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Ok, that's my reason for asking a question that has undoubtedly been asked many times before.

I have a "feel" for accoustic piano qualities and pricing, but am a novice on digitals. My goals are to start taking lessons, and I know that if I purchased an accoustic (at least until I gained some proficiency back), I would annoy my family and perhaps keep them awake. Which leads me to consider a digital -- late night private headphone practice sessions, etc.

I'm a bit of a snob (can afford more than entry level and am inclined to buy up just on principal), but am also value conscious. What brands/models of digitals will provide good sound and skill advancement prospects? I don't need a lot of bells and whistles (I play mostly classical -- some pop -- no jazz or rock n roll . . . yet), just a practice instrument that won't give me immediate buyer's remorse.

Clavinova? Kawaii? Casio (are they any good?)? Other brands? How much should I plan on spending?

Thanks much for helping.

Matt

I.E., start taking lessons AGAIN after having had about 10 years of keyboard (off and on) and about 20 years off. Just thought I would clarify. Thanks again.

yep, all good.

Spend as much as you want

that search thing works quite well

if you can spend more, then consider those high end models of brands like Yamaha (CLPs), Roland, or Kawai. i don't think Casio's best ones can compare with the better models from the 3 makers i mentioned.

for around $4500 or less range, you could consider CLP280 or 270. (i have yamaha and like those models better).

still, you need to try those models out at stores and compare their specs and sound quality to make a decision on which one you'd like to buy.

I'm leaning toward the CLP line, but am also thinking about the PF500 or the YDP625 (which a very helpful internet dealer in Vermont says is one of the best values out there). The YDP doesn't have the piano pedals though, and I don't know whether I need those or not for my classical education. Opinions? Thanks everybody for your helpful replies.

I did not like the YDP625

The CLP 280 piano is a few levels better

Yes, you'll need pedals, even for (some of) the classical repertoire.

if you ask me to chooce between YDP625 and PF500, i'd still choose PF500 (which i have now) for its better polyphony and a few other things. i like the 3-pedal set on it too. yes, i agree you definitely need pedal (for classical especially), at least sustain one with half-pedal function i.e. FC3.

i did try YDP625 at a Guitar Ctr and actually thought the action felt better than i thought it would. but still it's a low end model.

Yamaha Clavinova would be my choice.
Good Luck