Casio Piano Demo Music
CASIO official portal site on Electronic Musical Instruments. Mike Martin from Casio presents the Privia Pro PX-560 digital piano. The PX-560 gives you many of the sound design advantages of its award-winning PX-5S predecessor, and adds more sounds, user-programmable rhythms, built-in speakers, and more.
With such memorable keyboards as the Casio SA76, Casio was once known as the company that made toy keyboards. And maybe with hindsight, it deserved the tag. But slowly this brand is redeeming its image. You only need look at the Casio PX-130 to see how.
If you’re one of the skeptics and are consequently, doubting the PX130, you’ve come to the right place. In our review today, we’ll be presenting you the facts, so you make an informed judgment call for yourself.
From the quality of its keys, to the built-in tones, we’ll show you areas where Casio did it for us. And also, areas where we’re less than impressed.
As they say, time waits for no man, so let’s get this show on the road…
Contents
- Features Of The Casio PX-130
The Bottom Line For Those In A Hurry…
If you do not have the time to read the entire review, here’s the bottom line…
The Casio PX-130 is an entry-level piano best suited to beginners.
First of all, this piano belongs to Casio’s Privia series which means that it is portable and compact. It will fit into any space easily and even add some oomph to the space, because this piano looks good!
The sound quality is good, as close to an acoustic piano as Casio could manage for the price. You’ll also find that this transitions, from soft to powerful relatively smoothly.
The keys feel great too and come with Casio’s Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer action. So, they do feel like an acoustic piano in some sense, Casio even gave them simulated ivory keytops. So, there’s none of that plasticky feel that most digital pianos have.
There’s a split/layer mode, plus a duet mode. And there are 16 built-in tones with different sound effects including the Acoustic Resonance DSP.
Altogether, this is a fantastic entry-level piano. So, we recommend this for beginners. Pro players will definitely need more. But if you’re starting out and looking to get a quality keyboard, this makes a fine choice.
And now to the full review…
Features Of The Casio PX-130
In the bottom-line section of this review, we did mention that the PX-130 is for beginners. So, as you go through the features, keep that in mind. We repeat, it is not for pro players.
Design – Compact, Portable, And Sleek
As a beginner, you’ll probably be going from practice to home a lot. Or you might be staying in a dorm and therefore, cannot afford the space for a really heavy, space-consuming unit. And that’s where the PX-130 shines.
It is compact and portable, making this keyboard up to the task for convenient storage and portability. However, what impresses us immensely, is how Casio still manages to deliver on major features.
Check it out. The keyboard comes with 88 piano-sized keys. So, you don’t feel like you’re playing on a toy. It’s also important in building correct piano skills. And yet, it is compact enough to rest on a desk in your dorm without making your roommate call you a space hogger.
And despite all this, this keyboard still weighs a mere 25 pounds. So, carrying this will never be a problem.
And it’s not just about weight, the depth of a keyboard, is also very important in determining, whether it will be awkward to carry a piano or not. This measures at just 5 inches. So, it’s going to feel like carrying a textbook, except for the length of course.
And, of course, we’re not going to forget that this piano does look good and you’ll be proud to own it.
Control Panel And Interface – Intuitive
We like how Casio makes the interface of this keyboard very intuitive and easy to navigate. And that’s because there are quite a number of features and functions on the PX-130.
So, it’s only right that navigating is easy. Interacting with a digital piano should never be difficult.
Anyhow, the control panel resides just above the keybed. And you can even use the keys as a shortcut to select the functions you want every time.
This seems to be a trend with piano makers these days. And we are loving it because it just makes things a whole lot more convenient for all involved.
In all, the layout of this piano looks clean, well thought out, intuitive, and easy on the eyes. And this is important because you don’t want to scare beginners off with too cluttered a layout.
60 Demo Songs, Duet Mode – Features For The Beginning Pianist
We did tell you that this is for the beginners, right? Now, here are a few of the ways Casio looks out for beginners on this keyboard.
First off, the Casio PX-130 comes with 60 demo songs. And why are demo songs important? Well, for two reasons actually.
Demo songs are there for entertainment. You know, after a long day of practice, you can just kick back and enjoy some demo songs.
Well, to be honest, we know you’d rather just listen to your own playlist on your phone. But hey, if you ever develop the hankering for some beautiful demo music, they will be there for you. lol.
Next, and far more importantly, demo songs are very important in improving how well you play. They give you something to practice with on your own, even when your tutor is not around.
Now, unlike Yamaha, the Casio PX-130 does not come with a learning suite. So, you’d either have to take online piano lessons or get a tutor. But, at least, you can use these demo songs to enhance your playing and have productive lessons.
It also features a duet mode. This means that you and someone else can play side by side on the same keyboard. So, that someone else can be your tutor.
