I am now a very excited owner of the Yamaha CP-88! Many thanks to you Ben for your sincere and excellent reviews and guidance on this channel. But the real reason I am writing this is to tell everyone how graciously you responded to my call for help. Please allow me to write a few lines for my fellow subscribers. After various personal interactions with Ben within this channel's comments, I decided to buy the Roland RD-2000. What I received was a dented Roland RD-2000 with squashed keys from a vendor whose excuse was that they get "millions" of boxes and it was impossible for them to open and check what they got from China! By my good fortune, I recalled that Ben now worked for Sweetwater and maybe I could request him to ask someone in the shipping dept to check for damage before shipping.
What resulted was not only a most well informed decision in favor of the CP-88, but Ben actually got one in his office, checked it thoroughly for physical condition, and then played it! He actually played it for me, checked the key-bed, the action, the controls and then repacked it meticulously before shipping it. Upon my request, he signed a card that says "Personally inspected by Ben Allen". I hope all of you get inspired by my gratitude and know where to take your business.
Ben's phone number at Sweetwater is 1-800-222-4700 Extension 3045.
Thank you so much for making this video. I watched so many video’s but this one is by far the most complete one. You did an excellent job for us UA-camrs.
31:35? OMG(oodness)! What an awesome sound. Haven't gone past that sound just yet. I just got a great deal on a Yamaha MOX6 ($1,099) and hope it has sounds like this. I do know it has some awesome pipe organ and strings sounds and can't wait to get on it and play it. I bought a Montage 8 last year and haven't spent as much time on that one as I have wanted to. Thanks for sharing the video. Awesome, for sure!
Fantastic video, as always! I really hope to get one a CP88 some day I wanted to add that YAMAHA bought Bosendorfer over a decade ago and the company has only survived because of it. Bosendorfer HAD to sell to survive. YAMAHA's deal let them continue being their own company. YAMAHA has respected Bosendorfer for what their legacy is, and thank god for that. The only things that seem to come out of the deal was Bosendorfer got Disklaivers and YAMAHA got some design tips on their newer pianos.
I wish this was C1 - C7. It's frustrating for me to not be able to play below E1 on a 73 or 76. I rarely use any of the last 12 notes on an 88. Hoping for the future.
Never mind. I'm buying it. Adjusting the octave down, it'll be kinda like a 65 key board starting on C, or like a 68 key board starting on A. Or like a 73 key board starting on...
Its not perfect, but a workaround for a lack of filter controls on the synths is maxing out the 3 EQ knobs and assinging the mid frequency knob to my expression pedal. Doesn't help with lack of filter cutoff but allows for an alright envelope sweep.
Ben, currently trying to figure out what to purchase, between: Nord Electro 6HP, Piano 3/4 or Yamaha CP73/88 (most likely 73). My problem with Nord is the action of the Electro I hear has very mixed reviews...some hate it, some love it. The Yamaha's to me have a great interface, but the sounds aren't up to par to the massive Nord stuff, they don't sound as realistic to me. Nord lets you hear all the nuances and realism of their pianos...which is what I want. I played a Stage 3 HA88, and to me the action was kind of light, I didn't hate it but did not prefer it at all. any thoughts on this?
Best presentation of sounds and effects of CP73/88 on UA-cam. Very detailed and many various combinations of sounds and effects. I'm very curious about the BHS action. I have to try this on myself, but I'm happy you claim it's better than Fatar TP100. I tried TP100 and TP40 recently on Artis, Electro 6 HP, PC3A8 and Stage 3, and much more prefered the TP40 over TP100. For me, the keys of TP100 are to short for comfortable playing piano. CP73 with its 13,1 kg is a lightweight board (comparing with Grandstage - 17 kg) , but the Stage 3 76 HP and Electro 6 HP are still lighter (12,5 kg and 11,4 kg). Is CP73 build quality as good as Grandstage? I see there one major issue - no cutoff especially for the SUB section, I think Yamaha could add the option to change the function of the "tone" knob for the filter (especially LPF) cutoff. People also complain that this board has only 57 sounds. But combining these with all the various effects multiplies the amount of usable sounds! Another weak point is the organs. But if they were important, the instrument would have drawbars or sliders, which are absent. I'm not the user of any of the Nords, but I like the layout of all the buttons and knobs on the CP73/88 better! And it's NOT RED :D.
I very much agree on the TP40 vs TP100, and as for build quality, both the CP88 and CP73 are built to an even higher quality than the Grandstage, as good as it is. Yamaha built these new CP stage pianos like tanks.
Hi I'm new for digital pianos, and I would like to question you please: Is this piano good for music production? I mean, Is it great for creating music in a studio professionally? ( I'm looking for a "mid-price digital piano", not as high as a Nord Stage 4 and not as low as beginner piano with low quality )
I would have two questions regarding the CP73 if you would please: (1) Could I connect an external synth module to the CP 73 INPUT jacks and process it through any of the CP73 effects sections? (2) As a MIDI controller ... does the SPLIT can transmit on different MIDI channels? Moreover, could I make a SPLIT on which one side uses internal sounds and the other controls an external module? Thanks in advance for your answers.
Hi Ben! Thanks for the video, I wanted to ask if the lack of sympathetic string resonance also applies if you use the yamaha cp88 as a midi controller for let's say keyscape or pianoteq. All the best, Paulo.
It will be awesome if you willing to do the "1 hours talk" comparison about all these stage pianos.Yamaha CP, Korg Grandstage/D1, Nord Stage/Piano, RD2000/800. (cause your review always been the most detail one. )
After watching about 7 demos on this keyboard, I have yet to see anyone just demo a right hand only lead on a B3 sound in a standard blues style. Something that any pro on stage would likely need to do during a 4 set night. Also a walking elec bass line with a B3 sound. Yeh, this is not a NORD, but I returned my Nord Electro D6 because the piano part was not excellent, nor the keybed. Also the NORD is not that user friendly if you're not a good tech. My old KORG CX3 had better organ sounds.. Just my 2 cents.
