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The Casio CGP 700 BK is known for its smooth, rich and robust sound with string resonance which is powered by AiR Sound technology, an award winning technology together with the Tri-Sensor Hammer Action II keyboard.
Table of Contents
- Design of Casio CGP-700
- Connectivity of Casio CGP-700
- Touch Screen Interface of Casio CGP-700
- Sound of Casio CGP-700
- Accessories of Casio CGP-700
- Key Action of Casio CGP-700
- Function of Casio CGP-700
- Pro & Cons of Casio CGP-700
- Alternative…
- Demonstration of Casio CGP-700
- Casio CGP 700 Compact Grand Piano | Austin Bazaar Review
- Warranty of Casio CGP-700
- Video Overview of Casio CGP-700
- Conclusion
The Casio CGP 700 is a sleek and stylish compact grand piano that has been engineered using the latest technology that manifests the real characteristics of a grand piano in every aspect, whether sound, action, performance and specifications. Unlike conventional pianos in it’s price range, this piano offers more for less. In this Casio CGP 700 review we will take a look at the features, pro & cons, and working of this digital piano.
Design of Casio CGP-700
The Casio CGP 700 is a relatively new Compact Digital Keyboard. With its sleek design, the CGP 700 rests on a black wooden stand. The keyboard exudes a modern appearance and consists of solid matte plastic. A unique aspect of the wooden stand is that it’s also part of the speaker system. Located on the left and ride sides of the stand are two large speakers that add to the other four on the keyboard, totaling six speakers.
The speakers on the stand serve to produce a full and rich sound, so you’ll probably enjoy the mix.A regular stand may be preferred for performing and gigging musicians when taking the keyboard on the road.
The one-piece wooden frame allows you to remove the keyboard without much trouble. Some keyboards come with two-part stands, which can cause more difficulty when placing or removing the piano.
Many people also enjoy the fact that the stand can rotate outwards, making the speakers face the audience. Though the speakers in the stand can work for small performances, they likely aren’t suitable for big venues with more massive crowds. External amplification is ideal in that case. You can easily plug the keyboard into amplifiers or a sound system.
With a total weight of 56.7lbs, the CGP-700 package is definitely on the heavier side, but the keyboard alone is only 26lbs. The heavy wooden stand constitutes the other 30lbs. The compact and slim design of this piano makes it an excellent choice for small spaces. 52″ long and 11.5″ deep, this keyboard is one of the most compact and ergonomic options on the market.
A 5.3″ color touchscreen outfits the top of the Casio CGP-700, providing smooth navigation and ease of use. At this price range, it’s rare to find touchscreen controls on keyboards. Without a touchscreen, it can be challenging to find buttons corresponding to the screen, so CGP-700’s touchscreen is advantageous. The user interface is quite organized and user friendly. You can select rhythms, tones, and sound effects with the touch of a button.
On top of that, you can also record, which allows you to practice or create a masterpiece. Not counting the display, 27 buttons outline the top of the keyboard. The left side of the piano features a standard volume knob and pitch-bend wheel. With a pitch-bend wheel, you command even more control over the keys by imitating the bends that a guitar or saxophone can create naturally.
Connectivity of Casio CGP-700
The Casio CGP-700 has a wide array of connectivity options for different purposes. Built on the front are two 1/8″ headphones jacks, allowing you to pair two headphones simultaneously. When you plug headphones in, the piano promptly shuts off the speakers to focus the sound to your ears. If you live with your family or a roommate, using headphones can prevent potential annoyance or conflicts.
Indented on the top of the keyboard are two USB ports, including USB type A and B. The primary purpose of USB type A is to transfer music data from the piano to a flash drive and vice versa. Many pianists utilize this feature to organize the recordings they’ve made. If you try to import WAV files into the keyboard, you’ll be unsuccessful because you can only export them to the flash drive.
The other USB port, USB Type B, allows the connection of the CGP-700 to a computer. With this connection, you can create music through DAWs, or Digital Audio Workstations, like GarageBand, Cubase, FL Studio, Ableton, or Logic Pro. The range of the keyboard’s functionality depends on your software’s quality. Though some are better than others, all DAWs increase your potential with the CPG-700.
If you want to take advantage of this connection, you’ll need an A-B USB cable. The reason for this is because standard computers only house USB Type-A connections.
Line Out Jacks
While many people are content with the CGP-700’s six-speaker sound system, others may demand even more sound. The line out connections located on the back of the keyboard allow you to connect with amplifiers, external audio systems, interfaces, and mixers. Whether you’re someone who likes it loud or you’re a performing musician, this line out connection is essential for achieving a more powerful sound. The CGP-700’s external sound connectivity won’t let you down.
Damper Jack
To the left of the line out is the damper jack. You can use this to plug in a wide variety of sustain pedals to add more expressiveness to your playing. When buying a sustain pedal, you should be cautious and avoid brands that don’t have a polarity switch on the back. For example, if you connect a non-Casio branded pedal to the CGP-700, a lack of compatibility may reverse the pedal’s polarity. This reversal effect then sustains when you’re not holding the pedal down, hence the importance of a polarity switch, which corrects it.
Audio In Stereo Mini Jack
This jack enables you to connect a phone or other device to the keyboard with an AUX cable. If you don’t have a Bluetooth speaker but want to hear music aloud, you can play songs through the six keyboard speakers. With the abolishment of 3.5mm jacks on apple devices, you’ll have to own a lightning-to-3.5mm adaptor if you have an iPhone.
Touch Screen Interface of Casio CGP-700
The Casio CGP-700 comes with a great 5.3-inch Touch Screen Display to give you convenient full control.
With this display that is touch-enabled you can do more with less hassle as all your controls can be reached easily with your fingertips. This is a new feature that is only in the new version of the Casio CGP700.
The new 5.3″ Color Touch Screen Interface keeps your performance pristine and convenient and in full control over Casio CGP700’s complete functions. The Casio CGP700 really is a grand piano with state-of-the-art technology.
Although the Privia PX-5S was initially thought to be the most advanced and standard casio sound and essence of Casio Sound, I would not recommend it as purpose of performance, education or even hobby.
Sound of Casio CGP-700
The Casio CGP-700 boasts of an 88-key Weighted Grade Hammer Action use stereo resonance simulator that is behind the excellent sound.
It comes with 550 different built-in professional tones including all grand piano sounds and 200 ensemble rhythms to complement its performance.
A layer function has also been incorporated in this piano thus allowing you mix two sound variations for the best piano experience. The Transpose feature on the other hand provides easy expression of varying strength levels and becomes much easier when in use with another instrument.
The 128 Polyphony allows you to play any type of phone making the CGP700BK very versatile. When it comes to sound, this piano has 20Wx20W speakers, a very rare feature among pianos in this price range. This piano supports a 6-speaker configuration, 4 on the keyboard itself and 2 on the cabinet stand.
For those who may need external sound connection, the CGP700 is just the best deal.
It has an input and output option which comes in handy when you want to connect to an amplifier or even play sound on an external stereo to enhance sound power.
You can control the sound attribute directly on the Touch Screen Interface.
THE SOUNDS WERE RECORDED WITH TWO DOZEN MICROPHONES. The results are just incredible, the most realistic, rich, robust and crisp piano sound you will ever come across.
Click here to see reviews and prices for the Casio CGP 700 on Amazon.com
Accessories of Casio CGP-700
Wooden StandThe CGP-700 comes with a slender wooden stand that houses two extra speakers. This stand is an excellent addition since it saves you money from having to buy an external one. For people planning to lug the piano frequently, it may help to purchase a standard x-stand, which most performers prefer. X-stands are collapsable through a metal lever located on one of the wings, making them ultra-portable. Furthermore, they are usually well-built and durable while only weighing 10-15lbs.
Keyboard Bag
Without the weight of its bulky stand, the CGP-700 is a relatively lightweight and portable keyboard. Many gigging musicians prefer this keyboard because of its portability, sound quality, and user-friendly controls. Though it’s not included in the purchase, a keyboard bag can provide a much safer way to transport the piano. Any full keyboard sized bag will do the trick.
