Gear article
Yamaha CLP-845 Digital Piano
The Yamaha CLP-845 is a high-performance digital piano within the Clavinova CLP-800 series, designed to replicate the acoustic properties of a premier grand piano. Available in a rosewood finish, it features a GrandTouch-S keyboard with wooden keys and binaural sampling of world-class concert instruments.
See live pricesOverview and Design
The Yamaha CLP-845 is a console-style digital piano that balances traditional aesthetics with modern technology. Part of the CLP-800 series, it serves as a mid-to-high tier model designed for players who require an authentic touch and sophisticated sound reproduction. The Rosewood finish provides a classic, dark-wood appearance characterized by a curved aesthetic that fits into residential or educational environments. A notable physical design upgrade in this series is the optimised placement of speakers, aimed at better projecting sound to the player and the surrounding room.
Keyboard and Pedal Action
A primary feature of the CLP-845 is the GrandTouch keyboard action. This mechanism utilizes genuine wooden keys to more accurately mirror the weight, balance, and tactile feedback of an acoustic grand piano. To further the expressive capabilities, Yamaha has integrated GrandTouch pedals. These pedals are specifically engineered to emulate the physical resistance and tonal influence found in grand piano pedal systems, allowing for more nuanced damper and sostenuto control.
Sound Engine and Technology
The CLP-845 relies on high-fidelity samples from two of the world's most renowned concert grands: the Yamaha CFX and the Bösendorfer Imperial. For headphone users, the instrument features binaural sampling for these pianos, which provides a three-dimensional, immersive soundscape.
Behind the audio output lies Virtual Resonance Modelling (VRM). This technology calculates the complex interactions that occur within an acoustic piano—such as string resonance, soundboard vibration, and damper movement—to produce a more natural and harmonically rich tone.
Comparison to Alternatives
The CLP-845 sits in a competitive market segment alongside other premium digital pianos. Key competitors include:
- Kawai CA501: Also features wooden keys and a focus on grand piano sampling (Shigeru Kawai).
- Roland HP704: Offers a different approach with SuperNATURAL modeling technology.
- Kawai CN301: A more entry-level alternative for those prioritising budget over wooden key actions.
- Casio AP-300: A compact alternative with a focus on modern aesthetics.
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 keyboard action does the Yamaha CLP-845 use?
- The CLP-845 features the GrandTouch keyboard action, which includes genuine wooden keys. This weighted system is designed to provide a realistic tactile response similar to that of an acoustic grand piano.
- Which piano sounds are included in the CLP-845?
- The instrument includes flagship samples from the Yamaha CFX and the Bösendorfer Imperial concert grand pianos. These samples provide a range of tones from bright and powerful to warm and resonant.
- What is Virtual Resonance Modelling (VRM)?
- VRM is a technology that simulates the sympathetic resonance created by the strings and body of an acoustic piano. It calculates various states of the strings for each of the 88 notes on the keyboard to create a more authentic sound.
- What are GrandTouch pedals?
- GrandTouch pedals are designed to replicate the specific feel and resistance of an acoustic piano's pedal. This allows the player to achieve more expressive and precise control over the piano's tone and sustain.
- Does the CLP-845 support binaural sampling?
- Yes, the CLP-845 features binaural samples for both the Yamaha CFX and Bösendorfer Imperial. This technology creates a more natural and spacious sound when listening through headphones by mimicking how the human ear perceives sound in a room.
- What is the typical price range for the CLP-845 in Rosewood?
- The typical price for this model is approximately £1,934. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and any additional bundles or services included.
- How does the CLP-845 differ from the CLP-835?
- The CLP-845 includes wooden keys as part of its GrandTouch action and features a more advanced speaker system compared to the lower models in the CLP-800 series. It also incorporates the GrandTouch pedals.
- Is the Rosewood finish actual wood?
- The Rosewood description refers to the aesthetic finish and color of the cabinet. While the keys themselves are made of genuine wood, the cabinet is typically a high-quality laminate designed to resemble rosewood.
- Can the CLP-845 connect to external devices?
- As a modern digital piano, the CLP-800 series typically supports connectivity for MIDI and audio, though users should check for specific Bluetooth or USB-to-Host capabilities to interface with apps or computers.
- Who is the Yamaha CLP-845 designed for?
- It is designed for intermediate to advanced players who want the experience of a grand piano in a compact, maintenance-free digital format. It is also suitable for students who require a realistic touch for proper technique development.
- What are some comparable models from other brands?
- Comparable models include the Kawai CA501 and CA901, the Roland HP704, and the Casio AP-300. These instruments all offer various interpretations of high-end digital piano technology.
- How has the speaker placement been improved in the CLP-800 series?
- Yamaha has optimised the placement of the speakers in the CLP-845 to ensure sound is projected more effectively. This creates a more immersive soundstage for the pianist, similar to how sound radiates from an acoustic piano's soundboard.
