Introduction
Choosing a digital piano can be a daunting task, with many brands offering a variety of features and technologies. In this post, we’ll compare the sound generating systems of two popular digital piano series: the Yamaha Clavinova CLP-Series and the Roland LX700 Series. Both of these series have established themselves as top choices for professional and amateur musicians alike, but they take somewhat different approaches to achieving their signature sounds.
Yamaha Clavinova CLP-Series
The Yamaha Clavinova CLP-Series digital pianos are known for their meticulous replication of two world-renowned concert grand pianos: the Yamaha CFX and the Bӧsendorfer Imperial.
The Yamaha CFX, a flagship 9’ concert grand piano, offers sparkling highs and a powerful resonant bass. It has gained recognition as one of the greatest concert grands of modern times, having been played by the winner of the prestigious International Chopin Competition in 2010. Its sound projects to the furthest reaches of any concert hall, making it a desirable tone for many pianists.
The Bӧsendorfer Imperial, on the other hand, is lauded for its unique warm bass, singing treble, and rich tonal colors known as the “Viennese Sound”. This sound results from Bӧsendorfer’s hand-crafted design, and its development has been influenced by famed composers like Brahms and Johann Strauss. The Bӧsendorfer Imperial is known for its ability to withstand intense playing, a characteristic that made it a favorite of composer Franz Liszt.
The sound generating system in the Clavinova CLP Series goes beyond simple sound sampling, reproducing the Yamaha CFX concert grand and the Bӧsendorfer Imperial in great detail. This allows players to choose the perfect piano tone for the music they want to play.
Roland LX700 Series
The Roland LX700 Series sets itself apart with its Pure Acoustic Piano Modelling technology and Acoustic Projection System. Unlike many digital pianos that use sampling technology, the LX700 Series uses advanced digital modeling technology to recreate the process of piano-tone-generation in real-time. This approach allows for a beautifully rich sound that captures the player’s expression and touch as they perform.
This series also offers the choice of two completely different piano models: a classic European grand with a deep tonal character and an American grand that emphasizes clarity and brightness. These different models provide a level of versatility that goes beyond the typical sound variations found on conventional digital pianos.
In terms of speaker system, each LX700 model includes an Acoustic Projection System, designed to reproduce the rich, room-filling sound of a grand piano in a great venue. The flagship LX708 houses a four-way, eight-speaker system, each speaker fulfilling a specific role in delivering superior piano tone. The LX706 and LX705 models also have impressive speaker systems with six and four speakers, respectively.
Additional features like the opening top lid provide a natural variation in tone, similar to opening the lid on an acoustic grand piano. The front C-shape wide aperture projects the resonance of the piano frame from the top-mounted special speakers, adding another layer of depth to the sound.
Conclusion
In summary, both the Yamaha Clavinova CLP-Series and the Roland LX700 Series offer impressive sound generating systems, but they approachsound generation in different ways. The Yamaha Clavinova CLP-Series emphasizes the detailed replication of two iconic grand pianos, the Yamaha CFX and the Bӧsendorfer Imperial, delivering a rich, concert grand sound at the touch of a button. Meanwhile, the Roland LX700 Series utilizes advanced digital modelling technology and a unique Acoustic Projection System to create a dynamic, rich sound that captures the nuance and expression of each performance.
Choosing between the two ultimately depends on your personal preferences. If you’re a fan of the Yamaha CFX or Bӧsendorfer Imperial, or if you’re looking for a digital piano that meticulously replicates the sound of these concert grands, the Yamaha Clavinova CLP-Series could be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate the versatility of having two distinct piano models and the advanced sound generation of digital modelling, the Roland LX700 Series might be your ideal match.
Remember, the best way to decide is to try them out for yourself. After all, what matters most is how the piano sounds to you and how it responds to your touch. So come along to Hickies Music Store on Friar Street, Reading, try both series, and let your ears and fingers make the decision!
