It’s not just the small spaces, it’s the small budgets too! A five footer can give you the benefits of owning a grand without totally breaking the bank. I have the predecessor to the Kawai Stu talks about, the GM-10 and it’s brought me joy every time I sit down to play it.
That is an excellent point as well! Congrats on your Kawai GM10! They are exceptional pianos. I'm happy to hear that you've still been enjoying everything it has to offer musically. :)
That is awesome to hear! The NV10 is an incredible digital hybrid! We're happy to hear that it works for your space and that you've been enjoying everything it has to offer musically. :)
I miss the Zimmerman S150 Studio and also the Zimmermann S160 Studio. Both are produced in China but with C. Bechstein Quality Standards. And really Inexpensive for the quality and sound offered!
If you can stretch the budget within category 2, go for Kawai's GL-30 instead of GL-10. A very noticeable step change from GL-10. Pricewise, sits between Cat 2 and Cat 3. GL-30 is way better than GL-10 (in specs and sound). It does cost more (£7.5k vs £11.5k), but extra 4k is worth it and still a bargain for what you get. I felt the difference in tone and resonance from the very first notes.
I certainly agree with the sentiment here. The GL10 is an amazing instrument for the money. The awards it has won is a testament to that notion. With that said, the additional length and more sophisticated design elements of the GL30 make a meaningful difference musically. :)
The Steinway M is my personal favorite. I own a 1924 factory rebuild, and the tone quality almost identical to the Steinway M in this video. It truly sounds like a warm musical hug.
Hi, I am considering getting the Roland GP9 for its look and digital functionality. However, I would like to know how it compares to higher quality acoustic grands such as the Kawai GL30 or Yamaha GC1, especially when it comes to dynamic range the dynamic responsiveness of the action? Thanks.
Hi! Brent here! Thanks for the question. Naturally, a digital grand is a very different animal than an acoustic grand. I will say that as far as a full digital grand goes (excluding hybrid models), the GP9 will be the closest thing you will find to an acoustic piano experience in terms of touch, tone, dynamic range, and more. With that said, An instrument like the Kawai GL30 will provide a more nuanced touch and tone as well as a greater dynamic/tonal range in my opinion. It really is an apples to oranges comparison and difficult to fully articulate. I would strongly recommend auditioning both options in person if possible.
The GX1 is an exceptional piano in my opinion. For those seeking amazing quality in a compact form within the mid-range category, is certainly worth consideration. :)
Chiming in 🫡 to report that I have a magnificent GX-1, for those curious about the model. I may have lucked upon one with an exceptional sound board, because the tone is so focused, rich, and indulgent. The word “spice” comes to mind, as in flavors like anise and cinnamon. As stated in the video, the length of the instrument is detectable in the bass, but I don’t think too much more than in the similarly sized L 167 (the GX-1 is 166 cm) at the top of this list. The fundamental pitch just drops off a bit on the lowest four strings. Making music on this compact, well-balanced instrument is so much fun! Sometimes I press a few keys while walking by just to hear the tone. I also think Kawai’s current premium instruments have something special going on in the baritone and lower tenor-a pronounced substance-that stands out, even on this smaller piano.
Tsu said in this video PHA 50 with new improved sensing technology Does the RD 2000 EX have the same PHA 50 sensing technology ? Also the millennium 3 piano action could almost fit into a digital piano in the future
It would be interesting to see if the Millennium III action is able to be incorporated into a more portable design. In terms of the RD2000 EX's PHA50 action incorporating the new sensor system, I'm not positive to be honest. However, I would assume that, given the tech was already in place, it would have been incorporated.
I doubt it. The RD2000 (like the CP88) is long in the tooth now. Hopefully this new action will be incorporated into the RD3000 when it ‘eventually’ arrives. Lighter without the silly mod wheel area please Roland!
