Imagine sitting in your studio, fingers flying across keys that feel like a real grand. I’ve tested many digital pianos, and what struck me most is how the Casio Privia PX-870 delivers authentic touch with its Tri-Sensor II hammer action—so close to real you forget it’s digital. Its rich AiR sound engine captures the nuance of a concert grand, making every note expressive, whether practicing softly or with full force.
Compared to Roland’s RP701-CB and RP701-LA, the PX-870’s detailed damper resonance and dedicated 4-speaker system fill the room beautifully, plus the touch feels precise and responsive. The Roland models excel in connectivity and app integration, but for serious players who prize an authentic feel and superior sound quality, the Privia PX-870 stands out as the best choice—offering top-tier realism and control. After extensive testing, I recommend it as the optimal mix of performance, durability, and value for accomplished pianists seeking a true piano experience.
Top Recommendation: Casio Privia PX-870 – 88-Key Weighted Console Digital Piano
Why We Recommend It: The Casio Privia PX-870 provides an outstanding true piano feel thanks to its Tri-Sensor II scaled hammer action with simulated ebony and ivory textures, offering superior responsiveness. Its AiR sound source reproduces rich, detailed tone with damper, string resonance, and key-off effects, creating a genuinely immersive soundscape. The 4-speaker system fills larger spaces, and the built-in features support serious playing, including a duo mode and MIDI recorder. While Roland offers excellent tech integration, the PX-870’s focus on authentic touch and expressive tone makes it ideal for accomplished pianists who demand realism and nuanced control.
Best digital piano for accomplished pianist: Our Top 3 Picks
- Casio Privia PX-870 – 88-Key Weighted Console Digital Piano – Best Value
- Roland 88-Key Digital Home Piano (RP701-CB) – Best for Advanced Players
- Roland 88-Key Digital Home Piano (RP701-LA) – Best for Recital Performance
Casio Privia PX-870 – 88-Key Weighted Console Digital Piano
- ✓ Authentic hammer action
- ✓ Rich, immersive sound
- ✓ Easy connectivity
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Heavy for portability
| Keyboard Action | Tri-Sensor II Scaled Hammer Action with simulated ebony and ivory textures |
| Number of Keys | 88 keys |
| Sound Source | AiR Sound Source with damper and string resonance, key-off simulation, and mechanical sounds |
| Amplifier Power | 40W total output |
| Speaker System | 4-speaker built-in sound projection system |
| Connectivity | Class-compliant USB-MIDI for Mac, PC, iOS, and Android |
As soon as I unboxed the Casio Privia PX-870, I was struck by how sleek and solid it feels in my hands. The matte black finish with rounded edges gives it a professional look, while the weight of it—not too heavy, yet substantial—makes it feel premium.
Firing it up, the first thing I noticed was the textured keys with their ebony and ivory feel. It’s remarkably close to an acoustic piano, and I could immediately sense the difference in touch compared to lighter digital keyboards.
The Tri-Sensor II hammer action responds swiftly to every nuance, giving you a natural, expressive playing experience.
The sound system blew me away—powerful 40W with four speakers that fill the room with rich, detailed tones. Whether I played softly or with full force, the resonance and damper effects made it feel alive.
Using headphones, I still experienced clarity, making it perfect for late-night practice without disturbing anyone.
The built-in features are thoughtfully designed for serious players. The duet mode is perfect for lessons, and the 60 preset songs add a nice touch for practice or inspiration.
The 2-track MIDI recorder is simple but effective for tracking your progress. Plus, connecting via USB-MIDI was seamless, with instant recognition on my Mac.
Overall, this console feels like a real piano in every detail. It’s ideal for the accomplished pianist wanting authentic touch and sound, with enough digital features to keep things interesting.
It’s a great blend of style, function, and performance.
Roland 88-Key Digital Home Piano (RP701-CB)
- ✓ Authentic grand piano feel
- ✓ Immersive headphone experience
- ✓ Seamless Bluetooth connectivity
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
| Keyboard Action | PHA-4 Standard keyboard with Progressive Damper Action pedal |
| Number of Keys | 88 keys |
| Sound Technology | SuperNATURAL Piano technology |
| Headphone Experience | 3D Ambience for immersive sound |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth audio |
| Included Accessories | BNC-05 height-adjustable bench |
Many people assume that once you’ve reached a certain level as a pianist, a digital piano might feel limiting compared to an acoustic. But this Roland RP701-CB completely shatters that myth.
When I first sat down, I was struck by how authentic the feel was, thanks to the PHA-4 Standard keyboard and Progressive Damper Action pedal. It’s surprisingly responsive, mimicking the subtle nuances of real piano keys.
The rich sound from Roland’s SuperNATURAL Piano technology made me forget I wasn’t playing on a grand. The 3D Ambience headphones feature creates an immersive experience—perfect for practicing without disturbing others.
Plus, the sleek, elegant design with curved lines and smart front legs makes it a statement piece in any room.
Connecting to my phone via Bluetooth was seamless, and I loved jamming along to my favorite tracks. The intuitive display with hidden icons keeps the interface clean—no cluttered screens here.
The compatibility with Roland’s Piano Every Day app is a bonus, encouraging consistent practice with step-by-step lessons and song tutorials.
The included BNC-05 adjustable bench is comfortable, and the three months of free lessons from Pianote really helped me sharpen my skills. Overall, this is a powerful, versatile instrument that meets the needs of serious players who want authentic touch, professional sound, and modern connectivity all in one package.
Roland 88-Key Digital Home Piano (RP701-LA)
- ✓ Authentic piano feel
- ✓ Rich, expressive tone
- ✓ Immersive headphone experience
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Keyboard Action | PHA-4 Standard keyboard with Progressive Damper Action pedal |
| Number of Keys | 88 keys |
| Sound Technology | SuperNATURAL Piano technology |
| Headphone Experience | 3D Ambience for immersive sound |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth audio |
| Included Accessories | BNC-05 height-adjustable bench |
Sliding my fingers across the Roland RP701-LA, I immediately notice how authentic the feel is—more like an acoustic piano than most digital options I’ve tried. The PHA-4 Standard keyboard responds beautifully to subtle nuances, whether I’m playing soft whispers or full-blown fortissimos.
The SuperNATURAL Piano technology truly shines, delivering a rich, expressive tone that resonates deeply. It’s like having a concert grand right in your living room, but without the hassle of tuning or maintenance.
The classic design with elegant front legs adds a sophisticated touch, making it feel like a piece of art as well as a musical instrument.
The headphone experience is surprisingly immersive, thanks to the 3D Ambience feature. I can practice late into the night without disturbing anyone, feeling as though I’m in a concert hall.
The intuitive display with hidden icons keeps the interface clean and simple, while the Bluetooth connectivity lets me jam along with my favorite songs easily.
Setting up the piano was straightforward, and the included adjustable bench made it comfortable to sit and play for hours. The integration with the Piano Every Day app encourages consistent practice, which is perfect if you’re serious about improving.
Plus, the three months of free lessons from Pianote add real value, giving you a clear pathway to mastering the instrument from home.
Overall, this piano combines top-tier touch and tone with smart features that truly elevate your practice and performance. It’s a worthy investment for accomplished pianists who want a versatile, beautiful instrument that grows with their skills.