Just bought this one today !! Your reviews have helped a lot. The liano is great, its perfect for the ones who have just started playing and wanted to learn more !!
Awesome congrats! Yes the Liano is a great product. If you're just starting out I also have reviews on some online courses that worked for me if you want to check them out: ruclips.net/p/PL_W0EMCT9oNb7OQ7TiB0WHZv7K4k1bScA Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe
Your review is so great! It covers everything I want to know. I think at this price level Liano would be perfect for amateur players like me to both play at home and carry it with me outside. Ordered from Amazon, lol. Waiting for it to arrive. Thank you so much for the great work!❤ I will check out your advice in the future if I ever get to the point of upgrading this keyboard to do more of those MIDI and DAW things.
Thanks so much glad you liked the review - and congrats on ordering one I’m sure you’ll love it; hope it arrives soon! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe
Hi! Just thought I'd say that this is a wonderful and detailsd review. I've recently taken an interest in busking, where i could take this in a more scenic park where plugs are difficult to come by. The fact that this can be battery powered is a huge plus for me!
@@michellemonet4358 I actually didn't time test batteries in it myself, but I did run it on batteries for a 1.5 hr jam session and it was fine. I'm actually in the process of testing out a rechargable 12V battery with my Yamaha CK88 piano and it's working very well - review hopefully coming soon Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
Well done review as usual. Thanks Tony. Will keep this instrument in mind considering the relatively low price, the voice expandability, the USB audio interface, and the other attractive features. For now I'm still having fun with my ew425.
Always enjoy your reviews and have followed recommendations in the past. I have picked up piano at the age of 75, had lessons as a kid and played a little as an adult until it became too ponderous to move a piano cross country. Been relearning since October 2023. I have a Casio PX-S3100 and I enjoy it except that I practice with headphones and I can hear the ‘clunk’ of key action outside of the headphones and it’s irritating. Also, per your recommendation, I got a Casio CT-S1 for a portable solution for practice when I’m not at home. Your review, and others, of the Korg Liano mention the quiet key action. How does the feel compare to the two Casios I have? I have PX-S3100 set to lightest key action. I find I need to adjust to the semi-weighted feel of the CT-S1, is the Liano similar in feel or is it a little more like the PX-S3100? I have also found that even though the hundreds of sounds and rhythms were attractive when I researched, I find that I generally use concert grand, stage and jazz piano voices. Since the Liano weighs right in between the two Casios, I’m considering going to one piano, the Liano. What are your thoughts?
Thanks so much glad you like the videos! The Liano key weight will probably feel similar to the CT-S1 (not as heavy as your 3100) but it responds more like a piano (hard to describe; it just feels more like a piano just one with very light key action). The CT-S1 action is way better than most synth action keyboards for playing piano pieces, but the Liano is even closer to a piano feel. And the true full size keys do make a difference (at least for me) - I bet you would find it easier to go back and forth from your 3100 to the Liano than to the CT-S1. And if you only need piano voices, the Liano's main voice is a great all purpose piano (it sounds nice in a ballad but brightens up in rock/jazz if you play with more energy). Hope that helps!
Nice review, Tony! I bought this keyboard last month for busking and a lightweight portable option to take to buddies' houses for jamming. I have a Yamaha P515 for my main piano which is technically "portable" in the sense you can move it and good for proper gigs, but having 30W of speakers and 88 wooden keys it weighs like 70 lbs, so I wanted something lighter for some venues. I actually bought a Roland Go 88 initially which actually cost more, and was very unimpressed with it and I returned it. A full 1kg heavier, actually more if you battery power it with the heavier D-cell batteries, only 4 sounds, the action is worse, the main piano sample sounds worse, and the sustain drop-off was too great for my playing style - it just sounded dead and stacato. I find the action on this Korg really good considering it is not weighted at all - it is surprisingly playable, whatever spring action they have in there makes it feel semi-weighted (to be clear, it is not actually semi-weighted, it just feels like it). And the sustain is much, much better and richer than the Roland Go 88. A few notes now I've had it for a month... 1) Any idea why they decided to weirdly space the C# and D# off center and further apart that usual? Doesn't really affect playability but looks kinda strange. 2) It works great with AA batteries BUT note the volume noticeably lower when running on these. It's still great for practising but may be volume restrictive if you want to go busking. I have a 50,000 mah external DC battery which emulated mains which I use which gives me full mains volume (and obviously much lighter to carry than an external amp). 3) I hear ya on the L+R line out, and is the biggest thing missing IMO. I would gladly pay $100+ more for this one option - it would turn this great keyboard into an almost-perfect keyboard. 4) I'd add that it needs a separate function button - pressing reverb+metronome to access a function actually keeps switching the reverb on and off. Or at least stop the reverb toggling if you are using reverb+metronome to use functions. And it would be nice to actually print the functions on the keyboard rather than having to look up on a chart. What would it cost for the printing, an extra $20? $30? I'll pay it! :) 5) On that note - really not easy to tell if reverb is on or not. It is a pretty shallow reverb, but it would be nice to know if it's actually on without just listening for it. But all in all this is one GREAT value piano. The triple-sampled Italian grand is lovely. That Rhodes EP is divine. I mainly play these 2 voices. But I have used the other EP (which I call the Simple Minds EP - Don't You Forget About Me), the electric organ and even the harpsichord. The strings are a little harsh and attacky I wish they were a bit softer, but for those that want attacky strings they sound good. I personally have little use for the pipe organ BUT it is a very good sound and I can see this having value for anyone wanting to play gospel music or even as a church organ. But this is without doubt THE best value keyboard I have ever seen in terms of what you get for the price. I actually just WANT to pay a bit more for these extra few bells and whistles which would make it just perfect. With 88 keys and only weighing 6.3kg is astounding. I have this dream of taking it "piano hiking" and climbing to the top of a mountain and playing there :)
Agree totally with everything you said! I didn’t notice the spacing issue though (although I only had it rented for a few days). But yeah it is SO close to being the perfect portable piano option! LR line outs, reverb on/off indicator, add splits and layers (lose the harpsichord add a bass) and you’re gold!
@@PianoTone I am hoping Korg bring out some kind of V2 or Deluxe edition in the next year or two - with these extra bits, especially the L+R line out, addressed. Regarding the spacing - if you just look up any picture of the Liano online you can see the C# and D# are more widely spaced from each other than the 3 black keys from F# to Bb are. On my Yamaha P515 and honestly any other 88 key keyboard I've seen - the C#/D# spacing is the same distance as the other black keys. It's probably not noticeable until you notice it - then you can't help noticing it :) I mean in the same 88-key price/weight region there's only really the Roland Go 88 and the Alesis Recital and both fall short by some margin to the Korg Liano.
@@PianoTone Hmm I think I found an answer on online forums regarding the spacing "Instead of using different white keys for the C/D/E sections, they simply use F and B keys as C and E keys (respectively) to save costs as less different plastic things to produce. Hence the very wide space between the C# and D#"
@@PianoTone I rarely say this but I think this piano is priced too cheaply, given the awesome quality of the speakers, action and sound sampling all at only 6.3kg. I think they should 1) Add L+R line out 2) Add a reverb light and dedicated function button 3) Spend a few extra $ on properly spaced keys and add function labels above the keys 4) Replace ballad piano (which honestly seems just inferior to the awesome main piano and most people wouldn't use it) and harpsichord (also rarely used) with maybe bass and a brass, or some softer, mellower strings 4) Stick an extra $100 to $150 on the price tag It would be THE flagship lightweight 88 key keyboard and Korg would make a fortune.
The 1100 action is fully weighted and graded, so it is a better feeling action than the Liano, and the sounds are going to be a bit better as well (especially the non piano ones), and the Casio has LR line out ports the Liano does not. But, the Liano is considerably less expensive, has a decent feeling almost semi-weighted action, is lighter and thinner, and has the built in USB audio interface. You can also choose sounds on the Liano with a dial instead of key combinations.
Ps. I tested PX-S1100 and 5000 today and although there are some differences as far the action is concerned (the one in PX-S5000 is better weighted but a bit louder when keys are coming back up) and the main sound is a bit nicer but the advantages of 5000 are not worth doubling the price for me. My biggest problem with Casio PX-S is very low volume of headphone sound. I may just rent a digital piano and wait for Yamaha P-225
@@PianoTone okay thanks. I had watched you videos about Yamaha 425 and thought of purchasing it but unfortunately it was not available near me or anywhere online. It wasn't in stock. But I am glad I waited till korg liano was announced
my only hesitation on this keyboard was it's inability to layer but thanks for sharing the use of the Korg Module to layer.. i will assume the module volume can be controlled to get a balance i like...