Hi Stu & Crew. Very nice blend, you guys are serving enjoyable materials. The comparison with the static materials from 3-4 years ago shows a nice growth. The first 15 seconds tell me everything I need to know, and then I see what I can aspire to - the hands of the real pianist. Category #3 - mid-range, and the change of background, natural light, and lively sound environment. Was it intentional? If so, you have a natural feel for it. Is there someone studying advertising? It's all good, but there is a missing B roll for some of the instruments, you haven't presented them yet on the channel. The way I see it in the next (improved) edition (a year or two from now). The first category is OK, short, and informative, for people buying commodities. Every consequent category is 10-15% longer than the previous one, gradually changing into "acquiring an experience" Most people will drop the last two categories, some will omit the first three... It has to do with the freedom to afford to get loose when the money isn't a concern 6:06 😃 The only thing that matters is the time invested in a joyful experience. The last category has to be more contemplative, I would like to hear an excerpt supporting each of your observations about an acoustic signature of the instrument. (I know that in production every note has a "price", but can't you make a deal that you will keep all notes, and the Merriam will keep all views?) The whole material would be much longer, but it can be presented as a playlist - a series of episodes, one for each category, released at once - or each with a delay. You can and should experiment, and play with the formula. Anyway, you even could dress differently and choose a different background for each category. The screen is your instrument, play some visual jazz. Amaze your public. Make people talk.
I'll be happy to pass along the feedback to our production team. But, generally speaking, we avoid posting pricing for a few reasons. Firstly, MSRP pricing can change. Secondly, pricing varies from region to region. Given that our audience is quite global, it can create some confusion.
All you have to state is the MSRP in your location. We’re big boys and can figure prices vary depending on location and time. Googling the price can be even more confusing. Thanks. Btw, I thought Shigeru Kawai would be on your list as a premium baby grand.
Hi there! Thanks for the question! It is difficult to assess without knowing more details about the room (height of the ceilings, how its furnished, floor material [carpet vs hardwood, etc.]). With that said, you may find some of the points in the following article regarding room size vs piano size: www.pianobuyer.com/post/how-to-make-a-piano-room-sound-grand
Interesting you didn’t mention Shigeru… Maybe “honourable mentions” would enhance the review. Still, gerat work, very interesting. Especially for those e able to read between the lines)
Seems like it goes without saying that no one does😂. Somebody once described the tone as " a hammer hitting the railway" and it stuck with me in its precision 😂 but to be fair, maybe, just maybe cfx, or sfx models are rounder in sound. Furthermore I seem to tolerate C7 quite well in its digital Keyscape form.
What options besides digital are there today for people who play forte piano? One thing not many people talk about is that the most expensive, biggest and heaviest type of piano is the only one you can get today even though we live in a world where budgets are tighter and living spaces are becoming so tight that the bedroom is becoming the everything room. A 77 key strait strung upright is the biggest piano I can fit in my space with only a few inches to spare which just happens to perfectly serve my needs but anything I could find today is too overkill and impossible to fit into my room like giving a large suv to someone who can only utilise a smart car. I got to try a roland digital piano at a music shop that had a forte piano sound and it was pretty fun to play but a computer is never going to replaced the real thing, it will become e waste as soon as the company doesn't want to support it with limited parts availability at best if they even sell them directly to the consumer as oppose to a replace everything solution when part of a component fails and I'd be voting with my wallet for a dystopian society.
Hi there! Thanks for the question! Unfortunately, aside from digital pianos with fortepiano sounds, there are no mass-produced and readily available fortepiano models in the market. To my knowledge, the options are restricted to finding an older vintage/restored piece or having something custom made, which could get quite costly. Perhaps, one of our helpful community members here will have more insights to share. :)
the GP6 is a good choice,its a better deal i think than the NOVUs and i like it better. ,,the Yamaha 3X goes into acoustic territory price and i wouldnt bother.In the acoustics both entry level Yamaha and Kawai are ok for that price point,i wouldnt spend the money the Roland GP9 is asking .Further up they are all good pianos for anyone who can afford them.
The Roland GP6 offers excellent cost-to-value. It has become quite the popular model for those seeking a solid digital grand with pro-level performance capabilities.
@@jamesa375 in my opinion the NV10S makes a lot more sence because you get a real grand piano action wile on the GP6 you are just over paying for a grand piano style case🦊🎹🎶
Hi! Brent from Merriam Music here! While I can't speak on behalf of Stu, in my opinion, the Essex baby grands fall a bit flat musically. For me, the Boston pianos are quite good musically, but there are other options that present better cost-to-value ratios such as the Kawai GX line. Of course, the Boston pianos are made by Kawai at their Japan factory. But, I think the GX pianos have more sophisticated designs that yield greater musicality for the money. It will always be a matter of subjectivity though of course.
