All Posts by Jaime Echagüe

Digital Piano Kawai ES8 Full Review. is it a good choice?

Digital Piano Kawai ES8 Full Review. is it a good choice?

Kawai has always been known for its high quality instruments, both acoustic and digital pianos are built with good materials and meet the requirements of any pianist, the ES8 is a clear example of the level of Kawai.

The Kawai ES8 with its 88 weighted keys and pressure sensitivity, 256 polyphony notes and the possibility of customization similar to an acoustic piano is a very interesting option for any pianist.

Buy your Kawai ES8 at the best price available in the market

Where to buy it?

Features

The ES8 is a very complete digital piano, it has almost everything, its approach to imitating an acoustic piano makes it a really good choice for pianists. The characteristics of this model are presented below:

  • Keyboard with 88 weighted and pressure sensitive keys with Ivory Touch and Responsive
  • Hammer 3 technology
  • LCD screen
  • 34 voices
  • 256 polyphony notes
  • 88-key piano sampling
  • Split, Dual and 4-Hand modes with customizable configuration options
  • Internal 10 song recorder
  • Effects (chorus, classic chorus, stereo delay, ping delay, tremolo, classic tremolo, auto pan, classic auto pan, rotary, phaser) combination of effects
  • Reverb
  • Rhythms
  • Amplifier Simulator
  • Metronome
  • Virtual technician ( technology to personalize the digital piano )
  • USB
  • 2 headphone sockets
  • Damper (F-10H) Damper/Soft (F-20) Triple Footswitch (F-301)
  • Stereo input and output
  • MIDI
  • 2 x 15w speakers
  • Dimensions 1.36 m x 36.1 cm x 14.9 cm
  • Weight 22.5kg

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Sound

No wonder the ES8 has great sound quality, its 2 integrated speakers of 15w each added to 256 polyphony notes, the ability to customize and sample 88 keys a great sound quality. Below is a video with the sound of the ES8:

Sean O´Shea touching a Kawai ES8:

As you can see in both videos the versatility and sound quality of the ES8 is very good, the Kawai ES8 perfectly simulates the sound of a piano.

Connectivity

The connectivity of the Kawai ES8 is good, it has everything you need for a professional musician performing live.

The ES8 features MIDI, USB, online inputs and outputs, 2 headphones and the input for the different types of pedals, so you won’t have any problem connecting it to the PC or an amplifier.

Advantages and disadvantages of the Kawai ES8

Advantages of this model:

  • Keyboard quality
  • Sound Quality
  • Construction
  • Personalization
  • Connectivity

Disadvantages of this model:

  • Variety of Voices

The Kawai ES8 is an option focused on pianists, the quality of the keyboard is very good, the 88 weighted keys with sensitivity to pressure and the possibility of customization make this model stand out, however, its sound quality is also a strong point. The only possible disadvantage in this model is the variety of voices, although considering that the approach is to simulate a piano, it is not necessary to have a great variety of voices.

Kawai ES8 vs Roland FP90

The ES8 and the Roland FP 90 are two alternatives for those looking for a digital piano focused on pianists. The differences between the two models are shown below:

  • Both models have an 88-key keyboard with sensitivity to pressure and weighted keys, however, Kawai has a system of customization and adjustment of the keyboard.
  • The Roland polyphony in the piano voice is complete and in other voices 384 notes, while the Kawai has 256 polyphony notes for all voices.
  • The FP 90 has 360 voices, while the Kawai only has 34.
  • The sensitivity on the Roland keyboard is 100 types, while Kawai offers full customization technology with micro-adjustments, similar to an acoustic piano.
  • The ES8 offers dual mode, split and 4 hands, while the FP 90 only offers dual mode, split and full.
  • Both models have excellent connectivity, however, the Roland FP 90 has bluetooth, while the Kawai ES8 only has USB.

