The world of digital pianos has expanded rapidly in recent years, offering an ever-increasing range of options for musicians of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first keyboard, an intermediate player upgrading, or even a professional seeking a portable alternative to an acoustic piano, there’s something for everyone.
One of the standout products in this ever-growing landscape is the Casio CDP-S360, a model that has garnered attention for its compact design, affordability, and impressive feature set. In this comprehensive Casio CDP-S360 review, I’ll dive deep into every aspect of this digital piano to help you decide whether it’s the right choice for you.
If you click the button above you will be redirected to Amazon.com. In case you then decide to buy anything, Amazon.com will pay me a commission. This doesn’t affect the honesty of this review in any way though.
Casio CDP-S360 Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Keyboard | 88 Keys, Scaled Hammer Action II (Weighted) |
| Touch Sensitivity | 3 Levels (Soft, Medium, Hard), Off |
| Sound Source | AiX Sound Source |
| Polyphony | 128 Notes |
| Tones | 700 Built-in Tones |
| Rhythms | 200 Built-in Rhythms |
| Effects | Reverb (4 types), Chorus (4 types), DSP (editable) |
| Metronome | Yes, Tempo Range: 20-255 BPM |
| Recording | 2-track MIDI recorder (5 songs, approximately 30,000 notes) |
| Layer and Split | Yes, Layer Mode and Split Mode |
| Duet Mode | Yes |
| Transpose | Yes (-12 to +12 semitones) |
| Octave Shift | Yes |
| Tempo Range | 20-255 BPM |
| Preset Songs | 152 Built-in Songs |
| MIDI | USB-MIDI (Class Compliant) |
| Connectivity | – USB to Host (MIDI) |
| – Sustain Pedal Input | |
| – 3-pedal unit connector | |
| – Stereo Line Out (L/Mono, R) | |
| – Headphone Jack (Standard Stereo) | |
| Speakers | 2 x 8W (16W Total Output) |
| Display | Backlit LCD |
| Power Supply | AD-A12150LW AC Adapter or 6 x AA Batteries |
| Battery Life | Approx. 13 hours on battery power |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 1,322 x 232 x 99 mm (52.0 x 9.1 x 3.9 in) |
| Weight | 10.9 kg (24 lbs) |
| Included Accessories | Sustain Pedal, Music Stand, AC Adapter |
Overview and First Impressions
The Casio CDP-S360 is part of Casio’s Compact Digital Piano (CDP) series, which emphasizes portability without sacrificing the essential feel and sound of a real piano. It’s positioned as a mid-range digital piano, and while it isn’t as high-end as Casio’s Privia line, it still offers plenty of features that make it an excellent choice for those looking for a well-rounded instrument at a competitive price.
Upon unboxing the CDP-S360, the first thing that strikes you is how slim and lightweight the piano is. At only 10.9 kg (24 lbs), it’s incredibly easy to transport, which is a big plus for musicians on the go or those with limited space at home. Its minimalist design, with a sleek matte finish, exudes a professional vibe while keeping things simple. The control panel is easy to navigate, with clearly labeled buttons and an LCD display that provides useful feedback on the settings you’re adjusting.
Build Quality and Design
One of the most crucial factors in selecting a digital piano is the build quality, as this can affect both the durability of the instrument and the playing experience. The Casio CDP-S360 offers a well-constructed, sturdy build that feels durable without being overly heavy. The materials used, while mostly plastic, are high-quality and have a solid feel. The piano doesn’t creak or flex when handled, which is reassuring, especially for those who plan to travel frequently with the instrument.
The piano’s design, as mentioned, is compact and sleek, making it an excellent fit for small spaces. It’s ideal for apartment dwellers, teachers who need to move their instrument between locations, or musicians who gig regularly. The CDP-S360 features a depth of only 232 mm, making it one of the slimmest digital pianos in its class. Despite this slim design, it still includes 88 fully weighted keys, giving it the feel of a full-sized acoustic piano.
On the downside, the music rest included with the piano feels a bit flimsy. It holds sheet music well enough, but for those who plan to use heavier books or extensive scores, it may wobble slightly. Fortunately, this is a minor gripe, and aftermarket options are available for those who require something sturdier.
