What is the primary keyboard action used in the CLP 865?

The CLP 865 features the GrandTouch-S keyboard action. This design aims to replicate the responsive touch and dynamic range of a grand piano, providing the player with high levels of control over their performance.

Which piano samples are included in the CLP 865?

The instrument includes high-quality samples from the Yamaha CFX concert grand and the Bösendorfer Imperial. These samples capture the distinct tonal characteristics of these world-class acoustic instruments.

What is Virtual Resonance Modelling (VRM)?

Virtual Resonance Modelling is a technology that simulates the complex interactions between the strings, soundboard, and body of an acoustic piano. It calculates these resonances in real-time based on the keys pressed and the timing of the pedals.

What are GrandTouch pedals?

GrandTouch pedals are designed to mimic the physical resistance and feedback of acoustic grand piano pedals. This allows the pianist to execute nuanced pedalling techniques with greater accuracy.

How does the speaker system differ from standard digital pianos?

The CLP 865 features optimised placement of its speakers within the grand-style cabinet. This configuration is intended to project sound in a way that mimics the natural resonance and dispersion of an acoustic grand piano.

Is the CLP 865 available in other colours?

Yes, while the standard model is Polished Ebony, Yamaha also produces the CLP 865 in Polished White. Both models share the same internal hardware and GrandTouch-S action.

What is the typical price for this model in the UK?

The Yamaha CLP 865 typically retails for approximately £4,333. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and any included bundles or delivery services.

Does this piano require tuning?

No, as a digital instrument, the CLP 865 never requires tuning. It uses digital samples and modelling to produce sound, ensuring it remains at perfect pitch regardless of temperature or humidity changes.

How does the CLP 865 compare to the Roland GP-6?

Both are digital grand pianos with premium finishes. The CLP 865 is distinguished by its use of Yamaha and Bösendorfer samples and the GrandTouch-S action, whereas the Roland GP-6 uses Roland's own proprietary modelling and keyboard technology.

Can I use headphones with the Yamaha CLP 865?

Yes, the CLP 865 includes headphone outputs, allowing for silent practice. This is a key advantage over acoustic grand pianos, making it suitable for use at any time of day.

Are there any recommended accessories for this piano?

Common accessories include Gear4Music Grand Piano Castor Cups to protect flooring. Software libraries like Spitfire Audio Originals Intimate Grand or SoundIron Struck Grand can also be used via MIDI if external sounds are desired.

What makes the cabinet design special?

The cabinet is designed to resemble a miniature grand piano, providing a more prestigious appearance than standard upright digital pianos. The Polished Ebony finish is a classic aesthetic choice that reflects the look of traditional concert instruments.

Gear article

Yamaha CLP 865 Digital Grand Piano

The Yamaha CLP 865 is a premium digital grand piano finished in Polished Ebony, designed to replicate the acoustic properties and tactile experience of a concert grand. It features the GrandTouch-S keyboard action and high-fidelity samples from the Yamaha CFX and Bösendorfer Imperial pianos.

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Overview

The Yamaha CLP 865 is a sophisticated digital grand piano that bridges the gap between digital convenience and acoustic tradition. Housed in a classic grand-style cabinet with a Polished Ebony finish, it serves as a visual and sonic centrepiece for domestic and professional environments. It is part of the Clavinova range, focusing on 'Real Grand Expression' through integrated hardware and software optimisations.

Keyboard Action and Playability

At the heart of the CLP 865 is the GrandTouch-S keyboard action. This mechanism is engineered to provide a responsive touch with a wide dynamic range, allowing for precise control over pianissimo and fortissimo passages. To complement the keys, the instrument is equipped with GrandTouch pedals, which offer a realistic resistance and feel comparable to those found on acoustic grand pianos, supporting advanced pedalling techniques.

Sound Character and Modelling

The instrument derives its primary voices from two of the world's most renowned concert grands: the Yamaha CFX and the Bösendorfer Imperial. These samples are enhanced by Virtual Resonance Modelling (VRM), a technology that calculates the complex vibrations of strings and the soundboard in real-time. This ensures that the sympathetic resonances and nuances of an acoustic instrument are faithfully reproduced. The speaker placement has been specifically optimised within the grand cabinet to ensure an immersive soundstage.

Target Audience

The CLP 865 is designed for serious students and experienced players who require the aesthetic of a grand piano but the practical benefits of a digital instrument, such as volume control and headphone connectivity. Its high-grade action makes it suitable for those practicing for classical examinations or performance, while its elegant finish suits formal living spaces and concert halls.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Yamaha range, the CLP 865 offers a more traditional grand aesthetic compared to the upright-style Clavinova models. When compared to the Roland GP-6, it focuses heavily on the specific tonal characteristics of the CFX and Bösendorfer samples. For those on a tighter budget, the Gear4Music GDP-100 provides a similar form factor, though the CLP 865 offers more advanced keyboard action and resonance modelling. It is also available in alternative finishes such as Polished White for different interior design requirements.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary keyboard action used in the CLP 865?: The CLP 865 features the GrandTouch-S keyboard action. This design aims to replicate the responsive touch and dynamic range of a grand piano, providing the player with high levels of control over their performance.
Which piano samples are included in the CLP 865?: The instrument includes high-quality samples from the Yamaha CFX concert grand and the Bösendorfer Imperial. These samples capture the distinct tonal characteristics of these world-class acoustic instruments.
What is Virtual Resonance Modelling (VRM)?: Virtual Resonance Modelling is a technology that simulates the complex interactions between the strings, soundboard, and body of an acoustic piano. It calculates these resonances in real-time based on the keys pressed and the timing of the pedals.
What are GrandTouch pedals?: GrandTouch pedals are designed to mimic the physical resistance and feedback of acoustic grand piano pedals. This allows the pianist to execute nuanced pedalling techniques with greater accuracy.
How does the speaker system differ from standard digital pianos?: The CLP 865 features optimised placement of its speakers within the grand-style cabinet. This configuration is intended to project sound in a way that mimics the natural resonance and dispersion of an acoustic grand piano.
Is the CLP 865 available in other colours?: Yes, while the standard model is Polished Ebony, Yamaha also produces the CLP 865 in Polished White. Both models share the same internal hardware and GrandTouch-S action.
What is the typical price for this model in the UK?: The Yamaha CLP 865 typically retails for approximately £4,333. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and any included bundles or delivery services.
Does this piano require tuning?: No, as a digital instrument, the CLP 865 never requires tuning. It uses digital samples and modelling to produce sound, ensuring it remains at perfect pitch regardless of temperature or humidity changes.
How does the CLP 865 compare to the Roland GP-6?: Both are digital grand pianos with premium finishes. The CLP 865 is distinguished by its use of Yamaha and Bösendorfer samples and the GrandTouch-S action, whereas the Roland GP-6 uses Roland's own proprietary modelling and keyboard technology.
Can I use headphones with the Yamaha CLP 865?: Yes, the CLP 865 includes headphone outputs, allowing for silent practice. This is a key advantage over acoustic grand pianos, making it suitable for use at any time of day.
Are there any recommended accessories for this piano?: Common accessories include Gear4Music Grand Piano Castor Cups to protect flooring. Software libraries like Spitfire Audio Originals Intimate Grand or SoundIron Struck Grand can also be used via MIDI if external sounds are desired.
What makes the cabinet design special?: The cabinet is designed to resemble a miniature grand piano, providing a more prestigious appearance than standard upright digital pianos. The Polished Ebony finish is a classic aesthetic choice that reflects the look of traditional concert instruments.