All Posts by Jaime Echagüe

Digital Piano Kawai MP7 Full Review. Is it worth it?

Buy Kawai MP7: Review and Opinion

Kawai has always been known for designing high quality instruments with specialized functions, the MP7 is no exception to this rule.

Kawai has always been known for designing high quality instruments with specialized functions, the MP7 is no exception to this rule.

Where to Buy Kawai MP7?

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.

Features

The MP7 has a great diversity of very interesting features for pianists and keyboardists, among the most outstanding are its 88 keys with pressure sensitivity and weighted keys, connectivity and 256 polyphony notes.

Features:

  • Keyboard with 88 weighted keys with Ivory Touch and Responsive Hammer 2 technology (dual exhaust system)
  • 256 Notes from polyphony
  • Harmonic Imaging sound source with 88 sample keys
  • 256 Voices including: 32 Piano Voices, 32 Organo Voices, 32 E. Piano Voices, 32 String Voices and
  • 128 additional voices.
  • 6 Reverb Settings ( Longue , Room, Small Hall , Concert Hall, Cathedral and Live Hall)
  • 129 Effects with 10 Parameters
  • 4 Zones : Main, Sub1, 2 and 3.
  • Amplifier Simulator for main zone
  • 4 Band Equalizer
  • Metronome ( 1/4 , 2/4, ¾, 4/4 5/4, 3/8, 7/8 and 12/8)
  • Recorder for 10 songs with functions to convert to audio and export.
  • Internal memory (256 sound memories and 256 configuration memories)
  • USB with functions for uploading and saving files
  • 52 parameters and functions
  • 128x64pixel illuminated LCD display
  • Entrance and exit ¼ with L/mono R)
  • Midi input and output with USB host and USB to Device
  • Input for Damper pedal (F-10H) and triple footswitch (F-30)
  • Power Supply Form : AC
  • Consumption of 20 W
  • Dimensions: 1.35m x 33.9 cm x 17.1 cm
  • Wood and Metal Construction
  • Weight: 21kg

It is very important to highlight the quality of the construction of the Kawai MP7, because unlike other models, this keyboard incorporates wood and metal within the materials used, in addition the characteristics of the keyboard make it a solid choice for those who make live presentations.

Sound

It is vital to know that the Kawai MP7 does not have built-in speakers, so it is necessary to connect an amplifier, mixer or headphones to work.

The sound quality of the Kawai MP7 is very high because it has 256 polyphony notes, however, in order to highlight the sound and take advantage of the cleanliness, clarity and quality it will be necessary to have headphones or amplifier of the same quality.

Below is a video with the sound quality of the Kawai MP7:

Connectivity

The Kawai MP7 is a highly equipped keyboard for live performances, with ¼ input and output, USB port and 4 inputs for pedals (damper pedals, soft and triple footswitch).

Perhaps some modern keyboard players may miss bluetooth, however, bluetooth is generally unnecessary for live performances, and Kawai incorporates various functions via USB, such as connectivity to mobile devices and the ability to import and export recordings. Within the connectivity to emphasize are the options of sound, since it allows to connect amplifier in stereo mode.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Kawai MP7

The advantages of this model are:

  • 88 weighted and pressure sensitive keys
  • Sound Quality (256 polyphony notes)
  • Connectivity
  • Functions for live presentations.
  • Functions for music production
  • Quality in construction and design
  • Personalization

The disadvantages of this model are:

  • Weight of 21kg
  • No built-in speakers

The scale is fully inclined to the advantages of the Kawai MP7, as it is a professional-grade keyboard with an all-round approach aimed at musicians who perform live and require a variety of music production functions. The quality of design and construction of the MP7 is one of the advantages to highlight, however, this model really has everything you need to make live presentations. It is difficult to find disadvantages in the MP7, however, you could consider the weight and lack of built-in speakers, although for those who are used to using their keyboard with amplifier will not be a big problem.

Kawai MP7 vs Kawai ES8

The Japanese brand, has different options that can compete, the case of the MP7 and the ES8 are two keyboards to consider for those pianists who want to play live. The differences between the two models are presented below:

  • The Kawai MP7 has 88 keys with weight and pressure sensitivity using Responsive
  • Hammer II technology, while the ES8 has 88 pressure sensitive keys and Responsive Hammer III technology.
  • The ES8 has 10 voices dedicated to piano and 24 additional voices, while the MP7 has 256 voices.
  • Both models feature 256-note polyphony and a ¼ L/R input and output.
  • A clear advantage of the ES8 is that it has 2 speakers of 15 watts each, while the MP7 does not have built-in speakers.
  • The size and weight of both models is very similar since the dimensions of the MP7 are: 1.35m x 33.9 cm x 17.1 cm and has a weight of 21kg, while the ES8 measures: 1.36m x 36.1cm x 14.9cm with a weight of 22.5kg.

