The Casio PX-S3100 is a mid-range digital piano that promises a rich and immersive experience for pianists of all skill levels. Part of Casio’s Privia line, the PX-S3100 stands out for its ultra-slim design, advanced sound engine, and an impressive range of features at an affordable price. Having spent several weeks with the instrument, I can confidently say it strikes an excellent balance between portability, sound quality, and advanced functionality. In this Casio Privia PX-S3100 review, I’ll explore the design, sound quality, key action, features, connectivity, and overall value, offering insights into both its strengths and weaknesses.
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 PX-S3100 Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Casio PX-S3100 |
| Keyboard | 88 Keys, Smart Scaled Hammer Action with Simulated Ebony and Ivory key texture |
| Sound Source | Multi-dimensional Morphing AiR Sound Source |
| Polyphony | 192 Notes |
| Tones | 700 Built-in Tones |
| Rhythms | 200 Built-in Rhythms |
| Layer and Split | Yes, Layer and Split functions available |
| Effects | Reverb, Chorus, Brilliance, DSP (editable) |
| Accompaniment Features | Auto Accompaniment, 200 preset rhythms |
| Music Library | 310 Preset Songs |
| Recording | 2-Track MIDI Recorder, 5 songs |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth Audio (A2DP) and MIDI (BLE) |
| Pedal Inputs | 1 (SP-3 sustain pedal included), Optional 3-pedal unit (SP-34) |
| Metronome | Yes, with adjustable tempo and time signatures |
| Transpose | ±2 Octaves |
| Tuning | A4 = 415.5Hz to 465.9Hz (adjustable) |
| Touch Sensitivity | 4 Levels (Off, Light, Normal, Heavy) |
| Speakers | 2 x 8W, Bass-reflex system |
| Display | Backlit LCD |
| MIDI Connectivity | USB-to-Host (Type B), Bluetooth MIDI |
| Audio Inputs | 1 x 1/8″ (Stereo) |
| Audio Outputs | 2 x 1/4″ Line Out (L/MONO, R) |
| Headphone Jack | 1 x 1/8″ (Stereo) |
| USB Ports | USB-to-Host, USB-to-Device |
| App Compatibility | Casio Chordana Play for Piano (iOS/Android) |
| Power Supply | AC Adapter AD-A12150LW or 6 x AA batteries |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 52.0″ x 9.1″ x 4.0″ (132.2 cm x 23.2 cm x 10.2 cm) |
| Weight | 25.4 lbs (11.5 kg) |
| Included Accessories | SP-3 Sustain Pedal, Music Stand, AC Adapter |
Design and Build Quality
Slim and Lightweight
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Casio PX-S3100 is its ultra-slim profile. Measuring just 9.1 inches (23.2 cm) in depth, it is one of the slimmest digital pianos available on the market today. This makes it incredibly convenient for small spaces and easy to transport if you’re frequently on the move, whether for gigs or practice sessions. Weighing in at just 25.4 lbs (11.5 kg), the PX-S3100 is lightweight compared to other digital pianos in its class, which usually hover around the 30 to 40 lb range.
For musicians who need a piano they can easily set up and tear down or move between practice spaces, this is a big advantage. Despite its portability, the PX-S3100 feels sturdy enough to withstand regular use, and Casio has managed to make it look sleek and modern without sacrificing durability.
Aesthetic Appeal
The glossy black finish on the PX-S3100 gives it a modern, minimalist aesthetic that blends well in a variety of settings, from home studios to living rooms. It doesn’t scream “budget piano” at first glance, which is a big plus if you care about visual appeal. The touch interface, which lights up with capacitive touch buttons, adds a futuristic element to the design. However, while this touch panel is sleek, it can be a bit prone to smudges and fingerprints, requiring regular cleaning to maintain its pristine look.
Control Interface
Unlike traditional digital pianos, which often have a variety of knobs and physical buttons, the PX-S3100 uses a touch-based control panel. This can take some getting used to if you’re accustomed to the tactile feedback of physical buttons, but once you familiarize yourself with the layout, the system is intuitive enough. The buttons are responsive, and there’s a digital display to show the current settings, though it’s not as detailed or high-resolution as some competitors in this price range. The minimalist interface definitely contributes to the clean look but might frustrate users who prefer a more hands-on, immediately accessible control system.