Brent here! The Estonia L168 is a stunning instrument that is CERTAINLY worthy of being on this list. The only downside of the model is that - due to how few pianos Estonia offers the world each year (due to how meticulously they are handcrafted of course) - it is difficult to get your hands on them. :)
![Lp. Сердце Вселенной #60 РОЖДЕНИЕ ЛОЛОЛОШКИ [Финал] • Майнкрафт](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/YoR0pAV9FVQ/mqdefault.jpg)
Mini Baby Grands:
1:06 Roland GP6
2:19 Kawai Novus 10S
3:34 Yamaha N3X
Entry-level Acoustic Baby Grands:
4:32 Kawai GL10
5:34 Yamaha GC1
6:17 Roland GP9
Mid-range Acoustic Baby Grands:
7:28 W. Hoffman V158
8:39 Yamaha C1X
9:26 Kawai GX1
Premium Baby Grands:
10:33 Fazioli F156
11:05 Steinway Model M
11:54 C. Bechstein L167
Thanks!
Thank you kindly! :)
No Boston?
Such a comprehensive review. You are always so professional and talented. Thank you so much for continuing to share your views on your channel.
You're very welcome! Thank you so much for supporting the channel and tuning in! We really appreciate it. :)
It’s not just the small spaces, it’s the small budgets too! A five footer can give you the benefits of owning a grand without totally breaking the bank. I have the predecessor to the Kawai Stu talks about, the GM-10 and it’s brought me joy every time I sit down to play it.
That is an excellent point as well! Congrats on your Kawai GM10! They are exceptional pianos. I'm happy to hear that you've still been enjoying everything it has to offer musically. :)
I have the Kawai Novus 10 ((Not the S) and it's awesome. Fits perfectly in my limited space and has a great touch and sound.
That is awesome to hear! The NV10 is an incredible digital hybrid! We're happy to hear that it works for your space and that you've been enjoying everything it has to offer musically. :)
Thank you for appreciating the F156
You've gotta give credit where credit is due of course. ;)
I miss the Zimmerman S150 Studio and also the Zimmermann S160 Studio. Both are produced in China but with C. Bechstein Quality Standards. And really Inexpensive for the quality and sound offered!
Zimmerman pianos are solid instruments, which is to be expected given the C. Bechstein association. :)
If you can stretch the budget within category 2, go for Kawai's GL-30 instead of GL-10. A very noticeable step change from GL-10. Pricewise, sits between Cat 2 and Cat 3. GL-30 is way better than GL-10 (in specs and sound). It does cost more (£7.5k vs £11.5k), but extra 4k is worth it and still a bargain for what you get. I felt the difference in tone and resonance from the very first notes.
I certainly agree with the sentiment here. The GL10 is an amazing instrument for the money. The awards it has won is a testament to that notion. With that said, the additional length and more sophisticated design elements of the GL30 make a meaningful difference musically. :)
This is such an interesting topic, since I'm considering buying my fist grand. Stu is truly the best piano salesperso/dealer in Canada.
Thanks for tuning in! I'll be happy to share your compliments with Stu on your behalf. All the best and happy playing! :)
The Steinway M is my personal favorite. I own a 1924 factory rebuild, and the tone quality almost identical to the Steinway M in this video. It truly sounds like a warm musical hug.
Congrats on your rebuild Steinway Model M! The Model M is a classic scale design that produces a wonderfully, rich musical experience.
If you don’t mind me how does it hold its tune ?
Maybe just me but that Steinway was quite bright.
Hi, I am considering getting the Roland GP9 for its look and digital functionality. However, I would like to know how it compares to higher quality acoustic grands such as the Kawai GL30 or Yamaha GC1, especially when it comes to dynamic range the dynamic responsiveness of the action? Thanks.
Hi! Brent here! Thanks for the question. Naturally, a digital grand is a very different animal than an acoustic grand. I will say that as far as a full digital grand goes (excluding hybrid models), the GP9 will be the closest thing you will find to an acoustic piano experience in terms of touch, tone, dynamic range, and more. With that said, An instrument like the Kawai GL30 will provide a more nuanced touch and tone as well as a greater dynamic/tonal range in my opinion. It really is an apples to oranges comparison and difficult to fully articulate. I would strongly recommend auditioning both options in person if possible.
