Which one to buy ..??

[gaggy87]

Hi All,

I've been playing keyboards for quite some time now and now want to move up to something that gives me the feel of a real piano (graded weighted keys).

Even though I want, I can't go for an acoustic piano ; budget constraints and a rented accommodation. I've narrowed down my purchase to the Yamaha Clavinova CLP-440 or the Kawai CA-13/15.

Any and every suggestion is highly appreciated.

Regards

[hfmadopter]

You really need to try them out. The Ca13 and a CLP 470 have wooden keys. The CA 13 I suspect has a bit heavier weighting, the CLP 470 is supposed to be well graded. The CLP440 you mention has a bit older action and a very decent sound system . You really need to try them out as I said already. I'm sure quality is good in all of these, though it may be worth the upgrade from the 440 to the 470 if budget allows, at least in terms of the improved action, not sure about the sound system as the 440 was already good..

I can't stress enough playing these instruments before purchase. You must be  satisfied with the purchase, it's for you and you alone ! A piano is a very personal item in terms of what draws us to a specific instrument.

[gaggy87]

Hey, thanks for the advise .. I too was thinking of waiting a little and upgrading to the 470 ; the overall tech specs aren't much different though..

About the Kawai, though I haven't checked it out, reviews favor yamaha for their action and sound quality (they say that the GH3 is better and heavier than the RM-II) ; I'll check it out myself..

Yes, the 470 has wooden keys but the action is the same GH3.. Not sure if there's a difference in the responsiveness of the keys ; posts on the web, even the yamaha website doesn't quite throw light on this topic ... So, I'm still confused ...

[bronnestam]

I love the Clavinovas.    I agree with previous poster that you MUST try them out for yourself, but my own personal choice is the Clavinova. 

[oxy60]

Nothing beats a live try-out. Specs can only go so far. Don't be afraid to go out. Bring your own ear phones.

[hfmadopter]

Hey, thanks for the advise .. I too was thinking of waiting a little and upgrading to the 470 ; the overall tech specs aren't much different though..

About the Kawai, though I haven't checked it out, reviews favor yamaha for their action and sound quality (they say that the GH3 is better and heavier than the RM-II) ; I'll check it out myself..

Yes, the 470 has wooden keys but the action is the same GH3.. Not sure if there's a difference in the responsiveness of the keys ; posts on the web, even the yamaha website doesn't quite throw light on this topic ... So, I'm still confused ...

The Kawai CA15 has RM3. Also the CA 13 has only 96 notes of polyphone when I believe the CA 15 has 192, just FWIW. I'd rule out the CA13 personally just based on the older technology compared with the 15.

Again you have to play them and Oxy brought up the excellent point of using a good set of headphones. I'm happy with my Kawai MP6 but I do wish I had tried some other pianos with headphones just because it leaves that gap in my thought process. The what if ! Take your time, I took nearly 6 months researching and looking before I bought my digital.

[thalbergmad]

I love Clavinovas as they have the feel that is perfect for me.

Try before you buy is essential as mentioned above. As much care should be taken over buying a piano as buying a car.

I have bought banjos online without testing and once regretted it.

Thal

[gaggy87]

Hi Guys,

I've finally decided to go with the Clavinova CLP-440 based on overall reviews, my relation with the local Yamaha dealer and of course the price he's offered me...

I would still test the Kawai just so that I hold no regrets, took me a while to save all this money ; just hope its worth it... (Fingers Crossed) ...

Any last minute suggestions ..??

Cheers..

[hfmadopter]

Hi Guys,

I've finally decided to go with the Clavinova CLP-440 based on overall reviews, my relation with the local Yamaha dealer and of course the price he's offered me...

I would still test the Kawai just so that I hold no regrets, took me a while to save all this money ; just hope its worth it... (Fingers Crossed) ...

Any last minute suggestions ..??

Cheers..

NO comments except, Enjoy ! I'm sure it will be a fine piano.