The Casio CDP-100 88-note Digital Piano is the entry level model keyboard from Casio. Despite being an inexpensive introductory digital piano, the CDP-100 manages to shine with some impressive features. This review will help you uncover its pros and cons and other important factors you need to know before you consider laying down some cold hard cash for this piano.
Overview
First there is the fairly realistic stereo grand piano sound which for the price is pretty impressive. Next up is the weighted hammer action which makes the CDP-100 feel like a real piano.
Along with fairly true piano sound and great action, the Casio CDP-100 comes with:
5 different sounds including a stereo grand piano I and 2, electric piano, harpsichord and strings
32-note polyphony (which means you can play up to 32 notes simultaneously)
8 digital effects including variations of reverb and chorus
layer and transpose function
on board speaker system
MIDI input/output (great for using with your home computer)
headphone and sustain pedal jacks.
The CDP-100 digital piano also comes with a sustain foot switch - more on this later in the review.
The Good
The standout feature of this digital piano is really the realistic piano action. Since it actually feels like you are playing a real piano you will truly be able to express yourself with more finesse and sensitivity; the result being a far superior performance and sound.
Another are where the CDP-100 scores top marks is the issue of portability. Because of the slim and compact design this digital piano is very portable and can be carried around easily. Together with the headphone feature and the easy pedal set-up, you can definitely play the 100 anywhere and anytime you want.
The headphone feature of the Casio CDP-100 is very handy for both beginner and advanced users as it allows them to practice anytime without bothering others.
Affordability is a big plus with this model. No manufacturer comes close to providing the features and value that Casio does with the CDP-100. This makes it possible for practically anyone to own an authentic sounding piano for only a few hundred dollars.
The Bad
Most users of the CDP-100 might not be happy with the quality of the sound coming from the built-in speakers. The sound at times seems slightly masked and dull instead of sounding clear and crisp like you would expect. Using headphones is one way to remedy this sound problem as you bypass those internal speakers altogether.
Another potential issue is that the small 1/8 inch jack output is a somewhat of a disappointment -- they really should have included a 1/4 inch jack for two reasons. So you can:
Connect the output to professional mixer and amplifiers for live performances
Use professional quality headphones
Naturally a model that is this inexpensive is for a reason: it's constructed of cheap plastic. Therefore this model also should be handled well with care when carrying it around with you as it is fragile and it could be easily damaged when carried around often. I'd advise you to buy a protective piano case to avoid any unwanted damage.
Optional Accessories
Since the sustain foot switch is not very useful and is basically an on/off switch - you really need a true sustain pedal. I recommend spending a few dollars and upgrading to something like the M-Audio SP-2 Sustain Pedal.
Another optional accessory that you will really want to have is the Casio GSDX Deluxe Keyboard Stand. This will ensure that you'll position your digital piano at the correct height which is critical for comfortable access to the keyboard for the pianist.
My Verdict
Overall, the Casio CDP-100 88-note weighted hammer action digital piano is a great buy if you want to have a portable and very affordable digital piano that you can carry around with you or just play at home. This piano is perfect for someone on a budget like a student or someone just beginning to learn how to play the piano.
However, if you are truly serious about owning a great piano and can afford to spend a just a bit more I wholeheartedly recommend that you upgrade to the Casio Privia PX-130 or the Yamaha P-85 which provide. Happy piano shopping!