I only rented the Liano so I can't retest and confirm, but I'm pretty sure you can adjust the volume on the source sound module (and/or on the device itself). Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
Great review Tony. I do have a couple of 88 key options for gigs inc. CK88. But I am very interested in grabbing a super light 88 board for short gigs. I own an EV Everse 8 speaker which has an 1/8 input for media players. This cpuld potentially offer an option to use with the 1/8 from the Liano. Do you have any experience of a similar set up and do you envisage any issues such as "humming noise "?" Great channel by the way. Just subscribed. Cheers Stevie 🎹
Thanks! That’s probably fine, especially for a super portable setup. I used that connection from my Casiotone CT-S1 to my Bose battery speaker and it was fine (also left the 2 1/4” channels open for mic’s for my singer and I). I compare the connection options (the aux vs. splitting the out to 2 channels) in my Bose speaker review if you want to check that out; go to the 20:00 mark of this video: ruclips.net/video/cdLwh0hk5uk/видео.html Hope that helps! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe
@PianoTone that's very helpful Tony. Much appreciated. I will check out the Bose review. I have just put in an order for the Liano which will basically live in the back of my car for jams and open mics. 6kgs is a game changer! Cheers mate.
Great review, I'm subbed of course for quite a while and forgot to post a comment. So just know you're appreciated very much ! I am wondering if the speakers are enough for a solo piano bar / cafe gig ("piano bar" style etc.) ? ty
The speakers are surprisingly good and loud (was playing one in the store the other day actually); you MIGHT be able to get away with just the speakers, but to be honest you really should have some external amplification, like a powered PA speaker, even if it was small.
Great review. I notice you use a bunch of app on your ipad. A video review of the one you found the most usable would be very interesting. On my ipad acoustic piano tone in korg module and even with ravenscroft, numa are very thin. Maybe it's my ipad fault ; what are the specs of yours ?
Thanks! My iPad is an old one; I actually almost never use MIDI sound apps, I always just use onboard keyboard sounds. Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
Thank you for your videos. I know they are two completely different pianos, but I'm looking at either the Korg Liano, Roland FP30X or the Yamaha P225. Although I've always wanted to, I have never played piano and I'm 39 😅. I'd love to eventually be good enough and brave enough to play at my family's get together's etc. Nothing more. Do you have any suggestions and/or advice?
Thanks! And that's cool that you're interested in learning piano! My recommendation would be the P-225 unless you want to save some money in which case the Liano is a great choice. The P-225 has fully weighted keys, and the built in rhythms can be super helpful in learning and practicing (way more fun than a metronome for keeping in time!). I'd also recommend checking out some of the online piano training that worked well for me: ruclips.net/p/PL_W0EMCT9oNb7OQ7TiB0WHZv7K4k1bScA Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
I came back to Liano after trying a few MIDI controllers and getting not what I wanted (no organ friendly MIDI keyboard on the market - most if not all MIDI controllers have software for music production and tons of synth sounds but action is either synth or hammer). Liano may not be the greatest for playing piano but is not bad and its action is relatively similar to the action of CK61 that I have and like very much. By the way, listening to your preferences Tony, I am wondering if you looked at Roland Juno-D (61 or 73) as an option for your band playing. Cheers, Michael
To be honest I've never "dived into the synth pool" yet; I don't really know anything about synthesizers, probably will take the leap one day. I'm loving the Yamaha YC-61 and the Roland A-49 is by far the best key action MIDI controller I've ever played.
@ Unfortunately for some strange reasons, Roland does not have a 61 key MIDI controller and its 88 key controller (that I had in the past) uses PHA-4 action. I actually prefer semi weighted action these days. Playing real piano is different than and hammer fully weighted digital piano action ever gave me.
Great review (as always), thanks a lot! One question: If you combine a voice from the keyboard and another from the USB audio-in, can the volume be controlled separately (or relative to each other)?
Thanks! The volume of either audio being streamed in through the usb audio interface or MIDI audio from an app on a device would both need to be controlled on the device - the liano volume knob will turn the entire audio (piano and incoming audio) up and down together so to modify relative volume it needs to be done on the device.
Tony, did you actually use a MIDI connection to a computer? I spent 3 hours trying to troubleshoot the Korg MIDI driver and gave up. Without a MIDI connection this digital keyboard is useless for me (I use various VSTs). Thank you, Michael
Not to a computer, I used it with my iPad and it was fine. This page (instead of the "Liano downloads" page) lists different drivers for different Windows versions if that matters: www.korg.com/us/support/download/driver/0/897/3541/ The most recent one says Win 11 only, some of the older ones ("See Previous Versions" link) include Windows 10 .. .
@ Thank you Tony. I tested this driver. I had quite a few digital pianos and MIDI controllers and NONE showed any issues with MIDI. As a matter of fact, I never had to install any drivers! I tested Liano with many different VSTs and there was never any MIDI signal connected to my computer(s). My VSTs do not run on iPads. I just do not understand why it could have even been an issue.
Hi! What’s the difference with the free version and the paid version of the app? And does getting the paid version improve your playing experience in your opinion?
Hello Tony, I have just got Korg Liano and the first thing I noticed (or rather heard) was how clicky the keys are when coming up to the rest position. Have you noticed it? Was the one you tested also showing this behaviour? It is just terribly loud! I always start by checking the action before even playing any digital piano. Another issue is that the keys are shorter than 15cm and that octave width is slightly less than 16.5cm: Octave width: 16.3cm; white key length 14cm Thank you, Michael
To be honest I don't remember the keys being noisy on mine, but that wasn't something I explicitly tested. When I checked the octave width on mine it was full sized (164mm; I didn't measure the length)
@@PianoTone I know that this is a detail but octave is 16.5cm 😄 Hear are some other numbers: Action: Middle C (C4) - ~ 52g to move C7 - 50g C6 - ~52g C2 - ~60g C3 - 60g to get the sound: C4,C6 - 60g C7 - 55g C2, C3 - 65g C4# - ~55g - ~75g (middle of black key)
@@mfurman Yeah I've had fully weighted pianos vary from 164-166 so I've considered anything in that range to be "full size"'; the ones I usually refer to as not full size (that are marketed as such) are all the synth action boards that are 159-160 but still say "full size". Cool you have weights I should probably get some one of these days ;)
I'd love this, as it's light, but it sounds great. I do have a generic digital piano, but it's very heavy. but I also do have alot of keyboards. I'm not really a professional, I can play, but I love the sounds. also, you should buy it if you love it. I'm not sure if they're in canada or not.
@@bobcastro3220 You can buy them from Long & McQuade in Canada (they'll order them in for you if they don't have them in stock) www.long-mcquade.com/300301/Keyboards/Digital-Pianos/Korg/L1-Liano-88-Key-Portable-Digital-Piano---Black.htm It is an awesome keyboard! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
Those are very different keyboards. The Liano only has a few voices, and no rhythms or arranger features (the 425 has hundreds of voices and rhythms). The Liano is more geared towards people who mostly want to play piano (the action isn't weighted, but it feels more "piano like" than the 425 does - the 425 has synth action keys). So if you mostly just care about piano, and don't care about rhythms or accompaniment, and don't need a lot of voices, the Liano is a great option. If you do care about more voices and rhythms etc go with the 425. Hope that helps! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
Hi, I'm looking for a digital piano to learn as a beginner. Which one do you recommend? Alesis Recital 88 / Alesis Recital Concert / Korg Liano / Alesis Recital Pro? Thanks in advance.
