Yamaha Arius YDP-142C Light Cherry digital piano

General

Who wouldn't want a concert grand piano in their living room? That beautiful grand piano sound is like none other, but unfortunately many of use don't have rooms or wallets big enough for such an instrument. The solution is the Yamaha Arius YDP-142C Light Cherry digital piano. This model is based on the sound of the Yamaha CF3S concert grand piano, an incredibly accurate, expensive instrument. The YDP-142C is only a fraction of the cost (and size) of the CF3S but it still gives you that real piano feel thanks to the adjustable Graded Hammer Touch. For musicians with light interior rooms, Yamaha has given this particular model a lovely Light Cherry finish.

Extras

The YDP-142C is more than just a digital version of a traditional piano. Along with three grand piano sounds you can also play with two electric pianos, two organs, a harpsichord, a vibraphone and strings. These sounds can be combined together (up to 2) so you can get combinations like piano and strings, organ and strings or vibraphone and organ. If you want to listen back to your session (or if your family or teacher does) then you can use the handy recording function. It's also easy for two people to play at the same time with the duo mode, which splits the keyboard into two parts, each with their own middle C. With the adjustable reverb you can change the sound of your music to reflect the acoustics of different rooms so you can get that real concert hall feel.

Digital pianos: are they really that great?

Yes! And the further technology advances, the bigger and more resounding that "yes" becomes. Of course decades ago matters were different--lower quality, less expression. Luckily these days a digital piano is an excellent alternative to a real piano. The advantages are numerous: a digital piano is less expensive, easier to transport (especially up the stairs), and a headphone jack is available so you won't bother your neighbours. Above all, a digital piano with the sound of a grand concert piano fits easily in your home. A real piano, of course, is and will remain irreplaceable, but a digital model definitely wins in practicality and affordability.