Sound Quality – Good Enough, Great Transitions
Being straight up with you. There’s only so much an entry-level piano can do in terms of delivering a sound close to that of an acoustic piano. And, whenever you see a company making an effort, you’ve got to commend it.
So, fair play to Casio, for an entry-level piano, this does a pretty decent job. It might not be a Korg but you can’t deny the quality at work here.
Casio uses a Linear Morphing System as the sound engine and it works well. It sourced the samples used for this piano from its concert grand under four different key pressures.
And to smoothen it all for beautiful continuity, Casio uses what it calls morphing technology.
In the end, you get smooth transitions from soft pianissimos to powerful fortissimos. We must add here that it is quite difficult to achieve such a smooth transition on a digital piano. But it seems Casio has worked a miracle here. It’s amazing!
Built-In Tones And Sound Effects – Decent
There are only 16 tones on the PX-130 which is understandably not mind-blowing. But at this price point, who are we to complain? Here are the built-in tones in the Casio PX-130:
- 3 Electric Pianos.
- 3 Grand Pianos: Classic, Modern, and Variation.
- 1 Vibraphone.
- 1 Harpsichord.
- 2 strings.
- 4 organs: 1 Pipe, 1 Jazz, 2 Electric.
- 2 Basses.
Now to the sound effects, you’ll find the chorus, reverb and the Acoustic Resonance DSP which should help you dress up your tones and give them a bit of oomph!
Keys – Great Action, Great Feel
All digital piano makers know that, if you’re going to make a digital keyboard feel, even remotely close to an acoustic piano, then you need hammer action. Yep, you’re going to have to put some tiny hammers into your digital keyboard.
And yes, it will make your piano somewhat heavier but it seems they’ve found a way around that because many lightweight portable keyboards now come with hammer action. Just ask Yamaha.
And you also have to make the action graded. This gives you a heavier feel on the low end and the lighter feel on the higher end just like what you have on an acoustic piano.
Does the PX-130 deliver on both? Of course, it does. But here’s the icing on the cake – the ivory and ebony keytops. It’s what makes this keyboard feel great to the touch without feeling plasticky.
Now, in all honesty, they might not feel as good as those found on the Casio PX-160, as those who have played it will know. But they are by no means bad either. They actually feel really nice.
And here’s something else. Because of the ivory/ebony keytops, even if your hands get moist from a prolonged practice, they won’t start to slip off from the keyboard.
Good news, init?
Pros
- Great sound.
- Can connect to an MIDI controller or computer thanks to the USB port.
- Keys feel good to the touch with a nice response.
- Compact, lightweight, and portable.
Cons
- Does not come with any on-board learning programs.
- Features only one USB port.
Now for the techies among us who need more detail, here are the specs of the Casio PX-130.
Casio PX-130 Specs
- 88 keys with Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer action.
- Keys come with 3 level touch sensitivity.
- Max Polyphony: 128 notes.
- Sound engine: Linear Morphing AIF.
- Modes: Split, layer, and duet.
- Built-in tones: 16.
- Sound Effects: 4 Reverbs, 4 Choruses, Brilliance, DSP Acoustic Resonance System.
- Metronome and Transpose functions.
- 60 demo songs.
- Connectivity: 2 headphone jacks, 1 damper pedal jack, 3-pedal unit connector, Type B USB port.
- 2 speakers: 13 x 6 centimeters, 8W + 8W.
- Dimensions: 52 x 11.3 x 29.9 inches (with stand), 52 x 11.3 x 5.3 inches (without a stand).
- Weight: 46.7 pounds (with stand), 24.7 pounds (without stand).
Also see: Casio SA76 Review
Conclusion
This is a great piano for the beginner looking for something that feels close enough to the real thing. It works in any space and you can even play this on a bus or a train, if you fancy, because of its size.
Plus, it’s definitely good to know that it’s kind on the pocket as well.
Altogether, not a pro-level piano, but great job for an entry-level piano all the same.
It seems that Casio digital pianos are great for not only home use but also studio and stage use. Even, they are an excellent tool for both beginners and piano teachers.
And today, we will give you a closer look at our Casio CDP 235 review, which is known as a new version when examining vs CDP 230.
This digital piano boasts a new improved Grand Piano sound that makes you think about an actual grand piano. Although it isn’t, it has been attracting lots of piano players.
So, what is the BIG reason?
Follow us and discover now!
Casio CDP 235 Specs And Features
Before diving into our detailed review, you should have a general look at the Casio CDP 235 at first.
