version, but a no brainer to have a 76 key version if this, maybe even instead if the 88 keys. Since I have two 61 key instruments, I would get the 76 if available.
Yes, I agree Beauc. This keyboard would be fantastic if only there were 76 keys.
YES! I even play a lot of classical piano and I can certainly live with 76 keys for portability!
There's probably not enough demand for a 76-key version.
Or we might see one introduced very late, like Juno-DS76 which came out many years after Juno-DS61 and 88 were released.
IKR ?! Why not...
Hey Jeremy, I've been a 'beginner' keyboard player for MANY years and watching your videos just got me interested in fine tuning my skills at it again. I started out with an old Yamaha DGX205 (which I still have, and it still looks, works, and sounds pristine). That little 76 keyboard is from back in the day when Yamaha used to load up their instruments with all sorts of gimmicky 'sounds' and 'voices' (most of which no one ever used...perhaps except me).
JMO, but it seems to me that though the modern day onboard features and outputs on the keyboards are fancier (and in some cases, a bit more professional) the sound is basically the same---and it is a good sound. I plug mine into an audio interface that's hooked up to high-grade speakers, and this cheap old keyboard sounds like a Baby Grand. Well, not exactly...key noise. I'm looking into upgrading to a new 88 key model, but I still love this old one.
For the record, yamaha's home keyboards still do include the random uncomonly used, sounds. Many of these are xglight voices to make things compatible with standard midi systems, but for that end of the spectrum, most of the sounds even in the panel voices are still xglight voices but slightly better. This is beginning to evolv with the lastest of the 2 higher end psr-e models, but still holds true for the most part. Same goes with the accompanyment styles. They have added some new ones over time, but the bulk of them are ones that have been revamped and ported from keyboards dating back to the 2000s if not earlier. This along witht eh sounds is a factor that puts some picky people off the home keyboards from them, but I don't mind. Would I like the better sounds from the higher end keyboards to be brought down? Yes. Do I really care that much to tell people to get something else? No I don't. I guess it let's them really show the difference by putting mostly old sounds that are going on 30 years old onto the home keyboards and better sounds that still sometimes date back a while on the higher end ones.
this year has been exceptional for Yamaha both in the home keyboards and performance keyboards. Here in India on the amateur front the PSR-E473 is on backorder, it is probably the only time such a thing has happened, and funnily being assembled here for a change.. I am hoping to get a CK88 before it runs out
Not for me gigging, modx8 keybed sucks in humidity 😑 random notes crazy ..sorry I ever bought it
This is a compelling instrument and looks like a home-run for Yamaha. If it had aftertouch I would be tempted to replace my Kurzweil SP6, but would miss the arpeggiator. Excellent demo!
Yes, this homerun is so good that Yamaha is abandoning the CP61, CP76, and CP88. Those users are getting screwed, it is pretty funny. Good thing I'm not one of them. 🤣🤣
Such a bunch of regulators on the panel is just a dream! The display is too small, once it was the reason for my rejection of MOX, now it also makes you think... Thanks for the feedback.
And here we are again, I paired this with my go piano 88 by Roland and I could not be happier. small clubs and bars are my wheel house....This is great, awsome stuff ,man.
Finally... you got the chance to get this. So far, I'm loving the CK 61, together with my PsR Sx900.
If you had to pick just one, CK61 or the SX900?
Not sure I’d pick this over a YC but it is a better value. I have the Reface DX and combining the them of sorts into the CK was a good idea a few years ago. The Refaces hit the market back 2016 or so. Now it seems like Yamaha isn’t really trying anymore in 2023. MODX -> MODX+. No updated Montage yet. Genos is long in the tooth.
I have this. Nothing bad to say. With the organ section you will need a seperate leslie pedal, like always, but otherwise i think this is close to perfection.
By Leslie pedal, do you mean a guitar pedal that simulates Leslie sounds? Thanks!
Thank you so much for your effort and a lot of details you put into these videos.
I wqtched at least 10 if not 15 other videos of this keyboard and non of them showed (not even mentioned) the speakers' On/Off button for example.
Glad you like them!
To this date I believe nothing beats the Kawai MP7se, which truly is still just one of the best overall stage piano`s out there..
Its nice. Its also costs more than double than this and weighs 9kg more than a CK88. It fits nicely between the Yamaha CK and the absolute best (Nord Stage). For someone who wants improved sounds over the CK and is willing to pay for it it's a great option.