Sound Quality
Multi-dimensional Morphing AiR Sound Source
At the heart of the PX-S3100 is Casio’s Multi-dimensional Morphing AiR (Acoustic and Intelligent Resonator) sound engine, which is responsible for generating its sound. Casio has made significant improvements to this sound engine over the years, and the PX-S3100 benefits from this refinement. The AiR engine delivers a rich, expressive tone that convincingly captures the nuances of an acoustic grand piano.
The piano sounds are warm and natural, with plenty of depth and resonance, especially in the lower registers. The AiR engine also captures subtle variations in tone based on how hard or soft you play, offering a more realistic response than you might expect at this price point. The sustain and decay of notes feel natural, and the transition between sample layers (different dynamic levels) is smooth.
For a digital piano in the PX-S3100’s price range, the sound quality is exceptional, particularly the grand piano tone. Whether you’re playing classical pieces, jazz, or pop ballads, the piano voices offer a dynamic range that allows for expressive playing.
Built-in Sounds and Tones
Beyond the core piano tones, the PX-S3100 comes packed with 700 sounds, ranging from electric pianos and organs to strings, synths, guitars, and more. The variety of sounds adds a lot of versatility to the instrument, allowing you to explore different musical styles without needing to switch to another instrument.
While not every sound is going to be on par with a professional-grade synthesizer, the electric pianos are particularly good, offering a nostalgic warmth reminiscent of classic instruments like the Fender Rhodes or Wurlitzer. The organ tones are also usable, with enough range to cover gospel, rock, and jazz genres.
The synth sounds are a nice touch, though they may lack the depth or customization options of a dedicated synthesizer. Still, for most casual or semi-professional uses, the included tones are more than sufficient. Having such a wide variety of sounds at your fingertips is a significant benefit, especially for songwriters or producers who want to experiment with different textures and instrumentations.
Layering and Splitting Sounds
The PX-S3100 offers both layering and split functionality, allowing you to combine two sounds for richer textures or split the keyboard to play different sounds in each hand. This is especially useful for live performance, where you might want to play bass with your left hand and a melody or chords with your right. Layering can create lush, complex soundscapes by combining, say, a grand piano with strings, which is ideal for cinematic or orchestral-style music.
Key Action and Touch Response
Smart Scaled Hammer Action
One of the most important factors in a digital piano is the quality of the key action, and Casio has done a commendable job with the PX-S3100. The piano uses a Smart Scaled Hammer Action Keyboard, which aims to replicate the feel of an acoustic piano. Each key is weighted individually, simulating the heavier touch of the lower registers and the lighter touch in the higher registers.
For an instrument in this price range, the key action feels natural and responsive. The keys are well-balanced and provide good feedback when pressed, without feeling overly heavy or sluggish. It’s worth noting that the keys are slightly narrower than standard acoustic piano keys, which might feel a bit strange to experienced pianists at first, though most will quickly adapt.
The PX-S3100 also allows you to adjust the touch sensitivity, offering four different levels (off, light, normal, and heavy). This customization is helpful for adapting the keyboard to your playing style, whether you have a lighter touch or prefer a more forceful approach.
Simulated Ebony and Ivory Texture
Another nice touch is the simulated ebony and ivory key texture, which adds a level of authenticity to the playing experience. While it’s obviously not the same as real ebony or ivory, the texture helps to improve grip, particularly in more intense playing sessions, and gives the keys a slightly more premium feel compared to the smooth plastic found on many budget digital pianos.
Features and Functionality
Rhythms and Accompaniment
The PX-S3100 includes 200 built-in rhythms, which can serve as accompaniment tracks during practice or performance. This feature is particularly valuable for musicians who enjoy playing with backing tracks or want to practice timing with a rhythm section. The rhythms cover a wide variety of styles, including pop, rock, jazz, and Latin, providing ample options for creative experimentation.
