Korg should release a D2 with more sounds, pitch bend and modulation wheels, usb connectivety, the ability to split the keyboard and an internal power supply and I'd buy it in a heartbeat.
Just want to say thank you for your review, not only on this piano but for everything. I love your style of talking about the instrument. Also I love the fact that you are honest, without every being unkind or aggressive in your approach to both the good points and the things that could be better. I made my purchase of a piano primarily on the basis of your in depth reviews. Many thanks, Clyde
I really wish Korg would issue a board with just the SGX-2 piano sound engine, three-pedal support and their RH3 key action. Fewer bells and whistles than the Grandstage but more substantial acoustic piano sounds than the D1 or SV-1. Love the sound of the SGX-2 pianos!
Still use my old SG1 73 for both acoustic and electric piano sounds. I generally add a nice smooth Yamaha pad underneath and it's still one of my favorites! Haven't tried a SGX-2 but I'm going on Ebay today to look around.
You and ThePianoForever guy are the best reviewers on pianos. Just love watching these videos. Still have no idea which DP to get, lol, but that's my own issue.
@@eugeniar7101 I eventually got a Korg D1. ThePianoForever guy never demoed that one. I'm happy with it. I think it's the nicest looking of the bunch, perfect for my studio. However, when I play my real piano, there's just no comparison... even though it's a cheap junky Sojin. I got that thing for LESS money than the D1 too.
Simply amazing review Chuck, thank you very much for providing top notch videos! RH3, Layering, Seamless transition, great sounds, great control, great features, decent effects, compact and portable, all this at $600-700, is hard to beat. If only Korg released a competitor to the Yamaha CK series with the RH3…
Had mine now for a few days. I call it the 'unicorn'. Why.....because it is a real pro stage piano for under $1K. They key bed is superior to anything close in price. When you play high up on the key (meaning closer to the case, not higher in the register) itdoesn't feel stiff like most entry level pianos. The reviews on the action sold me over Yammie, and man they were right.About as close to acoustic as it comes at any sane price. Sound? Seems really good to me, esp. the default piano. But if I want more, w/ an adapter cable, I can run the Korg sound module app on my iPhone 13 and get way more sounds and polyphony, plus, having true legacy mid....could always add hardware module. It looks great and seems very robust. I could care less about lack of onboard speakers and all the electronic doo dads like player/teacher stuff. I wanted a pro stage piano and this is the one I could afford. Can't recommend enough if you don't care about onboard speakers. Thanks again Chuck.
Chuck I have used your videos in my shopping for keyboards over the years and just want to say thank you for saying it how it is, we must have a very similar taste in gear :)
Your right Chuck. Layers are more important than splits for us piano players. Korg makes great boards and synths.. but needs to come up with apps( like Yamaha' s Smart Pianist app for their P and Clp series) that make future Korg DPs more user friendly! More peace to the Tube's premier piano puncher!
I've got one on order. I'm a drummer but wanted piano for my studio. Was gonna get Yammie P125 but all the reviews say the RH3 keyyboard is superior as you said. Like that you can adjust relative volumes on layers. Thanks man, you helped sell me on this. I didn't care about built in speakers or tons of sounds or rhythm tracks or any of that stuff. Great channel. subscribed
Sir, thank you for taking time to reply. I figure that that since the D1 has legacy MIDI, even if the onboard sounds aren't the best, I can always add an outboard module like the V3. Love you playing brother. Always entertaining. Pick it up on Wed. Will post thoughts.
Mr. Chuck (and others) First of all, I'm not a piano player. I bought this to have on hand in my jam studio. But I did play keys as a kid. on acoustics. This key bed feel way better than anything I tried at the same price point. Most of the cheaper key beds get stiff if you press your fingers higher up on the key toward the case. This does not have that issue. It's very impressive. I think it sounds fine. But if I want more, the $40 app and a $50 legacy MIDI to USB can turn my iPhone 13 into a sound module. Zero regret over this vs the Yammie p125, and I love Yamaha gear. If you can live w/ out built in speaker......I think this is THE sub $1K piano. OH....street price just dropped from $800 to $700! I missed out on the price drop.