Those are all good beginner choices. The best 2 choices on that list would be the Recital Pro or the Korg Liano; each has its advantages; the Recital Pro has fully weighted keys & left and right line outs (best for connecting to external equipment) and the Liano only has semi-weighted (feeling) keys (but the action is really nice to play), the piano sound is nicer, it's SUPER portable at only 13 lbs, and it has a built in audio interface which is a big feature. If getting fully weighted keys is super important to you (feels closer to an acoustic piano) then get the Recital Pro. If that's not super important, get the Liano. The audio interface allows you to connect to a device (phone, iPad, etc) and hear that device's audio through the piano's speakers/headphones which can be super helpful when learning (playing along with backing tracks, online lessons etc); the Alesis isn't able to do that. On that note, you might also want to check out some online courses I've taken that I recommend: ruclips.net/p/PL_W0EMCT9oNb7OQ7TiB0WHZv7K4k1bScA Hope that helps! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
Nice video. Some thoughts... The Casio keys on the models you mentioned are not as narrow as on the Yamahas you were talking about. Korg Module will continue to sound when the app is not in the foreground, you just have to go to Settings and turn on Background Audio. (This is true of numerous iOS MIDI/audio apps.) I agree that I'd prefer a Wurli sound to that FM EP sound, but you can probably find plenty of people who would say the reverse... just like I wouldn't want to lose the harpsi sound you don't care about. ;-) A clavinet sound would be nice, too. You're right that it's nice to be able to hear internal speakers even when sending to external amplification... not just for sound, but they usually make the keys feel more real too, because you can feel the vibrations in your fingers (as you do on a real piano). While there's no way to add hardware to existing models, it would be nice to see a software update to provide a setting that would let you switch it so that the speakers wouldn't shut off when you insert a cable into the headphone jack. In terms of hardware changes, in my ideal version of this, besides 1/4" outs, there would also be 5-pin MIDI (at least out), and there would be buttons to directly navigate to your sound of choice instead of having to spin the dial. And as long as I'm wishing, the buttons could be programmable so they could call up your choice of the internal sounds, or the desired external (e.g. Korg Module) sounds. I'm curious about how these keys feel compared to those on the Korg B2N and the Numa Compact 2/2X. The Liano is the lightest and cheapest option, the B2N is the heaviest and deepest with the most robust sound system, Numa is in between in weight but is slimmest and provides the most versatility (aftertouch, more sounds, splits/layers, etc.). All three have the built in USB interface that lets you play and hear iPad sounds through their speakers with a single cable connection.
Thanks for all that! I've never played a B2N or a Studiologic Numa (would love to, no one carries them where I am). If I was to look at a Numa it would probably be the NumaX which also has the organ drawbars etc. My Casiotone CT-S1 had 159 mm octave widths and that was the same as the Yamaha PSR-E Series; you're saying the CT-S series has wider keys than that? Wonder if that's changed (I bought my CT-S1 right when they first came out) Thanks again!
@@PianoTone My CT-S500 is 6.5 inches from the left side of a key to the left side of the same key an octave higher. All my hammer action boards are as well. However, all the Yamaha non-hammer action boards are about 1/8" less than that, a Yamaha peculiarity!
@@SLHkeyboards Wow I was positive I measured a CT-S1000 in store and it was 159 mm just like the CT-S1 is; next time I see a 500 or 1000 in store I'll have to check that out! It's not just a Yamaha thing though, it's actually the most common size for non weighted synth action keys from any manufacturer - I've always wondered why.
@@PianoTone I've noticed that semi/un-weighted keys are almost always (front to back) than "full size" piano keys, but I think every non-Yamaha semi/unweighted board I've played has had about the same (e.g. octave-to-octave) as regular piano keys (not counting ones specifically marketed as having slim or mini keys of course), so I'm surprised you've seen the narrower ones as most common. I'll be curious to see the results of your next trip to a store to measure. :-) (If you go back in time some, Korg was using Yamaha actions in some of their boards, so those would presumably also be narrower, though.)
@@SLHkeyboards Every non weighted Casio I've seen is 159mm (in all fairness I've yet to see a CT-S500 in person, but did see a CT-S1000); all the older Casiotones are also 159mm (the 100,200 & 300). Check out this spot in my review on the Alesis Recital 61 (which has full size keys); I actually have my CT-S1 right above it so it's super easy to see (should start at the right spot in the video) ruclips.net/video/jb9kRdayQ9c/видео.htmlsi=Wh17MERyizYmXlWb&t=215
How does playing piano experience on Liano , compare to Yamaha NP35 or Yamaha PSR EW425? Is the piano sound coming out of speaker better? Overall playing on the keyboard better? I often wonder how significant polyphony is. So far 64 polyphony on PSR E425, Piaggero and Casio CTS1 never seem to be a problem.
Playing experience: 1) Liano 2) NP35 3) 425 Speakers: 1) 425 2) Liano 3) NP35 Features/Value: 1) 425 2) Liano 3) NP35 Overall it depends what you want it for; if JUST piano and only occasional other sounds, and you won’t use rhythms & accompaniment, get Liano. If you will use lots of sounds and rhythms get 425. I’ve never noticed polyphony as an issue on any keyboard (I’m not a great player though ;) Hope that helps! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe
@@PianoTone My ideal keyboard will be Korg XE20 repackaged into Liano's case, keybed and speaker using the interface from Korg's I3. Korg should also focus more on letting users buy and swap their keyboard internal sounds. There are so many sounds and styles that I will never use and yet taking up all the internal memory.
I am so out of touch these days. Can an iPad be used for recording and additional sounds then? I have an old Yamaha s-90. It is way more than I need now as i no longer gig. Have never gotten into the digital recording with laptop/iPads. Sorry if this was a stupid question 😂
Not a stupid question at all! You can use an iPad to record the audio coming from the Liano since the Liano has an audio interface built into the USB port (most keyboards don't have that feature); so any recording app on the iPad will work (Garageband for recording and mixing music tracks, or the camera app for recording a piano video). And the audio goes both ways so if you have a MIDI sound bank app on the iPad the audio from that app (being triggered by MIDI signals coming from playing the keyboard) will come back through the Liano speakers, so yes it provides easy access to additional sounds. On keyboards without that feature, you have to use the headphone out back to an audio in to get the audio to come back. Hope that helps! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
@@PianoTone thank you for the info. Seems like a really easy keyboard to Work with. My 2nd keyboard i owned was a Korg 01W. Talk about going back a few years. My first board was a Roland D-50!
Thank you. The harpsichord sound on the dash is very cheezy: is there a really good harpsichord possible still through either the Korg included app or Numa, do you know? If so, I'll get one. If not, hmmmm...
To be honest I'm not sure (and agree the onboard harp isn't the greatest) but given the built in audio interface you can use any sound bank app there is on either a pc or iPad etc, so I'm sure there are some great options out there. Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
Guess it depends where you are - there are lots of them where I am now - hope you can track one down! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe
I didn't notice anything in the one I rented, although I also always practice with headphones or play out of an amp with the band which is loud so I may not have noticed any clicking noise. Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
@@flooey580 Also a distinct possibility - the more I think about the one I used for the review I don't remember any noise at all. Hopefully this noisy one can be returned . . .
I just learned the the Korg Liano's connectivity to sound banks only works with IOS. I have an Android tablet and don't plan on buying an iPad any time soon. Is there a way I can access other good sound banks that aren't IOS-based?
Hi so do you know what type of headphones should I use for this piano? I’m new at this kind of stuff so I don’t want to buy the incorrect one, thank you!
Biggest thing to keep in mind is “studio” headphones - lots of great brands out there but you either want to go to a music store or look at studio headphones online. Electronics stores won’t be selling proper studio headphones. You want headphones without extras like “bass boost” etc (you want to hear unmodified sounds) and you DONT want an in-line mic like almost all electronics store headphones will have. OneOdio studio pro line is a great budget option: ruclips.net/video/KC4raa0RX2Y/видео.html Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe
I bought one, then found the lower octaves of both the electric organ & electric piano2 are both off-key and nearly silent until a couple of octaves up. My local music store says keyboard organs are mid-range only with this size of speaker - is this correct?? I already returned the initial order, and am told the 2nd arrived is exactly the same. Is this O.K.?
I'm looking for a keyboard with full size keys and light for traveling to gigs. The only thing that's disappointing is the lack of 1/4" output/headphones to connect to a sound system or single amp. I know there is a smaller 1/8" connection, but that's not going to work for me. Other than that, this would have been perfect. Oh well.
Lightest options I can think of with L/R line outs would include: - Casiotone CT-S500 (61 keys); keys on that are called "full-size" but they're the synth version of full size which is a tiny bit narrower; does have an almost semi weighted feel though - Alesis Recital (61 or 88 keys); these are semi-weighted and true full size keys, the sounds are ok (not as good as the Casio or the Liano but totally usable especially live vs. studio); the L/R outs are RCA which is weird but still works - Studiologic Numa Compact 2 (88 semi weighted keys): I have never touched one of these so can't say too much about it other than 88 keys and only 15 lbs - Yamaha PSR-E473/EW425 (61/76 keys); keys are synth action and the slightly narrower size like the casio, but these are awesome budget super portable gigging boards, light, run on batteries, good sounds, LR outs and even a mic input with gain: I have a 425, did a review here: ruclips.net/video/uDN0uMncuWc/видео.htmlsi=1NJpkwaP4yPtqmfN Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
Muddy through the headphones or speakers? Piano sounds are very personal, lots of people prefer one over the other (neither opinion is wrong just personal preference). I personally much prefer the Liano main piano sound, but especially the action and the true full size keys. The lack of a reverb indicator is annoying I totally agree; all they needed is a light indicator. While my preference is the Liano, the CT-S1 is definitely an awesome keyboard.
