Interesting, how Yamaha gives a brief “overview” of the CLP-885, and then the specs, etc.., however, they’re listing the CLP-785 side-by-side, and not only do you get the “overview,” but also a detailed list of more “features” that they didn’t bother to mention with the 885, because, IMHO, there’s nothing to brag about (other than “diffusion”).
As I said before, diffusing means spreading (the sound), and it’s nothing new; heck, they’ve been “spreading” the sound for decades by pointing speakers in many directions, using escapement ports, etc….
Keep in mind that Roland pulled the same trick with their current offering; whence they changed nothing, but still insisted “the new models are better,” and, of course, you have people like Stu vouching for it, but then again, he’s paid for/by Roland….so there’s that….
Yes, the proof is in the pudding, and playing these instruments will provide such proverbial pudding; however, let us not forget that these instruments are digital, therefore, the specs can indeed tell us a lot (prior to playing) about what to expect, and no, I don’t expect much from these, and I highly recommend trying the 785 side-by-side, forgetting about any preconceptions (“it’s weird”), and going with the best bang for your buck (785 now heavily discounted)…..
Pete XIV (Semi-Concert Pianist).