Love the way you play the keys. Reminds me of my younger years.
I was watching Yamaha and Casio keyboard videos lately, and it seems like Casio makes a home run with Casio CT-S1, and Yamaha makes a home run with Yamaha CK61.
(Of course they are not the same leage keyboards, but both keyboards took some suggestions from customers, which seems to turned out a nice move, beneficial for both Casio/Yamaha and their customers respectively.)
This video along with a few others convinced me to pull the trigger on this awesome keyboard. Itll compliment my modest synth collection well and integrate perfectly. Tomorrow ill put my order in.😊
Hey, Jeremy. Nice to see a new video from you. I hope all is well with you and your family.
Big changes at work, on back on the midnight watch working overnight again after five years as I relocated to the bigger store, since my old store was closed down.
This is an incredible keyboard!!! I want one now, and will probably get it later, in addition to the Roland FP-E50. And I think this time, it will be all the keyboards I ever need, replacing the Roland RD 88 and V-Combo VR-09B.
Masataka Kono has reviewed and has been currently featuring this keyboard for a while on his current videos.
To me, my two 61 note keyboards are great for what they are at that price range, you know which ones, but I still wanted at least three of the 4 Reface series keyboards, but like Roland, the hit the ball out of the park to complete my wish list.
This is the best pro level 61 note keyboard, and is very affordable at $1000, and is the same price as the FP-E50. But at the price, you have a choice between the smaller, more portable format with battery power, or a full 88 note expandable stage pianos with incredible, innovative auto arranger functions. But both together are still affordable for the perfect two keyboard pro studio or gigging rig.
They are both a bargain, but realistically, if they were both sold at the price they are with, the CK61 should be at least $1500, and the FP-E50 should be at $2000. But we're glad they are not.
The FP-E50 will be great for my church keyboard with the CK61 a great second keyboard for more versatility, but also by perfect to tote and have at home with more limited space. The graphics, design, controls, sounds and features are excellent.
Things keep getting better, and with my pay raise, and planning to kick in my Social Security checks a few years early, I will have more accessibility to these keyboards and peripheral gear, including a ln iPad Mini and a loaded new Mac Mini Desktop computer later.
I agree that the CK61 should have a music holder, and a 73 key version for those that would want and could use it. A major reason I want the 88 keys.
I gotta go eat dinner and get ready for work, and may comment more later, but I think I mention most of what I wanted. Great review of this keyboard, as always.
T
Always a pleasure to have you share your vast experience with us buddy. We live in exciting times. Loads keyboards for us to choose at competitive prices.
@@JeremySee You can't get much better for these two keyboards in the general use category, but who knows what's coming in the future?
This sounds perfect! The drawbacks are pluses to me. I already have 76, 88 weighted & 37 keys, so don’t need that. Just a simple light-weight versatile keyboard for playing with my rock band is fine. I don’t wanna pay for a workstation I’m never gonna use because I already have music production tools up the ying-yang.
Couldn't agree with you more about what's missing in such a tempting package. Like 73 keys etc Just the same you made it very tempting Jeremy. Thanks❤❤❤❤
I just wanted to thank you for this review! I've been trying to figure out what would make a better organ-style keyboard (I'm a guitar/drum guy currently) and no review even mentioned it. You've actually got video of the action of the keyboard. My hero!
I don't know. IMO it's worth geting the 88 weighted key version because for me at least every time I play on nonweighted keys it just feels rong. Dynamics IMO are a lot easier to control on weighted keys🎹🎶
I tend to agree and prefer weighted keys. But, if you have to carry your keyboard to gigs, you might want to opt for the CK61 because it weighs so much less. Plus, it's a few hundred dollars less.
The 88 is only 22lbs. That’s actually quite light
It's almost perfect but they should imitate Clavia and offer both semi and fully-weighted for people who play mostly piano, it would be a dream to have a fully weighted 61 or 64 key version but I'd settle for 73
Just bought a ck61. I am thoroughly satisfied.
I wanted to add that Yamaha was brilliant in coming out with this. The N-word Keyboard that those with deep pockets are buying are financially impractical for the rest of us, particularly if we are trying to be good stewards over the finances that we have.
This keyboard is great for the public musician that has little experience and for those like me that have been playing for quite a while. The worst part is that with so many controls at your fingertips one must settle themselves to not get addicted to "over-tweeking". 😁
I got mine before I saw your video, but your video confirmed my impressions. Great Job again, Sir. Be Blessed. 🙌 & 👐🙏.