This is a terrible choice for B3. If you want to stick with Yamaha, the YC 61, 73, 88 is a MUCH better choice. I consider the B3 sounds in the CP series to be borderline unusable.
Can you use an external midi controller and separate the sounds between 2 keyboards? For example piano sounds on the cp73 and all synth sounds on the midi controller?
First, thank you for your comprehensive review of so many great products. I’m currently shopping for a new stage piano and I’m between the CP88 and Grandstage 88. The latter is $600 less. Would that be the smarter choice? Would I be missing much from the CP88? Is it worth $600 more? Thanks.
Thanks for your question! I know how exciting it is shopping for a new board. I personally would pick the CP88 because it functions as a full interface for audio and midi without any other gear. Bring your Mac, iPhone, iPad, or whatever and plug it in... and you are set. The CP even outputs the audio as well, so you literals need no other gear. It also feels better, action wise, and while the sounds of the Grandstage are excellent, to me the CP is more authentic in its response. It is also more "road worthy"...hope that helps!
Thank you for your response. So the question is 73 or 88? I already have an 88 keyboard, the Yamaha p105 which obviously is not on the same level but it’s great for practice. How’s the action on the 73? Does it have a good weight or is it light weight like a motif’s Keybed?
Ben good day! As I understand it, you listened to all possible pianos and stopped in the yamaha? On the Internet videos has made up the following priority: 1)Yamaha CP 2) kawai mp7se 3) Nord stage 3 I don’t even take Roland into account .. I think he has too digital sound. I choose only by the sound of the grand pianos and the keyboard actions. I want a good grand piano sound and good responsive mechanics. Or is it better to save up for acoustic Kawai, Yamaha?What do you think? Thanks!
Thanks for your question! If you like the Yamaha sound, the CP88 is a great choice. If you like Nord, go with a Nord Grand, as it has the same action as the Kawai MP7se (but is equally weighted across all keys). You get the best of the Nord and Kawai worlds that way.
@@benallen5967 Ben Good day! I did not quite understand. Mp7 and Nord are weighted equally all keys, and the yamaha is weighted differently? In Russia yamaha costs almost 2 times more than kawai. Is it worth it? I don't want Nord - I don't like it. Stage model only. It's worth it? Thanks so much! :)
@@benallen5967 One tthing I am ticked off at?? I played Goodbye Stranger at my Friday gig with the Nord Piano 4 and even though I pulled it off?? I sooo wish I had this CP88 instead. The Wurlitzer is totally nailed.
Hello again Ben, From what I see your demo features the sound set from something like the first version of CP OS. Are you able to demo on your CP88 all the additional sounds that come with the updates, making such a supplementary video? There is quite a big pack of new sound in 1.2 update, especially. Can be "all playing no talking" like the Grandstage videos, can be also with your informative comments. Of course, only if you want and have time to do this. Happy New Year!
Wondering if you can describe the difference between the actions of the CP73, the CP88 and the Korg Grandstage? Overall I like the sounds of the CP more, but wondering if I would be unhappy with the CP73 action vs the Grandstage 73.
Sure! The Grandstage 73 and 88 action are both RH3, fully weighted. They play and respond quite well, but not as fast as the CP88, which is fully weighted, wood, and has triple sensors. The CP73 has a good action, but I wouldn't want that one for primarily piano playing. The CP88 action is much better. The CP73 action is a balanced (all keys have same weight) action that is somewhat shallow -think kinda like a Rhodes. The CP88, has a weighted, graded, incredibly good piano action that is fast a quite responsive. If you need a more piano like action in 73 keys, go for the Grandstage. However, if you want the Yamaha sounds, and don't mind the more Rhodes like action, the CP73 is a great choice. I have a CP88 and for piano, it is wonderful.
@@benallen5967 thank you very much for your opinion. Have you found your "Holy Grail of Pianos" yet? Your journey seems like from Yamaha (CP4) to Yamaha (CP88) :)
This comment is meant for Sweetwater. I hope you’re aware that Ben Allen is a well respected reviewer and goes out of his way to send his reviewers to your company. Seriously, you should extend the employee discount to him. Or consider sending him new instruments if he would want to do more reviews. The cost to sell a unit that he returns after his review will pay dividends a 100 time over the cost of selling the unit he reviewed at a lower price. He sells your service, which you have earned, but he will sell a lot of instruments. Us Allen’s stick together. No we’re not related but I wish we were. Glenn Allen
Dear Ben, Have you noticed the "black key issue" which some users are talking about on forums? It's only for 73 key model. Something like that it is a problem with getting full velocity when playing really fast repeated notes on black keys?
Ryan, thanks! I think the Grandstage is still an awesome keyboard, a serious sleeper! The Cp88/73 is fantastic though. Great touch, really nice piano and electric pianos. The sub category sounds, are perfectly usable but certainly nothing like you get in the Grandstage.
@@benallen5967 do you mean just in terms of number of them, or that they arent as quality? I dont hanker for a huge number of extra sounds, but i want really good celeste, glockenspeil, other mallet instruments, and hopefully a really good harp.
Jonathan Osborn if you are looking for those type of sounds, this isn’t the keyboard for you. Yamaha is trying to cover the basics, but you’d be much better off with a classic romper, or a Korg SV2, Roland FA series, Yamaha MODX, or better yet, an orchestral library in software form.
This keyboard is kind of life-changing to look at. Would you say there's anything like it, similar to its size, in regards to how nothing's behind a bunch of menus and allll the knobs are right there on the board? And without being /only/ an electric piano, and including sounds such as synths, bass, and organ. As of now, I can't think of anything that can top it in that sense.