Thanks for the review, PMC! I actually ordered a D1 3 days ago, sight unseen, because I know the RH3 action is widely liked, and the sound engine seems strong. Seeing your review is very reassuring. I had been considering the Dexibell S1 and S3, but the D1 has a better action than either of those, and it has 88 keys. The Dexibell sound engine is a bit better to my ear, but even the S1 is much more expensive than the D1, despite its having 20 fewer keys, and other disadvantages.
omg i love you and your review. You even give out a great choice of monitor speakers. And you end with the great gig in the sky. Peace brother. Subscribed and convinced:)
I think the sounds on my system which is normally warmer in nature were harsh. However this keybed is great, the only thing they really should have put on it was a USB midi and bluetooth. Its a great idea, strip everything and build it solid with the best Keybed. The VSTi's these days blow anything any keyboard can offer. I personally love its got midi din as that suits my gear. Its bloody heavy the keyboard I was suprised! I will probably just keep this in my home studio and its all about the 1. Keybed, 2. VSTIs and 3 it fits on the desk! Its so slimline. I am a poor player but I find the action allows you to got into the keys too and they stay sensitive. For me at this money there are only two options which is this or the Kawai ES110. Brilliant review and I think I will stay with D1 even though I'm not happy with just 4 layers of sound. Its worth noting though that the TRS outputs enough info to make your own 3 pedal keyboard.
Same. Great tip on the VSTs. I find Korg's choice brilliant of focusing on the essentials. Action (then sounds). Glad to know sounds quality isnt that essential though as VSTs can replace it well. Great. Build quality. Connections. I'll do without speakers just fine, it's just the downside of the bold choice. The Kawai ES110 is great by all accounts but it doesnt draw me in as hard. It's still their OK keyboard for the price range. OK it is great because Kawai is great, but... it just lacks the specialness peps. This Korg has the brand's top action plus the brand's overall quality. That's a seller. Nobody else does this. That's bold and brilliant. I'm so in.
That's why I bought the Korg D1... It's all about the action... More bang for your buck... I call it my poor man's Fender Rhodes... I highly recommend the DS-1H pedal and Korg ST-WL Wooden Stand to go with it...☮🔥🎹
Chuck, thank you for your videos. They are very helpful. I know that you have answered the question before about which digital piano would be better, but the question does remain, based on features, the choice between the D1 and a Kawai ES110. Action aside, they both have great sounds, but it seems as though the D1 would be a bit better on stage with a multi-keyboard setup. The ES110 has more button/key memorization than the more direct approach on the D1. The non-cutoff of the sounds when changing is also a welcome feature. Regarding the action, the action on the D1 is really great, as is the action on the ES110. I know it boils down to 'feel' between the actions, but it seems as though if Korg is going to put the same action in this entry-level instrument that is also found in their flagship models, that makes this purchase a bit more attractive. I agree about the foot pedal too - going to the upgraded half-damper unit is a better option. Based on the features, it seems like the D1 is a better choice than the Kawai ES110 for gigging pianists/keyboardists like myself. I have had Kawai digital pianos before and LOVED my MP5, when I had it. I currently have a Lowrey EZP3 (basically a Kawai, since Kawai owns Lowrey), and LOVE its action in my studio. I have also played the Kronos 88 and felt that action was pretty good too. I am not particular on actions, as I can adapt well to just about any action out there. I know that the ES110 has more polyphony than the D1, but if using it only for piano (MIDI'ing the other sounds to external units), 120 voices of polyphony on the Korg should be fine. I welcome your input, sir.
so many CZcamsrs said Korg D1 is a really good keyboard, but then today I tried a Korg Kronos 2 in a local piano store (they don't have a D1), and the Kronos 2 has the same RH3 keybed as the Korg D1. I tried and the keys are really heavy, and then it felt like it had a "click" moment, so the key felt like a heavy mouse click... so that was pretty weird. The store had a Roland RD-88, and it is the same PHA-4 keyboard as the Roland FP-30X or FP-10, and the keyboard was quite good. I'd say it is better than Yamaha DGX670, and Yamaha DGX-670 is better than Yamaha P125 for some reason, even though they both have GHS (Grand Hammer Standard). I am suspecting the DGX-670 has an improved version of GHS. So... I suspect that the Korg Kronos 2 probably has a bad keyboard at the store? Maybe it was just abused for a couple of years in the store? I don't know. But since so many CZcamsrs said they like the Korg D1, and one CZcamsr even said he can play on it for hours and he won't feel tired, so I am still suspecting the Korg D1 has a good keyboard similar to the Roland RD-88 or FP-30X, or better. If you own a Korg D1, what do you think? (I think the guy who said he can play for hours is the guy in this video!)