Keyboard Action: Scaled Hammer Action II
Perhaps the most critical feature of any digital piano is its keyboard action. The Casio CDP-S360 uses Casio’s Scaled Hammer Action II (SLA II), which is designed to replicate the feel of an acoustic piano. This action provides graded weighting, meaning the keys in the lower register feel heavier, while those in the upper register feel lighter—just as they would on a real piano.
For a digital piano in this price range, the SLA II is remarkably good. The keys have a satisfying resistance that makes playing feel expressive and dynamic, especially for intermediate players who need more from their instrument than a beginner model can provide. It’s not quite as nuanced as the hammer action found in higher-end digital pianos, but it’s an impressive mechanism nonetheless.
The surface of the keys is smooth plastic, which might be a bit slippery for some, especially when playing for extended periods. Some higher-end models offer textured keys that mimic the feel of ivory and ebony, and while the CDP-S360 lacks this feature, the playing experience is still enjoyable. The key return speed is also quite responsive, allowing for fast, repeated notes without the keys feeling sluggish.
In terms of noise, the keys are relatively quiet when pressed, even when playing vigorously. This is another important aspect for people who live in shared spaces or apartments where excessive noise might be an issue.
Sound Engine: AiX (Acoustic Intelligent Expression)
The Casio CDP-S360 is equipped with Casio’s AiX Sound Source, a technology that provides highly expressive sounds, particularly in the realm of piano tones. The AiX engine is capable of delivering nuanced, realistic sounds, not only for the acoustic piano voices but across a wide range of other instruments as well.
Acoustic Piano Sounds
The CDP-S360 offers 10 different piano tones, and the quality of these voices is impressive for an instrument in this price range. The default grand piano tone is warm and rich, with a decent amount of dynamic range. When you play softly, the sound is mellow and delicate, but as you apply more force to the keys, it becomes brighter and more powerful. This expressiveness makes the piano suitable for a wide range of music styles, from classical and jazz to pop and rock.
While the primary piano tone is quite good, it’s worth noting that the sustain, while adequate, doesn’t match the level of depth you might find in higher-end models. The decay of the notes is shorter than you’d expect from an acoustic grand piano, which may be a consideration for advanced classical players.
Other Instrument Voices
In addition to the acoustic piano sounds, the CDP-S360 includes a whopping 700 voices covering everything from electric pianos and organs to strings, brass, woodwinds, and synthesized sounds. This incredible variety makes the CDP-S360 a versatile tool for musicians who dabble in different genres or who want to experiment with sound design.
The electric pianos are particularly good, with a range of tones that can suit various styles, from the classic 70s Rhodes sound to more modern digital timbres. The organs are also noteworthy, especially for those who enjoy playing jazz or gospel music. Other highlights include the string and orchestral sounds, which, while not as rich as you might find on more expensive keyboards, are more than adequate for casual use or as part of a layered arrangement.
For those interested in modern music production, the synth sounds are a nice touch. They provide a variety of electronic textures that can add depth to compositions, and while they don’t compete with dedicated synthesizers, they’re a fun inclusion for casual use or live performances.
Polyphony
The Casio CDP-S360 boasts 128-note polyphony, which is a solid feature for a piano in this price range. Polyphony refers to the number of notes the digital piano can produce simultaneously, and 128 notes is more than sufficient for most styles of playing, including classical music with complex, overlapping notes. Whether you’re using a sustain pedal or layering sounds, the CDP-S360 can handle intricate performances without dropping notes or cutting off sounds prematurely.
Built-In Speakers
The built-in speakers on the CDP-S360 are adequate for home practice but might fall short in larger spaces or during performances without external amplification. The speakers, which output 8W per side (for a total of 16W), deliver clear sound at moderate volumes, but they lack the depth and bass response that more powerful sound systems offer.
For home use, especially in smaller rooms, these speakers should suffice. The stereo imaging is decent, and the sound is evenly distributed across the keyboard. However, if you plan to perform in larger venues or want a richer sound, you’ll likely need to invest in external speakers or connect the piano to a PA system.
When using headphones, the sound quality improves significantly, with more clarity and detail coming through compared to the onboard speakers. This makes practicing with headphones a more immersive experience, particularly if you’re aiming for a high-quality piano tone.