I just got my Yamaha CK61 today! I've been using Yamaha MM6, which I love, for about 10 years but it's slowly breaking down. I was thinking of getting Yamaha MX61, but I visited Guitar Center and tinkered with the CK61. It feels solid and polished, with nice sounds, so I decided to get it.
You're the 1st l've heard mention this keyboard is the Reface series in one. That's an eye opener. Seems like it takes a few keyboards to learn what you can live with, and live without.
That piano sounds great. I appreciate you and your Honesty explaining things.
I appreciate that!
I agree on what you concluded in what is really missing in this keyboard👍😏
Yamaha has been killing it for years. I have a CP73 and it’s really amazing but i kinda wish i had waited 2 years.
Would also be rad if it's not in the typical black color. I think it would look updatedly (if there's even a word) aesthetic, Instagramably appropriate or better yet distinguishably photogenic on live stage performance in 2023. Even far distances of onlookers can be delighted that your keys are not the boring black casings. Haha! 😅
Really? Color?
I think this Yamaha is a better "portable organ" option than the Roland v-combo vr-09, that thing is terrible, it stores the transpose position in the registers so it's impossible to switch registers during a song if you use transpose. Not replacing my Numa Compact x2 yet, the Yamaha is double the price and does not have after-touch. I guess the price will come down after a while.
Two features all these keyboards miss:
- waterproof (or at least rain proof)
- powertool slots for Makita, DeWalt and Bosh batteries (I have home-made adapters, but built-in would be more convenient)
Jeremy, thanks so much for introducing me to this keyboard! It really does seem like (nearly) the best of all worlds, as a kind of Swiss Army Knife of stage boards. Can't wait to go get my hands on one and try it. I have been schlepping around a Korg SV1; love the sounds and key action, but it's HEAVY - and somewhat limited. Also a Hammond XK-1 for organ. Hmmm - maybe this board might replace both?? We'll see. Keep doing what you do!
That was a SUPER informative and awesome video. I've been researching this keyboard for about six months now, and I still learned new things here. I've got a question though. I'm a high school student, and I'm entering concert band in my next year of school, (which starts less than a month at the time I'm typing this).
My school doesn't have a piano, but it has multiple keyboardists. Do you think the CK88 would be worth buying for playing in a high school band (and daily at home use), or should I go for something a bit more advanced, like a nord or higher-end yamaha?
Jeromey i use a direct box from the headphone jack for recording and i have to say it brings the impedence to low so PSR E ,WK,CS any cheezy keyboards types as well to bring it to professional sound quality. Try it some time. Clean sound. Keyboard with speakers work in my studio
The CK61 would be a great unweighted compact lightweight battery powered keyboard used in combination with my Roland RD88.
Your English is soo good!!! Thank you for this review!
Thank you too!
I think us reface users that didn't like the minikeys, literally wanted the same thing but with 37 regular sized keys. the reface series has a great aesthetic quality to it and the controls are specialized and intuitive. still waiting on a true reface update with normal keys. it wouldn't really increase the size all that much,,,
I agree ... Regular-sized keys would be awesome!
I'm quite impressed with this keyboard. I abandoned Yamaha long time ago but this is a great keyboard, no secuencer though
wow, amazing performance! I know this video is about the product, but you've also got some serious skills on the keys!
Thank you Jeremy for the review I have very recently purchased the 473 and would have definately done the jump to get this one. Andre SA
looks great. wish it was red though.
LOL if it was it'd be twice as expensive
Wow!! Your voice is great! It’s the first time I’ve ever heard it. 😮
Hi. Which portable keyboard with built in speakers has the most authentic, best grand piano sound? thanks for all the work you put in.
Nice review Jeremy, looks like Yamaha has a winner with this one- great review.
I was about to go RE-BUY a Yamaha yc mini. Then I looked at the YC full size board but no speakers and no batteries. I mainly want organ. So would you say that this CK61 is the perfect balance at this point for organ, better then or should I say more playable then the mini 37 yc, yet with more features and playability?. IS THIS THE PERFECT organ keyboard for price and options.?. Thanks.
I would really like to know more about the keyboard feel. Can I play precise classical on it or is it more a compromise of electric keyboards and organ?
Quando ero giovane ho posseduto il Rhodes 73 mk1, l'organo Pari elettromagnetico con Leslie 760, Solina, organo Farfisa, Mini Moog e tante altre tastiere...tutte tragicamente vendute, errori di gioventù.