Sounds like there may have been a problem with the one at the store. In any case, most all keyboards have a "key touch" or "velocity" setting that changes the perception of how it feels to you. If its set to 'heavy', the keys will feel heavy and require more force to play.... in that case you'd want to change that setting to 'medium' or 'light'. Next time you try it out have the sales person show you how to change this setting.
I also have one negative. Changing any setting for a sound gets reset to default when changing to a different sound or turning off the instrument, which for me is turbo annoying as I need the extra reverb or brilliance. I don't mind no keyboard split.
Chuck appreciate your videos. I'm Looking for entry level digital piano I will never outgrow, shouldn't be to hard as I'm in my late 50s. Q. For a novice piano player/student would you recommend Korg D1 with top of line action or Kawaii ES110 with new action, blue tooth, and lessons built in? Does the Korg beat the Kawaii in sound? I realize I would need studio monitors with Korg.
I love the song you opened this video with. Can you please tell me what the titles is and is there sheet music for it. I really want to learn how to play that song. Also, I need to find out which portable digital piano has the most acoustic like key action of all the portable digital pianos on the market. And which one would be your second choice. Price is not a problem. Please keep doing these videos they are extremely helpful!
Thanks Bruce. That song is one of my originals called "Forgotten". MIDI of that file is available at www.PianoManChuck.com/MIDI.html where you can get more info. As for your other question, please see the NOTE paragraph of our policies at czcams.com/users/PianoManChuckabout Thanks again for your comments.
Thanks a lot for your videos. They are extremely helpful. One small question. Is the motor engine (I mean, the sounds and the quality of them) the same than in the C1 Air? I mean, speaking about the sound (without counting on the speakers of the c1 and other features), are they the same piano in sound and action? Thanks in advance.
HI PIANOMANCHUCK GREAT VIDEO THANKS FOR THE INFORMATION THIS IS A BIG HELP FOR ME I HAVE A QUESTION WITH THE KORG D1 IS IT POSSIBLE TO USE KEYSCAPE AND ALSO OTHER SOUNDS FROM MY LOGIC PRO DAW??? THANKS FOR YOUR REPLY AND ADVICE ALL THE BEST MIKE
Thanks alot for this vid, it was very useful for me! I was wondering if I could ask your advice on the Korg D1 vs other pianos. I'm looking for a digital piano that is connected to my PC(VST) > amp > speakers. I will always use it in this configuration so my only considerations is action, connectivity, and of course price. Unless I've missed something that's all I need. I will never mix, make or compose music. Never connect another midi-device. Never use onboard speakers, sounds, samples or other functions. I want an action that is as close to an acoustic grand piano as possible while keeping it on a budget, and the Korg D1 sounds like a prime contender. If taking the Korg D1 as a point of reference, which digital piano is the cheapest that has a better action than the Korg D1 what quality and closeness to a grad is concerned? For example, is the action on the Kawai VPC1 better? And if so are there any digital piano cheaper than the VPC1 that is still better than the Korg D1 what action is concerned? :)
@@QR_Code I went with the korg because I heard good things about the action and figured I could always hook it up to a laptop if I felt like I needed different/better sounds. I also really like the clean small form factor.
@PianoManChuck - Thanks alot for the vid. Im torn between the Korg D1 and the YamahaP-121 (76key). I'm a big Wurlitzer and Rhodes fan so I'm interested in using my Ipad and apps with one of these. Would the Roland Adapter connect easily to an Apple Camera kit? Which one of these keyboards would you recommend for the stock piano sounds?
Hi Chuck, Thanks for the recommendation of looking at the D1. What is your opinion on this keybed vs. the Fatar from the Studiologic SL88 Studio. Thank you!
How do you consider RH3 D1 action compared to the one of NumaXPiano GT (TP400 Woodland 88 normal (TP110) by Fatar? (Do not matter about price and other features, the action only I need to know)
Nice, Piano Chuck Man. I´m looking for a midi controller with 88 wieghted keys. My 3 main options are Korg D1, Px160 and Roland Fp10. How do you compare the 3 actions in feel, weight and responsiveness ?!
Hey, Chuck! Could you please tell me how have you recorded / hooked the Korg D1 to a pair of speakers? I currently own one and would like to start recording myself. Will connecting this to unbalanced inputs will cause interference?
