What is the primary sound engine used in the Casio PX-870?

The PX-870 utilizes Casio's Multi-dimensional Morphing AiR sound source. This engine uses high-quality sampling to provide realistic concert grand tones and dynamic variations.

How does the Sound Projection system work?

The system projects sound from both the front and the back of the piano cabinet. This design aims to fill a room more naturally, mimicking the tonal character of a traditional upright piano.

Does the PX-870 include acoustic resonance features?

Yes, it includes String Resonance, which simulates the sympathetic vibrations of strings. This adds a layer of authenticity to the piano's harmonic profile.

Are mechanical keyboard sounds simulated on this model?

The PX-870 features Key Action Noise simulation. This recreates the subtle mechanical sounds heard when playing a physical acoustic piano.

Is the PX-870 a compact piano?

Yes, it is the flagship of the Privia ultra-compact series. It features a slimline cabinet design intended to fit into smaller spaces while maintaining a professional look.

What is the typical price for a Casio PX-870 in the UK?

The instrument is typically priced at approximately £630. This makes it a mid-range option within the digital piano market.

How does the PX-870 compare to the Casio AP series?

While the AP series, such as the AP-300, often uses a more traditional furniture-style cabinet, the PX-870 focuses on a slimline design with flagship sound features like the Sound Projection system.

Can the PX-870 be used for live performances in venues?

The wide Sound Projection system is specifically designed to fill venues. Its ability to project sound from multiple directions makes it suitable for various performance environments.

What finish is available for the PX-870?

The model described is available in a Black finish. It is designed to look modern and fit aesthetically into contemporary home environments.

Does the PX-870 offer a high dynamic range?

Yes, Casio has focused on providing an exceptional dynamic range. This allows the player to express a wide variety of tonal colors based on their playing intensity.

Is the PX-870 suitable for advanced students?

It is highly suitable for students due to its inclusion of detailed features like String Resonance and authentic grand piano sampling. These features help develop proper technique and expressive control.

How does it compare to Roland or Kawai alternatives?

It is often compared to models like the Roland RP701 or Kawai CN301. While these brands offer their own proprietary technologies, the PX-870 distinguishes itself with its slimline flagship status and specific Sound Projection technology.

Gear article

Casio Privia PX-870 Digital Piano

The Casio PX-870 is the flagship model of the Privia ultra-compact digital piano series, designed to replicate the experience of a traditional acoustic upright. It features a revolutionary Sound Projection speaker system and the advanced Multi-dimensional Morphing AiR Sound Source for authentic tonal reproduction.

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Introduction and Design

The Casio PX-870 occupies a unique position in the digital piano market as the flagship of the Privia range. It is defined by its ultra-compact, slimline cabinet which allows it to fit into smaller living spaces without sacrificing the presence of a full console piano. The instrument is designed to challenge the traditional limitations of compact digital pianos by offering a more immersive acoustic experience.

AiR Sound Engine and Technology

At the core of the PX-870 is Casio’s Multi-dimensional Morphing AiR (Acoustic and intelligent Resonator) sound source. This technology uses thorough sampling of a concert grand piano to deliver high levels of detail. Beyond the basic piano tone, the engine simulates complex acoustic phenomena including:

String Resonance: The sympathetic vibration of unplayed strings.
Key Action Noise: The subtle mechanical sounds of keys being pressed and released.
Dynamic Range: A wide variation of tone that responds accurately to the player's touch and velocity.

Sound Projection System

One of the standout features of the PX-870 is its innovative Sound Projection speaker system. Unlike standard digital pianos that direct sound solely downwards or towards the player, the PX-870 projects sound from both the front and the back of the cabinet. This dual-projection method is intended to fill a venue more effectively and recreate the natural dispersion of sound found in a traditional upright piano.

Market Comparison

When compared to other digital pianos in the market, the PX-870 competes with models such as the Roland RP701 and the Kawai CN301. While higher-end models like the Kawai CA901 or Roland HP704 offer different cabinet styles and action technologies, the PX-870 focuses on providing flagship-level sound characteristics within a more accessible price point of approximately £630. It serves as a more advanced alternative to entry-level models like the Casio AP-300 or the Gear4Music VISIONKEY-500.

Target Audience

The PX-870 is suited for a wide range of pianists, from intermediate students to advanced players who require a space-saving instrument that does not compromise on tonal authenticity. Its combination of string resonance and realistic key noise makes it a viable tool for those looking to practice with the nuance required for concert grand performances.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary sound engine used in the Casio PX-870?: The PX-870 utilizes Casio's Multi-dimensional Morphing AiR sound source. This engine uses high-quality sampling to provide realistic concert grand tones and dynamic variations.
How does the Sound Projection system work?: The system projects sound from both the front and the back of the piano cabinet. This design aims to fill a room more naturally, mimicking the tonal character of a traditional upright piano.
Does the PX-870 include acoustic resonance features?: Yes, it includes String Resonance, which simulates the sympathetic vibrations of strings. This adds a layer of authenticity to the piano's harmonic profile.
Are mechanical keyboard sounds simulated on this model?: The PX-870 features Key Action Noise simulation. This recreates the subtle mechanical sounds heard when playing a physical acoustic piano.
Is the PX-870 a compact piano?: Yes, it is the flagship of the Privia ultra-compact series. It features a slimline cabinet design intended to fit into smaller spaces while maintaining a professional look.
What is the typical price for a Casio PX-870 in the UK?: The instrument is typically priced at approximately £630. This makes it a mid-range option within the digital piano market.
How does the PX-870 compare to the Casio AP series?: While the AP series, such as the AP-300, often uses a more traditional furniture-style cabinet, the PX-870 focuses on a slimline design with flagship sound features like the Sound Projection system.
Can the PX-870 be used for live performances in venues?: The wide Sound Projection system is specifically designed to fill venues. Its ability to project sound from multiple directions makes it suitable for various performance environments.
What finish is available for the PX-870?: The model described is available in a Black finish. It is designed to look modern and fit aesthetically into contemporary home environments.
Does the PX-870 offer a high dynamic range?: Yes, Casio has focused on providing an exceptional dynamic range. This allows the player to express a wide variety of tonal colors based on their playing intensity.
Is the PX-870 suitable for advanced students?: It is highly suitable for students due to its inclusion of detailed features like String Resonance and authentic grand piano sampling. These features help develop proper technique and expressive control.
How does it compare to Roland or Kawai alternatives?: It is often compared to models like the Roland RP701 or Kawai CN301. While these brands offer their own proprietary technologies, the PX-870 distinguishes itself with its slimline flagship status and specific Sound Projection technology.