The Casio CDP-S160 is a digital piano that positions itself as a highly affordable option for beginners, students, and casual players. With its compact design, portability, and realistic key action, it’s a promising entry in Casio’s lineup of digital pianos. This review aims to provide an in-depth look at the CDP-S160, exploring its key features, performance, sound quality, design, and overall value for money.
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Overview and Key Features
The Casio CDP-S160 is part of Casio’s Compact Digital Piano (CDP) series, which is known for providing portable, user-friendly instruments that don’t sacrifice on quality. With a slim profile, battery operation capability, and a full 88-key weighted keyboard, the CDP-S160 is designed for those who need a space-saving piano solution without compromising on the playing experience.
Key Features:
- 88-Key Scaled Hammer Action Keyboard: The CDP-S160 features Casio’s scaled hammer action keys, designed to mimic the feel of an acoustic piano, which is a crucial feature for beginners and those transitioning from an acoustic piano.
- 10 Built-in Tones: The piano comes with 10 different tones, including grand piano, electric piano, organ, and strings, giving users a range of sounds to experiment with.
- Dual and Split Modes: These modes allow players to layer two different sounds together or split the keyboard into two separate instruments, enhancing versatility for practice and performance.
- Compact and Portable: Weighing only 10.5 kg (23 lbs), the CDP-S160 is one of the most portable full-size digital pianos on the market. It can run on six AA batteries, making it an excellent choice for those who need to move their instrument frequently.
- Built-in Speakers: The piano includes two 8W speakers, providing decent sound output for home practice sessions.
- Connectivity: The CDP-S160 offers USB MIDI connectivity, allowing it to be connected to a computer or mobile device for use with music software. It also has a headphone jack for private practice and an audio input for connecting external devices.
Casio CDP-S160 Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Keyboard | 88-key Scaled Hammer Action II |
| Polyphony | 64-note |
| Voices/Tones | 10 built-in tones (including Grand Piano, Electric Piano, Organ, Strings) |
| Modes | Dual (Layer) Mode, Split Mode |
| Touch Sensitivity | 3 levels of touch response, Off |
| Sound Source | Stereo PCM |
| Amplifiers | 8W + 8W |
| Speakers | 12 cm x 6 cm (2 units) |
| Dimensions | 1322 x 232 x 99 mm (52.0 x 9.1 x 3.9 inches) |
| Weight | 10.5 kg (23.1 lbs) |
| Connectivity | USB MIDI, Headphone Output (Stereo Mini Jack), Pedal Jack, Audio In (Stereo Mini Jack) |
| Pedals | Included sustain pedal; compatible with optional triple pedal unit |
| Power Supply | AC adapter or 6 x AA batteries |
| Battery Life | Approx. 13 hours (using alkaline batteries) |
| Accessories Included | Music stand, AC adapter, sustain pedal |
| Colors Available | Black, White |
Design and Build Quality
Casio has done an excellent job with the design of the CDP-S160, managing to create an instrument that is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. The piano’s slim design makes it ideal for smaller living spaces or dorm rooms. Despite its compact size, it feels solid and well-constructed.
Slim and Sleek Design
The CDP-S160’s most notable design feature is its slim profile, which is only 232mm (9.1 inches) deep. This makes it one of the slimmest digital pianos available. It can easily fit into small spaces, and the simple, minimalistic design ensures that it doesn’t dominate a room. The lightweight build also makes it highly portable, which is a significant advantage for students or musicians on the go.
Build Quality
Despite being lightweight and portable, the CDP-S160 doesn’t feel cheap or flimsy. The body is constructed from high-quality plastic that is durable and resistant to scuffs and scratches. The keys are well-protected, and the control panel is intuitively laid out, making it easy for even beginners to navigate.
Control Panel
The control panel is straightforward and uncluttered, featuring a small selection of buttons and a volume knob. There are no complex menus to navigate, which keeps the focus on playing rather than tweaking settings. The buttons feel tactile and responsive, giving users confidence in their durability over time.
Portability
Weighing in at just 10.5 kg, the CDP-S160 is easy to transport. This portability is enhanced by the option to power the piano using six AA batteries, allowing you to play anywhere without worrying about finding an outlet. Whether you’re a student moving between classes, a musician traveling to gigs, or someone who enjoys playing outdoors, the CDP-S160 is highly adaptable to your needs.
Keyboard and Action
A critical component of any digital piano is the keyboard action, and this is an area where the CDP-S160 performs admirably, especially given its price point.