Hi Ben. I have the P-121, and I love the action on that one. I am now planning to buy the CP73, I love the compact size and do not need the lowest (or the highest) keys for my playing. Have you tried the P-121? How would you compare the action on the P-121 vs the CP73? I know that the P-121 is a bit graded action, compared to the CP73, but is the "feel" similar? I love the keys on the P-121, because they are so fast, and my short fingers have never liked the keys on "ordinary" pianos. I had to use a Nord Stage once, and it was a terrible experience. Those keys were much too "heavy" for my liking. I am sure that the CP73 will suit me just fine, but any comment from someone who has actually played the CP73 will be much appreciated. I have tried the CP88 in one of the local shops, but none of them will take the CP73 into the shop for demo/trial. The nearest shop with the CP73 in stock, is 1000 miles away ( or a 2 hour flight )....
Hi Erling, if you like the action of the P-121, I definitely do not recommend getting the CP73 if you are looking to get a similar action (piano-like). The CP73's action is much more suited for keyboard players who are more experienced with synth keybeds and organ keybeds. I would describe the feel to be most similar to an actual electric piano (like the Rhodes). Saving up more for the CP88 is a much better choice for a pianist, in my opinion. The CP88 keybed will also be a upgrade you will appreciate over the P-121. However, if you are a little limited on budget, I would suggest you take a look at the P-515 instead. It is slightly cheaper than the CP88 and has a more realistic action (with escapement). This doesn't mean that the CP88's action isn't good, it's a choice Yamaha made consciously as keyboardists using a stage piano might not necessarily be looking for a realistic piano action as compared to the home pianist. I neglect to ask earlier: what are you planning to do with your new buy? Edit: spelling
I am the musical director of a gospel choir, I make SATB arrangements, Play piano in the gospel band. Mostly piano/PAD and piano/strings, but also Rhodes on some of the songs. Never organ. I tried the CP88, and I liked the keys very much, but I also like the neat size of the P-121, that´s why I planned to buy the CP73. If I could try the CP73 before bying, then maybe I could make up my own thoughts about the keybed, if not, I probably will go for the CP88, which (as you said), feels quite similar to the P-121. This 88-key will def fit the trunk of my car, it´s only 2 inches wider than my 76 key Piaggero, so the size is not that much of an issue.
The forum.pianoworld.com suggests : "The CP73 balanced hammer standard is indeed a balanced version of the entry-level GHS action". forum.pianoworld.com/ubbthreads.php/topics/2802263/3.html According to this, the CP73 would be much like the P-121 (which has a 73 key GHS keybed) but without the graded action; all keys weigh the same. But if the "feel" of the CP73 resembles the middle keys on my P-121, I could easily get to like it. I have been playing my P-121 for a year now, and am quite satisfied with only 73 keys, it suits my needs good. It just concludes that I really need to play the CP 73 before I decice anything.
@@relbe-nataly-cover No I bought the CP88. Was the only size my dealer had in the shop. No regrets. The keybed on the CP88 is fantastic. The keys are slightly heavier than on my P-121 but even better to play. more responsive, and faster (once my fingers got used to it)....
So I have the Yamaha cp73 and a Scarlett Solo Audio interface. I also just recently downloaded Mainstage to my MacBook Pro. The sound comes through on GarageBand but not through to main stage. I am wondering if it could be a driver for either main stage or the keyboard that needs to be installed? In that case i did try downloading a driver from focusrite but it was unable to. Is there a way to just plug in my the keyboard from USB to the laptop without the interface? I also looked at settings in the keyboard menu to see if I needed to turn on any midi settings and tat didn’t seem to work. Thank you for helping!
@@jaquiebr3885 yes.Even though my response is several years afterwards, you are able to use without an external interface. The CP series has a built in interface. Connect a iOS device or MacBook per required cable & the app sounds or designated patches on either device will revert through the CP keyboard. I’ve had my CP73 since originally released. Love it.
I have a CP88 in front of me...deciding whether to buy it. Ben, can you comment on a couple of my observations: 1. The acoustic pianos have very short sustain other than in the lowest notes. It just dies in the midrange to the point where pedalling technique is really suffering (it encourages gross overuse of the sustain pedal). 2. There is no sympathetic resonance. The 'damper resonance' is a very poor substitute for Yamaha's VRM on their Clavinovas for instance. 3. The acoustic pianos are so quiet in the top two octaves...really freakishly quiet and unbalanced, especially the Bosendorfer, which just disappears in the top two octaves. I like the interface and the basic sounds. And I like the action a lot but I'm struggling with these deficiencies.
What do you guys think about the Korg SV2s 88 vs the CP88? I've kinda narrowed it down to choosing one between these two. I absolutely love the SV2 EP sounds and EPs are important to me, but I can't help but think that the APs sound a little better on the CP88. Does anyone think the APs on the SV2 are decent?
Harry I haven’t played the SV-2, but it’s acoustic pianos are taken from the Grandstage, which I owned for a while- and I think it has excellent acoustic pianos. I have a CP88 currently, and it also has incredibly good acoustic pianos, though I miss the realism of the key noise and pedal noise from the Korg. Both great choices, I just much prefer the action on the Yamaha to the RH3 from the Korg.
@@benallen5967 Thanks for the reply - I've only heard good about the CP88's action. I think I may have to make a long visit to try them both out. Certainly a difficult choice but I think I would be happy with either!
@@benallen5967 Not too concerned about the organ sounds - mostly acoustic and electric pianos. Specifically, looking for acoustic sounds that are nice for studio recording, or for generally playing both jazz and a bit of classical. In terms of EP, I'm looking for a nice 80s ballad DX7 sound which I think both do well, and a decent Rhodes piano sound. What aspects in your opinion are better from the CP88 besides the action? I'm not too well-versed in terms of the technical/functional differences between the keyboards.