Missing Steinway Model O-180 in your List - realy superb Sound for the size
While the Steinway Model O is a very exceptional model, it is outside of the baby grand category (5' to 5'5").
I've always wondered about how Kawai GX-1 is like. Glad it is mentioned here!
The GX1 is an exceptional piano in my opinion. For those seeking amazing quality in a compact form within the mid-range category, is certainly worth consideration. :)
@@MerriamPianos Any advice on improving the timbre of the gx-1? (other than sanding the hammers...i often find the sound quite harsh)
Chiming in 🫡 to report that I have a magnificent GX-1, for those curious about the model. I may have lucked upon one with an exceptional sound board, because the tone is so focused, rich, and indulgent. The word “spice” comes to mind, as in flavors like anise and cinnamon.
As stated in the video, the length of the instrument is detectable in the bass, but I don’t think too much more than in the similarly sized L 167 (the GX-1 is 166 cm) at the top of this list. The fundamental pitch just drops off a bit on the lowest four strings.
Making music on this compact, well-balanced instrument is so much fun! Sometimes I press a few keys while walking by just to hear the tone. I also think Kawai’s current premium instruments have something special going on in the baritone and lower tenor-a pronounced substance-that stands out, even on this smaller piano.
Tsu said in this video PHA 50 with new improved sensing technology
Does the RD 2000 EX have the same PHA 50 sensing technology ?
Also the millennium 3 piano action could almost fit into a digital piano in the future
I remember Stu said it seems like it from testing it.
It would be interesting to see if the Millennium III action is able to be incorporated into a more portable design. In terms of the RD2000 EX's PHA50 action incorporating the new sensor system, I'm not positive to be honest. However, I would assume that, given the tech was already in place, it would have been incorporated.
I doubt it. The RD2000 (like the CP88) is long in the tooth now. Hopefully this new action will be incorporated into the RD3000 when it ‘eventually’ arrives. Lighter without the silly mod wheel area please Roland!
Hi Stu & Crew.
Very nice blend, you guys are serving enjoyable materials.
The comparison with the static materials from 3-4 years ago shows a nice growth. The first 15 seconds tell me everything I need to know, and then I see what I can aspire to - the hands of the real pianist.
Category #3 - mid-range, and the change of background, natural light, and lively sound environment. Was it intentional? If so, you have a natural feel for it. Is there someone studying advertising?
It's all good, but there is a missing B roll for some of the instruments, you haven't presented them yet on the channel.
The way I see it in the next (improved) edition (a year or two from now).
The first category is OK, short, and informative, for people buying commodities.
Every consequent category is 10-15% longer than the previous one, gradually changing into "acquiring an experience"
Most people will drop the last two categories, some will omit the first three...
It has to do with the freedom to afford to get loose when the money isn't a concern 6:06 😃
The only thing that matters is the time invested in a joyful experience.
The last category has to be more contemplative, I would like to hear an excerpt supporting each of your observations about an acoustic signature of the instrument.
(I know that in production every note has a "price", but can't you make a deal that you will keep all notes, and the Merriam will keep all views?)
The whole material would be much longer, but it can be presented as a playlist - a series of episodes, one for each category, released at once - or each with a delay.
You can and should experiment, and play with the formula.
Anyway, you even could dress differently and choose a different background for each category.
The screen is your instrument, play some visual jazz.
Amaze your public.
Make people talk.
Thanks for tuning in and sharing your feedback. All the best!
Can you please list the MSRP for these pianos?
I'll be happy to pass along the feedback to our production team. But, generally speaking, we avoid posting pricing for a few reasons. Firstly, MSRP pricing can change. Secondly, pricing varies from region to region. Given that our audience is quite global, it can create some confusion.
All you have to state is the MSRP in your location. We’re big boys and can figure prices vary depending on location and time. Googling the price can be even more confusing. Thanks. Btw, I thought Shigeru Kawai would be on your list as a premium baby grand.