Pedals and Connectivity
The Casio CDP-S360 comes with a basic sustain pedal, which is functional but somewhat lacking in build quality. For more serious players, upgrading to a better sustain pedal or even a three-pedal unit would enhance the playing experience, particularly for those who are used to the full range of pedals on an acoustic piano (soft, sostenuto, and sustain).
In terms of connectivity, the CDP-S360 provides a range of options, making it suitable for both home use and live performances. The piano features:
- USB-MIDI connectivity, which allows you to connect it to a computer for use with DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) and other music software.
- Standard audio outputs, which allow you to connect the piano to external speakers, amplifiers, or a recording interface.
- Headphone jacks, enabling silent practice sessions.
- Pedal inputs, supporting both the included sustain pedal and optional three-pedal units for a more complete piano experience.
The inclusion of USB connectivity makes it easy to integrate the CDP-S360 into a home studio setup. Whether you’re recording tracks, composing music, or using software instruments, the CDP-S360 works seamlessly with most modern production tools. This is a big plus for aspiring producers or composers who want to use their digital piano as part of a larger workflow.
Modes and Features
Casio has packed a lot of functionality into the CDP-S360, making it much more than just a piano. Some of the standout features include:
- Layer Mode: This allows you to combine two sounds at once, such as piano and strings, to create a rich, layered sound. It’s a great feature for live performances or for adding depth to your compositions.
- Split Mode: In this mode, you can assign different voices to the left and right halves of the keyboard, such as bass on the left and piano on the right. This is particularly useful for jazz or pop playing where you want to perform a bassline and melody simultaneously.
- Duet Mode: This splits the keyboard into two equal ranges, allowing two people to play the same range of notes simultaneously. It’s perfect for teacher-student interactions or for duets.
- Metronome and Recording: The built-in metronome is a helpful practice tool, while the basic recording function allows you to capture performances for review or sharing.
One area where the CDP-S360 stands out from its competition is the inclusion of rhythms and accompaniments. With 200 built-in rhythms covering a wide range of styles (pop, jazz, rock, Latin, etc.), this feature turns the CDP-S360 into a mini-arranger keyboard, capable of providing backing tracks for solo performances or practice sessions. It’s a nice touch for those who want to explore different musical genres or work on improvisation skills.
Software Integration and Additional Features
The CDP-S360 is compatible with Casio’s Chordana Play for Piano app, which adds another layer of functionality. The app allows you to control various settings on the piano, explore different songs, and even play along with MIDI files. It’s particularly useful for beginners who want to learn new pieces or for those who enjoy using technology to enhance their practice sessions.
While the app is more geared toward casual users, more advanced players might find the piano’s integration with DAWs via USB-MIDI to be more beneficial. Recording MIDI tracks and editing them in real-time can be a game-changer for those who compose or arrange music.
Portability and Power Options
The Casio CDP-S360 shines in terms of portability. As mentioned earlier, its lightweight design makes it easy to transport, and its slim profile allows it to fit in tight spaces. Whether you’re a student moving the piano between home and lessons or a performer bringing it to gigs, the CDP-S360’s portability is a major plus.
One unique feature is the option to power the piano via six AA batteries, in addition to the included AC adapter. This makes the CDP-S360 one of the few digital pianos that can be used truly portably, without needing an electrical outlet. While battery life isn’t infinite (you’ll get around 13 hours of playtime on a fresh set of batteries), it’s a fantastic option for outdoor performances or impromptu jam sessions where power isn’t readily available.
Price and Value
The Casio CDP-S360 is priced competitively in the mid-range digital piano market. Considering the features it offers—88 weighted keys, a wide variety of instrument voices, built-in rhythms, and USB connectivity—it provides excellent value for both beginners and intermediate players.
While it may not match the realism and depth of sound found in more expensive models like Casio’s own Privia series or other high-end brands like Yamaha or Roland, the CDP-S360 holds its own as a budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice essential features.
For students, casual players, or musicians who need a reliable, portable instrument for performances, the CDP-S360 is hard to beat at this price point.