@@PianoTone its muddy through speakers. Only on the lower notes..of course. I hear you. Music is subjective but the Casio s1 sounds much fuller,richer and brighter on the low end which I prefer. I even have an old Yamaha we found in the trash that sounds pretty amazing too.haha.
The P-45 has my favorite piano action EVER (GHS); same as the P-125, DGX-670 etc; so the action will be far more realistic (it is fully weighted and graded like an acoustic piano). The Liano is not a weighted action, so lighter to the touch but feels "piano like" to play which is not easy to find in non weighted actions. The Liano is super light small and portable, and has a built in audio interface which is a very nice feature. So depends on whether a realistic action is more important to you or ease of portability. Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
I only own iOS devices so to be honest I'm not sure if Korg module works with Android or not, but as far as hearing a MIDI app's sound as well as the Liano sound at the same time through the Liano speakers or headphones, that's a feature of the Liano not Korg module; it's the audio interface built into the USB port that sends audio in both directions. Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
@@PianoTone Tony... no, the software does not suppor Windoze, but IOS and Android are supported. It makes sense because half the world has some sort of Android based device, be it a smartphone or tablet. I have a Samsung S6 Lite, a pretty basic tablet, but am confident I should be able to run the auxilary software and apps available from Korg. Richard/Nanaimo
That's a tough one; the P-45 has fully weighted GHS action (the Liano FEELS semi-weighted). I think if I was buying one to be a primarily "home" piano I would buy the Yamaha, if I was buying a piano to be portable, take to band practices etc. I would buy the Liano. Hope that helps! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
There should be a coupon code in your documentation somewhere: support.korguser.net/hc/en-us/articles/360029191252-How-to-set-up-and-start-using-Skoove-online-piano-lessons- Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
The DEP-20 has fully weighted keys (the Liano keys are not weighted, but they feel semi- weighted); I would probably recommend the Liano over the Donner. Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe
Yes, they are probably just spring/synth action, but they FEEL semi-weighted; they are FAR more "pianistic" than any non weighted synth action keyboard I've ever tried. Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
Never used FL studio but I don’t see why not (almost every keyboard on the market nowadays sends midi over usb) - no idea if you may need a Korg driver or not if you’re on a pc. Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe
Hi Tony, I tried to make sense of the value (or not) of the included app bundle and did some research. As of now, I have to say that I'm about ready to jump out of the window, as Korg's opacity and ambiguity in their scattered-all-over-the place statements is easily able to drive you insane. Unfortunately, I'm sitting at the ground floor of a one-storey building, so that wouldn't even be a solution. If you remember the Liano thread that you yourself started at the Keyboard Forums a while ago, I ('2fingerchord' there) posted my preliminary findings in that thread. Doesn't make a lot of sense still, I'm afraid. Given that you've had the Liano for a while and prominently mentioned the bundled apps here, maybe you could chime in there and add some more clarification. Cheers!
Hey there - I actually only ended up renting the Liano for a couple of weeks to do my review; I did really like it but didn't keep it so I can't offer much on the apps. I tend to always just plug and play with my pianos and keyboards I never bother with apps or MIDI, I prefer just using the onboard sounds, and with the Liano the apps stop working if they lose focus which made them useless to me anyways. I did look at the Korg articles and yeah that's beyond confusing wow. Sorry couldn't be more help!
@@PianoTone Thanks for your reply. I'm surprised you didn't keep the Liano since it sounded like you wanted to stick with it as an ultra-portable option. Regarding the Korg apps, someone somewhere (maybe even here in the comments, or in the aforementioned thread) commented that you can set the apps to "Run in the background", and then they'll keep playing even when they lose focus. BTW, meanwhile I found something that really riles me up. My major gripe with the Liano was it not having a split/layer function. Guess what? You *can* have split & layering. It just requires you ponying up an additional $19.99 (Module PRO, the bundled version won't do) + $19.99 ('Module Performance Expansion'), which basically makes an extra $40 (even more in Europe) and living with a smartphone dangling from your 'portable' keyboard. Talk about nickle-and-diming customers. F*** you, Korg.
@@PianoTone When connected to another sound generator via MIDI, does the key action/velocity feel similarly good? Or are the internal sounds set up to work particularly well with the key action?
To be honest I’m not sure - the DS-1H Korg pedal is compatible with the Liano and supports half pedaling but nothing on the Korg site or manual says whether the Liano supports it. So it might, but I would bet that it does not (given the price). Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe.
It doesn't support half-pedalling. Many higher-priced keyboards also do not. My main keyboard is a Yamaha P515, which does support half pedalling, but it's 5 times the price of this Korg.
Hi there! I haven't owned an Android phone in years, but I would assume any Android music apps (MIDI, DAW, camera) should work fine? Maybe check out Korg's site to see if there is any mention of Android compatibility issues (and you could check whether the Korg apps themselves have Android versions) Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
probably good if need to take on a trip for 10 days and want to play and can put it in a car to travel with. If at home, probably at least a Yamaha P125, Roland FP-10, FP-90X
@@PianoTone oh ok... the Casio CT-S1... if I play softly, like Moonlight Sonata 1st or Pathetique 2nd, I found I cannot press on the black keys near the felt area easily. On the FP-90X it was so good relatively speaking
I play it in around house just for fun, I live in a 3-story town house so it stays in the basement but I sometimes just bring it upstairs to the living level to do songs with the kids before bedtime. I also took it camping with my kids I could just plonk it on the park bench they provide on the site and for practising and feeling inspired it runs on the AA batteries fine (but lower volume than mains).
@@michellemonet4358 do you prefer the CT-S1 for its piano sound? its action? the sound quality of the built-in speakers? (Obviously, it has the advantage of having a lot more sounds in it!)
Just bought this one today !! Your reviews have helped a lot. The liano is great, its perfect for the ones who have just started playing and wanted to learn more !!
Awesome congrats! Yes the Liano is a great product. If you're just starting out I also have reviews on some online courses that worked for me if you want to check them out: ruclips.net/p/PL_W0EMCT9oNb7OQ7TiB0WHZv7K4k1bScA
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Thanks for a great review. I thought I had done my research but seeing this review has made me change my mind over what to buy
Thanks so much glad you found the review helpful! And thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe
Your review is so great! It covers everything I want to know. I think at this price level Liano would be perfect for amateur players like me to both play at home and carry it with me outside. Ordered from Amazon, lol. Waiting for it to arrive. Thank you so much for the great work!❤ I will check out your advice in the future if I ever get to the point of upgrading this keyboard to do more of those MIDI and DAW things.
Thanks so much glad you liked the review - and congrats on ordering one I’m sure you’ll love it; hope it arrives soon!
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A very good review, I'm more confident with this digital piano now. Thanks!
Thanks so much! And thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe
Such wonderful explanation, really great and keep doing such awesome reviews 👍🙏👍
Thanks so much glad you enjoyed the review! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
Hi! Just thought I'd say that this is a wonderful and detailsd review. I've recently taken an interest in busking, where i could take this in a more scenic park where plugs are difficult to come by. The fact that this can be battery powered is a huge plus for me!
Hey thanks glad you found it useful!
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Yes
.i hear the batteries last 6 hours???
@@michellemonet4358 I actually didn't time test batteries in it myself, but I did run it on batteries for a 1.5 hr jam session and it was fine. I'm actually in the process of testing out a rechargable 12V battery with my Yamaha CK88 piano and it's working very well - review hopefully coming soon
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Well done review as usual. Thanks Tony. Will keep this instrument in mind considering the relatively low price, the voice expandability, the USB audio interface, and the other attractive features. For now I'm still having fun with my ew425.
Thanks Thomas! Yeah the EW425 is still one of the best overall bang for your buck keyboards there is.