The accompaniment section also includes auto-harmonization, which automatically generates harmonies based on your playing. This is a fun feature for casual musicians and can add depth to solo performances. While it’s not something that every player will use frequently, it’s a nice bonus, especially for songwriters who want to quickly flesh out ideas.
Music Library and Song Recorder
Casio has included a generous music library of 310 preset songs with the PX-S3100, which provides a mix of classical pieces and popular tunes for practice. This can be particularly useful for beginners or intermediate players looking to expand their repertoire without needing to buy sheet music. The music library is also useful for those who want to practice sight-reading or play along with backing tracks.
The onboard song recorder allows you to capture up to 5 songs with 2 tracks each, a useful feature for recording practice sessions or sketching out ideas. While it’s not a substitute for a full-fledged DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), the recorder works well for quick ideas or personal reference.
Pedals and Accessories
The PX-S3100 comes with a basic sustain pedal, though I’d highly recommend upgrading to Casio’s SP-34 pedal unit, which provides three pedals for a more traditional piano-playing experience. The SP-34 unit is especially useful for classical pianists who rely heavily on sostenuto and soft pedal effects.
Bluetooth Connectivity and App Integration
One of the standout features of the PX-S3100 is its Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to wirelessly connect to your phone, tablet, or computer. You can stream audio directly through the piano’s speakers or use the connection for MIDI input/output with compatible music software.
The Chordana Play for Piano app is a powerful companion for the Casio PX-S3100, designed to enhance the playing and learning experience. Available for both iOS and Android devices, this app offers a range of features that complement the digital piano, making it easier to navigate settings, access learning tools, and expand creative possibilities.
One of the key advantages of the Chordana Play app is its remote control functionality. Since the PX-S3100 has a minimalist touch interface, navigating through its various features directly on the piano can sometimes be a bit cumbersome. The app simplifies this by allowing you to control functions like changing tones, adjusting metronome settings, and managing accompaniment rhythms directly from your phone or tablet. This makes the overall experience more streamlined, especially for live performances or when you want to quickly switch between settings.
Another standout feature is MIDI file integration, which allows users to load and play along with MIDI songs. The app displays the sheet music or piano roll view, helping beginners learn pieces more easily by following along with the visual aids. The PX-S3100’s Bluetooth connectivity further enhances this feature by enabling a wireless connection to the app, making setup hassle-free.
In addition, the app offers interactive learning tools, like built-in lessons and exercises, which are particularly useful for beginners looking to improve their skills. Overall, Chordana Play greatly expands the functionality of the PX-S3100, turning it into a more interactive and user-friendly learning instrument.
Connectivity and Expandability
Audio and MIDI Connectivity
The PX-S3100 is well-equipped for connecting to other devices and gear. It includes two standard 1/4-inch audio outputs for connecting to external amplifiers or PA systems, making it a solid choice for live performance. It also features a headphone jack, allowing for private practice, and a 1/8-inch audio input for playing along with external audio sources.
The USB-to-host port provides MIDI functionality, allowing you to use the PX-S3100 as a MIDI controller for virtual instruments or recording software. This
makes it a versatile tool for producers who want a high-quality keyboard for their DAW setup without breaking the bank.
Speaker System
The PX-S3100 is fitted with two 8W speakers, which, while not the most powerful on the market, deliver clear and balanced sound for personal practice or small performances. The sound quality is decent, though you may find that the speakers lack some of the richness and volume you’d get from an external sound system. For larger rooms or live settings, external amplification is recommended, but for home use, the onboard speakers should suffice.
Accessories
The Casio PX-S3100 digital piano comes with a few essential accessories to get you started, but there are additional optional accessories available that can significantly enhance the playing experience, depending on your needs.
Included Accessories:
- SP-3 Sustain Pedal: The PX-S3100 includes the SP-3 sustain pedal, which is a basic, portable pedal that functions like a traditional sustain pedal. While it’s functional for beginners and casual use, it is a simple switch-style pedal, meaning it doesn’t offer the half-pedaling capabilities that more advanced players might require. Its lightweight build also means it might shift around a bit during play, which can be frustrating for those who use the pedal frequently or forcefully.