Negli ultimi anni ho sempre cercato qualche testiera che emulasse questi grandi strumenti.
Qualche giorno fa ho acquistato il CK88 e... sorpresa, senza nemmeno che me lo aspettassi ho ritrovato in un sol colpo tutti questi strumenti nel CK88. Semplicemente fantastico.
Qualcuno potrebbe pensare che stia esagerando, ebbene niente affatto. Partendo dai suoni base e lavorando poi con molta attenzione sugli effetti generali e sugli effetti Hammond si riesce a riprodurre in maniera incredibilmente fedele tutti questi strumenti. Per alcuni versi la sezione sintetizzatore permette addirittura di ampliarne le possibilità sonore.
Comodissima la possibilità di avere con lo split point, la tastiera superiore e quella inferiore Hammond con suoni totalmente indipendenti. In questo la tastiera 88 tasti fornisce un grande aiuto pratico nelle performance dal vivo.
Complimenti al signor Jeremy per le sue attente valutazioni che condividono totalmente.
Question, how many layers can you put on each, lower & uper part, & how many of your own sounds can you edit & store in it, thanks Jery, 🕊️.
Greetings from Mexico, I still have my PF 2000 and i like it very much, it was very interesting because i always trusted Yamaha´s technology.
Does is support soft pedal like the s90-es does? Also for a midi controller it needs more knobs,fades and a few pads for drums. I love the sound of Yamaha pianos No I am not a keyboard or piano player. I think Toto for Yamaha Pianos.
Excellent message Sir What is the price of the Yamaha CX 600 Cheers Best' Wishes 🌹 Ozzie
Nice!!!! Will this Keyboard play midi files and audio files?
The CK-61 has got my vote. Thanks!
Haha, I just started picking out colors of the wind a week ago. Great review as always.
As usual, an excellent review. I Love your videos. I'm hoping you can do a review of the Roland FP E50 in the near future.
Jeremy - great coverage of this awesome keyboard!
Is this keyboard good for music production
Hey Jeremy, can you tell us about the Yamaha's brand-new I-300 , and also a comparison with e373 , i personally own a e373 , is it good to get a i300 or stay with e373
Pleasantly surprised to hear your cool voice in this demo.
I'm a guitarist and i'm learning piano to put more sensibility in my creation. I have buy studio one and now i'm searching a keyboard with hp to start in my musical compositions for listening and very good conectivity to go after in my computer to register. What models do you advise me to look for who coud be the goodest for me and wich i will keep for a very long time
Thank you Jeremy.
I hear rhythms while your playing? what are you using for those?
You do great reviews. Thanks for the info!
I'm happy to share what I know.
NO ARPEGGIATOR
XX $999.99 XX
👉🏻 $949.99
But i agree: exelent quality, and i love the chasis. Looks very clean and relaxing. And sounds awasome. Could be easily a $2,000 keyboard or so. I mean $1,949.99.
arpeggiators are a synth/workstation feature, in which case you should look at MODX6 or Krome EX 61 instead
Thank you for uploading the video. It was very helpful.☺
To me as an ex keyboard player all of these modern stage keyboards seem to have far too many controls.
How can you change them while playing or between songs?
You are right. A live performer needs to be able to make changes very quickly with a stage keyboard.
From my experience the more complicated a keyboard LOOKS it is often EASIER to play live.
For instance having lots of knobs and switches looks intimidating at first. But if they are laid out logically in sound-groups like this CK or the Nords it’s actually pretty easy to learn them and make quick changes. Which is what a live-performer needs to be able to do. (You can also have up to 10 presets IMMEDIATELY available on these CKs).
Many of the other keyboards with lots of features and functions just aren’t useful for live performances because all that functionality is buried deep in menus that you have no time to navigate!
Thinking of trading in my Roland FA-08 for the CK88. I think the Roland would be fine if I did more studio work, but I only play occasionally with other people, so I find the CK88 one-to-one control attractive. Any thoughts?
Hey Jeremy, great review as always! May I know what is the difference of this from the psr e473? I'm planning of buying a keyboard for home use for the most part. Thanks!
Hello, Jeremy! I would like to ask if how can you convert Styles that are in prs file into a sty file? Thank you so much.💙
Good review, but you have 3 links to 88 keyboards, so I don't know whcih one you recommend with the best action weighted keys.
This sounds like such a nice keyboard. Does it come with a music rest? If not, can it use a Yamaha music rest?