Despite the differences between the MP7 and the ES8, these two models really have very similar features, however, the MP7 is a clear winner, as the only clear advantage of the ES8 are the two integrated speakers. Among the advantages of the MP7 are the 88 keys with weight, more voices and less weight.

The sound quality of the ES8 is presented below:

Kawai MP7 vs Kawai MP11

MP7 and MP11 are two Kawai models focused on music production and live performances, however, despite the similarities these two models have some differences to consider:

  • The MP7 has 88 weighted and pressure-sensitive keys, while the MP11 has 88 ivory-finished, weighted and pressure-sensitive keys.
  • The MP7 approach is more versatile as it has 256 Voices, while the MP11 has 40 Voices (mainly focused on piano).
  • MP7 has a larger internal memory (256 sound memories and 256 configuration memories), MP11 has only 40 sound memories and 208 configuration memories.
  • The MP11 has a larger size, as it measures: 1.38m x 45.3cm x 18.8cm, while the dimensions of the
  • MP7 are: 1.35m x 33.9 cm x 17.1 cm.
  • The MP7 weighs 11.5 kg less.

Actually the MP7 and MP11 are two very similar keyboards, in terms of quality of construction the MP11 is a clear winner, as it has ivory keys, however, if we focus on music production the MP7 is more versatile because it has a greater variety of voices.

Below is a video with the sound quality of the Kawai MP11:

Kawai MP7 vs Yamaha CP4

The two Japanese brands have always competed with different keyboard models, the MP7 and CP4 are no exception. The differences between the two models are presented below:

  • Both models feature 88 pressure-sensitive, weighted wooden keys. However, the Yamaha has black plastic keys, while the Kawai has 88 wooden keys.The Yamaha CP4 has a lower sound quality, as it has only 128 polyphony notes, while the MP7 has 256.
  • The MP7 has 256 voices, while the Yamaha has 433.
  • The CP4 has 11 effects, while the MP7 has 129.
  • Yamaha CP4 weighs 17.5kg and MP7 weighs 21kg.

As can be seen in the comparison above the two models are very similar, the Yamaha CP4 is a very good alternative for those seeking a wide variety of voices, however, the Kawai MP7 is a clear winner because it has a higher sound quality and the keyboard has better quality materials.

Conclusions

If you are looking for a high quality keyboard for live performances you should definitely consider the Kawai MP7 as one of the best options available on the market.

The MP7 has everything you need for music production and live performances, the quality of the keyboard is really good in every respect, the metal and wood construction is very solid and designed to give a piano like feel. The sound is of high quality, since it counts on polyphony of 256 notes and in matters of connectivity it has everything necessary.

If you are looking for an option other than MP7 you can search our guide of the best keyboards price / benefit ratio, if on the other hand you are looking for a cheap keyboard visit our guide of the cheapest keyboards.

Where to buy the Kawai MP7

It will always be a better option for price to make your purchases online, but it is necessary to make sure you place your order in a store that offers you the proper transportation and the best conditions of purchase. To buy the Kawai MP7 the best option in Europe is Thomann but in Asia and United States the best is Amazon:

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

Did you like this article?

Digital Piano Roland Go Piano Full Review. Is it a good option?

Roland Go Piano: Review and Opinion

For those who would like to take their piano everywhere, Roland has the solution: Go Piano is a portable keyboard with 61 pressure-sensitive keys, totally focused on those who want to take their piano on the road.

The Go Piano focuses on imitating a piano, adding the benefit of portability, since with its 3.9 Kg. and the possibility of using AA batteries, it is an excellent choice for those who would like to take their piano everywhere.

Where to Buy the Roland Go Piano?