- Music Rest: A detachable music rest comes with the piano, allowing you to comfortably place sheet music, books, or a tablet at an ideal viewing angle. This is a standard feature but necessary for those who practice using physical sheet music.
- AC Adapter: The PX-S3100 is shipped with an AC adapter (model AD-A12150LW), allowing you to power the piano via a standard electrical outlet. However, the piano can also be battery-powered using 6 AA batteries, which is great for portability.
Optional Accessories:
- SP-34 3-Pedal Unit: For a more immersive and professional piano-playing experience, the SP-34 triple pedal unit can be purchased separately. This unit includes the soft pedal (una corda), sostenuto, and sustain pedals, providing the same functionality as an acoustic grand piano. The SP-34 is highly recommended for classical pianists who need these pedals for expressive control.
- CS-68P Stand: The CS-68P wooden stand is an optional accessory that gives the PX-S3100 a more upright piano-like appearance. This stand is sturdy and designed specifically to fit the slim profile of the PX-S3100. It provides stability for home use and adds to the overall aesthetic, making the piano look more like a permanent fixture rather than a portable keyboard.
- Headphones: While not included, adding a good pair of headphones can enhance your private practice sessions. Casio recommends using quality over-ear headphones to fully appreciate the rich sounds generated by the Multi-dimensional Morphing AiR engine without disturbing others.
These optional accessories can significantly upgrade the PX-S3100’s performance and user experience, catering to various playing needs from casual to professional.
Value for Money
At its price point, the PX-S3100 offers tremendous value, packing a wealth of features, high-quality sound, and an authentic playing experience into a compact, portable package. For players looking for a digital piano that can serve multiple purposes—practice, performance, composition—the PX-S3100 is hard to beat. Its combination of affordability, portability, and functionality makes it an excellent choice for intermediate to advanced players, as well as beginners who want a high-quality instrument they can grow into.
Comparison with Alternatives
Casio PX-S3100 vs. Yamaha P-125
The Casio PX-S3100 and the Yamaha P-125 are two strong contenders in the mid-range digital piano category, each offering a blend of features, portability, and sound quality. However, they cater to slightly different audiences based on their unique characteristics.
Design and Portability:
The Casio PX-S3100’s ultra-slim profile is one of its standout features. It’s incredibly compact, measuring only 9.1 inches in depth, which makes it perfect for small spaces or for musicians on the go. The Yamaha P-125 is slightly bulkier, although still portable. It weighs around 26 lbs, making it marginally heavier than the PX-S3100, but still easy to transport. If space-saving is a priority, the Casio PX-S3100 has the edge due to its sleek form factor.
Sound Quality:
Both models have excellent sound engines, but there are some key differences. The PX-S3100 is powered by Casio’s Multi-dimensional Morphing AiR sound engine, which delivers a warm, rich piano tone with detailed resonance, especially in the lower registers. The Yamaha P-125, on the other hand, uses Yamaha’s Pure CF Sound Engine, derived from the sound of the Yamaha CFIIIS concert grand piano. The P-125’s acoustic piano sound is slightly brighter and crisper compared to the PX-S3100’s warmer tones, making it a good option for those who prefer a more lively and sharp tone.
Key Action:
In terms of key action, the PX-S3100 features Casio’s Smart Scaled Hammer Action, while the Yamaha P-125 uses the Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) action. Both offer graded weighting to simulate the heavier touch in the lower keys and lighter touch in the higher keys, but the Yamaha’s action feels slightly firmer and more realistic, making it more comparable to an acoustic piano’s key feel. However, the PX-S3100’s textured keys, with their simulated ebony and ivory finish, provide better grip and a more premium feel compared to the smooth keys of the P-125.
Features:
The PX-S3100 comes packed with 700 tones and 200 rhythms, offering more versatility for those looking to experiment with a variety of sounds. The P-125 is more focused, with just 24 voices but offers excellent quality across the limited selection. Casio’s PX-S3100 also has Bluetooth connectivity, which the Yamaha P-125 lacks, making it more appealing for musicians who want to integrate the piano with mobile apps or use it as a wireless speaker.