Both models are high quality and making a decision about the best is complicated, as Kawai and Roland offer excellent performance on their digital pianos, if your focus is on connectivity with mobile devices the Roland FP 90 is an excellent choice, however if you prefer a fully customizable option the Kawai ES8 is for you.

Kawai ES8 vs Kawai ES110

The two models of the Japanese brand have a pianist approach, however, each offers different features. The differences between the two models are shown below:

  • Both models have a keyboard with 88 weighted keys and pressure sensitivity, however the ES8 has a customization system on the keyboard.
  • The polyphony of the ES8 is 256 notes, while the ES110 has 192 notes.
  • The ES8’s speakers are more powerful, as it has 2 speakers of 15w each, while the ES110 has 2 speakers of 7w each.
  • The internal recorder of the ES8 has a capacity of 10 songs, while the ES110 only has a capacity of 3.
  • The ES110 offers bluetooth and bluetooth low energy connectivity, while the ES8 does not have bluetooth connectivity.
  • The variety of voices of the ES8 is greater since it has 34 voices, while the ES110 has 19.

The Kawai ES8 is a clear winner, as it has better sound quality and power, more variety of voices and options for keyboard customization, being an option that allows you to simulate a piano to perfection, however, the ES110 is not a bad alternative, although it is simpler also has good quality.

Kawai ES8 vs Yamaha P255

The two Japanese brands offer very competitive models, the ES8 and the P255 are two good quality alternatives for those looking for a digital piano. The differences between the two models are shown below:

  • The Kawai ES8 and Yamaha P255 have 88 weighted and pressure sensitive keys.Yamaha incorporates a 3-point pressure sensitivity system, while Kawai presents total customization, simulating a piano.
  • Both models feature 256-note polyphony.
  • The ES8 has 34 voices, while the P255 has 24.
  • Both models have similar connectivity options, 15w speakers and pedal option.

The similarities between both models are very high, however, the Kawai ES8 is a clear winner, as it is closer to the possibilities of an acoustic piano, has better quality on the keyboard, more customization options and voices.

Conclusion

Before you make a decision, make sure you know the functions and features you need on a keyboard. If you want to learn to play the piano remember that counterweight and pressure sensitivity are two basic factors, but don’t forget to check the other features.The ES8 is an ideal choice for all types of pianists, has great sound quality and above all a keyboard with 88 weighted keys, pressure sensitivity and customization options. Its characteristics make it a very interesting alternative especially for those who want to simulate a piano.If you are looking for an alternative to the ES8 you should take a look at our guide to the best digital keyboards and pianos.

 

Where to buy the Kawai ES8

There are a variety of stores where you can buy the Kawai ES8, however, it will always be better option to buy online in this range of digital pianos. Here we leave you a couple of very reliable stores:

Amazon

  • Free Shipping and possibility of shipping in one day with Amazon Premium.
  • Full Guarantee but they are no experts in music equipment
  • Leader in fast shipments.
  • Price that change a lot daily.
  • The best option in USA and ASIA

Thomann

  • Free Shipping
  • Full warranty. If you have any problems, they take care of everything.
  • 100% reliable payment.
  • Leader in trouble-free shipping.
  • Usually best price.
  • Best Reputation: They are the leading online store in Europe and have the best catalogue and information.

For a similar price you have the following pianos and keyboards:

Digital Piano Thomann DP 26 Full Review. Is it worth it?

Where to Buy Thomann DP 26: Review and Opinion

If you have €300 and are looking for a digital piano with 88 weighted and pressure-sensitive keys, the Thomann DP 26 is an ideal choice for you.

The German brand really strived to design an instrument with very good features at a considerable price, the DP 26 is an excellent alternative for those pianists who require a keyboard to move or who are looking for a keyboard to take lessons.