Comparison with Alternatives
Casio CDP-S360 vs. Yamaha P-125
The Yamaha P-125 is one of the most popular digital pianos in the mid-range category, and it is often compared with the Casio CDP-S360. Both models offer 88 weighted keys and are designed for intermediate players seeking an affordable but feature-rich instrument.
The Yamaha P-125 uses Yamaha’s GHS (Graded Hammer Standard) action, which is comparable to Casio’s Scaled Hammer Action II. However, some players may find the GHS action slightly more realistic, as Yamaha has been perfecting its key action technology for a longer time. Yamaha’s GHS keys are also a bit heavier on the low end, which could appeal to players looking for an acoustic-like resistance.
In terms of sound, the P-125 utilizes Yamaha’s Pure CF Sound Engine, delivering highly realistic piano tones sampled from Yamaha’s acclaimed CFIIIS concert grand piano. While Casio’s AiX Sound Source in the CDP-S360 is excellent, especially considering its wide variety of instrument sounds, Yamaha’s acoustic piano samples are often seen as more refined, offering a bit more depth and natural resonance.
One area where the Casio CDP-S360 outshines the Yamaha P-125 is the sheer number of sounds and features. While the Yamaha P-125 includes a respectable 24 voices, the CDP-S360 offers 700 voices and 200 built-in rhythms, making it more versatile for musicians who want to experiment with different sounds and styles. In addition, the CDP-S360 includes USB-MIDI connectivity, which is comparable to Yamaha’s USB functionality.
Ultimately, if you’re primarily focused on piano tone and realistic action, the Yamaha P-125 might edge out the Casio CDP-S360. However, if versatility, portability, and sound variety are more important to you, the CDP-S360 offers a better range of features at a similar price.
Casio CDP-S360 vs. Roland FP-30X
The Roland FP-30X is another popular competitor in the same price range as the Casio CDP-S360, and both have their unique strengths. Like the CDP-S360, the Roland FP-30X offers 88 weighted keys, but it uses Roland’s PHA-4 Standard Action, which many musicians consider superior to Casio’s Scaled Hammer Action II. Roland’s PHA-4 keys are known for their textured, ivory-like surface and high sensitivity to touch, which makes the playing experience feel more like an acoustic piano.
In terms of sound, the Roland FP-30X is powered by Roland’s SuperNATURAL Piano Engine, which delivers incredibly detailed piano tones, known for their natural decay and resonance. Roland’s sound technology generally produces richer, more dynamic tones compared to Casio’s AiX Sound Source, though the CDP-S360 still performs admirably, especially with its broad variety of instrument voices.
Where the Casio CDP-S360 excels is in the additional features and versatility. The FP-30X, while offering only 56 preset sounds, focuses more on quality rather than quantity. The CDP-S360, with its 700 voices and 200 rhythms, is better suited for players who want to explore different genres or use the piano for non-traditional sounds. The CDP-S360 also has a more compact design, making it more portable than the FP-30X, which is slightly bulkier.
Additionally, the Casio CDP-S360 includes a battery-powered option, which the FP-30X lacks. This feature could be a significant advantage for musicians who perform outdoors or in settings where power outlets are not readily available.
In summary, the Roland FP-30X offers a more premium piano-playing experience, with superior key action and sound quality. However, the Casio CDP-S360 stands out with its variety of sounds, portability, and price-point, making it a better choice for those looking for versatility on a budget.
Casio CDP-S360 vs. Korg B2
The Korg B2 is another popular digital piano in the same price category as the Casio CDP-S360. Both pianos are aimed at intermediate players and come with 88 weighted keys, but they differ significantly in terms of features and focus.
The Korg B2 features Natural Weighted Hammer Action (NH), which is Korg’s entry-level hammer action. While it provides weighted keys, the action is considered lighter and less refined compared to Casio’s Scaled Hammer Action II. For players who are particular about key resistance and a more authentic piano feel, the Casio CDP-S360 has the edge in this category. The Korg’s action is still serviceable, particularly for beginners, but lacks the depth and dynamic range you get from the CDP-S360.
Sound-wise, the Korg B2 focuses on a more streamlined experience, featuring 12 high-quality sounds with a special emphasis on its acoustic piano tones. Korg uses samples from some of the finest concert grands, and the piano sound is rich and vibrant, especially when paired with external speakers. However, it doesn’t have the same variety of sounds that the Casio CDP-S360 offers, which includes a staggering 700 voices. If you want a simple digital piano primarily for piano playing, the Korg B2 is a good option, but if you want versatility and a wide range of instrument voices, the CDP-S360 is much more flexible.