Always enjoy your reviews and have followed recommendations in the past. I have picked up piano at the age of 75, had lessons as a kid and played a little as an adult until it became too ponderous to move a piano cross country. Been relearning since October 2023. I have a Casio PX-S3100 and I enjoy it except that I practice with headphones and I can hear the ‘clunk’ of key action outside of the headphones and it’s irritating. Also, per your recommendation, I got a Casio CT-S1 for a portable solution for practice when I’m not at home. Your review, and others, of the Korg Liano mention the quiet key action. How does the feel compare to the two Casios I have? I have PX-S3100 set to lightest key action. I find I need to adjust to the semi-weighted feel of the CT-S1, is the Liano similar in feel or is it a little more like the PX-S3100? I have also found that even though the hundreds of sounds and rhythms were attractive when I researched, I find that I generally use concert grand, stage and jazz piano voices. Since the Liano weighs right in between the two Casios, I’m considering going to one piano, the Liano. What are your thoughts?
Thanks so much glad you like the videos! The Liano key weight will probably feel similar to the CT-S1 (not as heavy as your 3100) but it responds more like a piano (hard to describe; it just feels more like a piano just one with very light key action). The CT-S1 action is way better than most synth action keyboards for playing piano pieces, but the Liano is even closer to a piano feel. And the true full size keys do make a difference (at least for me) - I bet you would find it easier to go back and forth from your 3100 to the Liano than to the CT-S1. And if you only need piano voices, the Liano's main voice is a great all purpose piano (it sounds nice in a ballad but brightens up in rock/jazz if you play with more energy).
Hope that helps!
I had my eyes on this before I got a great deal on a DGX 660. Excellent review.
Thanks so much and congrats on your DGX! Those are fantastic instruments.
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As usual Another excellent review . Thanks
Thanks so much glad you enjoyed the review!
Amazing review man 😊🎉❤
Thanks so much! And thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe
Nice review, Tony! I bought this keyboard last month for busking and a lightweight portable option to take to buddies' houses for jamming. I have a Yamaha P515 for my main piano which is technically "portable" in the sense you can move it and good for proper gigs, but having 30W of speakers and 88 wooden keys it weighs like 70 lbs, so I wanted something lighter for some venues. I actually bought a Roland Go 88 initially which actually cost more, and was very unimpressed with it and I returned it. A full 1kg heavier, actually more if you battery power it with the heavier D-cell batteries, only 4 sounds, the action is worse, the main piano sample sounds worse, and the sustain drop-off was too great for my playing style - it just sounded dead and stacato.
I find the action on this Korg really good considering it is not weighted at all - it is surprisingly playable, whatever spring action they have in there makes it feel semi-weighted (to be clear, it is not actually semi-weighted, it just feels like it). And the sustain is much, much better and richer than the Roland Go 88. A few notes now I've had it for a month...
1) Any idea why they decided to weirdly space the C# and D# off center and further apart that usual? Doesn't really affect playability but looks kinda strange.
2) It works great with AA batteries BUT note the volume noticeably lower when running on these. It's still great for practising but may be volume restrictive if you want to go busking. I have a 50,000 mah external DC battery which emulated mains which I use which gives me full mains volume (and obviously much lighter to carry than an external amp).
3) I hear ya on the L+R line out, and is the biggest thing missing IMO. I would gladly pay $100+ more for this one option - it would turn this great keyboard into an almost-perfect keyboard.
4) I'd add that it needs a separate function button - pressing reverb+metronome to access a function actually keeps switching the reverb on and off. Or at least stop the reverb toggling if you are using reverb+metronome to use functions. And it would be nice to actually print the functions on the keyboard rather than having to look up on a chart. What would it cost for the printing, an extra $20? $30? I'll pay it! :)
5) On that note - really not easy to tell if reverb is on or not. It is a pretty shallow reverb, but it would be nice to know if it's actually on without just listening for it.
But all in all this is one GREAT value piano. The triple-sampled Italian grand is lovely. That Rhodes EP is divine. I mainly play these 2 voices. But I have used the other EP (which I call the Simple Minds EP - Don't You Forget About Me), the electric organ and even the harpsichord. The strings are a little harsh and attacky I wish they were a bit softer, but for those that want attacky strings they sound good. I personally have little use for the pipe organ BUT it is a very good sound and I can see this having value for anyone wanting to play gospel music or even as a church organ.
But this is without doubt THE best value keyboard I have ever seen in terms of what you get for the price. I actually just WANT to pay a bit more for these extra few bells and whistles which would make it just perfect. With 88 keys and only weighing 6.3kg is astounding. I have this dream of taking it "piano hiking" and climbing to the top of a mountain and playing there :)
Agree totally with everything you said! I didn’t notice the spacing issue though (although I only had it rented for a few days). But yeah it is SO close to being the perfect portable piano option! LR line outs, reverb on/off indicator, add splits and layers (lose the harpsichord add a bass) and you’re gold!
@@PianoTone I am hoping Korg bring out some kind of V2 or Deluxe edition in the next year or two - with these extra bits, especially the L+R line out, addressed. Regarding the spacing - if you just look up any picture of the Liano online you can see the C# and D# are more widely spaced from each other than the 3 black keys from F# to Bb are. On my Yamaha P515 and honestly any other 88 key keyboard I've seen - the C#/D# spacing is the same distance as the other black keys. It's probably not noticeable until you notice it - then you can't help noticing it :) I mean in the same 88-key price/weight region there's only really the Roland Go 88 and the Alesis Recital and both fall short by some margin to the Korg Liano.
@@PianoTone Hmm I think I found an answer on online forums regarding the spacing "Instead of using different white keys for the C/D/E sections, they simply use F and B keys as C and E keys (respectively) to save costs as less different plastic things to produce. Hence the very wide space between the C# and D#"
@@WayneJoyce1973 Wow - they should charge $1.00 more and not do that lol
@@PianoTone I rarely say this but I think this piano is priced too cheaply, given the awesome quality of the speakers, action and sound sampling all at only 6.3kg.
I think they should
1) Add L+R line out
2) Add a reverb light and dedicated function button
3) Spend a few extra $ on properly spaced keys and add function labels above the keys
4) Replace ballad piano (which honestly seems just inferior to the awesome main piano and most people wouldn't use it) and harpsichord (also rarely used) with maybe bass and a brass, or some softer, mellower strings
4) Stick an extra $100 to $150 on the price tag
It would be THE flagship lightweight 88 key keyboard and Korg would make a fortune.
Thank you. I just started to look at this digital piano yesterday (and at Casio PX-S1100 as well). I need something portable and half decent.
The 1100 action is fully weighted and graded, so it is a better feeling action than the Liano, and the sounds are going to be a bit better as well (especially the non piano ones), and the Casio has LR line out ports the Liano does not.
But, the Liano is considerably less expensive, has a decent feeling almost semi-weighted action, is lighter and thinner, and has the built in USB audio interface. You can also choose sounds on the Liano with a dial instead of key combinations.
@@PianoTone The Digital Audio Interface is what brought me to Liano. Thank you for your opinion and advice.
Ps. I tested PX-S1100 and 5000 today and although there are some differences as far the action is concerned (the one in PX-S5000 is better weighted but a bit louder when keys are coming back up) and the main sound is a bit nicer but the advantages of 5000 are not worth doubling the price for me. My biggest problem with Casio PX-S is very low volume of headphone sound.
I may just rent a digital piano and wait for Yamaha P-225
Nice review. Informational. Will you make in-depth video or comparison on it?
I only rented it so that will probably be it for awhile. Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe
@@PianoTone okay thanks. I had watched you videos about Yamaha 425 and thought of purchasing it but unfortunately it was not available near me or anywhere online. It wasn't in stock. But I am glad I waited till korg liano was announced
my only hesitation on this keyboard was it's inability to layer but thanks for sharing the use of the Korg Module to layer.. i will assume the module volume can be controlled to get a balance i like...
I only rented the Liano so I can't retest and confirm, but I'm pretty sure you can adjust the volume on the source sound module (and/or on the device itself).
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Great review Tony.
I do have a couple of 88 key options for gigs inc. CK88. But I am very interested in grabbing a super light 88 board for short gigs. I own an EV Everse 8 speaker which has an 1/8 input for media players. This cpuld potentially offer an option to use with the 1/8 from the Liano. Do you have any experience of a similar set up and do you envisage any issues such as "humming noise "?" Great channel by the way. Just subscribed. Cheers Stevie 🎹
Thanks! That’s probably fine, especially for a super portable setup. I used that connection from my Casiotone CT-S1 to my Bose battery speaker and it was fine (also left the 2 1/4” channels open for mic’s for my singer and I). I compare the connection options (the aux vs. splitting the out to 2 channels) in my Bose speaker review if you want to check that out; go to the 20:00 mark of this video: ruclips.net/video/cdLwh0hk5uk/видео.html
Hope that helps! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe
@PianoTone that's very helpful Tony. Much appreciated. I will check out the Bose review. I have just put in an order for the Liano which will basically live in the back of my car for jams and open mics. 6kgs is a game changer! Cheers mate.