Buy your Thomann DP26 with the best discount available in the market by clicking on the button below:

Features

The Thomann DP 26 has essential features for any pianist, the 88 weighted keys and its teaching system for left and right hand are two examples to highlight. Features:

  • 88-key weighted pressure-sensitive keyboard with a hammer action system
  • 20 Voices
  • 64-voice polyphony
  • LED display
  • 60 preset songs and 2 demo songs
  • Layer and split function
  • 50 styles
  • Pitch bend wheel
  • Effects
  • Master Equalizer
  • Chorus
  • Reverb
  • Duet
  • Harmony
  • Sequencer of melody + accompaniment
  • Teaching function for left and right hand
  • Metronome
  • Transposer
  • 2 x 10W speakers
  • 2 headphone sockets
  • MIDI output
  • USB MIDI
  • Auxiliary input and output
  • Sustain pedal input
  • Slot for lectern
  • Included accessories (lectern and sustain pedal)
  • Dimensions 1.36m x 36.6cm x 13.7cm weight 12.9kg

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Sound

The DP 26 has a pretty good sound and is that despite its 64 polyphony notes, Thomann did a good job on cleanliness and quality. A sound test of the previous model (is the same sound) is presented below:

https://youtu.be/iSbFQbocaJ8

In the previous video we can see that despite the 64 notes of polyphony the sound is good, the 20 voices included in the DP 26 have a quite acceptable quality.

Connectivity

In terms of connectivity, the Thomann DP 26 has the basics, the minimum necessary for any pianist, and covers the requirements to be able to make live presentations and connect to a PC.

The DP 26 has a headphone output, sustain pedal, auxiliary and MIDI connection, so you do not have to worry about it. While there are other models that have different connectivity options and are more complete, it is also true that for most users the connectivity of PD 26 is more than enough.

Advantages and disadvantages of the Thomann DP 26

The advantages of this model are:

  • 88-key weighted keyboard with pressure sensitivity
  • Connectivity
  • Price
  • Weight

The disadvantages of this model are:

  • 64 polyphony notes
  • Variety of voices

The Thomann DP 26 is an option with 88 weighted keys that have good connectivity and is relatively portable for a very affordable price, which makes it a very attractive option, however, among the disadvantages are the variety of voices and 64 polyphony notes. It is necessary to point out that the sound quality is not bad for the price its have. The sampling quality is not a good as a Nord Piano for example. But most people wouldn´t feel the difference.

Thomann DP 26 vs Yamaha P45

The German brand was able to design a very competitive keyboard, generally superior to Yamaha’s offer, as the DP 26 incorporates the features and functions of a digital stage piano. For this comparison, we will take as reference the Yamaha P45.

These are the similarities and differences between the two models:

  • Both models feature a keyboard with 88 weighted and pressure-sensitive keys.
  • The connectivity of the DP 26 is far superior to that of Yamaha’s P45, as the P45 lacks MIDI and auxiliary output.
  • The Thomann’s speakers are 10w, while Yamaha incorporates 6w speakers.
  • The Yamaha P45 commonly has a higher cost of approximately 50€.
  • Thomann includes 20 voices on its keyboard, while the Yamaha P45 has only 10.

In general, Yamaha and Thomann have similar characteristics, however, an important factor to consider is that the Thomann DP 26 includes effects, styles, accompaniments, and connectivity similar to that of a stage keyboard, while Yamaha keyboards of the similar line usually do not have these functions. In the case of the previous comparison between the DP 26 and the P45, the clear winner is Thomann, as it has better features and a better price.

If you require more information about the P45 or have any questions we recommend you review our full review of the Yamaha P45 click here.

Thomann DP 26 vs Thomann SP 5600

The German brand has different options with similar functions, the DP 26 and the SP 5600 are two models with similar characteristics. The comparison between the two models is shown below:

  • Both have an 88-balanced, pressure-sensitive keyboard.
  • The SP 5600 has 600 voices, while the DP 26 has only 20 voices.
  • The variety of styles and internal songs in the SP 5600 is greater, as this model offers 120 internal songs and 230 styles, while the DP 26 has 50 styles and 2 songs.
  • The DP 26 has 64 polyphony notes and the SP 5600 has 128 polyphony notes.
  • The SP 5600’s connectivity is better because it has a microphone input.
  • The price of PD 26 is 59€ lower.