Harry if you are only concerned with EP and AP sounds, I think you’ll be happy with either, though for longevity I think the Yamaha will hold up better. The Korg is chock full of sounds, many more pads and strings and “other” non keyboard sounds than the Yamaha... but if you are looking for DX7 sounds... it won’t surprise you to know that Yamaha has the edge there. The CP series is essentially a black Nord, whereas the Korg is, well a version 2 of the SV. The SV 2 has been greatly simplified, and they took some of the sound engines from the Grandstage and VOX Continental and stuffed them into the SV2. I will say that Yamaha has the edge for Wurlitzer sounds, and to my ear, the Rhodes sounds in the Yamaha are more like what you get from a real Rhodes before the effects are applied. Korg seems to like a more...sparkly radio ready sound right out of the gate. It’s very similar to the approach Nord takes with their Electro and Stage and Piano keyboards, vs the typical Roland “ready for radio” sound that tends to be a bit more “prettied up.” I think you will indeed be happy with either keyboard...but if you are at all picky about the action, The Korg RH3 has historically been very bad for developing problems over time. I hope that Korg has corrected those problems, but I will say that the Grandstage and SV1 I’ve used both developed problems with their actions- and I’ve replaced 3 Kronos 2s for the same issues. As long as you buy from a reputable company that stands behind their customers (Sweetwater is by far the best for this in my considerable experience...and no, I no longer work there but continue to buy from no other company due to their excellent support)...you will have the peace of mind when/if any issues develop- which is possible has long as humans are designing and building anything! Best of luck!
We dont Know if its possible to store registrations,,A filter was a good possibility .But dont exist..The perfect keyboard dont exist...Its not bad...But i think tha Nord clavia is more apurated in the sounds....
If I'm getting the right video, you mentioned that you can't change synth parameters like the other sections. However, I just found out around the 28 minute mark of Blake Angelos' demo that you can!
I own Kawai ES8, and to my ears it sounds better in every category exept maybe harpsychord. That patch is not as nearly touch responsive as it should be. It is known fact that real harpsichord is extremely touch responsive, can be very quiet and very loud, and for this one Kawai has nice sounding patch but with only one layer. Shame. Otherwise, Kawai is way better than CP.
Thanks so much for your video. Unfortunately, this sound as bad and dated as it could be. Close your eyes, and this is basically a 90s Yamaha board. I don't get it. It's a downgrade from the CP 4. Why they even release this?. It's sound just embarrassing. Overly bright, thin, with no soul and body.
Reika Maria I strongly challenge your assertion that the CP73/CP88 is thin and bright with no body. What are you listening through? This was recorded direct line in at 96K, 24 bit. It is anything but thin. If you are not listening through good speakers or headphones (not a laptop or phone/tablet speakers) then you are not getting the full experience. It is quite a step up in conversion, sample quality, and effects from the CP4.
It's OK sounding.. BUT, that's it. It's JUST OK. It's not bad sounding. It's also not great sounding either. Listen to some Dexibell platinum sounds to compare. Or some amazing sounds from latest Kuzweil boards, like their Bosendorfer sound with some effects. Or latest nord felt pianos.. Compared to them, yamaha is at least 10 years behind. AT LEAST. Not to mention yamaha CP organs are bad BAD. Yc series has slightly better basic organ sounds than CP but still crap lousy leslie imitation and effects compared to the real thing. Not usable. At least not to the point to be amazed how good it sounds.
I am now a very excited owner of the Yamaha CP-88! Many thanks to you Ben for your sincere and excellent reviews and guidance on this channel. But the real reason I am writing this is to tell everyone how graciously you responded to my call for help. Please allow me to write a few lines for my fellow subscribers.
After various personal interactions with Ben within this channel's comments, I decided to buy the Roland RD-2000. What I received was a dented Roland RD-2000 with squashed keys from a vendor whose excuse was that they get "millions" of boxes and it was impossible for them to open and check what they got from China!
By my good fortune, I recalled that Ben now worked for Sweetwater and maybe I could request him to ask someone in the shipping dept to check for damage before shipping.
What resulted was not only a most well informed decision in favor of the CP-88, but Ben actually got one in his office, checked it thoroughly for physical condition, and then played it! He actually played it for me, checked the key-bed, the action, the controls and then repacked it meticulously before shipping it. Upon my request, he signed a card that says "Personally inspected by Ben Allen".
I hope all of you get inspired by my gratitude and know where to take your business.
Ben's phone number at Sweetwater is 1-800-222-4700 Extension 3045.
Syed, you are too kind! It was my pleasure to be able to inspect and play your CP88 before it shipped, and I very much appreciate your comments here!
This is the friendliest, most comprehensive overview of the new CP73 I've found. Thank you for all the time and effort you put into this. Excellent!
Much appreciated!
Thank you so much for making this video. I watched so many video’s but this one is by far the most complete one. You did an excellent job for us UA-camrs.
Robin, thank you! I appreciate your comments!
I put this video on while packing for a house move, and you made my morning! Really great and inspired playing! Thanks a bunch!
I purchased cp-73. When I was still confused about how to use it, I learned it carefully and easily on this site. Thank you very much.
Glad I could help!
31:35? OMG(oodness)! What an awesome sound. Haven't gone past that sound just yet. I just got a great deal on a Yamaha MOX6 ($1,099) and hope it has sounds like this. I do know it has some awesome pipe organ and strings sounds and can't wait to get on it and play it. I bought a Montage 8 last year and haven't spent as much time on that one as I have wanted to. Thanks for sharing the video. Awesome, for sure!