Great review, I'm subbed of course for quite a while and forgot to post a comment. So just know you're appreciated very much ! I am wondering if the speakers are enough for a solo piano bar / cafe gig ("piano bar" style etc.) ? ty
The speakers are surprisingly good and loud (was playing one in the store the other day actually); you MIGHT be able to get away with just the speakers, but to be honest you really should have some external amplification, like a powered PA speaker, even if it was small.
@@PianoTone Thanks !
Great review. I notice you use a bunch of app on your ipad. A video review of the one you found the most usable would be very interesting. On my ipad acoustic piano tone in korg module and even with ravenscroft, numa are very thin. Maybe it's my ipad fault ; what are the specs of yours ?
Thanks! My iPad is an old one; I actually almost never use MIDI sound apps, I always just use onboard keyboard sounds.
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Thank you for your videos. I know they are two completely different pianos, but I'm looking at either the Korg Liano, Roland FP30X or the Yamaha P225.
Although I've always wanted to, I have never played piano and I'm 39 😅. I'd love to eventually be good enough and brave enough to play at my family's get together's etc. Nothing more. Do you have any suggestions and/or advice?
Thanks! And that's cool that you're interested in learning piano! My recommendation would be the P-225 unless you want to save some money in which case the Liano is a great choice. The P-225 has fully weighted keys, and the built in rhythms can be super helpful in learning and practicing (way more fun than a metronome for keeping in time!).
I'd also recommend checking out some of the online piano training that worked well for me: ruclips.net/p/PL_W0EMCT9oNb7OQ7TiB0WHZv7K4k1bScA
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@@PianoTone OK. Thank you again! Have a great day!
@@StalwartResolve Thanks & you too!
I came back to Liano after trying a few MIDI controllers and getting not what I wanted (no organ friendly MIDI keyboard on the market - most if not all MIDI controllers have software for music production and tons of synth sounds but action is either synth or hammer). Liano may not be the greatest for playing piano but is not bad and its action is relatively similar to the action of CK61 that I have and like very much.
By the way, listening to your preferences Tony, I am wondering if you looked at Roland Juno-D (61 or 73) as an option for your band playing.
Cheers,
Michael
To be honest I've never "dived into the synth pool" yet; I don't really know anything about synthesizers, probably will take the leap one day. I'm loving the Yamaha YC-61 and the Roland A-49 is by far the best key action MIDI controller I've ever played.
@ Unfortunately for some strange reasons, Roland does not have a 61 key MIDI controller and its 88 key controller (that I had in the past) uses PHA-4 action. I actually prefer semi weighted action these days. Playing real piano is different than and hammer fully weighted digital piano action ever gave me.
Great review (as always), thanks a lot! One question: If you combine a voice from the keyboard and another from the USB audio-in, can the volume be controlled separately (or relative to each other)?
Oh, and another thing: You showed how layering *can* be done via app. Is the same true for split?
Thanks! The volume of either audio being streamed in through the usb audio interface or MIDI audio from an app on a device would both need to be controlled on the device - the liano volume knob will turn the entire audio (piano and incoming audio) up and down together so to modify relative volume it needs to be done on the device.
Tony, did you actually use a MIDI connection to a computer? I spent 3 hours trying to troubleshoot the Korg MIDI driver and gave up. Without a MIDI connection this digital keyboard is useless for me (I use various VSTs).
Thank you,
Michael
Not to a computer, I used it with my iPad and it was fine. This page (instead of the "Liano downloads" page) lists different drivers for different Windows versions if that matters: www.korg.com/us/support/download/driver/0/897/3541/
The most recent one says Win 11 only, some of the older ones ("See Previous Versions" link) include Windows 10 .. .
@ Thank you Tony. I tested this driver. I had quite a few digital pianos and MIDI controllers and NONE showed any issues with MIDI. As a matter of fact, I never had to install any drivers! I tested Liano with many different VSTs and there was never any MIDI signal connected to my computer(s). My VSTs do not run on iPads.
I just do not understand why it could have even been an issue.
Ps. I got Arturia Analog Lab Pro and I am testing it. I am thinking of getting V Collection (they are both on Black Friday sale).
Hi! What’s the difference with the free version and the paid version of the app? And does getting the paid version improve your playing experience in your opinion?
As far as I know Numa Player is totally free, I don't think there is a paid version.
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Hello Tony, I have just got Korg Liano and the first thing I noticed (or rather heard) was how clicky the keys are when coming up to the rest position. Have you noticed it? Was the one you tested also showing this behaviour? It is just terribly loud! I always start by checking the action before even playing any digital piano.
Another issue is that the keys are shorter than 15cm and that octave width is slightly less than 16.5cm:
Octave width: 16.3cm; white key length 14cm
Thank you,
Michael
To be honest I don't remember the keys being noisy on mine, but that wasn't something I explicitly tested. When I checked the octave width on mine it was full sized (164mm; I didn't measure the length)
@@PianoTone I know that this is a detail but octave is 16.5cm 😄
Hear are some other numbers:
Action:
Middle C (C4) - ~ 52g to move
C7 - 50g
C6 - ~52g
C2 - ~60g
C3 - 60g
to get the sound:
C4,C6 - 60g
C7 - 55g
C2, C3 - 65g
C4# - ~55g - ~75g (middle of black key)
@@mfurman Yeah I've had fully weighted pianos vary from 164-166 so I've considered anything in that range to be "full size"'; the ones I usually refer to as not full size (that are marketed as such) are all the synth action boards that are 159-160 but still say "full size".
Cool you have weights I should probably get some one of these days ;)
I'd love this, as it's light, but it sounds great. I do have a generic digital piano, but it's very heavy. but I also do have alot of keyboards. I'm not really a professional, I can play, but I love the sounds. also, you should buy it if you love it. I'm not sure if they're in canada or not.
I'm in canada, and I'd love to buy one.
@@bobcastro3220 You can buy them from Long & McQuade in Canada (they'll order them in for you if they don't have them in stock) www.long-mcquade.com/300301/Keyboards/Digital-Pianos/Korg/L1-Liano-88-Key-Portable-Digital-Piano---Black.htm
It is an awesome keyboard! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
Many thanks for the video. Between liano and ew 425 which one do you recommend for a beginner? Many thanks in advance for rhe answer. Sim.
Those are very different keyboards. The Liano only has a few voices, and no rhythms or arranger features (the 425 has hundreds of voices and rhythms). The Liano is more geared towards people who mostly want to play piano (the action isn't weighted, but it feels more "piano like" than the 425 does - the 425 has synth action keys). So if you mostly just care about piano, and don't care about rhythms or accompaniment, and don't need a lot of voices, the Liano is a great option. If you do care about more voices and rhythms etc go with the 425.
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Hi, I'm looking for a digital piano to learn as a beginner. Which one do you recommend? Alesis Recital 88 / Alesis Recital Concert / Korg Liano / Alesis Recital Pro? Thanks in advance.
Those are all good beginner choices. The best 2 choices on that list would be the Recital Pro or the Korg Liano; each has its advantages; the Recital Pro has fully weighted keys & left and right line outs (best for connecting to external equipment) and the Liano only has semi-weighted (feeling) keys (but the action is really nice to play), the piano sound is nicer, it's SUPER portable at only 13 lbs, and it has a built in audio interface which is a big feature.
If getting fully weighted keys is super important to you (feels closer to an acoustic piano) then get the Recital Pro. If that's not super important, get the Liano. The audio interface allows you to connect to a device (phone, iPad, etc) and hear that device's audio through the piano's speakers/headphones which can be super helpful when learning (playing along with backing tracks, online lessons etc); the Alesis isn't able to do that. On that note, you might also want to check out some online courses I've taken that I recommend: ruclips.net/p/PL_W0EMCT9oNb7OQ7TiB0WHZv7K4k1bScA
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@@PianoTone thanks for your suggest..
Thank you.
You're welcome!
Nice video. Some thoughts...
The Casio keys on the models you mentioned are not as narrow as on the Yamahas you were talking about.