The only advantage of the DP 26 over the SP 5600 is the price, since the Thomann SP 5600 has better sound quality, offers a greater variety of functions, and has better connectivity, however, if your idea is to learn piano, probably saving 59€ might be something interesting, plus the DP 26 is more than enough to take lessons.

If you require more information about this model or have any questions we recommend you review our full review of the Thomann SP 5600 here.

Thomann DP 26 vs Thomann SP 320

The DP 26 and SP 320 are two Thomann alternatives with virtually the same functions. The comparison between the two models is shown below:

  • Both models have an 88-key keypad, however, the SP 320 does not have good weighted keys (it is a kind of weighted effect, but still, is better than nothing, of course).
  • The polyphony of the DP 26 is 64 notes, while the SP 320 is 32 notes.
  • The DP 26 has 20 voices, while the SP 320 includes only 12 voices.
  • The speakers of the SP 320 are superior as it has 2, each one is 20w, while the DP 26 has two speakers of 10w each.
  • The weight of the SP 320 is 9 Kg, while the DP 26 weighs 12.9kg.
  • The functions of the DP 26 are better, as it has 50 effects, keyboard split function, lesson mode and a pitch bend.
  • The SP 320 can be used with batteries, while the DP 26 does not have this option.

The comparison between the DP 26 and the SP 320 makes the DP 26 a clear winner, however, it is important to mention that if you are looking for a cheaper keyboard with good features and more portability the SP 320 could be for you, but for those looking for a more professional keyboard with better construction, better functions, sound quality and connectivity, the DP 26 is an excellent choice. The good thing is that DP 32 usually cost less than 250 €.

If you require more information about this model or have any questions we recommend you review our full review of the Thomann SP320 here.

Conclusion

Before choosing a keyboard or digital piano, be sure to define the main function you will give to it, as only then you will be able to acquire a model that has the ideal characteristics for your use.

The DP 26 covers the basic needs of a stage pianist, however, for those who require a more professional option can turn to the SP 5600.

If you are looking for an option to learn piano the DP 26 is a very interesting alternative, however, if you want to consult other high-quality options you can review our guide to the best keyboards and digital pianos in relation to price benefit.Remember that the best idea is to buy a keyboard or digital piano that only covers the needs you have, you should never be guided by functions or features that are not necessary for your activity.

Where to buy the Thomann DP 26

It will always be better to purchase through an online store, as this way you can get a better price, however, it is important to buy in an online store that offers you the right transport and the best conditions of purchase. If you want to buy the Thomann DP 26 with the best conditions of purchase and the best price click on the button below:

For a similar price you have the following pianos and keyboards:

Have you ever had this piano? In that case do not hesitate to leave us your opinion in the comments. Thank you very much for reading us!

Digital Piano Nord Piano 3 Full Review. Is is the best Piano option?

Where to Buy the Nord Piano 3: Review and Opinion

Nord is a brand with a great focus on professional musicians, as virtually all of its models have ideal features for live performances.

I’m sure you’ll be interested in…

The Nord Piano 3, is a keyboard that as its name indicates perfectly simulates a piano, offering the best of both worlds, synthesizer features, and keyboard 88 weighted keys with a triple pressure sensor.

New: Nord Piano 4 is already here

Features

The Nord Piano 3 is a very complete keyboard, its synthesizer functions and its piano approach make it a very interesting choice for pianists and keyboardists. The features of this model are shown below:

  • 88-key pressure-sensitive keyboard with triple sensor and weighted keys with grand weighted action system and virtual hammer action.OLED display
  • 6 types of piano voice (Grand, Upright, Electric 1, Electric 2, Clavinet, and Harpsichord) Each voice available with 9 versions.
  • 1gb memory for a bookstore
  • 256mb of memory for sample library
  • Layer and Split function (keyboard divided into 5 sections)
  • 40/60 polyphony (stereo/ mono)
  • 2 types of effects
  • Effect 1: Pan, Tremolo, Wah, Ring Modulator (3 types of depth of effect) Effects: Pan, Aro, and Wah can be controlled with pedal
  • Effect 2: Phase 1 and 2, Chorus 1 and 2 and vibe ( 2 types of depth in each )
  • 2 Unbalanced L/R audio outputs ( 6.35mm)
  • 1 stereo monitor input 3.5mm
  • 1 stereo headphones input 3.5mm
  • 1 piano pedal input 6.5mm (Possibility to use the triple Nord pedal included in the keyboard or pedals like Roland DP-2 and DP-6 or Yamaha FC-4 and FC-5, Fatar VFP1-25, etc.).
  • USB input type B
  • MIDI Input and Output 5 DIN Pin
  • Monitor Input
  • Triple footswitch Nord
  • Dimensions 128.7 cm x 12.1 cm x 34.0 cm
  • Weight 18.2kg

Sound

Despite the polyphony available in Nord, the Piano 3 is a keyboard with very good sound quality, one of the best advantages of this model is the level of similarity to an acoustic piano since the Nord Piano 3 has a piano voice of very high quality.

Below is the official demo of the Nord Piano 3:

Connectivity

In terms of connectivity, the Piano 3 is a very complete option, it is possible to say that it has everything for those who seek to make live presentations or musical production.

MIDI and USB connectivity, plus the versatility of using pedals and accessories from other manufacturers make the Nord Piano 3 a very attractive choice for any musician.

Advantages and disadvantages of Nord Piano 3

The advantages of this model are:

  • Keyboard quality
  • Connectivity
  • Sound
  • Versatility
  • Weight

The disadvantages of this model are:

  • Limitations on the number of voices
  • No built-in speakers

The Nord Piano 3 is an option with more advantages than disadvantages, it is even possible to say that the disadvantages are totally irrelevant, especially if the user is a pianist or keyboardist focused on using piano voice or similar and who has an amplifier, the only disadvantage to consider is the polyphony, however, does not significantly affect the sound quality. Among the best qualities of the Piano 3 is the quality of the keyboard and the versatility, these two points make it an option to consider.

Nord Piano 3 vs Nord Stage 3

Nord offers the Piano 3 and Stage 3, two similar options focused on live performances but with slightly different performance. The comparison between the two models is shown below:

  • The Nord Stage 3 is available in three keyboard sizes, while the Nord Piano 3 has only one version with 88 keys.
  • The 88 keys on the Nord Piano 3 are weighted and pressure-sensitive, as well as having a triple switch system accurately simulating a grand piano, while Stage 3 has weighted keys and sensitivity without additional technology.
  • The Nord Piano 3 allows us to divide the keyboard into 2 sections and Stage 3 allows in 4. The capacity of Stage 3 is 2gb, while Piano 3 has 1gb.
  • The Nord Stage 3 has more piano voices, as they have 120, while the Piano 3 has 54.
  • The Stage 3 polyphony is larger, with full polyphony in synthesizer and 120 notes in the piano, while the Piano 3 has polyphony with 40 notes in stereo and 60 in mono.

The Nord Stage 3 is a clear winner, as this model wins in all areas except the quality of the keyboard. On the other hand, the Nord Piano 3 has a keyboard more like a grand piano, so it is ideal for those who prefer the experience of playing the piano over functions and sound quality, however, for those who want a more complete choice or prefer to sacrifice a little experience to gain functionality and quality, the Nord Stage 3 is the best choice.

If you want to know more about Nord Stage 3, don’t hesitate to visit our analysis and opinion.

