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CLP170 TO CLP380 not sure

Posted: 24 Jun 2008, 05:55
by wilton
I have been considering upgrading my CLP170 to a clp380 but I see that the CLP380 is going to cost about 3000 GBP when it is released. This amount of money I notice can get me a new Perzina, or Waldstein, or for 2400 GBP upwards a fully restored U3, and there are many others from well known dealers and, private sellers.
I'm now not sure that the CLP380 is the best choice what do others think ?
Many thanks to those who have responded very helpfully to my previous posts.

Posted: 24 Jun 2008, 16:52
by markymark
Most people consider a digital if they are limited in space, want to move the piano around regularly (e.g in a school or studio setting), want voice versatility, amateur recording hobby or if you are going to need a piano in a setting where the temperature can not be regulated, e.g. church hall.

I suppose what I'm saying is that digitals have their place but, as you say, if you are going to spend £3000 plus on a piano, you may as well look at acoustics. It also really depends on what you want the instrument for. If you are big on performance, or are completing upper level piano exams, an acoustic is really a must if you are to interact effectively with the instrument. Although digitals have come a long way in simulating the action, feel and sound of a piano, remember that that is all they are - good (some of them, excellent) simulations of the original. You can't beat the action and feel of an acoustic!

You could look at the secondhand market for deals around the £3000 mark but as you sink to around 2000GBP and lower, you start to hit the entry level models, which, in some cases, are little better (if at all) than a good digital.

Posted: 25 Jun 2008, 01:01
by markymark
But this is why I think there is a case for having an acoustic as well as a digital!

Posted: 09 Aug 2008, 17:02
by joseph
if your heart is set on an acoustic, buy an acoustic, and keep your 170 as your emergency piano.

Posted: 12 Aug 2008, 15:00
by sparkley
Mark has put it very well really - if you can afford the acoustic then why not! But if there is a reason for you having a digitial, whatever that may be, I'd suggest playing the 380 to see if there is much difference between that and your 170. What are your reasons for moving away from the 170?

Also, £3000 sounds quite a lot, I'm sure there are places you could get a 380 for less than that. Even so, its still a lot of money. Have you tried playing any of the lower down models? They're cheaper and you may not notice the difference, depending on how advanced a player you are.