Pedal
The CGP-700 comes with a basic sustain pedal, which will suffice for beginner pianists. Although it serves to sustain, the SP-3 pedal is cheaply built and doesn’t offer a lot of control. This pedal also doesn’t resemble a genuine pedal and has a square shape and black design. Many keyboards don’t even come with a sustain pedal, so the included SP-3 pedal is something to start people off. Those who value more realistic capabilities should probably invest in a regular sustain pedal, which is relatively cheap compared with the piano itself.
Casio builds a triple pedal board system that’s specifically for the CGP-700. The SP33 pedal system is much more advanced, offering lots of control over the sound.If you want a less expensive pedal than the SP33, find a moderately priced one with durable metal construction.
Music StandWhile the CGP-700 comes with a convenient music rest, you may benefit by purchasing a dedicated music stand to put behind the keyboard. As you continue to improve your piano skills, you’ll likely start incorporating more sheet music. In large quantities, sheet music can be challenging to handle on a built-in music rest. For some people, a music stand may be an unnecessary accessory. Rather than using sheet music, you may be someone who prefers learning by ear or through Synthesia, which animates the keys to play. In that case, you may never need an extra music stand. However, if you’re planning to take piano lessons, an external stand may be beneficial.
Key Action of Casio CGP-700
The CASIO CGP 700 has a great keyboard action known as the 88-key Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action II that sports the same size as that of an acoustic piano which has heavy lower keys which become lighter when the keys get higher.
The Weighted Hammer Action comes with a convenient ivory key which gives users a firm grip to prevent singers from slipping and gives the keyboard a sleek look and most importantly, comfort.
This piano also has 3 keys that enable users feel the detail when controlling strength. It even has a velocity and responsiveness control feature for a smooth piano experience.
Unlike conventional pianos with 2 sensors, the Casio CGP 700 has 3 sensors. This cutting-edge technology allows you to return the keys to their original position so that they may be played again. With 3 sensors, keys can intricately show strength quite easily.
The Casio CGP 700 has the best tough in comparison to other pianos in its range.
Function of Casio CGP-700
When it comes to function, this piano is just the best deal. It is ideal for use at home as well as for professional purposes like in concerts and live performances. It features a variety of features including several unique features that can’t be found in normal pianos in its price range.
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5″3 Color Touch Screen: |
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| The Casio CGP 700 sports a 5.3inch Touch Screen Display that gives you the power to do more right on the touch screen interface. With this feature, you are now able to handle your controls conveniently. It is hard to find a portable piano that comes with a touch screen in this price range. |
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550 Built-in Tones |
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| The Privia CGP700 comes with 550 built-in different tones to help you with all your music studies. |
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Layer (Dual layer) |
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| The dual-layer technology allows users to play 2 sound variations on one key simultaneously. With this feature, you are able to put up an excellent performance |
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Rhythm |
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| The Privia CGP700 comes with over 180 different traditional piano rhythms including Latin, Walts among others. |
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Split |
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| With this feature, users are able to play 2 different instrument sounds on each hand on the keyboard. For example, you can be playing vibratone on the left hand and piano on the other. It simply brings about a unique effect of two people playing two musical instruments yet it is only one player. |
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Duet mode |
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| This piano also comes with a duet mode feature that splits the keyboard in to two sections. Ideally, the keyboard is split in to two thus making it a great piano for learners and live performances. |
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Recording |
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| If you are in to recording, then this is the perfect piano for you. You can record over 100 songs in the piano’s memory. There’s also the option of connecting it to an external drive via USB connection and record even more songs depending on the drive’ |
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External Amplifier Connection |
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| Casio CGP 700 gives users the liberty to connect to an external speaker system. This piano has an input and output jack for your convenience. So, whether you are just playing at home or in a concert, you are always sorted. |
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6-Speaker Sound System |
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| The speaker system in the CGP-700 produces an impressive 40W of power. There are four speakers positioned on top of the keyboard and two in the stand. These stand-integrated speakers add more bass and low frequencies to the overall sound. With keyboards in the same price range, The CGP-700’s has one of the most powerful sound systems. |
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Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action II |
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| High-end Casio keyboards, including the Casio CGP 700 has Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action II feature. These sensors serve to create the feeling of playing on a real grand piano. The action has a quick and natural rebound that allows pianists to play technically demanding pieces. |
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Note, Polyphony, Tones |
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| This keyboard has 88 fully-weighted keys with ebony keytops and simulated ivory. With 128-note polyphony, you’ll probably never come close to exceeding it, since that would take playing over 128 notes simultaneously. There are 28 piano sounds to choose from and 550 total instrument sounds, many for this keyboard class. |
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Transpose, Octave Shift & Tuning |
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| With an option to transpose, the CGP 700 allows you to play songs in different keys without relearning them. This piano also has an octave shift function to change the octave range, which can be useful for playing high or low passages comfortably. When it comes to tuning, the Casio CGP 700 has a plethora of options. You can alter the tuning in small increments to better match another instrumentalist’s tuning. In addition to that, you can pick between 17 different temperaments, each of which is an entire tuning system. If you’re American or European, most of the music you’ve heard is probably in a single temperament called 12-tone equal temperament. Other cultures and countries utilize temperaments that may not be familiar to us. The CGP-700 offers a taste of foreign tuning systems that can open up a world of new possibilities. |
Pro & Cons of Casio CGP-700
Pros
- Excellent For Home and Gig Use
- 550 Instrument Sounds
- 88 Fully-Weighted Keys
- MIDI Connectivity
- Line Out For External Speakers
- Comes with Sleek Wooden Stand
- Intuitive Touchscreen
- Dynamic 6-Speaker Sound System
- MegaVoice techology and MEGA enhancer software
Cons
- The SP-3 Sustain Pedal Isn’t Great
- Stand Is A Little Shaky
- Doesn’t Come with Case
Alternative…
Yamaha DGX-650
Just like the Casio CGP 700, the Yamaha DGX-650 has a slender integrated stand. One significant difference between the two pianos is the weight. The DGX-650 weighs a hefty 49lbs, while the CGP-700 weighs only 26lbs. The Casio may be more suitable for performers because of how easy it is to transport.
Both keyboards feature excellent actions, though the Casio’s Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action slightly outperforms Yamaha’s Graded Hammer Action. These pianos also share the same 128-note polyphony, providing enough horsepower for most people. With added relevance, the Yamaha keyboard includes a few play-along songs of famous artists like Taylor Swift and Elton John.
The DGX-650 doesn’t have touchscreen controls, making it slightly more challenging to navigate. Compared to the CGP-700’s 40W speaker output, the Yamaha produces 12W of power, which may be sufficient for some, but lacking for others. One last significant difference is the DGX-650 doesn’t have a line out jack. This exclusion prevents the keyboard’s connection to external sound systems, mixers, audio interfaces, etc.
Demonstration of Casio CGP-700
Casio CGP 700 Compact Grand Piano | Austin Bazaar Review
Warranty of Casio CGP-700
One amazing thing with this Casio piano is the warranty. Warranties come in handy when it comes to repairs and maintenance and that is why you should never overlook this factor before buying an item. Even though most warranties cover repairs and labor costs, Casio warranty covers guarantees new product replacements.
Currently, Casio provides a 1-year warranty plus 2 more years after registration, that makes it 3-years. This warranty covers replacement of pianos in case users experience technical problems. With a 3-year warranty, you can be sure of getting a replacement in case yours fails.
Video Overview of Casio CGP-700
Conclusion
The Casio CGP 700 is a delightful keyboard choice and has many excellent features for its price. With great versatility, the keyboard is equally appropriate for home and gig use. A 5.3″ color touchscreen makes it very easy to instantly switch sounds and settings, something a gigging musician might value. On top of harnessing the feel of a grand piano, the Casio CGP 700 serves as a creative outlet with its extensive 550 built-in sounds and MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) connectivity. The keyboard also includes 220 accompaniment styles that can provide entertainment for hours. With all the engaging sounds and options, the Casio CGP 700 may be an excellent child instrument. Since many kids discontinue their piano efforts early, a single piano sound may not be enough to maintain their interest. Not only does the Casio CGP 700 provide an authentic experience, but it also serves as a creative partner, excellent gigging keyboard, and a source of quality entertainment.