That same sound is in your Montage. That is where most of these sounds were taken from (with the exception of the pianos and eps)
Outstanding video and playing - thanks for posting!
Fantastic video, as always! I really hope to get one a CP88 some day
I wanted to add that YAMAHA bought Bosendorfer over a decade ago and the company has only survived because of it. Bosendorfer HAD to sell to survive. YAMAHA's deal let them continue being their own company. YAMAHA has respected Bosendorfer for what their legacy is, and thank god for that. The only things that seem to come out of the deal was Bosendorfer got Disklaivers and YAMAHA got some design tips on their newer pianos.
You can try "Compact Stage Pianos" for Kontakt, its CP88! ♡
1:17:25 Marimba...with distortion! :-)
Very helpful demo, Ben. The CP73/88 looks and sounds beautiful.
I wish this was C1 - C7. It's frustrating for me to not be able to play below E1 on a 73 or 76. I rarely use any of the last 12 notes on an 88. Hoping for the future.
Never mind. I'm buying it. Adjusting the octave down, it'll be kinda like a 65 key board starting on C, or like a 68 key board starting on A. Or like a 73 key board starting on...
Yamaha needs to send you a dang check...
Its not perfect, but a workaround for a lack of filter controls on the synths is maxing out the 3 EQ knobs and assinging the mid frequency knob to my expression pedal. Doesn't help with lack of filter cutoff but allows for an alright envelope sweep.
Ben, currently trying to figure out what to purchase, between: Nord Electro 6HP, Piano 3/4 or Yamaha CP73/88 (most likely 73). My problem with Nord is the action of the Electro I hear has very mixed reviews...some hate it, some love it. The Yamaha's to me have a great interface, but the sounds aren't up to par to the massive Nord stuff, they don't sound as realistic to me. Nord lets you hear all the nuances and realism of their pianos...which is what I want. I played a Stage 3 HA88, and to me the action was kind of light, I didn't hate it but did not prefer it at all.
any thoughts on this?
Sure! Get a CP88 and Nord Stage 3 and call it a day ;)
Best presentation of sounds and effects of CP73/88 on UA-cam. Very detailed and many various combinations of sounds and effects.
I'm very curious about the BHS action. I have to try this on myself, but I'm happy you claim it's better than Fatar TP100. I tried TP100 and TP40 recently on Artis, Electro 6 HP, PC3A8 and Stage 3, and much more prefered the TP40 over TP100. For me, the keys of TP100 are to short for comfortable playing piano. CP73 with its 13,1 kg is a lightweight board (comparing with Grandstage - 17 kg) , but the Stage 3 76 HP and Electro 6 HP are still lighter (12,5 kg and 11,4 kg). Is CP73 build quality as
good as Grandstage?
I see there one major issue - no cutoff especially for the SUB section, I think Yamaha could add the option to change the function of the "tone" knob for the filter (especially LPF) cutoff. People also complain that this board has only 57 sounds. But combining these with all the various effects multiplies the amount of usable sounds! Another weak point is the organs. But if they were important, the instrument would have drawbars or sliders, which are absent. I'm not the user of any of the Nords, but I like the layout of all the buttons and knobs on the CP73/88 better! And it's NOT RED :D.
I very much agree on the TP40 vs TP100, and as for build quality, both the CP88 and CP73 are built to an even higher quality than the Grandstage, as good as it is. Yamaha built these new CP stage pianos like tanks.
Thank you very much. And what can you say about the CP73 action vs Grandstage action?
Hi I'm new for digital pianos, and I would like to question you please: Is this piano good for music production? I mean, Is it great for creating music in a studio professionally? ( I'm looking for a "mid-price digital piano", not as high as a Nord Stage 4 and not as low as beginner piano with low quality )
I would have two questions regarding the CP73 if you would please:
(1) Could I connect an external synth module to the CP 73 INPUT jacks and process it through any of the CP73 effects sections?
(2) As a MIDI controller ... does the SPLIT can transmit on different MIDI channels? Moreover, could I make a SPLIT on which one side uses internal sounds and the other controls an external module?
Thanks in advance for your answers.
Hi Ben! Thanks for the video, I wanted to ask if the lack of sympathetic string resonance also applies if you use the yamaha cp88 as a midi controller for let's say keyscape or pianoteq. All the best, Paulo.
No
It will be awesome if you willing to do the "1 hours talk" comparison about all these stage pianos.Yamaha CP, Korg Grandstage/D1, Nord Stage/Piano, RD2000/800. (cause your review always been the most detail one. )
I appreciate the suggestion!
After watching about 7 demos on this keyboard, I have yet to see anyone just demo a right hand only lead on a B3 sound in a standard blues style. Something that any pro on stage would likely need to do during a 4 set night. Also a walking elec bass line with a B3 sound. Yeh, this is not a NORD, but I returned my Nord Electro D6 because the piano part was not excellent, nor the keybed. Also the NORD is not that user friendly if you're not a good tech. My old KORG CX3 had better organ sounds.. Just my 2 cents.
This is a terrible choice for B3. If you want to stick with Yamaha, the YC 61, 73, 88 is a MUCH better choice. I consider the B3 sounds in the CP series to be borderline unusable.
Can you use an external midi controller and separate the sounds between 2 keyboards? For example piano sounds on the cp73 and all synth sounds on the midi controller?
Can you use this as a midi controller to use loguc pro X sounds? Thanks in advanced. Dope video
Yes, you absolutely can. I do this every Sunday at church. It’s great, because the CP has MIDI and Audio over the one USB cable. Works perfectly.
First, thank you for your comprehensive review of so many great products. I’m currently shopping for a new stage piano and I’m between the CP88 and Grandstage 88. The latter is $600 less. Would that be the smarter choice? Would I be missing much from the CP88? Is it worth $600 more? Thanks.
Thanks for your question! I know how exciting it is shopping for a new board. I personally would pick the CP88 because it functions as a full interface for audio and midi without any other gear. Bring your Mac, iPhone, iPad, or whatever and plug it in... and you are set. The CP even outputs the audio as well, so you literals need no other gear. It also feels better, action wise, and while the sounds of the Grandstage are excellent, to me the CP is more authentic in its response. It is also more "road worthy"...hope that helps!
Thank you for your response. So the question is 73 or 88? I already have an 88 keyboard, the Yamaha p105 which obviously is not on the same level but it’s great for practice. How’s the action on the 73? Does it have a good weight or is it light weight like a motif’s Keybed?
How is the key bed for "thumping" "clicking" etc.
I've had no issues with the CP73 or CP88 in that regard.
Ben good day! As I understand it, you listened to all possible pianos and stopped in the yamaha? On the Internet videos has made up the following priority:
1)Yamaha CP
2) kawai mp7se
3) Nord stage 3
I don’t even take Roland into account .. I think he has too digital sound. I choose only by the sound of the grand pianos and the keyboard actions. I want a good grand piano sound and good responsive mechanics. Or is it better to save up for acoustic Kawai, Yamaha?What do you think? Thanks!
Thanks for your question! If you like the Yamaha sound, the CP88 is a great choice. If you like Nord, go with a Nord Grand, as it has the same action as the Kawai MP7se (but is equally weighted across all keys). You get the best of the Nord and Kawai worlds that way.
@@benallen5967 Ben Good day! I did not quite understand. Mp7 and Nord are weighted equally all keys, and the yamaha is weighted differently? In Russia yamaha costs almost 2 times more than kawai. Is it worth it? I don't want Nord - I don't like it. Stage model only. It's worth it? Thanks so much! :)
Thanks Ben!! Going to test drive this today...well the CP88 anyway
Dukerbud 88 let me know what you think!
@@benallen5967 Got it last night....gonna pay all day today. Will report back. Very excited
@@benallen5967 One tthing I am ticked off at?? I played Goodbye Stranger at my Friday gig with the Nord Piano 4 and even though I pulled it off?? I sooo wish I had this CP88 instead. The Wurlitzer is totally nailed.
Agreed!
Hello again Ben,
From what I see your demo features the sound set from something like the first version of CP OS. Are you able to demo on your CP88 all the additional sounds that come with the updates, making such a supplementary video? There is quite a big pack of new sound in 1.2 update, especially. Can be "all playing no talking" like the Grandstage videos, can be also with your informative comments. Of course, only if you want and have time to do this.
Happy New Year!
i have found one korean guy doing it
ua-cam.com/video/FSgsZad7WjE/v-deo.html
1:24:57
there is talking though
@@cubesky3022 thank you very much for attaching this
the synth section doesn't have a filter because dx synths don't have filters
Wondering if you can describe the difference between the actions of the CP73, the CP88 and the Korg Grandstage? Overall I like the sounds of the CP more, but wondering if I would be unhappy with the CP73 action vs the Grandstage 73.
I would like to ask Ben the same question.
Sure! The Grandstage 73 and 88 action are both RH3, fully weighted. They play and respond quite well, but not as fast as the CP88, which is fully weighted, wood, and has triple sensors. The CP73 has a good action, but I wouldn't want that one for primarily piano playing. The CP88 action is much better. The CP73 action is a balanced (all keys have same weight) action that is somewhat shallow -think kinda like a Rhodes. The CP88, has a weighted, graded, incredibly good piano action that is fast a quite responsive. If you need a more piano like action in 73 keys, go for the Grandstage. However, if you want the Yamaha sounds, and don't mind the more Rhodes like action, the CP73 is a great choice. I have a CP88 and for piano, it is wonderful.
Please see my reply to the above.
@@benallen5967 thank you very much for your opinion. Have you found your "Holy Grail of Pianos" yet? Your journey seems like from Yamaha (CP4) to Yamaha (CP88) :)
How does the Focal Shape's compare with Focal CMS 65's featured in your older videos..?
They are similar, but not quite the same. The Shapes sound incredible, but so did the CMS series!
This comment is meant for Sweetwater. I hope you’re aware that Ben Allen is a well respected reviewer and goes out of his way to send his reviewers to your company. Seriously, you should extend the employee discount to him. Or consider sending him new instruments if he would want to do more reviews. The cost to sell a unit that he returns after his review will pay dividends a 100 time over the cost of selling the unit he reviewed at a lower price. He sells your service, which you have earned, but he will sell a lot of instruments. Us Allen’s stick together. No we’re not related but I wish we were.
Glenn Allen
Glenn, you are too kind. Ironically, when I made this video, I was working at Sweetwater.. just not as a key demo guy like I would love to do.
I love the 78rd ep with some effects
What Kind of nord is it...
Dear Ben,
Have you noticed the "black key issue" which some users are talking about on forums? It's only for 73 key model. Something like that it is a problem with getting full velocity when playing really fast repeated notes on black keys?
The issue persists to this day. Yamaha brought this crap with them into the YC73 :(
ua-cam.com/video/U9cGzXvnRl8/v-deo.html
I had a Grandstage and ultimately sold it as I was underwhelmed. I assume you are enjoying this. This is a really nice demo, Ben.
Ryan, thanks! I think the Grandstage is still an awesome keyboard, a serious sleeper! The Cp88/73 is fantastic though. Great touch, really nice piano and electric pianos. The sub category sounds, are perfectly usable but certainly nothing like you get in the Grandstage.
@@benallen5967 do you mean just in terms of number of them, or that they arent as quality? I dont hanker for a huge number of extra sounds, but i want really good celeste, glockenspeil, other mallet instruments, and hopefully a really good harp.
