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Hi all,

I just found this bulletin board this morning. It seems a good place to ask some questions.

I have been looking for an instrument to use to learn to play the piano. My first idea was an inexpensive keyboard like a Yamaha PSR292 or DGX202. However, some advice from the svpworld board told me to go look at the keyboards. Well
I didn't find any PSR or DGX keyboards, but I did see a Yamaha Clavinova CLP130 that was really nice. They have the CLP120 on sale for $1700.
If its anything like its bigger brother, it'll be nice.

On this board I've heard of the Casio AP38. It
has lesser features, but I can get it for $1000.
Does it have a metronome? Has anybody had any
keyboard problems with it?

I find I like the look of a full piano more than the portable keyboards. We also have cats, so a
keyboard cover is a major plus.

My desire is to learn to play the piano.

I find it very difficult to shop for the piano. Nearest stores are an hour away...and I seem to look at only what the salesman wants to show me.

Thanks for all advice.

I had to check the date on your post - the two DPs you´re talking about are pretty old models. The CLP130 is from 2003. Is it an occasion? The specs seem good, but I have no idea what it would sound like or feel like, compared to the newer models.

If you say that you can get the Casio for $1000, I´m kinda wondering what they are asking for this CLP130. Make sure that they don´t overcharge - there are some of these local dealers charging more for the older models than some others for the newer models.

So, compare prices. Old models are usually offered for pretty competitive prices.

p.s. After knowing more or less what you want, look for a good store with a bunch of different brands (and good prices), make that 1 hr (or more) drive, and compare. It can definitely be worth the effort.
Btw another big advantage of the console model pianos (non-portables) is that they have more powerful speakers.

hope this helps

Zphorumz, the "occasion" in pieper's first post means "used."

In general Yamaha's actions have a good reputation for durability and quality control. In the past Casio's actions - then made by Fatar - did not have a good reputation. IMO if you can afford one, the Yamaha is preferred. Yamaha's weak point is that the company samples its own pianos;-) Down the road you might to buy a good software piano, which would be stored on your computer and accessed via MIDI or USB/MIDI.

I also am curious about the models from which you're choosing. Where are you shopping?

FogVilleLad right,if your piano got usd midi in/ount you will end up using piano software.

im still in this piano arena and just bought yamaha dgx-630 back at my country as my first digital piano.now im studying abroad and just month ago i bought casio px-320(newer version is px330).from what ive experience,i think u should buy yamaha as your first digital pianos because the yamaha keys is lil bit soft than casio or korg imo.but if you want to save up money,go for casio,im sure it will satisfied you too,as long as you buy privia pianos.

hope this help...