We compare CA-501, LX-5 and CLP-745

When shopping for a digital piano, you'll likely notice that many models appear similar, making the decision-making process challenging. If you find yourself torn between options such as Kawai's CA-501, Roland's LX-5, and Yamaha's CLP-745, this article aims to provide assistance. By comparing these three models, we aim to offer you a comprehensive overview, aiding you in making an informed decision.

The sound of the Kawai CA-501

The Kawai CA-501 stands out with two exceptional samples derived from Shigeru Kawai's flagship grand pianos: the SK-EX and EX concert grands. These concert grands have earned acclaim through their use in prestigious piano competitions like the Chopin, Tchaikovsky, and Rubinstein International Piano Competitions. Notably, the SK-EX is renowned as one of the finest instruments in its class. Kawai meticulously recorded each of the 88 keys individually, ensuring the most accurate reproduction of the grand piano's harmonics for every note. This meticulous sampling process results in samples that closely emulate the nuanced characteristics of the original acoustic grand piano.

The sound of the Roland LX-5

Premium Roland technologies converge to provide a comprehensive piano experience. The Piano Reality Modeling sound engine ensures exceptional piano sound and responsiveness, faithfully replicating the nuances of acoustic piano performance. Complementing this, the Piano Reality Projection sound system, equipped with custom stereo speakers, envelops the player in an immersive sonic environment, elevating the overall piano-playing experience.

The sound of the Yamaha CLP-745

The Yamaha CLP-745 boasts two meticulously sampled grand pianos from Yamaha's CFX and Bösendorfer Imperial series, both esteemed names in the world of pianos. The CFX, Yamaha's flagship concert grand piano, gained international recognition when it was played by the winner of the prestigious Chopin Competition in 2010. Since then, it has been hailed as one of the finest concert grand pianos of the modern era. On the other hand, Bösendorfer, established in 1828, is renowned for its handcrafted designs. Bösendorfer pianos have been favored by illustrious composers such as Brahms and Johann Strauss, earning praise for their ability to withstand the demanding compositions of Franz Liszt.

The keys of the Kawai CA-501

Incorporating Kawai's Grand Feel Compact key mechanism, the Kawai CA-501 mirrors the authentic weight of acoustic pianos within a more compact design. Crafted with full-length wooden keys, they feature synthetic ivory and synthetic ebony surfaces, enhancing the realism of the playing experience. Additionally, the inclusion of counterweights ensures balanced key weight, offering a light touch for pianissimo passages and a heavier feel during more robust playing.

The keys of the Roland LX-5

The Roland LX-5 uses their own PHA-50 key mechanism, which responds directly to the way you play, giving you full control. The keys have wood on the sides, just like from an acoustic piano, while the inside of the key is made of a hardened material that ensures reliability even after years of daily practice.

The keys are built with synthetic ivory and ebony, to recreate the feel of an old-fashioned piano. In addition, the feeling of escapement is imitated when you play very softly or slowly. also the roland LX-5 had a high precision sensing key technology for ultra detailed touch response. 

The keys ofthe Yamaha CLP-745

The Yamaha CLP-745 boasts the GrandTouch-S keyboard, renowned for its expansive dynamic range and precise response to the subtleties of touch. This grants pianists unparalleled expressive capabilities, ranging from delicate whispers to thunderous fortissimos. The accurate reproduction of hammer action ensures not only a deeply satisfying playing experience but also intuitive control over tone production. Enhanced by synthetic ivory and synthetic ebony key surfaces, the keyboard offers superior grip, preventing slippage even during prolonged playing sessions, and maintaining the tactile feel of an acoustic grand piano. With quality wooden keys and an escapement mechanism, Yamaha demonstrates its mastery in crafting exceptional keyboard actions.

The design of the Kawai CA-501

The Kawai CA-501 is produced in three different colors for their piano: Premium Rosewood, Premium Satin Black, and Premium Satin White. The piano mimics an acoustic upright piano, with a classic, traditional aesthetic. It is the lowest of these three pianos, and can therefore fit into smaller rooms. The wide music holder and simple design give a balanced look.

The design of the Roland LX-5

The Roland LX-5 is available in 4 different colors: Elegant polished ebony, charcoal black, dark rosewood, and light oak finishes Featuring the most compact cabinet in the LX series, this model fits well in your living room or bedroom, complementing your decor with its clean lines and natural finish. Stylish and timeless design - but with a twist - an instrument that complements your decor without dominating the room.

The design of the Yamaha CLP-745

The Yamaha CLP-745 is available in six elegant colors: White Ash, Polished Ebony, White, Dark Walnut, Dark Rosewood, and Black. At the heart of the Clavinova design philosophy is the comfort and experience of sitting down to play. By eliminating unnecessary elements from the pianist's view, Yamaha creates a natural space that mirrors the ambiance of sitting at an acoustic piano. Designed to seamlessly integrate into the pianist's daily life, Clavinova pianos boast modern aesthetics and a variety of colors to complement any interior décor effortlessly.

Specifications of the models: