kayriss

I recently picked up a used CP4. I don't have the velocity issue, but the keys bottom out harshly at the low end of the keyboard compared to the rest of the action - so much so that I can feel a vibration through my hands when the keys hit the base (this occurs from the second F# from the left, all the way down to A). My best guess is the cushioning has worn/come away. I can see various replacement felt strips available at Syntaur, and I plan to have it inspected soon to see what can be done. Has anyone experienced this before?

Glad you're enjoying the YC88! I'm considering a used CP4 now that I'm picking up some gigs again (sold my immaculate CP4 years ago, wish I'd held onto it). I've found one that looks relatively tidy with the exception of some scuffs and scratches, but nothing serious. Hopefully the action plays OK (I suspect it's been gigged a fair bit). Asking price is around $1050 USD which I think seems about right? FWIW I haven't played the CP88 or YC88 for more than a few minutes; as long as I stay away from those I should still be happy with how the CP4 feels/sounds.

I've owned several SR-JV80 boards over the years, and I would definitely recommend Session as a good all-rounder. As others have commented, the piano patch is a big improvement (up until recently I was using an XP-30 for improv theatre, and I would use the Session piano patch for 80% of the shows â it was perfectly adequate in that context!) As already mentioned, it's not up there with today's piano patches, but certainly usable IMO. There are some really cool other sounds (especially pads) that I really enjoyed on the Session board. As for Bass & Drums, going by the patches in SRX-07 Ultimate Keys, the bass/drums are indeed a huge improvement. Having said that, if I only had one slot to fill and had to choose between those two, I would go for Session (because of the piano, but it also adds a range of useful sound in other categories).

FWIW I was looking at purchasing a D1 recently as my controller board, but I read from another owner that they couldn't get it to send the full MIDI velocity range 1 - 127 (which could've been an issue with that person's D1 however as I heard from another owner that theirs could reach the full range). I'm now looking quite seriously at the ES110 for this purpose. I was really impressed when I played one a few months ago, and I definitely agree with Al Quinn that the action is lighter than the P121. I found I could play expressively during my short play with it.

I sold mine for around $1200 USD not too long ago (not including a case, but I did include the music rest that I purchased separately).

I don't believe the FA-08 has particle board underneath (my old DS-88 had a plastic base). The RD-88 is lighter than those two boards so I imagine it would have a plastic base too.

I had heard plenty of negative feedback before going in, so I went in with an open mind and tried really hard to not let my friends' opinions influence mine. I can honestly say I was thoroughly entertained from start to finish. For me personally this has been a fun trilogy â I'm enjoying rewatching TFA and TLJ now after seeing it.

Awesome! Let me know if you ever want to check out our recording studio in Christchurch (we have a saxophone beer tap).

Looking forward to hearing how your new line-up goes Aidan. Im considering a shake up of my gear too, largely due to a slipped disc in my back. Im thinking of surrendering my CP4/Montage combo for a PX-S3000/NE6D. The weight saver being the biggest reason, but also the idea of having in-built speakers is a huge plus. Im about to inherit an acoustic piano which helps justify me letting go of the CP4 (still on the fence until I can try the Casio though). Look forward to hearing your report on the PX-S1000.

Good to hear! I can't wait to try one out. My bad back can no longer manage lugging my CP4 around. I'm considering the CP73 as my gigging machine, and leaving the CP4 at home for practicing. The NE6 is high up on my list to try too.

Roland XP-80 + 4 expansion boards: Orchestral, Vintage Synths, Session, Keys of the 60s & 70s. Complete with SKB road case. The XP-80 has had only one owner before me - pretty good condition overall. I have wanted one of these for years and they don't come up for sale often here.

I know right!? I can't even get the Artis 7 in New Zealand.

Good call! I've just looked up the VR-730 - sadly the price in NZ is almost $2200 USD compared to $1000 USD (approx) for a VR-09B. The FA-07 is closer to $1700 USD here. Perhaps I should go back to the drawing board and reconsider the FA-07. I'm primarily a jazz piano player, but I play a lot of theatre music too. I'm sure the FA-07 action would get me by. Anyway, I would take my CP4 for a solo piano/jazz trio gig I reckon. AnotherScott, do you think you'll keep your FA-07 despite your findings with the action?

Thanks Marillo, that's good to know! I regret not buying the JP-50 when they were on clearance here. I was hoping the FA-07 would be the next best thing (action-wise). Like you I have a CP4, and with my already bad back I'm finding it harder to lug it to rehearsals and small gigs. I'm actually swaying towards a VR-09 (which would save me north of $1000 over an FA-07). The action is nothing to write home about, but I gigged on a Juno Di for over 6 years and found it always got the job done. There are so many wonderful instruments to choose from right now!

Wonderful news and thank you so much for the report! I'll definitely be picking one of these up when they reach New Zealand. May be a wee while.