Gear article
Casio AP-S200 Digital Piano
The Casio AP-S200 is a slimline digital piano designed for home use, featuring a compact chassis that is less than 30cm deep. It incorporates Casio's Smart Scaled Hammer Action and a high-fidelity Concert Grand Piano sample, alongside wireless connectivity options.
See live pricesIntroduction and Design
The Casio AP-S200 is a contemporary digital piano developed for modern living spaces. Its primary design philosophy centres on a 'slimline' profile, measuring less than 30cm in depth. This makes the instrument particularly suitable for smaller rooms, apartments, or alcoves where a traditional cabinet-style piano would be too cumbersome. Despite its compact footprint, it retains a full-sized 88-note keyboard and integrated stand with pedals.
Keyboard Action and Sound Engine
The instrument utilises Casio's Smart Scaled Hammer Action. This mechanism is designed to replicate the natural weight and resistance found in an acoustic grand piano, where keys feel heavier in the lower register and lighter in the upper register.
The sound engine is led by a professional-grade Concert Grand Piano sample. In total, the AP-S200 offers 19 different tones, allowing players to experiment with electric pianos, organs, and string ensembles to suit various musical genres.
Digital Connectivity and Recording
A defining feature of the AP-S200 at its price point is the inclusion of both Bluetooth Audio and MIDI functionality. This allows users to stream audio from mobile devices through the piano's speakers or connect wirelessly to music production and learning applications.
For recording, the instrument supports USB Audio playback and recording. Users can capture their performances directly to an external drive in either WAV or MP3 formats, facilitating easy sharing or critical review of their playing.
Comparison to Alternatives
Within the Casio range, the AP-S200 sits alongside the AP-300, which offers different aesthetic finishes such as Grey Beige. When compared to luxury models like the Kawai CA901 or CA501, the AP-S200 prioritises space-saving and affordability while maintaining essential weighted key characteristics.
Compared to intermediate models like the Roland HP704 or RP701, the Casio's main advantage is its ultra-slim depth. While high-end alternatives like the Kawai CN301 or Roland DP603 offer different speaker configurations and cabinet designs, the AP-S200 provides a competitive feature set including Bluetooth and high-quality sampling at a lower price point of approximately £738.
Related gear
£2,539.00 ($3,225)Roland
Roland DP603 Digital Piano Polished White
£2,029.00 ($2,577)Roland
Roland HP704 Digital Piano Light Oak
£1,504.05 ($1,910)Kawai
Kawai CN301 Digital Piano Satin Black
£2,218.83 ($2,818)Kawai
Kawai CA501 Digital Piano Satin Black
£1,035.00 ($1,314)Casio
Casio AP-300 Digital Piano Grey Beige
£349.99 ($444)Gear4Music
VISIONKEY-500 Digital Piano Bench Pack Black
£1,205.00 ($1,530)Roland
Roland RP701 Digital Piano White
£3,253.38 ($4,132)Kawai
Kawai CA901 Digital Piano Satin Black
Frequently asked questions
- What are the dimensions of the Casio AP-S200?
- The Casio AP-S200 features a slimline design with a depth of less than 30cm. This makes it one of the most compact cabinet-style digital pianos available for small spaces.
- Does the Casio AP-S200 have weighted keys?
- Yes, it features Casio's Smart Scaled Hammer Action. This provides a natural response that mimics the weighted feel of an acoustic piano's keyboard.
- Can I connect my phone to the AP-S200 via Bluetooth?
- Yes, the instrument includes Bluetooth Audio and MIDI connectivity. This allows for wireless audio streaming and connection to music software.
- How many sounds are built into the AP-S200?
- The piano includes 19 different tones. This includes the flagship Concert Grand Piano sample and various other musical styles.
- Does the AP-S200 support USB recording?
- Yes, it features USB Audio playback and recording. You can save your performances directly to a USB device in WAV or MP3 formats.
- What is the typical price for this model?
- The Casio AP-S200 typically retails for approximately £738. This price point includes the integrated stand and pedal unit.
- Is the AP-S200 suitable for beginners?
- Yes, its combination of professional features and compact design makes it ideal for learners. The Bluetooth MIDI functionality is particularly helpful for using educational apps.
- What finish is available for this specific package?
- This specific package comes in a Black finish. Other models in the series, such as the AP-300, are available in alternative colours like Grey Beige.
- How does the AP-S200 handle audio playback?
- It can play back audio files via USB in WAV or MP3 formats. It can also stream audio wirelessly from external devices via its Bluetooth Audio feature.
- Does this piano include a bench?
- The standard AP-S200 package details focus on the instrument itself. Some retailers may offer separate bundles like the VISIONKEY-500 pack which includes accessories.
- How does it compare to the Roland RP701?
- While both are high-quality digital pianos, the AP-S200 is specifically designed with a slimline depth under 30cm. The Roland RP701 is a more traditional cabinet-style instrument.
- Is the AP-S200 considered a portable piano?
- No, it is a cabinet-style digital piano with an integrated stand. However, its slim design makes it much easier to move and place in tight spaces than standard digital pianos.