Scaled Hammer Action II
The CDP-S160 is equipped with Casio’s Scaled Hammer Action II, a technology designed to simulate the weighted feel of an acoustic piano. This is a crucial feature for developing proper finger strength and technique, particularly for beginners. The weighting of the keys is graded, meaning that the lower keys feel heavier and the higher keys lighter, much like an acoustic piano.
Key Response
The key response on the CDP-S160 is impressive. The keys offer a good amount of resistance without feeling too heavy or sluggish, making it easier to play with expression and dynamics. This responsiveness is especially important for more advanced players who require nuanced control over their playing. The matte finish on the keys also provides a comfortable grip, reducing the chance of slipping during extended playing sessions.
Realism and Playability
While the Scaled Hammer Action II isn’t as sophisticated as the key actions found in higher-end digital pianos, it’s more than adequate for most players, particularly beginners and intermediates. The realism it offers helps in making the transition from a digital piano to an acoustic one smoother. For those practicing classical music, the action allows for the execution of complex passages with reasonable accuracy.
Noise and Keybed Quality
One minor drawback of the CDP-S160’s keyboard is the noise level. While not overly loud, there is a noticeable thud when playing with force, which might be distracting in a very quiet environment or during late-night practice sessions. However, this is a common issue with digital pianos in this price range, and it doesn’t significantly detract from the overall playing experience.
Sound Quality and Voices
Sound quality is another critical factor in determining the overall effectiveness of a digital piano. The CDP-S160, while not offering the most sophisticated sound engine, still delivers a satisfactory audio experience, especially considering its price.
Sound Engine
The CDP-S160 uses Casio’s proprietary sound engine, which samples real acoustic instruments to produce its tones. While it doesn’t feature the advanced modeling or sampling technologies found in more expensive models, it still offers a respectable level of realism and clarity.
Grand Piano Sound
The most important sound on any digital piano is the grand piano tone, and the CDP-S160 does not disappoint in this regard. The grand piano sound is rich and detailed, with a nice balance between the bass and treble frequencies. It’s not as deep or resonant as what you might find on higher-end models, but it’s more than sufficient for practice and casual performance. The sound is dynamic, responding well to variations in playing intensity, which allows for expressive performances.
Other Tones
In addition to the grand piano sound, the CDP-S160 offers nine other voices, including electric pianos, organs, strings, and more. While the variety is somewhat limited, the quality of these tones is quite good. The electric piano sounds are particularly enjoyable, capturing the bright, bell-like tones typical of classic instruments. The string sounds are warm and lush, making them a good choice for layering with other voices.
Polyphony
The CDP-S160 features 64-note polyphony, which is the number of individual notes it can produce simultaneously. While this is on the lower end compared to some competitors, it’s generally sufficient for most pieces of music, especially for beginners. More complex compositions that require extensive use of the sustain pedal might push the limits of the polyphony, but this is unlikely to be a significant issue for the target audience.
Built-in Speakers
The built-in speakers on the CDP-S160 are adequate for home practice and small performances. They deliver clear and balanced sound, although they lack the depth and volume of more powerful speaker systems. For an enhanced audio experience, particularly in larger rooms or during performances, it’s recommended to connect the piano to external speakers or use high-quality headphones.
Connectivity and Additional Features
In addition to its primary functions as a digital piano, the CDP-S160 offers several connectivity options and additional features that enhance its versatility and appeal.
USB MIDI Connectivity
One of the most useful features of the CDP-S160 is its USB MIDI connectivity, which allows it to be connected to a computer, tablet, or smartphone. This opens up a range of possibilities for music production, learning, and recording. You can use the CDP-S160 as a MIDI controller with software like GarageBand, Logic Pro, or Ableton Live, giving you access to a virtually unlimited range of sounds and effects.
Headphone Output
The CDP-S160 includes a standard headphone jack, which is essential for private practice sessions. Plugging in a pair of headphones mutes the internal speakers, allowing you to practice without disturbing others. The sound quality through headphones is generally better than through the built-in speakers, as it provides a more immersive and detailed listening experience.
Audio Input
The piano also features an audio input, allowing you to connect an external audio source, such as a smartphone or MP3 player. This is useful for playing along with backing tracks or practicing with recorded music.
Pedal Input
The CDP-S160 comes with a basic sustain pedal, but it also has an input for a more advanced pedal or pedal unit, such as a triple pedal setup that includes soft, sostenuto, and sustain pedals. This is particularly useful for players who are practicing classical repertoire or who want to develop more advanced techniques.