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 ASIA

Thomann

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

Features

The Roland Go Piano has a simple design and great portability, has 61 pressure-sensitive keys, can be used with 6 AA batteries, and sustain pedal input. Features:

  • 61 Pressure-sensitive keys with Ivory-Feel technology (3 types of sensitivity) and Box-Shape. (Responsive key system without weighted keys)
  • 128-note polyphony
  • 40 Tones (10 Piano, 7 Organo, 7 E.Piano, 16 Various Tones (including a drum kit and drums))
  • Effects (Chorus, Reverb with adjustable levels and other effects)
  • Metronome
  • Recorder with capacity for 99 songs of up to 30,000 notes each.
  • Monochrome LCD screen
  • 2 Speakers 2.5w
  • Auxiliary Input (Stereo)
  • Headphone jack 3.5mm
  • Input for sustain pedal (DP series pedal)
  • USB Input Type B (MIDI)
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Connectivity to Roland Applications for music studio and production

Option of use with 6 AA batteries (approximate duration 6 hours)Measurements : 87.7cm x 27.1cm x 8.2xm (without lectern) Weight : 3.9 Kg.Roland’s Go Piano is a keyboard with everything indispensable for any keyboardist or pianist, it is an ideal keyboard to use as a travel instrument or simply learn to play the piano.

Sound

I’m sure you’ll be interested in…

Sound has always been one of Roland’s strengths and the Go Piano is no exception to the rule as it has 2 speakers of 2.5w each and a polyphony of 128 notes, presenting a high-quality sound. Below is a video where you can appreciate the sound of the Roland Piano Go:

The following video shows a demo of Andrea Girbaudo using a Roland Go Piano:

As you can see in the previous videos the clean and clear sound of the Roland Go Piano is quite good and the piano voice has a very similar sound to an acoustic piano, surpassing most keyboards that compete at the same price range.

Connectivity

Roland’s Go Piano has the connectivity to solve virtually any situation. The USB port, Bluetooth connectivity and sustain pedal input must be mentioned, although this Roland model also has a headphone input and an auxiliary, ideal for connecting to an amplifier.

The connectivity of the Go Piano is more than enough for a pianist who wants to do some music recording, however, it might not be enough for those looking for a keyboard to do music production.

Advantages and disadvantages of the Roland Go Piano

The advantages of this model are:

  • Sound quality
  • Portability and weight
  • Pressure-sensitive keys with speed system
  • Connectivity (Bluetooth, USB, sustain pedal input, auxiliary input, etc.)
  • Can be used with 6 AA batteries (maximum 6 hours)
  • Sound Recorder
  • 40 voices
  • Roland learning and study system (connection with applications to improve the learning and/or study process)

Disadvantages of this model are:

  • Non-weighted keys
  • 61 Keys of 88 that has a piano
  • Basic music production functions

The balance of the Go Piano is totally positive since it is a keyboard that offers great benefits for a reasonable price, the quality of the sound and the portability of this model are two main qualities, although there is no need to leave connectivity behind. Roland’s Go Piano is a truly competitive keyboard aimed at pianists who want to have a traveling instrument, however, it is a great choice for those who want to learn to play piano and invest in a quality keyboard for a low price.

Roland Go Piano vs Yamaha NP12

The Go Piano and the Yamaha NP12 are two competitors with very similar characteristics and prices since both have an approach to portability, below are the differences and similarities between both models:

Both models have 61 touch-sensitive keys and no weighted keys, but the Ivory Feel technology and Box-shape keys included in Roland’s Go Piano produces a more realistic piano feel.

  • The Go Piano has 128 polyphony notes while the NP12 has 64 polyphony notes.
  • The NP12 has only 10 voices while the Go Piano has 40 voices.
  • Both models have an integrated recorder, however, the Go Piano allows 99 songs to be stored, while the NP12 only allows 1.
  • Both models have an option for a sustain pedal, USB, and headset input.
  • The Roland has Bluetooth connectivity, auxiliary input, and a lesson system via the iOS application.
  • The Roland has a black and white LCD screen, while the Yamaha has no screen.
  • Both models can be used with AA batteries, the Roland Go Piano has an average battery life of 6 hours, while the Yamaha NP12 has a maximum battery life of 16 hours.
  • The Go Piano weighs 3.9kg and the NP 12 weighs 4.5 Kg.

The NP12 is slightly larger than the Go Piano, as the NP12 has the following dimensions 103.5cm x 10.5cm x 25.9 cm, while Go Piano 87.7cm x 27.1cm x 8.2cm.