Verdict:
If you prioritize portability, a wide variety of sounds, and modern connectivity options, the Casio PX-S3100 is the better choice. However, if you prefer a more realistic key action and a brighter, concert grand-style piano tone, the Yamaha P-125 edges ahead.
Casio PX-S3100 vs. Roland FP-30X
The Casio PX-S3100 and the Roland FP-30X are both excellent digital pianos aimed at intermediate to advanced players, but they offer different strengths in terms of sound, key action, and features.
Design and Portability:
When it comes to portability, the PX-S3100 has the clear advantage. Its ultra-slim, lightweight design makes it incredibly easy to transport or fit into tight spaces. The FP-30X, while still portable, is bulkier and heavier (weighing around 31 lbs), making it less convenient for frequent transport. However, both models are aesthetically pleasing, with sleek, modern designs that would fit well in a home studio or living room.
Sound Quality:
The sound engine is where the FP-30X really shines. Roland’s SuperNATURAL Piano Sound engine is known for its highly expressive, realistic tones. The FP-30X has a more complex and nuanced sound, particularly in the dynamic range, which responds beautifully to softer or harder playing. By comparison, the Casio PX-S3100’s AiR engine also offers high-quality sounds but lacks the same level of expressive realism, especially when compared directly with the FP-30X’s rich acoustic tones. That said, the PX-S3100 offers an enormous sound library of 700 voices, whereas the FP-30X is more focused, with fewer but more detailed sounds.
Key Action:
The PX-S3100’s Smart Scaled Hammer Action is solid and responsive, but the Roland FP-30X offers a more realistic playing experience with its PHA-4 Standard keyboard. Roland’s keys have a heavier, more authentic action that closely mimics the feel of an acoustic piano. The escapement feature in the FP-30X further enhances the tactile experience, allowing for faster repetition and more control over dynamics. The textured keys on both models are a nice touch, but Roland’s key action is superior in terms of responsiveness and weight distribution.
Features:
While the Roland FP-30X focuses on providing high-quality core piano functions, the PX-S3100 is loaded with extra features. The PX-S3100 includes 200 rhythms and a wide range of sounds, which makes it more versatile for those who like to experiment with different musical genres or produce more layered compositions. Additionally, the PX-S3100 has Bluetooth connectivity, which allows for audio streaming and MIDI functionality. The FP-30X also has Bluetooth, but it’s focused more on MIDI than audio streaming, making the PX-S3100 slightly more flexible in that department.
Verdict:
If sound quality and key action are your top priorities, the Roland FP-30X is the better option, offering a more realistic piano experience. However, if portability, versatility, and a wealth of features are more important to you, the Casio PX-S3100 is an excellent choice.
Casio PX-S3100 vs. Korg B2SP
The Casio PX-S3100 and the Korg B2SP are two digital pianos that cater to slightly different markets. The PX-S3100 is packed with features and customization options, while the Korg B2SP is a simpler, more straightforward instrument designed for beginner and intermediate players.
Design and Portability:
The PX-S3100’s slim profile is ideal for musicians who need portability. It’s lightweight and takes up minimal space, making it an excellent choice for smaller homes or apartments. The Korg B2SP, while still portable, is bulkier, especially when attached to its included stand and pedal unit. However, the B2SP’s full-sized keyboard and built-in stand give it a more traditional piano look, which some users might prefer for home use.
Sound Quality:
When it comes to sound quality, the PX-S3100 offers far more variety. With 700 tones powered by Casio’s AiR sound engine, it’s a highly versatile instrument, allowing players to experiment with a wide range of sounds. The Korg B2SP focuses on a smaller number of core piano tones (12 in total), with its primary strength being the quality of its acoustic piano samples. The B2SP’s sounds are sampled from high-end concert grand pianos, which give it an edge in realism and clarity when compared directly to the acoustic piano sounds of the PX-S3100. However, if you’re looking for more variety in tone options, the Casio is the better choice.
