Hi,
I never play piano before, but I've been playing guitar for years, so I do know a little bit about music. I would like to learn how to play Piano for fun, not necessarily go to take exams; however, I do want to practise my fingers in a more realistic "ascoutic piano feel" so that I will not develop too many bad habits.
I start shopping with Casio, Korg and Kawai as they are cheaper. Finally I end up with Roland and Yamaha as both are highly recommended by my friends and dealers. Yamaha has a brighter sound while Roland has a more mellow sound in most's opinions.
I'm in Australia, so the $$ are all Australian dollars.
Normal Price:
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Roland HP2 = $A 3,000 or $US 2,220.
Roland HP3 = $A 4,000 or $US 2,965.
Roland HP103 = $A 3,500 or $US 2,600.
Yamaha CLP-130 = $A 4,000 or $US 2,965.
As the new model of Roland HP-103 is available in Australia last week, most prices of the old model drops down dramtically (as dealers want to get rid of old stock of Roland HP series).
Best Deals I have been offered are:
Special Price
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Roland HP2 = $A 2,000 or $US 1,485.
Roland HP3 = $A 3,000 or $US 2,220.
Roland HP103 = $A 3,000 or $US 2,220.
Yamaha CLP-130 = $A 3,000 or $US 2,220.
* These are all Brand New in box.
Also, I have been offered an ex-demo (display) of Roland HP3 (very good condition, no scratch)=
$A 2,400 or $US 1,800.
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So the question are:
* which one should I buy ??? For what reason??
* which one do you think is the best value?
* which one do you think got the best piano sound (given the feel will be different from one piano to another anyway)?
Thanks a lot