Nord Piano 3 vs Yamaha CP4

These two models are direct competitors, as both have an approach to performing live and simulating a piano. The similarities and differences between the two models are shown below:

  • Both have an 88-key keyboard with weighted keys and pressure sensitivity, however, Nord incorporates more technology on the Piano 3 keyboard, as this version includes a triple pressure sensor and virtual hammer technology to simulate a grand piano.
  • The polyphony of the CP4 is 128 notes, while that of the Piano 3 is 40/60 in stereo and mono.
  • The CP4 has 433 voices, while the Piano 3 has 15 voices.
  • Nord offers more options for voices dedicated to piano and similar, as each of the piano voices offers 9 different versions, simulating instruments of different brands.
  • The variety of effects of the Nord Piano 3 is greater since it has 2 categories of effects and different levels of depth of the same ones.
  • Nord is a more versatile keyboard since it allows the use of Roland and Yamaha pedals, while the CP4 is only designed to be used with brand accessories.

The comparison between the Yamaha CP4 and the Nord Piano 3 is very close, both models have a great diversity of functions, however, for those seeking a keyboard with a variety of voices the CP4 is a great choice, while the Nord Piano 3 is a better choice for those who prefer keyboard quality, diversity of piano voices and versatility.

If you want to know more about the Yamaha CP4, don’t hesitate to visit our review and opinion.

Nord Piano 3 vs Roland RD 2000

The Nord Piano 3 and the Roland RD 2000 are two keyboards with very similar features and functions, the two models are focused on simulating a piano and offering a diversity of functions for musical production. Below is a comparison of both models:

  • Both the RD 2000 and the Nord Piano 3 have 88 weighted and pressure-sensitive keys with piano mimicry technology, in this case, both brands have an approach to keyboard construction quality, offering very similar systems.
  • Both models offer similar connectivity, have sustain pedal and triple pedal available, although they also have accessories such as the damper pedal.
  • The pedal technology of the RD 2000 and the Nord Piano 3 allows to simulate the sustain pedal to perfection because it responds to the pressure, however, the Nord Piano 3 has dynamic functions for the pedal, in which you can configure and customize the sustain pedal. In storage, the Piano 3 is better, as it has memory available for two libraries, 1gb of memory focused on the piano library “Nord Piano Library” and 256mb for the sampling library “Nord sample library, while the Roland RD 2000 only offers a USB port designed to place external memory.
  • Roland has a clear advantage in the variety of shades, with 1100 different shades, while Nord offers 6 shades.
  • Nord offers technology to simulate different piano brands, which includes 9 different models, while Roland only produces the 5 piano voices designed by the brand.
  • Roland and Nord offer similar connectivity, however, Roland offers XLR audio input and output, while Nord only offers ¼.
  • The RD 2000 has 2 sound generators, being the best choice in terms of optimization and sound quality.

The characteristics of both models are very similar, however, for those seeking a keyboard focused solely on piano and music production, with good versatility the Nord Piano 3 can be a good alternative, on the contrary, those seeking quality and greater diversity of functions should go for the RD 2000, as it is the most complete option.

If you want to know more about the Roland RD 2000, don’t hesitate to visit our review and opinion.

Conclusion

It is always good to verify that the keyboard you choose meets the requirements for your activity, as each musician requires particular functions and must choose an instrument that suits them.

The Nord Piano 3 is a high-quality instrument, ideal for those looking for a digital piano for live performances that offers diversity in the use of accessories and high quality on the keyboard.

If you are looking for a different alternative, we recommend you read our guide to the best digital pianos and keyboards in terms of price and benefit.

Where to buy the Nord Piano 3

Remember that buying online will help you save some euros, however, it is important to ensure that the store you use offers the correct transport and good conditions of purchase. If you want to buy your Nord Piano 3 at the best price available in the market do not hesitate to click on the button below. We updated the links to the Nord Piano 4

Amazon

  • Free Shipping and the possibility of shipping in one day with Amazon Premium.
  • Full Guarantee but they are no experts in music equipment
  • A leader in fast shipments.
  • The price change a lot daily.
  • The best option in USA and worldwide

At Europe check Thomann:

They have also already released the new Nord Piano 4.

Don’t hesitate to leave your comments below. We always want to hear from you!

For a similar price you have the following pianos and keyboards:

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