Jonathan Osborn if you are looking for those type of sounds, this isn’t the keyboard for you. Yamaha is trying to cover the basics, but you’d be much better off with a classic romper, or a Korg SV2, Roland FA series, Yamaha MODX, or better yet, an orchestral library in software form.
I didn't see you play any bass patches. Can one walk LH bass on the CP73?
Yes, you can do that easily. It has more sounds now, including bass sounds. Yamaha has been very good about constant updates.
This keyboard is kind of life-changing to look at. Would you say there's anything like it, similar to its size, in regards to how nothing's behind a bunch of menus and allll the knobs are right there on the board? And without being /only/ an electric piano, and including sounds such as synths, bass, and organ.
As of now, I can't think of anything that can top it in that sense.
I would say both the Nord Electro and Stage series give the CP a run for its money in that regard.
@@benallen5967 I'll check them out, though I don't remember the Electro having clear UI. Thanks!
Korg SV2 too!
the cp73 have the same keybed of montage?
uprights: 23:40
Sooo good very good 🎹🎹🎵🎶🎶😍😍😍😙😙😚😚
Hi Ben.
I have the P-121, and I love the action on that one. I am now planning to buy the CP73, I love the compact size and do not need the lowest (or the highest) keys for my playing. Have you tried the P-121? How would you compare the action on the P-121 vs the CP73? I know that the P-121 is a bit graded action, compared to the CP73, but is the "feel" similar? I love the keys on the P-121, because they are so fast, and my short fingers have never liked the keys on "ordinary" pianos.
I had to use a Nord Stage once, and it was a terrible experience. Those keys were much too "heavy" for my liking. I am sure that the CP73 will suit me just fine, but any comment from someone who has actually played the CP73 will be much appreciated. I have tried the CP88 in one of the local shops, but none of them will take the CP73 into the shop for demo/trial. The nearest shop with the CP73 in stock, is 1000 miles away ( or a 2 hour flight )....
Hi Erling, if you like the action of the P-121, I definitely do not recommend getting the CP73 if you are looking to get a similar action (piano-like).
The CP73's action is much more suited for keyboard players who are more experienced with synth keybeds and organ keybeds. I would describe the feel to be most similar to an actual electric piano (like the Rhodes).
Saving up more for the CP88 is a much better choice for a pianist, in my opinion. The CP88 keybed will also be a upgrade you will appreciate over the P-121. However, if you are a little limited on budget, I would suggest you take a look at the P-515 instead. It is slightly cheaper than the CP88 and has a more realistic action (with escapement). This doesn't mean that the CP88's action isn't good, it's a choice Yamaha made consciously as keyboardists using a stage piano might not necessarily be looking for a realistic piano action as compared to the home pianist.
I neglect to ask earlier: what are you planning to do with your new buy?
Edit: spelling
I am the musical director of a gospel choir, I make SATB arrangements, Play piano in the gospel band. Mostly piano/PAD and piano/strings, but also Rhodes on some of the songs. Never organ. I tried the CP88, and I liked the keys very much, but I also like the neat size of the P-121, that´s why I planned to buy the CP73.
If I could try the CP73 before bying, then maybe I could make up my own thoughts about the keybed, if not, I probably will go for the CP88, which (as you said), feels quite similar to the P-121. This 88-key will def fit the trunk of my car, it´s only 2 inches wider than my 76 key Piaggero, so the size is not that much of an issue.
The forum.pianoworld.com suggests : "The CP73 balanced hammer standard is indeed a balanced version of the entry-level GHS action".
forum.pianoworld.com/ubbthreads.php/topics/2802263/3.html
According to this, the CP73 would be much like the P-121 (which has a 73 key GHS keybed) but without the graded action; all keys weigh the same. But if the "feel" of the CP73 resembles the middle keys on my P-121, I could easily get to like it.
I have been playing my P-121 for a year now, and am quite satisfied with only 73 keys, it suits my needs good.
It just concludes that I really need to play the CP 73 before I decice anything.
@@erlingbs Hello Friend! Did you buy the CP73?? Is the keyboard similar to P121?
@@relbe-nataly-cover No I bought the CP88. Was the only size my dealer had in the shop. No regrets. The keybed on the CP88 is fantastic. The keys are slightly heavier than on my P-121 but even better to play. more responsive, and faster (once my fingers got used to it)....
Do you have a video of how to setup the keyboard to computer with audio interface? I am having trouble connecting mine
Hi! I don't, but I'll gladly help. What is your setup? Mac or PC? What recording software are you using?
So I have the Yamaha cp73 and a Scarlett Solo Audio interface. I also just recently downloaded Mainstage to my MacBook Pro. The sound comes through on GarageBand but not through to main stage. I am wondering if it could be a driver for either main stage or the keyboard that needs to be installed? In that case i did try downloading a driver from focusrite but it was unable to. Is there a way to just plug in my the keyboard from USB to the laptop without the interface? I also looked at settings in the keyboard menu to see if I needed to turn on any midi settings and tat didn’t seem to work. Thank you for helping!
@@jaquiebr3885 yes.Even though my response is several years afterwards, you are able to use without an external interface. The CP series has a built in interface. Connect a iOS device or MacBook per required cable & the app sounds or designated patches on either device will revert through the CP keyboard. I’ve had my CP73 since originally released. Love it.
I have a CP88 in front of me...deciding whether to buy it. Ben, can you comment on a couple of my observations:
1. The acoustic pianos have very short sustain other than in the lowest notes. It just dies in the midrange to the point where pedalling technique is really suffering (it encourages gross overuse of the sustain pedal).
2. There is no sympathetic resonance. The 'damper resonance' is a very poor substitute for Yamaha's VRM on their Clavinovas for instance.
3. The acoustic pianos are so quiet in the top two octaves...really freakishly quiet and unbalanced, especially the Bosendorfer, which just disappears in the top two octaves.
