General
The Yamaha Clavinova CLP-745 digital piano has been meticulously designed for pianists seeking something more from their instrument. Taking things a few steps further than a standard 'entry-level' model, this piano has been generously crammed with extra features. For a start, the GrandTouch-S keyboard consists of 88 synthetic ebony and ivory keys, with real wood used as the base for the white keys, adding to the already authentic acoustic playing feel. Real Grand Expression technology supports this playing feel with an equally authentic sound, whether using the built-in speakers or a set of headphones, and since this Clavinova also makes use of Grand Acoustic Imaging, it's able to use the real acoustics of its own cabinet to further enhance the timbre.
The Yamaha Clavinova CLP-745: Binaural Sampling and Piano Fortes
The Clavinova CLP-745 expertly mimics the dynamic range and tonal variations of the Yamaha CFX and Bösendorfer Imperial grand pianos. It manages to do this using 'binaural sampling'. These are samples with a kind of three-dimensional stereo shaping that serves to fill the sound with more space. While this is first time that binaural samples of a Bösendorfer have been used within the Clavinova 700 Series, the CFX binaural samples included with this model have been upgraded. Binaural samples are particularly beneficial for pianists who enjoy playing wearing headphones since they're better able to conjure a feeling of space while limiting the listening fatigue that often follows hours of practice. Comprehensive samples of two classical piano fortes have also been included to support the distinct sound required to play classical compositions from the 18th and 19th centuries with accuracy.
Virtual Resonance Modelling
In addition to the functions already mentioned, this digital piano also offers Virtual Resonance Modeling (VRM) that simulates the resonance and various mechanical sounds of a real acoustic piano so that you truly have the feeling of sitting at a genuine upright. Effects including reverb, chorus, brilliance, and 'piano effects' have also been provided to further enhance the sound, alongside a bank of 21 demo songs, 50 piano songs, and 303 built-in lessons. Up to 16 tracks can also be recorded, one of 20 rhythms can be selected, and an on-board USB Audio Recorder can be used for playback as well as for making WAV recordings.
Bluetooth
Another very welcome added extra is the integrated Bluetooth functionality which can be used for both Bluetooth MIDI and as a Bluetooth receiver so that, in combination with the Yamaha SmartPianist App, you can wirelessly couple the CLP-745 with your smartphone or tablet and send as well as receive MIDI data, before streaming your favourite album to the piano and playing along. Since everything has been made as easy as possible for the user, no accessories are needed for any of these functions.
Your Own Samples?
The CLP-745 is fitted with not one, but two headphone outputs, making it ideal for playing together in silence or for more private lessons. Unplug the headphones, and two 16cm + 8cm speakers and two 50 Watt + 50 Watt amplifiers are activated for accurate audio reproduction. Even if you'd prefer to play using your own samples, this has been made possible by the inclusion of a USB to Host and USB to Device port. And, to finish, a clear yet subtle LCD screen has been fitted so that the various menus can be navigated with ease.