Korg Module will continue to sound when the app is not in the foreground, you just have to go to Settings and turn on Background Audio. (This is true of numerous iOS MIDI/audio apps.)
I agree that I'd prefer a Wurli sound to that FM EP sound, but you can probably find plenty of people who would say the reverse... just like I wouldn't want to lose the harpsi sound you don't care about. ;-) A clavinet sound would be nice, too.
You're right that it's nice to be able to hear internal speakers even when sending to external amplification... not just for sound, but they usually make the keys feel more real too, because you can feel the vibrations in your fingers (as you do on a real piano). While there's no way to add hardware to existing models, it would be nice to see a software update to provide a setting that would let you switch it so that the speakers wouldn't shut off when you insert a cable into the headphone jack.
In terms of hardware changes, in my ideal version of this, besides 1/4" outs, there would also be 5-pin MIDI (at least out), and there would be buttons to directly navigate to your sound of choice instead of having to spin the dial. And as long as I'm wishing, the buttons could be programmable so they could call up your choice of the internal sounds, or the desired external (e.g. Korg Module) sounds.
I'm curious about how these keys feel compared to those on the Korg B2N and the Numa Compact 2/2X. The Liano is the lightest and cheapest option, the B2N is the heaviest and deepest with the most robust sound system, Numa is in between in weight but is slimmest and provides the most versatility (aftertouch, more sounds, splits/layers, etc.). All three have the built in USB interface that lets you play and hear iPad sounds through their speakers with a single cable connection.
Thanks for all that! I've never played a B2N or a Studiologic Numa (would love to, no one carries them where I am). If I was to look at a Numa it would probably be the NumaX which also has the organ drawbars etc.
My Casiotone CT-S1 had 159 mm octave widths and that was the same as the Yamaha PSR-E Series; you're saying the CT-S series has wider keys than that? Wonder if that's changed (I bought my CT-S1 right when they first came out)
Thanks again!
@@PianoTone My CT-S500 is 6.5 inches from the left side of a key to the left side of the same key an octave higher. All my hammer action boards are as well. However, all the Yamaha non-hammer action boards are about 1/8" less than that, a Yamaha peculiarity!
@@SLHkeyboards Wow I was positive I measured a CT-S1000 in store and it was 159 mm just like the CT-S1 is; next time I see a 500 or 1000 in store I'll have to check that out! It's not just a Yamaha thing though, it's actually the most common size for non weighted synth action keys from any manufacturer - I've always wondered why.
@@PianoTone I've noticed that semi/un-weighted keys are almost always (front to back) than "full size" piano keys, but I think every non-Yamaha semi/unweighted board I've played has had about the same (e.g. octave-to-octave) as regular piano keys (not counting ones specifically marketed as having slim or mini keys of course), so I'm surprised you've seen the narrower ones as most common. I'll be curious to see the results of your next trip to a store to measure. :-) (If you go back in time some, Korg was using Yamaha actions in some of their boards, so those would presumably also be narrower, though.)
@@SLHkeyboards Every non weighted Casio I've seen is 159mm (in all fairness I've yet to see a CT-S500 in person, but did see a CT-S1000); all the older Casiotones are also 159mm (the 100,200 & 300).
Check out this spot in my review on the Alesis Recital 61 (which has full size keys); I actually have my CT-S1 right above it so it's super easy to see (should start at the right spot in the video)
ruclips.net/video/jb9kRdayQ9c/видео.htmlsi=Wh17MERyizYmXlWb&t=215
How does playing piano experience on Liano , compare to Yamaha NP35 or Yamaha PSR EW425? Is the piano sound coming out of speaker better? Overall playing on the keyboard better? I often wonder how significant polyphony is. So far 64 polyphony on PSR E425, Piaggero and Casio CTS1 never seem to be a problem.
Playing experience:
1) Liano
2) NP35
3) 425
Speakers:
1) 425
2) Liano
3) NP35
Features/Value:
1) 425
2) Liano
3) NP35
Overall it depends what you want it for; if JUST piano and only occasional other sounds, and you won’t use rhythms & accompaniment, get Liano. If you will use lots of sounds and rhythms get 425.
I’ve never noticed polyphony as an issue on any keyboard (I’m not a great player though ;)
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@@PianoTone My ideal keyboard will be Korg XE20 repackaged into Liano's case, keybed and speaker using the interface from Korg's I3. Korg should also focus more on letting users buy and swap their keyboard internal sounds. There are so many sounds and styles that I will never use and yet taking up all the internal memory.
Tony, have you noticed that the black keys of Liano do not have standard position? C# is more to the left and D# to the right
No I didn't notice that! I'll have to check in store the next time I see one
I am so out of touch these days. Can an iPad be used for recording and additional sounds then? I have an old Yamaha s-90. It is way more than I need now as i no longer gig. Have never gotten into the digital recording with laptop/iPads. Sorry if this was a stupid question 😂
Not a stupid question at all! You can use an iPad to record the audio coming from the Liano since the Liano has an audio interface built into the USB port (most keyboards don't have that feature); so any recording app on the iPad will work (Garageband for recording and mixing music tracks, or the camera app for recording a piano video). And the audio goes both ways so if you have a MIDI sound bank app on the iPad the audio from that app (being triggered by MIDI signals coming from playing the keyboard) will come back through the Liano speakers, so yes it provides easy access to additional sounds. On keyboards without that feature, you have to use the headphone out back to an audio in to get the audio to come back.
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@@PianoTone thank you for the info. Seems like a really easy keyboard to Work with. My 2nd keyboard i owned was a Korg 01W. Talk about going back a few years. My first board was a Roland D-50!
Thank you. The harpsichord sound on the dash is very cheezy: is there a really good harpsichord possible still through either the Korg included app or Numa, do you know? If so, I'll get one. If not, hmmmm...
To be honest I'm not sure (and agree the onboard harp isn't the greatest) but given the built in audio interface you can use any sound bank app there is on either a pc or iPad etc, so I'm sure there are some great options out there.
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Thanks so much...will investigate harpsichord-lovely apps..@@PianoTone
Nice review. Wish this was actually available. It seems to be out of stock everywhere.
Guess it depends where you are - there are lots of them where I am now - hope you can track one down! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe
Did you mention in your review how noisy the key bet is if you’d like to play soft all you can hear is the clicking sound of the keys
I didn't notice anything in the one I rented, although I also always practice with headphones or play out of an amp with the band which is loud so I may not have noticed any clicking noise.
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No clicking on my Liano, you must have gotten a bad one.
@@flooey580 Also a distinct possibility - the more I think about the one I used for the review I don't remember any noise at all. Hopefully this noisy one can be returned . . .
I just learned the the Korg Liano's connectivity to sound banks only works with IOS. I have an Android tablet and don't plan on buying an iPad any time soon. Is there a way I can access other good sound banks that aren't IOS-based?
I only own iOS so I honestly have no idea sorry!
Hi so do you know what type of headphones should I use for this piano? I’m new at this kind of stuff so I don’t want to buy the incorrect one, thank you!
Biggest thing to keep in mind is “studio” headphones - lots of great brands out there but you either want to go to a music store or look at studio headphones online. Electronics stores won’t be selling proper studio headphones. You want headphones without extras like “bass boost” etc (you want to hear unmodified sounds) and you DONT want an in-line mic like almost all electronics store headphones will have.
OneOdio studio pro line is a great budget option:
ruclips.net/video/KC4raa0RX2Y/видео.html
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I bought one, then found the lower octaves of both the electric organ & electric piano2 are both off-key and nearly silent until a couple of octaves up. My local music store says keyboard organs are mid-range only with this size of speaker - is this correct?? I already returned the initial order, and am told the 2nd arrived is exactly the same. Is this O.K.?
I’ve never heard of that to be honest sorry!
I'm looking for a keyboard with full size keys and light for traveling to gigs. The only thing that's disappointing is the lack of 1/4" output/headphones to connect to a sound system or single amp. I know there is a smaller 1/8" connection, but that's not going to work for me. Other than that, this would have been perfect. Oh well.
