Reaching an advanced level in piano playing is a real accomplishment. You need an instrument that keeps up with your skills, offering nuanced expression and realistic feel. Upgrading to a digital piano designed for advanced players can unlock new possibilities in your practice and performance. It’s about finding a digital piano that truly responds to your touch and allows you to explore the full range of musical expression. These instruments often have better key actions, more realistic sound engines, and advanced features to help you refine your technique and artistry.
Here’s a quick look at some top contenders:
- Yamaha Clavinova CLP-745: Renowned for its realistic grand piano sound and responsive GrandTouch-S keyboard action.
- Roland RD-2000: A stage piano powerhouse with extensive sound libraries and advanced control options.
- Kawai CA79: Features the Grand Feel III action, known for its exceptional responsiveness and authentic feel.
- Nord Piano 5: Offers a unique sound palette and a highly playable keybed for expressive performances.
- Casio Celviano AP-710: Combines a sophisticated design with advanced sound technology and a responsive keyboard.
Top 5 Best Digital Pianos for Advanced Players
1. Yamaha Clavinova CLP-745
The Yamaha Clavinova CLP-745 is a popular choice for advanced players, known for its blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology. This digital piano excels in replicating the experience of playing an acoustic grand piano, making it ideal for serious practice and performance. Its strengths lie in its expressive sound engine and realistic keyboard action.
Pros:
- ✅ GrandTouch-S keyboard action provides a highly responsive and nuanced playing experience.
- ✅ Yamaha CFX and Bösendorfer Imperial grand piano samples offer rich and authentic sound.
- ✅ Virtual Resonance Modeling (VRM) realistically recreates the complex resonances of an acoustic piano.
Cons:
- ❌ The cabinet design might not appeal to everyone, as it’s fairly traditional.
- ❌ Advanced features can be overwhelming for beginners.
- ❌ It’s a significant investment compared to entry-level digital pianos.
Verdict: The CLP-745 is excellent for advanced players seeking a realistic grand piano experience in a digital format. It’s a great choice for dedicated practice and refined performance.
2. Roland RD-2000
The Roland RD-2000 is a stage piano designed for professional performers. It offers a vast array of sounds and advanced control features, making it a versatile instrument for live performance and studio recording. Its strengths lie in its extensive sound library and intuitive interface.
Pros:
- ✅ PHA-50 keyboard action provides a responsive and durable playing surface.
- ✅ Over 1,100 sounds, including acoustic pianos, electric pianos, organs, and synthesizers.
- ✅ Extensive connectivity options, including MIDI, USB, and audio inputs/outputs.
Cons:
- ❌ Its size and weight make it less portable than some other stage pianos.
- ❌ The interface can be complex to navigate at first.
- ❌ The focus on performance features might not appeal to players primarily focused on classical piano.
Verdict: The RD-2000 is a powerhouse for performing musicians, offering a wide range of sounds and control options. It’s perfect for stage and studio use.
3. Kawai CA79
The Kawai CA79 is known for its exceptional keyboard action and realistic piano sound. It’s designed to replicate the experience of playing a high-quality acoustic grand piano, making it a great choice for advanced players. Its strength lies in the Grand Feel III action which is widely praised.
Pros:
- ✅ Grand Feel III action with wooden keys provides an exceptionally realistic and responsive feel.
- ✅ Shigeru Kawai SK-EX and Kawai EX concert grand piano samples offer rich and detailed sound.
- ✅ Onkyo audio processing and speaker system deliver high-quality sound reproduction.
Cons:
- ❌ The user interface can feel a bit dated compared to some competitors.
- ❌ It is a relatively large instrument, requiring a dedicated space.
- ❌ The price point is higher, reflecting its premium features.
Verdict: The CA79 is ideal for advanced players who prioritize a realistic grand piano playing experience. It’s excellent for serious practice and performance.
4. Nord Piano 5
The Nord Piano 5 stands out with its unique sound palette and highly playable keybed. It’s designed for expressive performances and offers a distinctive sonic character. It’s loved for its flexibility and distinctive sound.
Pros:
- ✅ Triple Sensor keybed offers exceptional responsiveness and dynamic control.