I would like to have gl10 but I am afraid it will be too loud in my 12m2 room. What do you think?
Hi there! Thanks for the question! It is difficult to assess without knowing more details about the room (height of the ceilings, how its furnished, floor material [carpet vs hardwood, etc.]). With that said, you may find some of the points in the following article regarding room size vs piano size:
www.pianobuyer.com/post/how-to-make-a-piano-room-sound-grand
Interesting you didn’t mention Shigeru… Maybe “honourable mentions” would enhance the review. Still, gerat work, very interesting. Especially for those e able to read between the lines)
One of the reasons the Shigeru Kawai grands did not pop up in this conversation is that the smallest option is the 5'11" SK2.
If you love that Yamaha tone😂👍👍👍
The Yamaha versus Kawai matchup is a hotly debated topic. ;)
Seems like it goes without saying that no one does😂. Somebody once described the tone as " a hammer hitting the railway" and it stuck with me in its precision 😂 but to be fair, maybe, just maybe cfx, or sfx models are rounder in sound. Furthermore I seem to tolerate C7 quite well in its digital Keyscape form.
I personally like Yamaha's sound. On top of that you can have the hammers voyced if you think it's too bright🦊🎹🎶
How much do the nv5s and the nv10s cost today in canada?
The NV5S sells for $12,499 CAD and the NV10S sells for $18,799 CAD.
@ thank you so much
What options besides digital are there today for people who play forte piano? One thing not many people talk about is that the most expensive, biggest and heaviest type of piano is the only one you can get today even though we live in a world where budgets are tighter and living spaces are becoming so tight that the bedroom is becoming the everything room.
A 77 key strait strung upright is the biggest piano I can fit in my space with only a few inches to spare which just happens to perfectly serve my needs but anything I could find today is too overkill and impossible to fit into my room like giving a large suv to someone who can only utilise a smart car.
I got to try a roland digital piano at a music shop that had a forte piano sound and it was pretty fun to play but a computer is never going to replaced the real thing, it will become e waste as soon as the company doesn't want to support it with limited parts availability at best if they even sell them directly to the consumer as oppose to a replace everything solution when part of a component fails and I'd be voting with my wallet for a dystopian society.
Hi there! Thanks for the question! Unfortunately, aside from digital pianos with fortepiano sounds, there are no mass-produced and readily available fortepiano models in the market. To my knowledge, the options are restricted to finding an older vintage/restored piece or having something custom made, which could get quite costly. Perhaps, one of our helpful community members here will have more insights to share. :)
the GP6 is a good choice,its a better deal i think than the NOVUs and i like it better. ,,the Yamaha 3X goes into acoustic territory price and i wouldnt bother.In the acoustics both entry level Yamaha and Kawai are ok for that price point,i wouldnt spend the money the Roland GP9 is asking .Further up they are all good pianos for anyone who can afford them.
The Roland GP6 offers excellent cost-to-value. It has become quite the popular model for those seeking a solid digital grand with pro-level performance capabilities.
Yo tengo el gp3 es muy parecido . Gran piano .en directo es totalmente diferente a escucharlo en you tuve .te da una idea pero no tiene nada que ver
@@jamesa375 in my opinion the NV10S makes a lot more sence because you get a real grand piano action wile on the GP6 you are just over paying for a grand piano style case🦊🎹🎶
No Boston or Essex?
Hi! Brent from Merriam Music here! While I can't speak on behalf of Stu, in my opinion, the Essex baby grands fall a bit flat musically. For me, the Boston pianos are quite good musically, but there are other options that present better cost-to-value ratios such as the Kawai GX line. Of course, the Boston pianos are made by Kawai at their Japan factory. But, I think the GX pianos have more sophisticated designs that yield greater musicality for the money. It will always be a matter of subjectivity though of course.
What, no Estonia L167? Where is Brent?
Brent here! The Estonia L168 is a stunning instrument that is CERTAINLY worthy of being on this list. The only downside of the model is that - due to how few pianos Estonia offers the world each year (due to how meticulously they are handcrafted of course) - it is difficult to get your hands on them. :)
I am pausing here to guess the 1st place… C.Bechstein? L167
The C. Bechstein L167 is a heckuva piano! It greatly outperforms its size musically - that is for sure! :)