Looks similar to Roland FA-06 except FA-06 also has Sequencer and Arpegiator, while Yamaha provides FM synth sounds (probably in PCM).
Excellent presentation. I’ve been on the fence w this keyboard, as I already have the Casio Pxs-3000 and I have the reface cop and the red reface organ mini keyboard.
This will replace all your reface(s)! 😍
@@JeremySeeDefinitely something to think about. How are the speakers being underneath though?
I am looking for something portable myself, but I think the lack of arpeggiator breaks this for me... But it looks like the FSB keyboard is a better action than what's on MODX. Am I right?
Yes FSB felt better MODX
So annoying that a cheap all-in-one Casio will even throw in an arpeggiator, but when it comes to Yamaha and Roland, "OMG adding an arpeggiator will break teh bAnK!!11"
But is there a third party foot pedal-sized arpeggiator that might work with this?
Read most of the manual and I think this would work. You could use a MIDI pedal like MIDI pal or my favorite Arpie, MIDI out to arpie back to in on c/m. you would have to set the CK up so it doesn’t play itself, local control off, and recieves Midi.
The only thing missing from this keyboard is a dust cover. I don't want the hazzle of putting in and taking out of the case everytime I want to play the keyboard.
When I used to take my Casio 61 key out to play at times I left it in the case on the stand. I would flip the top down and the sides inside out so that it hung like a table cloth. It was pretty cool because it gave it a professional look and I could hide anything I needed to under the stand.
It's difficult to get a custom cover made by a seamstress, tailor or upholsterer
Not gonna lie, I was rocking out to the Pocahontas song 😂❤
I bought the Yamaha CK-88. I LOVE it! But ya know what I CAN'T DO? Find a case that will fit THE MUSIC REST - it's 26" long and will NOT fit in the DEDICATED $449 case! Nor in a Gator case, etc. There is NO case that carries the instrument AND the music rest.
I bought the Gator case GKB 88 slim for my CK 88 ( In France). The music shop ordered it for me.
Is Yamaha DGX 650 good keyboard?
Can you review this keyboard "CASIO WK-6600 - KH29"?
Since the Yamaha CK88/61 models don't have a built-in arpeggiator, could you create an arpeggio effect in real time, while still using the voices on the Yamaha CK88/61, by adding an external device like a USB midi keyboard controller that has an arpeggiator function? Thanks! 🙂
Sir,is this keyboard is suitable for Indian styles and tones.
Wait until the new montage is released ! Its going to be epic.
Very nice...how does this compare with the Yamaha DGX 670 (besides of course the CK cost much more)
This is definitely one of the best quality money ratio on the market.
Hello! I'm always watching your videos and I am planning to buy one soon. Nice keyboard!
me to. I have the reface CP I got for christmas, and I like it for what it does, but eversince I heard about the CK61, I wanted it. I just hope they have it at the music stors where I live in canada.
Thank you Jeremy See, I always enjoy watching and listening to you demonstrate keyboards and pianos.
would you recommend this over the dgx-670?
Really nice job on the review--you covered a lot of ground! Out of curiousity--what song is being played at 6:30 it's hauntingly beautful!
This vs Roland FP E50? Both have their own merits.
Does this have a built in rhythm section like an arranger keyboard?
So it or not possible to attach a separately purchased music rest to it at all?
Compared to my CP4, Im still on the fence before letting it go. Nice board but If anyone still has a CP the pro quality still holds.
I don't think this is meant to replace a CP-4. The replacement might be the P-515, not sure.
When you talk about connecting another keyboard via the 5 pin MIDI Ports. Does that mean you can connect a 61-key midi Keyboard to the CK-61 just like with the Reface keyboards thus enabling you turn the CK-61 into makeshift dual Keyboard Organ?
Speaking of expression pedals for Organ Players…. This also means that we could get some MIDI Bass Foot Pedals and plug them into one of the 5 Pin MIDI Ports, Correct?
Yes, if the other keyboards have 5 pin MIDI ports
@@JeremySee Thank you so much!
@@JeremySee another question regarding it being a full-sized ReFace, in its organ section does it have a Farfisa sound setting like the Reface YC?
@@stoneyboydyes the 'F' organ
Does it have a backing track engine like PSRs. I see you're using a backing track that sounds familiar
Great Song, Professor Jeremy! 🕺
Please do acoustic piano comparison ck 61 vs psr sx 900
CK has CFX compared to SX900.
@@amusic9825what does that mean?