I'm trying to decide which one to go with - the KR-7 or the CLP 170. The Roland feels and sounds better - is that good enough? Does anyone have any personal experience with each of these digitals? Is $7,000 CAD ($5,200 USD) a reasonable price for these pianos?

If the Roland sounds/feels better, then why not buy it?

I've had both Roland and Yamaha digital pianos and am with Steve - buy what you like. Sound and touch are by far the most important parameters and those are in the eye of the buyer. The Roland may have more features - I think the KR line competes with Yamaha's CVP line, while the CLP line has fewer features. But check out the specs.

Based on my shopping in U.S. (Michigan/Ohio) I think 5300 U.S. is overpriced--particularly for the CLP 170 even in the Ebony.

specialk - You're right about price, the 5300 is the price of the KR-7. The CLP 170 which I tested again last night is actually only $2800 including taxes. I'm going to check out Roland's HPi-7 tonight which I believe is more comparable to the CLP 170.

The KR-7 is a much more featured instrument then the CLP-170. The Yamaha that was the KR-7's counterpart was the CVP-208. $5300 is high for the clp buy it low(and I mean low) for the KR. If you can get a 7 at that price jump on it.

Matt Knight

Just bought the KR-7 last night after playing it in the store again for another hour. Confirmed my earlier personal feeling about superiority of keyboard touch and grand piano sound over the Yamaha Clavinova. But that's just me! Salesman knocked a further $300 off the price ($4900 incl. taxes and delivery), so I did jump on it as Matt Knight said!

Colin,

Good move on the KR7 - and a good price, too.
When will it be delivered? What type of room will it be in? I first kept mine in the living room, but recently moved it to a smaller den. The sound is a lot bigger in a smaller room. Try experimenting with placement. You'll be amazed at the difference it makes. Also it's really nice to have EQ on the KR7, so you can 'tune' it to its surroundings. Colin, you're in for some late nights...you won't be able to tear yourself away! BTW it sounds great in headphones, too!
ENJOY!

ColinToronto:

$4,900 sounds like a great deal. Congrats! I paid $6035 for a KR-7 polish ebony, tax and delivery. I thought I paid a fair price. I didn't try to get the best price possible.

That's a great deal I am glad you got the Kr-7 it's a great piano. As for the price in the US it is higher anywhere and at $6035 for a Polished Ebony that is still very good. The prices don't transfer from the US to Canada I don't know why but the structures for pricing are different. Enjoy the Roland.

Matt Knight