- ✅ Nord Piano Library provides a wide range of high-quality piano and instrument sounds.
- ✅ Advanced features like Piano Filters, Dyno Filters, and Soft Release enhance expressive possibilities.
Cons:
- ❌ The interface can be a bit quirky and requires some getting used to.
- ❌ It lacks built-in speakers, requiring external amplification.
- ❌ The design might not appeal to those seeking a traditional piano aesthetic.
Verdict: The Nord Piano 5 is perfect for players who want a unique sound and a highly expressive instrument. It’s great for stage performance and creative exploration.
5. Casio Celviano AP-710
The Casio Celviano AP-710 combines a sophisticated design with advanced sound technology and a responsive keyboard. It offers a blend of traditional aesthetics and modern features, making it a versatile choice for advanced players. The AP-710 stands out for its value.
Pros:
- ✅ Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action Keyboard II provides a realistic and responsive playing experience.
- ✅ Multi-Dimensional Morphing AiR sound source delivers rich and detailed piano sound.
- ✅ Concert Play feature allows you to play along with orchestral recordings.
Cons:
- ❌ The sound quality, while good, might not match the realism of higher-end models.
- ❌ The cabinet design, while elegant, might not suit all tastes.
- ❌ The interface can feel a bit less intuitive compared to some competitors.
Verdict: The AP-710 is a great option for advanced players seeking a balance of features, design, and value. It’s suitable for home practice and performance.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right digital piano for advanced players involves considering several key factors. Here’s a guide to help you make the best decision:
- Keyboard Action: The keyboard action is arguably the most important factor. Look for actions that replicate the feel of an acoustic grand piano. Key features include weighted keys, hammer action, and escapement. Popular options include Yamaha’s GrandTouch-S, Roland’s PHA-50, and Kawai’s Grand Feel III.
- Sound Quality: Pay attention to the piano sound samples and the technology used to create them. High-quality samples, combined with advanced modeling techniques, can deliver a more realistic and expressive sound.
- Features: Consider the features that are important to you. Some digital pianos offer a wide range of sounds, while others focus on replicating the acoustic piano experience. Other features to consider include recording capabilities, connectivity options, and built-in lesson functions.
- Connectivity: Ensure the digital piano has the necessary connectivity options for your needs. This may include MIDI, USB, audio inputs/outputs, and Bluetooth.
- Budget: Digital pianos for advanced players can range in price from around $2,000 to over $5,000. Set a budget and find a piano that offers the best combination of features and performance within your price range.
- Reviews and Research: Read reviews and compare different models before making a decision. This will help you get a better understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each piano.
- Try Before You Buy: If possible, try out different digital pianos in person before making a purchase. This will allow you to get a feel for the keyboard action and sound quality.
FAQs
Q: What is the most important feature to look for in a digital piano for advanced players?
A: The keyboard action is the most crucial feature. It should closely mimic the feel of an acoustic grand piano, with weighted keys, hammer action, and escapement.
Q: How much should I expect to spend on a good digital piano for advanced players?
A: Expect to spend between $2,000 and $5,000 for a high-quality digital piano designed for advanced players. Prices can vary depending on the brand, features, and technology.
Q: Can I use a digital piano for professional performances?
A: Yes, many digital pianos are suitable for professional performances. Look for models with high-quality sound, responsive keyboard action, and extensive connectivity options.
Q: What are the benefits of buying a digital piano over an acoustic piano?
A: Digital pianos offer several benefits, including lower maintenance, volume control, headphone compatibility, and a wider range of sounds and features.
Q: Are digital pianos good for practicing quietly?
A: Absolutely. One of the biggest advantages is the ability to practice silently using headphones, which is great for apartments or late-night practice sessions.
Conclusion
Choosing the right digital piano can significantly enhance your playing experience as an advanced pianist. Each of the models discussed – the Yamaha Clavinova CLP-745, Roland RD-2000, Kawai CA79, Nord Piano 5, and Casio Celviano AP-710 – offers unique strengths and features to cater to different preferences and needs. It really comes down to your personal preferences, budget, and how you intend to use the instrument. Whether you prioritize realistic sound, advanced features, or expressive control, there’s a digital piano out there to meet your needs and help you reach your musical goals.
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