I like the interface and the basic sounds. And I like the action a lot but I'm struggling with these deficiencies.
What do you guys think about the Korg SV2s 88 vs the CP88? I've kinda narrowed it down to choosing one between these two. I absolutely love the SV2 EP sounds and EPs are important to me, but I can't help but think that the APs sound a little better on the CP88. Does anyone think the APs on the SV2 are decent?
Harry I haven’t played the SV-2, but it’s acoustic pianos are taken from the Grandstage, which I owned for a while- and I think it has excellent acoustic pianos. I have a CP88 currently, and it also has incredibly good acoustic pianos, though I miss the realism of the key noise and pedal noise from the Korg. Both great choices, I just much prefer the action on the Yamaha to the RH3 from the Korg.
@@benallen5967 Thanks for the reply - I've only heard good about the CP88's action. I think I may have to make a long visit to try them both out. Certainly a difficult choice but I think I would be happy with either!
Harry what sounds are you primarily looking for? The Yamaha does some things better than the Korg, and the reverse is also true.
@@benallen5967 Not too concerned about the organ sounds - mostly acoustic and electric pianos. Specifically, looking for acoustic sounds that are nice for studio recording, or for generally playing both jazz and a bit of classical. In terms of EP, I'm looking for a nice 80s ballad DX7 sound which I think both do well, and a decent Rhodes piano sound. What aspects in your opinion are better from the CP88 besides the action? I'm not too well-versed in terms of the technical/functional differences between the keyboards.
Harry if you are only concerned with EP and AP sounds, I think you’ll be happy with either, though for longevity I think the Yamaha will hold up better. The Korg is chock full of sounds, many more pads and strings and “other” non keyboard sounds than the Yamaha... but if you are looking for DX7 sounds... it won’t surprise you to know that Yamaha has the edge there. The CP series is essentially a black Nord, whereas the Korg is, well a version 2 of the SV. The SV 2 has been greatly simplified, and they took some of the sound engines from the Grandstage and VOX Continental and stuffed them into the SV2. I will say that Yamaha has the edge for Wurlitzer sounds, and to my ear, the Rhodes sounds in the Yamaha are more like what you get from a real Rhodes before the effects are applied. Korg seems to like a more...sparkly radio ready sound right out of the gate. It’s very similar to the approach Nord takes with their Electro and Stage and Piano keyboards, vs the typical Roland “ready for radio” sound that tends to be a bit more “prettied up.” I think you will indeed be happy with either keyboard...but if you are at all picky about the action, The Korg RH3 has historically been very bad for developing problems over time. I hope that Korg has corrected those problems, but I will say that the Grandstage and SV1 I’ve used both developed problems with their actions- and I’ve replaced 3 Kronos 2s for the same issues. As long as you buy from a reputable company that stands behind their customers (Sweetwater is by far the best for this in my considerable experience...and no, I no longer work there but continue to buy from no other company due to their excellent support)...you will have the peace of mind when/if any issues develop- which is possible has long as humans are designing and building anything! Best of luck!
Bookmarks
9:00
We dont Know if its possible to store registrations,,A filter was a good possibility .But dont exist..The perfect keyboard dont exist...Its not bad...But i think tha Nord clavia is more apurated in the sounds....
Bro What kind monitors you use??
These are Focal Shape 65s, but as in most of my videos, you are hearing the direct line input from the keyboard to a Focusrite Clarett 8Pre.
@@benallen5967 thanks bro 🙏 appreciate it
I skipped through this but I take it there are no choir sounds?
There is one.
If I'm getting the right video, you mentioned that you can't change synth parameters like the other sections. However, I just found out around the 28 minute mark of Blake Angelos' demo that you can!
You can't change true synth parameters like filter cutoff, resonance, etc. It is basically a preset machine.
@@benallen5967 oh I see what you mean. but wouldn't that be a synthesizer within a refined digital piano? sounds like a magical thing I hope is real.
I own Kawai ES8, and to my ears it sounds better in every category exept maybe harpsychord. That patch is not as nearly touch responsive as it should be.
It is known fact that real harpsichord is extremely touch responsive, can be very quiet and very loud, and for this one Kawai has nice sounding patch but with only one layer. Shame.
Otherwise, Kawai is way better than CP.
Nice stuff, but you talk way too much. I just want to hear the samples and the next one after that.
There are plenty of other videos that do just what you are looking for just got to search around!
Thanks so much for your video. Unfortunately, this sound as bad and dated as it could be. Close your eyes, and this is basically a 90s Yamaha board. I don't get it. It's a downgrade from the CP 4. Why they even release this?. It's sound just embarrassing. Overly bright, thin, with no soul and body.
Reika Maria I strongly challenge your assertion that the CP73/CP88 is thin and bright with no body. What are you listening through? This was recorded direct line in at 96K, 24 bit. It is anything but thin. If you are not listening through good speakers or headphones (not a laptop or phone/tablet speakers) then you are not getting the full experience. It is quite a step up in conversion, sample quality, and effects from the CP4.
Try listening on something other than your iphone
@@mikeygoda LOOOOOLLLLL..... :D
Did you even watch the same video as everybody else?
It's OK sounding.. BUT, that's it.
It's JUST OK. It's not bad sounding. It's also not great sounding either.
Listen to some Dexibell platinum sounds to compare. Or some amazing sounds from latest Kuzweil boards, like their Bosendorfer sound with some effects.
Or latest nord felt pianos..
Compared to them, yamaha is at least 10 years behind. AT LEAST.
Not to mention yamaha CP organs are bad BAD.
Yc series has slightly better basic organ sounds than CP but still crap lousy leslie imitation and effects compared to the real thing. Not usable. At least not to the point to be amazed how good it sounds.