If you’re considering a Clavinova purchase to explore your musical potential, read on to learn everything you need to make an informed decision, including what defines a Clavinova, the benefits of owning one, what each Clavinova series offers, how to find the right match, and where you can begin your search.
The name “Clavinova” is a blend of two words: Clavier (“keyboard instrument”), and nova (“new”).
Known as the “piano that changed everything,” Yamaha’s commitment to innovation and quality is unsurpassed and evident in its Clavinova digital pianos. Even TIME magazine named it one of the most influential technologies of the last fifty years. First introduced in 1983, the Clavinova enjoys broad appeal because:
Forty years later, it’s as popular as ever.
Yamaha now offers three different Clavinova series, the CLP, CSP and CVP models, each with unique options and capabilities that enhance the playing experience for both new and experienced pianists. Each model boasts an impressive set of basic features:
Designed to feel like a traditional acoustic instrument, all Clavinova pianos are housed in wooden cabinets (in various colors and finishes) and include a full 88-note keyboard with weighted keys. A few models even replicate the look of an acoustic grand piano.
Clavinova pianos use a sample-based tone generator that replicates the sound of acoustic instruments from actual recordings. Imagine playing a Clavinova and hearing the tone of a Yamaha CFX or Bösendorfer Imperial concert grand piano (or dozens of other instruments)! It can also produce a range of electronic sounds (also known as voices) from string, percussion, brass, and woodwind instruments.
Interested in innovation? The Clavinova sets the standard in impressive digital features:
Clavinova pianos require no tuning or regulation and are easy to maintain. When dirt and dust accumulate, simply wipe the finish and keyboard periodically with a soft, dry cloth. (Pro tip: Keep liquids away from your instrument and never use alcohol-based cleaners!)
Ready to forget you’re playing a digital instrument? The CLP Series first premiered in 1985 and is the most established of the Clavinova’s. This collection of pianos offers an authentic grand piano touch, tone, and power, not to mention intuitive controls — great for any player looking for the feel of a traditional acoustic with the benefits of some digital features.
Perhaps the most beginner-friendly series, the CSP series hosts many features created to improve your skills. Its most unique feature is what Yamaha calls Stream Lights, which illuminate above each piano key in sync with music to indicate when to play it.
CSP models also include a mic input, so you can sing along to any tune you play. A Vocal Harmony engine even pairs your voice with harmonies and corrects your pitch.
If the CSP series seems interesting, check out the new CSP 200 models, which feature improved sound capabilities and are Yamaha’s smartest pianos to date.
The most robust of the Clavinovas, the CVP series offers the broadest range of voices and styles. It’s also accompanied by a built-in touch screen, from which you can select to replicate the sounds of a variety of pianos. You can even digitally raise or lower the piano’s lid to modify the brightness or select a different venue the piano is playing in to emulate the change in reverb and ambiance.
Most CVP models come with additional features that affect the keys’ and pedals’ touch and feel, in addition to features mentioned in other series.
Now that you know what each Clavinova series offers, it’s time to decide which series and model may be the best fit. While there may be no wrong choice, there are some factors that you should consider when shopping.
Ready to try a Clavinova for yourself? As Yamaha’s Top U.S. piano dealership, Las Vegas Pianos offers a great selection of instruments to see, hear, and play at our showrooms nationwide. Our piano experts take a no-pressure approach designed to empower an educated purchase, and our competitive pricing and financing offers can help you get the most out of your budget.
Ready to buy now from the comfort of your home? You can complete your purchase online to receive:
To avoid post-sale support issues and fraud concerns, regardless of where you buy, ensure it’s from a Yamaha Authorized Dealer. When in doubt, let due diligence prevail by reviewing a dealership’s reviews (such as our many five-star reviews from satisfied customers) before purchasing.
We are honored to be North America’s #1 Yamaha Piano dealership. We encourage you to visit our showroom today to see, hear, and play these extraordinary instruments side-by-side to find a piano you love.