Lightest options I can think of with L/R line outs would include:
- Casiotone CT-S500 (61 keys); keys on that are called "full-size" but they're the synth version of full size which is a tiny bit narrower; does have an almost semi weighted feel though
- Alesis Recital (61 or 88 keys); these are semi-weighted and true full size keys, the sounds are ok (not as good as the Casio or the Liano but totally usable especially live vs. studio); the L/R outs are RCA which is weird but still works
- Studiologic Numa Compact 2 (88 semi weighted keys): I have never touched one of these so can't say too much about it other than 88 keys and only 15 lbs
- Yamaha PSR-E473/EW425 (61/76 keys); keys are synth action and the slightly narrower size like the casio, but these are awesome budget super portable gigging boards, light, run on batteries, good sounds, LR outs and even a mic input with gain: I have a 425, did a review here:
ruclips.net/video/uDN0uMncuWc/видео.htmlsi=1NJpkwaP4yPtqmfN
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Plenty of cables on Amazon that go from stereo 1/8" to either two 1/4" TS or even XLR plugs.
I just bought a Liano. The low end is so muddy! Ugh.😢 Any thoughts? Also...its hard to tell whether the Reverb is on or off.
Muddy through the headphones or speakers? Piano sounds are very personal, lots of people prefer one over the other (neither opinion is wrong just personal preference). I personally much prefer the Liano main piano sound, but especially the action and the true full size keys. The lack of a reverb indicator is annoying I totally agree; all they needed is a light indicator. While my preference is the Liano, the CT-S1 is definitely an awesome keyboard.
@@PianoTone its muddy through speakers. Only on the lower notes..of course.
I hear you. Music is subjective but the Casio s1 sounds much fuller,richer and brighter on the low end which I prefer. I even have an old Yamaha we found in the trash that sounds pretty amazing too.haha.
Does the Korg Liano have transposing capability?
Yes it does! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
What's your opinion between liano or p45 for beginners wich best?
The P-45 has my favorite piano action EVER (GHS); same as the P-125, DGX-670 etc; so the action will be far more realistic (it is fully weighted and graded like an acoustic piano). The Liano is not a weighted action, so lighter to the touch but feels "piano like" to play which is not easy to find in non weighted actions. The Liano is super light small and portable, and has a built in audio interface which is a very nice feature.
So depends on whether a realistic action is more important to you or ease of portability.
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Ok, so with Korg module, you can layer sounds. BUT does it work with Android? If not, can other apps create that "layer" effect?
I only own iOS devices so to be honest I'm not sure if Korg module works with Android or not, but as far as hearing a MIDI app's sound as well as the Liano sound at the same time through the Liano speakers or headphones, that's a feature of the Liano not Korg module; it's the audio interface built into the USB port that sends audio in both directions.
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@@PianoTone Tony... no, the software does not suppor Windoze, but IOS and Android are supported. It makes sense because half the world has some sort of Android based device, be it a smartphone or tablet. I have a Samsung S6 Lite, a pretty basic tablet, but am confident I should be able to run the auxilary software and apps available from Korg. Richard/Nanaimo
Check Jeremy See's. I think It was said that it only works for Apple devices
Would you prefer this over a yamaha p45?
That's a tough one; the P-45 has fully weighted GHS action (the Liano FEELS semi-weighted). I think if I was buying one to be a primarily "home" piano I would buy the Yamaha, if I was buying a piano to be portable, take to band practices etc. I would buy the Liano. Hope that helps!
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Hey how can i access that skoove's subscription got on korg liano? How can i start that??
There should be a coupon code in your documentation somewhere: support.korguser.net/hc/en-us/articles/360029191252-How-to-set-up-and-start-using-Skoove-online-piano-lessons-
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@@PianoTone thank u so much sir !! You have always helped me!!
like yr reviews
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sorry my question was for yamaha ck61, internal drums?
No worries! I answered your question on the CK video
Hey korg liano vs donner dep Which is better??
The DEP-20 has fully weighted keys (the Liano keys are not weighted, but they feel semi- weighted); I would probably recommend the Liano over the Donner.
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@@PianoTone ok thank u so much!
hello. medium weight keys?
Yes, they are probably just spring/synth action, but they FEEL semi-weighted; they are FAR more "pianistic" than any non weighted synth action keyboard I've ever tried.
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Can we use this to Fl studio ?
Never used FL studio but I don’t see why not (almost every keyboard on the market nowadays sends midi over usb) - no idea if you may need a Korg driver or not if you’re on a pc.
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Hi Tony, I tried to make sense of the value (or not) of the included app bundle and did some research. As of now, I have to say that I'm about ready to jump out of the window, as Korg's opacity and ambiguity in their scattered-all-over-the place statements is easily able to drive you insane. Unfortunately, I'm sitting at the ground floor of a one-storey building, so that wouldn't even be a solution.
If you remember the Liano thread that you yourself started at the Keyboard Forums a while ago, I ('2fingerchord' there) posted my preliminary findings in that thread. Doesn't make a lot of sense still, I'm afraid.
Given that you've had the Liano for a while and prominently mentioned the bundled apps here, maybe you could chime in there and add some more clarification. Cheers!
Hey there - I actually only ended up renting the Liano for a couple of weeks to do my review; I did really like it but didn't keep it so I can't offer much on the apps. I tend to always just plug and play with my pianos and keyboards I never bother with apps or MIDI, I prefer just using the onboard sounds, and with the Liano the apps stop working if they lose focus which made them useless to me anyways.
I did look at the Korg articles and yeah that's beyond confusing wow.
Sorry couldn't be more help!
@@PianoTone Thanks for your reply. I'm surprised you didn't keep the Liano since it sounded like you wanted to stick with it as an ultra-portable option. Regarding the Korg apps, someone somewhere (maybe even here in the comments, or in the aforementioned thread) commented that you can set the apps to "Run in the background", and then they'll keep playing even when they lose focus.
BTW, meanwhile I found something that really riles me up. My major gripe with the Liano was it not having a split/layer function. Guess what? You *can* have split & layering. It just requires you ponying up an additional $19.99 (Module PRO, the bundled version won't do) + $19.99 ('Module Performance Expansion'), which basically makes an extra $40 (even more in Europe) and living with a smartphone dangling from your 'portable' keyboard. Talk about nickle-and-diming customers. F*** you, Korg.
@@theol1044 Thx for the tip/research Theo. I'm prepared to pay the $40 to extend the Liano's functions. Might try it soon.
Is this piano run on batteries only or is it possible to run with power adaptor?
It can also run on batteries!
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It comes with a power adaptor.
Does that key feel translate to other sounds via MIDI?
Not sure exactly what you mean?
@@PianoTone When connected to another sound generator via MIDI, does the key action/velocity feel similarly good? Or are the internal sounds set up to work particularly well with the key action?
Does it have a transpose function?
Yes it does (it's a function key combination., so not a button on the panel). Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
Dose it have transpose option?
Yes it does! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
Does the liano support half pedalling?
To be honest I’m not sure - the DS-1H Korg pedal is compatible with the Liano and supports half pedaling but nothing on the Korg site or manual says whether the Liano supports it. So it might, but I would bet that it does not (given the price).
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@@PianoTone can you check it by plugging any damper pedal
No because I don’t own this piano I just rented it sorry
It doesn't support half-pedalling. Many higher-priced keyboards also do not. My main keyboard is a Yamaha P515, which does support half pedalling, but it's 5 times the price of this Korg.
Wow …. One can stand up and play this Liano like a guitar
It's super light! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe
are there internal drum tracks?
No worries! I answered your question on the CK video
Does it support Android?
Hi there! I haven't owned an Android phone in years, but I would assume any Android music apps (MIDI, DAW, camera) should work fine? Maybe check out Korg's site to see if there is any mention of Android compatibility issues (and you could check whether the Korg apps themselves have Android versions)
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probably good if need to take on a trip for 10 days and want to play and can put it in a car to travel with. If at home, probably at least a Yamaha P125, Roland FP-10, FP-90X
It’s definitely great for portability and the action is far better than the Casio CT-S1 or the Yamaha PSR-E series
@@PianoTone oh ok... the Casio CT-S1... if I play softly, like Moonlight Sonata 1st or Pathetique 2nd, I found I cannot press on the black keys near the felt area easily. On the FP-90X it was so good relatively speaking
I play it in around house just for fun, I live in a 3-story town house so it stays in the basement but I sometimes just bring it upstairs to the living level to do songs with the kids before bedtime. I also took it camping with my kids I could just plonk it on the park bench they provide on the site and for practising and feeling inspired it runs on the AA batteries fine (but lower volume than mains).
@@PianoTonei prefer the Casio Ct s1 by far over the Liano. ...I own both.
@@michellemonet4358 do you prefer the CT-S1 for its piano sound? its action? the sound quality of the built-in speakers? (Obviously, it has the advantage of having a lot more sounds in it!)