Battery Operation
One of the standout features of the CDP-S160 is its ability to run on six AA batteries, in addition to the standard AC power supply. This makes it incredibly versatile, as you can use it in places where there’s no access to power, such as outdoor performances or in locations with limited power outlets. The battery life is reasonable, although it will vary depending on the volume level and usage patterns.
User Experience
The overall user experience with the Casio CDP-S160 is positive, especially considering its target market. It’s clear that Casio has designed this piano with ease of use in mind, ensuring that even complete beginners can quickly get up to speed.
Ease of Use
The CDP-S160 is extremely user-friendly. The control panel is simple and intuitive, with clearly labeled buttons for selecting sounds, adjusting volume, and activating modes like duet or split. There’s no need to navigate through complex menus or deal with confusing settings, which is a significant advantage for beginners.
Learning Tools
While the CDP-S160 doesn’t come with built-in learning tools like some other digital pianos, it integrates well with external apps and software that offer guided lessons and practice exercises. Casio’s own Chordana Play for Piano app is a useful companion, offering a range of learning resources, including sheet music and MIDI playback.
Setup and Maintenance
Setting up the CDP-S160 is straightforward, whether you’re using it with the optional stand or placing it on a table or desk. The lightweight design means that even younger students can set it up with minimal assistance. Maintenance is also minimal, as the digital nature of the instrument means there are no strings to tune or hammers to repair.
Customer Support and Warranty
Casio is known for its reliable customer support, and the CDP-S160 comes with a standard warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. While it’s always important to read the fine print, Casio’s warranty generally provides peace of mind for buyers, ensuring that they can enjoy their instrument without worrying about potential defects or issues.
Comparison with Competing Models
Casio CDP-S160 vs. Yamaha P-45
The Casio CDP-S160 and Yamaha P-45 are both popular choices for beginners and intermediate players in the affordable digital piano market. The Yamaha P-45 is well-regarded for its realistic sound engine and graded hammer standard (GHS) keyboard, which closely replicates the feel of an acoustic piano. However, the CDP-S160 offers a more lightweight and portable design, making it ideal for those who need an instrument that can easily be moved or used in various settings.
In terms of sound, the Yamaha P-45’s Advanced Wave Memory (AWM) technology provides a warm and rich piano tone that some players may find more authentic. However, the CDP-S160 holds its own with a respectable sound engine and 10 versatile voices, including an expressive grand piano tone. One of the CDP-S160’s standout features is its battery operation capability, allowing for true portability, whereas the P-45 requires an AC power source.
While both pianos are excellent for beginners, the CDP-S160’s portability, battery option, and slightly more advanced connectivity features, such as USB MIDI, give it an edge for those who prioritize flexibility and convenience. On the other hand, the P-45 might be a better choice for those who are more focused on sound quality and a heavier key action feel.
Casio CDP-S160 vs. Roland FP-10
The Casio CDP-S160 and Roland FP-10 are both excellent entry-level digital pianos, each offering unique strengths. The Roland FP-10 is often praised for its PHA-4 Standard keyboard, which provides a more authentic and responsive playing experience, especially appreciated by players looking for a true-to-life feel. Additionally, Roland’s SuperNATURAL sound engine delivers a richer, more nuanced piano sound, making the FP-10 a top choice for those focused on sound and touch quality.
However, the CDP-S160 excels in portability, weighing only 10.5 kg compared to the FP-10’s slightly bulkier design. The CDP-S160 also offers the convenience of battery operation, which the FP-10 lacks, making it more versatile for musicians on the go. In terms of sound variety, the CDP-S160 includes 10 different tones, while the FP-10 focuses more on delivering a superior piano sound with fewer additional voices.
The FP-10 is a strong contender for those who prioritize the feel of the keys and high-quality sound, even though it is slightly more expensive and less portable. Meanwhile, the CDP-S160 is better suited for players who need a lightweight, portable option that can operate without a power outlet, making it ideal for students, gigging musicians, and those with limited space.
Casio CDP-S160 vs. Alesis Recital Pro
The Casio CDP-S160 and Alesis Recital Pro are both budget-friendly digital pianos that cater to beginners and intermediate players. The Alesis Recital Pro stands out with its 88 semi-weighted keys, 12 built-in voices, and 128-note polyphony, offering a greater range of sound customization and layering possibilities. This makes the Recital Pro a compelling option for players interested in experimenting with various sounds and styles.