One area where the Korg B2 falls short compared to the CDP-S360 is in additional features. The B2 lacks rhythms, split and layer modes, and an accompaniment feature—all of which are included in the CDP-S360. Additionally, the Casio CDP-S360 has more connectivity options, including USB-MIDI, which allows integration with recording software.
To summarize, the Korg B2 is a straightforward digital piano for players who prioritize piano tone and simplicity, while the Casio CDP-S360 offers far more features, making it a more versatile choice for musicians who want more than just a piano experience.
Weaknesses
While the Casio CDP-S360 offers a wealth of features at an affordable price point, it does come with several weaknesses that may influence a potential buyer’s decision, especially if you’re an advanced player or highly particular about certain aspects of your digital piano.
1. Key Texture and Feel
One of the most noticeable drawbacks of the CDP-S360 is the key texture. The keys are made of smooth plastic, which can feel slippery during longer practice sessions, particularly for players with sweaty hands. Many higher-end digital pianos offer textured keys that mimic the feel of ivory and ebony, providing a more comfortable and authentic playing experience. While Casio’s Scaled Hammer Action II does a decent job replicating the weighted feel of acoustic pianos, the lack of textured surfaces might detract from the overall feel for more serious pianists.
2. Built-in Speaker Quality
The built-in speakers, while functional for small room settings and personal practice, are underwhelming for those who expect a fuller, more resonant sound. With only 8W of power per side, the total 16W speaker output lacks depth, particularly in the lower frequencies. The sound can feel somewhat flat, especially when compared to models from competitors like the Yamaha P-125 or Roland FP-30X, which have more powerful and richer onboard speakers. For larger spaces or performance settings, external speakers or an amplifier will almost certainly be required.
3. Sustain Pedal Quality
The included sustain pedal is another area where the CDP-S360 cuts corners. It’s a basic switch-type pedal that feels plasticky and lacks the weight and responsiveness of a more professional pedal. While functional for beginners, intermediate or advanced players may want to upgrade to a more robust pedal or even a three-pedal unit for better control and realism, especially in classical repertoire that relies heavily on pedal nuances.
4. Limited Piano Sound Depth
Although the AiX Sound Source provides a wide variety of sounds, the acoustic piano tones don’t match the depth or realism of those found on more expensive models. The sustain of the notes, while sufficient for casual use, doesn’t have the same natural decay or resonance found in higher-end digital pianos. Advanced players may find the piano sound somewhat lacking in nuance, especially for more complex, expressive pieces.
These weaknesses may not be deal-breakers for everyone, but they highlight areas where the CDP-S360 falls short compared to more premium digital pianos. For beginners and casual players, the instrument still offers good value, but more demanding musicians may want to consider these limitations before purchasing.
Final Verdict
The Casio CDP-S360 is a versatile and well-rounded digital piano that excels in several key areas. Its compact and lightweight design makes it perfect for musicians who need portability, while its full range of features—including a realistic keyboard action, a wide variety of instrument sounds, and built-in rhythms—makes it a powerful tool for practice, performance, and even music production.
While it may not have the high-end sound quality or advanced features of more expensive models, it strikes a perfect balance between affordability and functionality. Whether you’re a beginner looking to start your piano journey, an intermediate player upgrading from a basic keyboard, or a gigging musician in need of a portable instrument, the CDP-S360 is a fantastic option that offers plenty of value for its price.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design
- Scaled Hammer Action II provides realistic key feel
- Wide variety of voices (700 sounds) and rhythms (200 styles)
- USB-MIDI connectivity for recording and music production
- Affordable price point
- Battery-powered option for true portability
Cons:
- Built-in speakers lack depth for larger spaces
- Sustain pedal is basic and may need upgrading
- Key surfaces are smooth and can feel slippery
Ultimately, the Casio CDP-S360 is a digital piano that punches well above its weight class, delivering an impressive array of features at a price that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re playing at home, in the studio, or on the stage, the CDP-S360 offers something for everyone.