- 88 weighted keys, scaled hammer action keyboard
- 700 built-in tones and 200 built-in rhythms
- 152 built-in songs
- 90 arpeggiator types and 305 presets
- Dual-Element AHL sound source
- Digital effects including hall, reverb, and chorus
- 6-track recording
- Step Up Lesson function
- LCD screen with backlight
- 2 full-force sound speakers
- AMP Output 8W + 8W
- Maximum polyphony of 64 notes
- SD memory card slot, MIDI, and USB
- Headphone jack, mic, and audio in
- Weight: 11.3 kg
- Dimensions: 28.6 x 132.2 x 12.9 cm
- Includes songbook, music stand, sustain pedal, and AC adapter
A Complete Casio CDP 235 Review
The First Look
When it comes to the Casio CDP 235 or CDP235R or CDP235CSCB, all are the same. If seeing the model of CDP235CSCB, that means this digital piano offers a bench and stand without requiring an extra charge.
These 88-key pianos are equipped with an effect function that might recreate the rich, warm acoustics of a concert hall. And while playing, you will feel the inherent closeness of a concert hall performance.
Thanks to the weighted keys, this instrument can replicate the resistance that you always feel when playing a traditional grand piano.
How about its design?
With a slim, compact and lightweight design, you are able to transport it to anywhere you want.
Advanced Features
Since the appearance of CDP 235 is to replace the CDP 230, it boasts about some new features.
LCD Screen
Instead of giving a gold/orange color from the previous model, the Casio CDP 235 comes with the display screen with backlight in a blue color. The button description text is in a white color that makes everything easier to read.
Polyphony
When the first model only comes with 48 notes of polyphony, this instrument has 64 notes of polyphony. That means the piano sound, itself, is better.
Besides, layering two sounds together is less uncertain.
Keyboard
With a spring-less hammer system, the Casio CDP 235 similarly works as grand pianos and gives a naturally firm keyboard touch at the same time.
When playing the lower notes, you recognize they are relatively heavier than the higher notes, like the keys on the grand pianos.
Touch Response
Touch Response allows you to add a subtle difference to notes by changing how much pressure you touch the key.
Speakers
If examining vs Yamaha P115, the speakers from the CDP 235 clearly and powerfully reproduce a rich, dynamic range. With two speaker systems of 8W + 8W amplifiers, they deliver rich, high-quality, and fat sounds from the bass to the treble.
Chord Book
If you don’t know how to play a specific chord, you can avail the Chord Book as a reference. Select the chords you want to play, hear their sound and simply practice.
Step Up Lesson
The best way to start a song is to separate it into short phrases, practice each phrase and then put all together. The new function of Step Up Lesson does exactly what you want, allowing you to improve your playstyle.
Thanks to 152 built-in songs with 50 exercise phrases, you can cover a massive range of genres for lesson play.
Or you can load more songs from external sources. But, note that the fingering guide won’t be shown for such songs.
Other Features To Consider
Sounds
First of all, let’s talk about a massive tone list!
With 700 high-quality tones, you can play tunes from different genres. You also welcome 200 rhythms and an advanced auto accompaniment with lots of styles such as Latin, Samba, Cumbia, Calypso, etc.
Thanks to the dual-element AHL sound system, the quality of the tones is exquisite. It’s because this system utilizes waveforms of distinct samples of the same notes at the light and strong key pressures.
Music Preset
If you want to change the keyboard setup such as tempo, tone, rhythm, etc., it’s best to choose a Music Preset. With 305 music presets, you can cover a massive range of musical genres.
It’s ideal for playing a particular song as well.
Connectivity
Thanks to the USB port, it’s easy to connect to the computer from Windows Vista to Windows 10 and Mac OS. Especially, the SD memory card slot is convenient for transferring data, up to 32GB.
Or in case you need to connect with another GM-compatible device or with a computer, this instrument offers the general MIDI (GM Level 1) as well.
For Your Entertainment
Aside from some main changes above, the Casio CDP 235 reviewconcentrates on other entertainment features, including:
Sampling And Playing
The sampling feature is an ideal way to create new and creative sounds. For instance, you are able to test a sound from a microphone and perform it on the keyboard.
Or utilize the sampled sounds to create music or play notes if you like. Even, you can add vibrato, reverb or other effects to the sampled sounds to play notes on the keyboard.
Audio Or Mic In Jack
This digital piano is capable of connecting a CD player, digital audio player or other audio devices with ease. You even perform along with music played through the speakers of the keyboard.
And you can sing along with the built-in songs or any song loaded from outside sources by simply using the MIC.
Pros And Cons Of The Casio CDP 235
Things We Like
- 88 weighted keys, giving an authentic feeling of playing a grand piano
- Increased polyphony
- Comes with a massive tone list
- Features Hall button
- Offers two full-force sound speakers
- Provides an intuitive teaching system
- Good price
- Comes with a full set of accessories
Things We Don’t Like
- The sustain pedal is a bit smaller than the previous model.
- Some negative complaints of the key action movement
Other Alternatives As Compared With Casio CDP 235
Casio CDP 235 Vs Yamaha P45
At first sight, both instruments are ideal digital pianos for beginners and students.