On the other hand, the CDP-S160’s Scaled Hammer Action II keyboard provides a more authentic piano-like feel, which is crucial for developing proper technique. While the Recital Pro’s semi-weighted keys offer versatility, they may not provide the same level of realism for those focused on classical piano playing. The CDP-S160 also boasts a more portable design and the ability to run on batteries, a feature the Alesis model lacks.
In terms of sound, the Recital Pro offers more voices and a higher polyphony count, making it better suited for those who need a broader range of tones and are into music production or performances with multiple layers. However, the CDP-S160’s superior key action, build quality, and portability make it a better option for serious learners who value the feel of the instrument and need a compact, reliable digital piano for practice and performance.
Pros and Cons
As with any product, the Casio CDP-S160 has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a summary of what you can expect:
Pros:
- Affordable: Offers great value for money, especially for beginners.
- Portable: Lightweight and battery-powered, making it ideal for on-the-go musicians.
- Realistic Key Action: The Scaled Hammer Action II keyboard is impressive for this price range, offering a realistic playing experience.
- Simple and User-Friendly: Easy to use, with a straightforward interface and minimal setup required.
- Decent Sound Quality: The grand piano sound is rich and dynamic, and the other voices are varied and usable.
Cons:
- Limited Polyphony: With 64-note polyphony, it may not suffice for more complex compositions.
- Basic Pedal Included: The included sustain pedal is quite basic, and serious players might want to upgrade to a better unit.
- Speaker Quality: Built-in speakers are adequate but lack the depth and power of more advanced systems.
- Limited Features: Lacks some of the advanced features and voices found in slightly more expensive models.
Weaknesses
While the Casio CDP-S160 is a solid digital piano, especially for beginners and those seeking a portable option, it does have several weaknesses that might influence a buyer’s decision.
Limited Polyphony:
One of the most significant drawbacks of the CDP-S160 is its 64-note polyphony. Polyphony refers to the number of individual notes the piano can produce simultaneously. For beginners or casual players, this may be sufficient, but for more advanced pieces or complex compositions that use extensive pedal sustain, the 64-note limit can be restrictive. In such scenarios, the piano might start dropping off notes, affecting the overall sound quality and performance.
Basic Sound Engine:
The CDP-S160 features a relatively simple sound engine compared to more advanced models. While the main grand piano tone is respectable, it lacks the depth and nuance found in higher-end digital pianos. The other available tones, such as electric pianos and strings, are decent but do not stand out in terms of richness or realism. This limitation can make the CDP-S160 feel somewhat underwhelming for those who are more discerning about sound quality or who need a broader range of expressive capabilities.
Speaker Quality:
The built-in speakers of the CDP-S160, while adequate for home practice, are not particularly powerful or refined. The sound can feel somewhat thin, especially at higher volumes, and lacks the depth and resonance that would be expected from a more robust speaker system. For those who plan to perform in larger spaces or who are accustomed to richer sound output, this could be a significant limitation.
Lack of Advanced Features:
The CDP-S160 is designed with simplicity in mind, which means it lacks some advanced features that more experienced players might miss. For instance, it doesn’t offer extensive sound customization options or a wide variety of voices, and the onboard controls are quite basic. Additionally, the included sustain pedal is very rudimentary, which might prompt more serious players to purchase a higher-quality pedal separately.
In summary, while the Casio CDP-S160 offers good value for beginners, its limited polyphony, basic sound engine, modest speakers, and lack of advanced features may be seen as weaknesses for more experienced players or those with higher expectations.
Conclusion
The Casio CDP-S160 is an excellent choice for beginners, students, and casual players looking for a portable, affordable digital piano that doesn’t compromise on essential features. Its realistic key action, decent sound quality, and user-friendly design make it a strong contender in the budget digital piano market.
While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, the CDP-S160 excels in providing a solid, reliable playing experience at an accessible price. Whether you’re just starting your piano journey or need a compact instrument for practice, the CDP-S160 is a worthy consideration. Its portability, coupled with the ability to run on batteries, sets it apart from many of its competitors, making it a versatile option for various playing environments.
In conclusion, the Casio CDP-S160 offers great value for its price, delivering the essential features and quality needed for a satisfying playing experience. For those seeking a reliable, no-frills digital piano that can easily move with them, the CDP-S160 is a fantastic option.