The clear winner in this comparison is the Roland Go Piano, because the only point against is the duration of the batteries, showing a duration of 6 hours against 16 of NP12 (data collected on the official websites of Roland and Yamaha respectively), however, the Go Piano is far superior because it has better keyboard technology, better sound quality, more complete connectivity, smaller dimensions, and weight and has a more powerful recorder.

Below is a video of Yamaha NP12 Sound:

If you want more information about this model, you can visit our review of the Yamaha NP12.

Conclusion

If you need a digital piano to play wherever you want the Roland Go Piano is one of the best options available.

The Go Piano is a keyboard aimed at novice and expert pianists who want portability has everything you need in terms of connectivity and great sound quality. Despite having 61 keys without counterweight, it has pressure sensitivity and a keyboard speed system that generates a good key response.

It is necessary to consider that the Go Piano is totally ideal for someone who wants to travel and play the piano, however, if you want a keyboard for music production or more functions you may want to take a look at our guide to the best digital pianos and keyboards in price and benefit ratio, still, if you are looking for a keyboard at a lower price, you can review our guide to cheap keyboards.

Where to buy the Roland Go Piano

The Internet will always be the best option to buy, however, it is important to choose a store that is able to guarantee you the correct transport and the best conditions of purchase. At America check Amazon. At Europe check Thomann:

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

Did you like this article?

Digital Piano Yamaha NP12 Full Review. Is it a good one?

Where to Buy Yamaha NP12: Review and Opinion

If you are looking for a digital piano for less than 200€, the Yamaha NP12 might be the best choice for you.

The NP12 is a keyboard focused on those who love the piano, since its functions are directed to imitate a piano, the simplicity in its design and its 4.5 kilograms of weight make it the ideal choice for those who wish to travel with their keyboard.

Get the Yamaha NP12 with the best discount available on Amazon pressing the following button

Features

The Yamaha NP12 is a simple keyboard with great portability, among the outstanding features of the NP12 are the 61 keys with sensitivity to pressure, the possibility of using the power adapter or 6 AA batteries (duration of 16 hours).Features:

I’m sure you’ll be interested in…

  • 61 Pressure-sensitive keys (without weighted keys)
  • 64-note polyphony
  • 10 Sounds (4 Piano Voices, 2 Organo Voices, String Voices, percussions and harpsichord)
  • 10 Demonstration melodies
  • 10 Piano Presets
  • Recorder with a capacity to store 1 song (approximately 7000 notes)
  • Metronome
  • Auto power-off function
  • Headphone output
  • Input for sustain pedal (FC3A)
  • USB TO HOST (MIDI)
  • Integration with iOS Devices via USB Host (iPhone and iPad)
  • 2 Speakers of 2.5W each.
  • The option of use with 6 AA Batteries or 6 NI-MH Rechargeable Batteries
  • Dimensions 1,035mm x 105mm x 259mm /Weight 4.5kg

The NP12 is a simple keyboard that has everything to learn piano or use as a travel instrument.

 

Sound

The Yamaha NP12 has two 2.5w speakers, the power of the speakers can below for those who want to make presentations in public, however, the sound quality of these speakers is quite good.

The sound of the NP12 is of great quality, its voices are clear and perfectly imitate the piano, strings, etc. Below is the official Yamaha video, where you can appreciate the sound:

The following video shows a funky improvisation, using a NP12:

Connectivity

For its price has “enough” connectivity, because it brings MIDI so you can connect it to the computer and record MIDI tracks while playing, which can then be exported directly to the music sheet with a single click. It also comes with sustain pedal input, something basic if you want to learn to play the piano.

The strong feature of the Yamaha NP12 connectivity is the connection with iOS devices, as those who love the iPhone and iPad may have several additional functions through the USB Host connection.

In terms of connectivity, the Yamaha NP12 is well suited for a user who is focused on playing music as a hobby or intends to use the keyboard primarily for practice, however, connectivity is limited for those looking for a keyboard made for music production.

Advantages and disadvantages of Yamaha NP12

The advantages of this model are:

  • Portable and Lightweight
  • Possibility of use with 6 AA Batteries (16 hours of use with alkaline batteries)
  • Pressure Sensitive Keys
  • Sound Quality
  • Sustain pedal input
  • USB HOST with Integration for iOS devices

The disadvantages of this model are:

  • Non-weighted keys
  • Only has 10 voices
  • No music production functions
  • Internal recorder with capacity for 1 single piece.

