Casio PX-870 Privia Digital Piano - Black Bundle vs Yamaha 88-Key Weighted Portable Digital Piano

Overview of the Casio PX-870 and Yamaha P-45

The Casio PX-870 is priced at $899.00, while the Yamaha P-45 comes at a significantly lower price of $399.99. This makes the Yamaha about 56% cheaper than the Casio. Both digital pianos cater to different segments of the market, with the Casio targeting serious players looking for a more immersive experience and the Yamaha appealing to beginners or those needing a portable option.

Sound Quality Comparison

The Casio PX-870 offers stunning sound quality with its new piano sound featuring detailed resonance and 18 additional tones. It has a powerful 4-speaker sound projection system that fills the space with rich audio, making it ideal for performances. In contrast, the Yamaha P-45 features 10 unique voices, including the sound of a Yamaha grand piano, but it does not provide the same level of depth and resonance as the Casio. The PX-870's advanced sound system makes it a better choice for those prioritizing sound quality.

Key Feel and Performance

The key feel in the Casio PX-870 is designed to replicate an authentic piano experience with 88 scaled, weighted hammer-action keys that have simulated ebony and ivory textures. This results in an incredibly realistic touch that is ideal for expressive playing. The Yamaha P-45 also features an 88-key weighted keyboard, but its touch-sensitive keys are primarily aimed at beginners. While the Yamaha provides a good playing experience, the Casio’s more sophisticated action and customizability make it superior for seasoned players.

Design and Aesthetics

In terms of design, the Casio PX-870 presents a stylish modern wooden cabinet available in black, oak, or white finishes. It includes a sliding key cover, making it an attractive addition to any home decor. The Yamaha P-45, while compact and lightweight, has a more straightforward design that prioritizes portability over aesthetics. Those looking for an elegant digital piano that doubles as furniture will likely prefer the Casio's upscale design.

Additional Features

The Casio PX-870 is packed with features, including a 256-note polyphony, a two-track MIDI recorder, and a built-in music library with 60 songs. It also offers a unique Headphone Mode and Duet Mode, making it versatile for both practice and teaching. The Yamaha P-45 is simpler, with fewer built-in features, making it more suitable for beginners who may not require such extensive functionalities. The Casio’s robust feature set positions it as a more comprehensive instrument for advanced players.

Accessories and Bundling

The bundle that comes with the Casio PX-870 includes a furniture bench, headphones, an instructional book, online lessons, an instructional DVD, and a polishing cloth. This comprehensive package adds significant value to the purchase. On the other hand, the Yamaha P-45 is typically sold as a standalone unit, lacking additional accessories, which may require new buyers to invest more to get started. For those who seek a ready-to-play package, the Casio has a clear advantage.

Portability and Weight

While the Casio PX-870 does offer a great sound and performance, it is designed as a console piano, making it less portable than the Yamaha P-45. The Yamaha is compact and lightweight, ideal for musicians who need to transport their instrument frequently. If portability is a key factor for you, the Yamaha’s design allows for easy transport to lessons or gigs, while the Casio is better suited for a stationary setup in your home.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Casio PX-870 and Yamaha P-45 ultimately depends on your specific needs as a musician. If you are a serious player looking for an authentic piano experience with superior sound quality, key feel, and extensive features, the Casio PX-870, priced at $899.00, is worth the investment. However, if you are a beginner or someone who values portability and a lower price point, the Yamaha P-45 at $399.99 presents a solid choice. Both have their strengths, but your playing style and needs will dictate the best option for you.