The P45 keyboard comes with a full set of 88 graded hammer standard keys. It also owns 64-note polyphony, offering much more vibrant and fuller piano sound.
The AWM stereo sampling only delivers a rich and natural piano sound, not focusing on treble or bass like the CDP 235.
Overall, the Yamaha P45 conveys the realistic sound and touch to experience. And in case your budget is under $500, you can consider this product.
Versus Yamaha P115
The Yamaha P115 is a bit more expensive than the CDP 235, though both are known as the best choice for home use and even performance.
This digital model is close to playing on an authentic Yamaha piano. With 88 weighted hammer action keys, it is capable of controlling touch and responsiveness. It also comes with unique resonance and grandeur lower notes.
Thanks to 192 notes of polyphony, you are able to perform any song you want.
Casio CDP 235 vs PX 160
The Casio PX 160 also comes with 88 weighted keys, but it highlights the famous feature of Tri-sensor Scaled Hammer Action II. By using 3-sensor detection system, it prevents your fingers from slipping, imparts cleaner feeling, and offer a prestigious look.
Although the PX 160 boasts its 128-note polyphony, its built-in songs and tone lists are less than the CDP 235.
When it comes to the speaker system, both CDP 235 and PX 160 are similar.
Casio CDP 235 vs CDP 135
Compared to the Casio CDP 235, the CDP 135 is described as the unbeatable value.
This instrument is equipped with 88 fully weighted keys to offer an authentic feel of an acoustic piano. Its powerful and clear built-in speaker system shows a nice grand sound together with a rich hall reverb effect and other great tones.
Although the Casio CDP 135 doesn’t provide a MIDI recorder, it has kept a USB port as well as other features such as transpose, layering function, and metronome. You can check our CDP 135 review for more details.
Compare Casio CDP 235 With CDP 230
In comparison with other pianos, the CDP 230 is similar to the CDP 235. It shares the same key action, sound engine, speakers, sounds, etc.
However, the display screen of the CDP 230 is a bit hard to see since it is in an orange/gold color. Besides, it only offers 48 notes of polyphony.
Overall, if you prefer the CDP line and have a budget under $500, this instrument is ideal as well.
Read more: Casio CDP 100 Review
FAQs About Casio CDP 235
How To Connect The CDP 235 To The Computer/Laptop?
With a USB port, you can transfer data back and forth from the instrument to the computer or laptop quickly and easily. It supports Windows Vista, Windows 7, 8.1, 10, macOS (OS X or Mac OS X) from 10.7 to 10.12.
Casio Piano Demo Music Video
Additionally, the general MIDI permits connection with a computer or another GM-compatible device.
How To Record My Performances On The Computer From The CDP 235?
To record MIDI performances on the computer, you need to utilize the general MIDI controllers and a USB MIDI converter. The multi-tracking software is also necessary to perform, record and edit the performance on your computer.
Is Using The CDP 235 To Learn Piano A Good Way?
Yes, it is.
Thanks to the 88 weighted keys, it feels much more like the authentic piano keys. It also helps to set up right finger strength and technique. Importantly, it’s equipped with the sustain pedal.
As outlined above, the built-in learning system including the Chord Book and Step Up Lesson guide you how to learn to practice chord and master a song. And after playing or practicing, your lesson score appears on the screen.
Another interesting thing is that this instrument offers the voice fingering guide. When the keyboard senses you are making problems, it will warn in a simulated human voice.
How About The Casio CDP 235 Warranty?
Most of the Casio keyboards have a 5-year warranty; meanwhile, their accessories offer a 12-month warranty.
But, depending on different sellers, you MUST check it carefully.
Ready To Buy This Digital Piano?
All in all, the Casio CDP 235 review here is positive.
If you need a digital piano with arranging capabilities at an affordable price, this instrument is what you need.
First of all, the 88-key hammer action keyboard allows you to relish selecting instruments and rhythms easily.
Want a learning tool? This instrument introduces features like Step Up Lesson and Chord Book that encourage any player to enjoy the favorite built-in songs.
One more great feature is that you are able to load more songs from external sources to learn to play or listen. And this helps to improve your playing skills. Wonderfully, a handy feature of Audio in jack allows you to connect a digital audio player to play along with the music via the speakers.
With or without the user manual, using or setting up the system is simple to do. And we’re sure that you never feel bored with the CDP 235 no matter who you are, a kid, newbie or piano teacher.
It’s time to ORDER the Casio CDP 235 so that you can welcome a reliable way to learn the piano skills on the digital piano.
In case you still have any question or want to know any information, don’t mind asking us by leaving your comments below. And please SHARE this review if it is helpful not only for yourself but also the others.
Or don’t miss reading other reviews in our site to update more.
Casio Piano Demo Song List
Once again, thanks for your reading!