The balance of the Yamaha NP12 is quite positive as for less than 200€ it offers you 61 pressure-sensitive keys with a pretty good sound, sustain pedal input of only 4.5 Kg. and the possibility of use with 6 AA batteries for about 16 hours.

Among the main disadvantages is the lack of counterweight on the keys, the small number of voices and functions, however, do not lose sight that the idea of this keyboard is entirely aimed at portability.

Yamaha NP12 vs NP32

The NP12 and NP32 are two Yamaha models that share virtually all functions, the two digital pianos are focused on portability, the main differences are:

  • The NP12 has 61 pressure-sensitive keys and the NP32 has 76 pressure-sensitive keys.
  • Graded Soft Touch technology, which provides better sensitivity performance.
  • The NP32 has 2 6w speakers while the NP12 has 2 2.5w speakers.
  • Both models support 6 AA batteries, however, the NP 12 has an average life of 16 hours and the NP32 7 hours.
  • NP12 weighs 4.5kg while NP32 weighs 5.7kg

The two Yamaha models share all functions, the only key differences between these two models are the number of keys and pressure sensitivity technology, sound power, maximum battery life, and weight.

The NP32 is a clear winner as it is a keyboard with more keys and better sensitivity technology, it also has the benefit of sound power, however, if your focus is on portability or time of use with batteries the NP12 might be the best choice for you. Below is a video showing the two Yamaha models:

Yamaha NP12 vs NP11

The NP12 is the new version of the Yamaha NP11, both keyboards have functions in common, however, as expected the NP12 has better features, below are the main differences between the two models:

  • Both models have 61 pressure-sensitive keys, have 10 voices, 2.5w speakers, input for a sustain pedal and a weighs 4.5 Kg.
  • NP11 has 32 polyphony notes while NP12 has 64.
  • Both models have the option of using AA Batteries, however, the NP12 has a maximum duration of 16 hours, while the NP11 has a maximum duration of 6 hours.

As mentioned above, these two Yamaha models are practically the same, however, the NP12 is a clear winner in that it has better sound quality and lower power consumption, allowing prolonged use with AA batteries.

Yamaha NP12 vs Roland Go Piano

Yamaha and Roland have always been great competitors and have very similar keyboard lines, the NP12 and Go Piano are two keyboards focused on portability that have similar features, below are the main differences and similarities:

  • Both models have 61 touch-sensitive keys and no weighted keys, but the Ivory Feel technology and Box-shape keys included in Roland’s Go Piano produces a more realistic piano feel.
  • The NP12 has 64 polyphony notes, while the Go Piano has 128.
  • The Go Piano has 30 voices, while the NP12 has 10.
  • Both models have an integrated recorder, however, the Go Piano allows 99 songs to be stored, while the NP12 only allows 1.
  • Both models have an option for a sustain pedal, USB MIDI, and headphone input.
  • Roland has Bluetooth connectivity and a lesson system through the application in iOS.
  • The Roland has a black and white LCD screen, while the Yamaha has no screen.
  • Both models can be used with AA batteries, the Roland Go Piano has an average battery life of 6 hours, while the Yamaha NP12 has a maximum battery life of 16 hours.
  • The Go Piano weighs 3.9 kg and the NP 12 weighs 4.5  Kg.

At first glance, the clear winner is Roland’s Go Piano as it has better key technology, better sound quality, the recorder has more capacity and is a lighter keyboard, however, the battery life is significantly shorter than a Yamaha does. Below is a video of the sound of the Roland Go Piano:

Conclusion

If you are looking for a digital piano to practice wherever you want the Yamaha NP12 is a very good choice. The NP12 is a portable keyboard that has a focus totally directed to pianists since, in spite of not having weighted keys, it has 10 voices of which 4 are focused on the piano.

For those looking for a keyboard to learn to play the piano or to move and use it with batteries, the NP12 can be an option, especially if they are looking for a keyboard for less than 200€.

If you want a keyboard that has a different approach with a low cost we recommend you take a look at our guide to digital pianos and low-cost keyboards, on the other hand, if you are looking for a keyboard with the better performance you can review our guide to the best digital pianos and keyboards cost/benefit ratio.

Where to buy Yamaha NP12

There are several options to purchase the Yamaha NP12, we recommend Amazon as they have a great logistics, there is the possibility of making a return, in case you are not satisfied with the product and also has the best prices in the market. If you want to get the best price available, do not hesitate to press the button below:

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

Did you like this article?

1 … 168 169 170 171 172 … 180