Key Action:
The PX-S3100’s Smart Scaled Hammer Action is comparable to the Korg B2SP’s Natural Weighted Hammer Action (NH). Both are designed to mimic the feel of a real acoustic piano, with heavier keys in the lower registers and lighter keys in the upper registers. However, the PX-S3100 offers a slightly more refined experience, with adjustable touch sensitivity and a textured key surface. The B2SP’s action is solid for beginners but may feel a bit basic for more advanced players who are used to higher-end digital or acoustic pianos.
Features:
When it comes to features, the PX-S3100 easily outclasses the Korg B2SP. It comes with a wide array of built-in sounds, rhythms, and Bluetooth connectivity for both audio and MIDI, making it a versatile instrument for different musical styles and settings. The B2SP is more straightforward, designed to replicate the experience of playing a traditional piano without too many distractions. It lacks features like Bluetooth and extensive sound options, which limits its use to more traditional piano playing.
Verdict:
The Casio PX-S3100 is the better choice for players looking for versatility, portability, and advanced features like Bluetooth and a variety of tones. The Korg B2SP, however, is ideal for beginners or those who want a simple, solid instrument focused on core piano sounds and traditional playing experiences.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Ultra-slim and lightweight design
- Excellent sound quality with the AiR engine
- Smart Scaled Hammer Action provides realistic key feel
- 700 tones and 200 rhythms for versatility
- Bluetooth connectivity for audio and MIDI
- Compatible with Casio’s Chordana Play app
- Generous connectivity options (USB, audio outputs, etc.)
Cons:
- Slightly narrower keys may take time to get used to
- Built-in speakers lack power for large settings
- Touch-based control panel can be less intuitive than physical buttons
- Pedal unit not included (sold separately)
Weaknesses
While the Casio PX-S3100 digital piano is an impressive instrument in many respects, it does have a few notable weaknesses that may influence your buying decision, depending on your needs and preferences.
Key Action
Although the PX-S3100’s Smart Scaled Hammer Action is a solid feature, it’s not on par with more premium digital pianos or acoustic pianos when it comes to realism. The key action, while responsive, can feel a bit light compared to higher-end models like Roland’s PHA-4 action or Yamaha’s GH3 action. Pianists accustomed to the heavier, more precise feel of an acoustic piano may find the PX-S3100’s key action lacking in authenticity. Additionally, the slightly narrower keys may take some adjustment, especially for players with more extensive experience on standard-sized keys.
Onboard Speaker Power
The built-in speaker system, which features two 8W speakers, is adequate for home practice but lacks the power and fullness needed for larger rooms or performances without external amplification. The sound produced by the onboard speakers, while clear, can come across as slightly thin or lacking in depth at higher volumes. For more serious performances or recording sessions, external speakers or headphones will likely be necessary to fully appreciate the sound quality of the AiR engine.
Touch Interface
The touch-based control panel, while sleek and modern, can be a double-edged sword. Some users may find it less intuitive compared to traditional buttons and knobs, especially during live performances where quick adjustments are needed. The panel can also be prone to fingerprints, requiring frequent cleaning to maintain its glossy appearance. The limited display doesn’t provide extensive feedback on settings, which could frustrate users who prefer more detailed visual cues.
Pedal Unit Not Included
While the PX-S3100 comes with a basic sustain pedal, the three-pedal unit (SP-34) must be purchased separately. This can be an additional expense, especially for classical players who rely on the sostenuto and soft pedals for expressive performance.
Conclusion
The Casio PX-S3100 is a standout digital piano for its price, offering features that rival more expensive models. Its slim design, high-quality sound engine, and solid key action make it a compelling choice for both home use and on-the-go musicians. Whether you’re a beginner, an intermediate player, or a gigging professional, the PX-S3100 is an instrument that provides excellent value, versatility, and performance in a sleek, modern package. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as the touch interface and onboard speaker power, these are easily outweighed by its numerous strengths.
In conclusion, if you’re in the market for a digital piano that doesn’t compromise on sound or features, the Casio PX-S3100 should be at the top of your list.