Yamaha CLP-865GP Review | News

Is the Yamaha CLP-865GP Worth It? Full Review and Buyer’s Guide.

If you’re after a digital piano that combines authentic grand piano experience with modern convenience and stunning aesthetics, the Yamaha CLP-865GP might be exactly what you need. In this review, Tony from Bonners explores everything you should know about this impressive instrument - from its sound and feel to its smart features - and why it stands out in today’s market.

Experience the Grand Piano Sound – At Home

The first thing you’ll notice about the CLP-865GP is its exceptional sound quality. When you power it on, you’re greeted by the Yamaha CFX Concert Grand voice. The CFX is Yamaha’s flagship concert grand, celebrated for its rich, powerful tone, broad dynamic range, and responsive touch – qualities that have made it a favourite among professional pianists worldwide.

But the CLP-865GP doesn’t stop there. Thanks to Yamaha’s acquisition of the prestigious Austrian piano maker Bösendorfer in 2008, this digital piano also features the warm, romantic tones of the Bösendorfer Imperial. With just a button press, you can switch between the iconic Yamaha and Bösendorfer voices, allowing you to tailor your sound for everything from bold concert pieces to subtle, expressive classical works.

Compact Elegance

Measuring approximately 114cm from front to back, the CLP-865GP offers the classic look of a grand piano, without dominating your living space. Its 160-watt, four-speaker amplification system is capable of filling most rooms with rich, immersive sound – perfect for both practice and performance. Choose between polished ebony or polished white finishes to match your décor.

Authentic Grand Piano Touch

A digital piano’s feel is just as important as its sound. The CLP-865GP features Yamaha’s GrandTouch-S keyboard, designed to replicate the nuanced response of a grand piano. The weighted action is both expressive and responsive, catering to beginners and seasoned players alike. Synthetic ebony and ivory keytops provide a tactile, non-slip surface for comfort during extended playing sessions.

Versatile Voices and Creative Features

With 38 built-in voices, including acoustic grands, uprights, electric pianos, organs, strings, choirs, guitars, and synthesisers, the CLP-865GP offers nearly limitless creative possibilities. You can layer any two voices or split the keyboard to play different sounds with each hand. Whether you’re composing, practising, or just having fun, this piano adapts to your musical needs.

Realistic Pedals and Silent Practice

The CLP-865GP features three pedals with Yamaha’s GrandTouch technology, closely replicating the feel and responsiveness of an acoustic grand piano’s pedals. For silent practice, you can connect up to two sets of headphones, making it ideal for duets or late-night sessions. Yamaha’s Binaural Sampling technology creates an immersive, three-dimensional sound experience through headphones – so realistic you might forget you’re not listening through the speakers!

Smart Connectivity and Learning Tools

Modern musicians expect seamless integration with their smart devices, and the CLP-865GP delivers.

Bluetooth Audio and MIDI connectivity make it easy to play along with backing tracks or use popular piano tutor apps. Yamaha also includes a free three-month Flowkey subscription – a leading interactive learning app with over 1,500 songs and step-by-step tutorials for all skill levels.

The Yamaha Smart Pianist app further enhances your experience, transforming your smartphone or tablet into a powerful control centre. Adjust settings, select voices, access built-in lesson pieces, and even record your performances – all from an intuitive interface.

Tony's Wrap-Up: a CLP-865GP Summary

The Yamaha CLP-865GP is an outstanding choice for anyone seeking the elegance of a grand piano in a compact, modern package. With its premium sound, authentic touch, versatile features, and stylish design, it’s a superb addition to any home or studio.

We encourage you to experience the CLP-865GP in person at any of our four UK showrooms – in Eastbourne, Reigate, Milton Keynes, and Newcastle. Each location offers a relaxed atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and the opportunity to compare Yamaha’s full range alongside other top brands. Part-exchange and UK-wide delivery options are also available, making your purchase as smooth as possible.

Watch Tony's Full-Length Buyers' Guide Video

Hear and see the Yamaha CLP-865GP in action, in Tony's full-length buyers' guide video. With plenty of playing, detailed feature guides and top tips to get the best from this fantastic digital piano.