Coincidentally I was in visiting a music store today and encountered the Korg D1 for first time. The keyboard action / feel to me was immediately and obviously better than the Roland FP30, which in turn was better than the Yamaha P45 (just physically too light). They had quite a few Casios, I think all with that tactile textured pretend old ivory feel, which to me was a distraction. Otherwise the Casio action was as good as the Rolands. Incidentally my current board is a Kurzweil SP4-8, and the overall experience of its keyboard was equal to the Korg. Comparing the sound in a showroom I have concluded is a waste of time unless you go around plugging in decent studio monitor headphones. The difference in quality and general flavour of the prime piano voices on all these keyboards impossible to appreciate with the type of monitors used. But having said all that... I thought this Korg also had the best piano of all of them, with exception of Roland RD2000, which also bested them for kB feel / action too. Being more than x3 the price of the others, that shouldn’t be a surprise!
I was seriously considering the Korg D1 up until I found out that you can't split the keyboard! Why oh why did you omit such an essential feature for any gigging keyboardist Korg????
Ciao Chuck, Thank you for this review ! About the keyboard action do you think the Rh3 from Korg is similar or better than Kawai's Rhc on es110? about the Roland adapter how compares to Korg PlugKey?
Hi, i am thinking to get a D1, but my concern is that can i connect it through the MIDI-USB to smart device and using apps like simply piano? many thanks!
Which one of the Korg D1 and Kawai ES110 has the most piano-like keyboard action? I understand there are better and more expensive options, but in this price range these two seem to be among the best.
Hi Chuck, I'm planning to buy this and use it with my VSTi, but my cable is Hosa Pro Midi Cable, do you think it will work? I can't find in my country the Roland UMOne
So this is actually the same as the lp 380 but without speakers and portable?, for a beginner should i go for one of this or save money for something like a fp 30? the missing speakers is not a problem from me.
Hey, I have the korg D1. I am having trouble connecting the MIDI. I have the Roland UM-one. I am getting a light for the “out” but no “in”. What does this mean? please help. -Russ
Hi Chuck, I have been enjoying your channel and watching your reviews. You sold me on a KORG D1 until I got hands on with a Roland FP30 today. I'm now really struggling to decide what to go for. I'm only just learning to play but even so I could tell that the PHA-4 keybed on the Roland was superb. Might be tempted by an FP10 as I don't particularly need all bells and whistles. I was drawn by the KORG's seemingly solid build, qualty sounds, MIDI, but now I have a quandary! Which is better RH3 or PHA-4? No one anywhere near me stocks a KORG D1. Please give me a steer if you have time. Thanks!
I decided to go with Korg D1 at last, but that’s because I’d already had a kb amplifier(kc220). If u don’t have the budget to buy an kb amplifier then go with FP30. To be honest, they are both good, but FP30 is a little more expensive then D1
I'm having doubts between this one, or the roland fp-30. Right now i have a casio privia 860 in the living room. So the key action kinda has to be like that or even better. Which one of the 2 you'd suspect is best for me? If someone happens to know? Right now leaning towards this one
I took a close look at the FP30, then purchased the Korg D1. Google FP-30 keyboard noises and you will see complaints from several purchasers that are experiencing clicking noises from the keybed after a few weeks of use.
Casio has an app for their DPs,Roland has their app for their affordable DPs,and ditto for Yamaha.Korg needs to get an app out for their g1,c1, and this DP. Make accessing the functions on this board easier,Korg!!!#$+?* As always,Chuck,your reviews are without peer! Peace,fellow key ticket!
Piano man Chuck,thanks for the quick reply.Your point is well taken.Yes,give me a feel good action,a great piano sound with effects,and I'm good to go. Well ,almost. New technology keeps dangling that high tech carrot in my face and I cannot resist for long. The good news is you can now have both - cool action and sound along with better ways of accessing the sounds and functions of our digital partners in music making. Case in point,Yamaha P series boards and Clp/ Csp. DPs take the Smart Pianist app that allows quick layers/ splits,setups,transpositions,touch settings,effects, and many other features. No need for multiple button pushes,slow menu hopping,and worn out function button. Just a swipe or two on a touch screen does it. Cool. Anything that makes my experience playing a gig easier,quicker,and more streamlined is a big plus in my book. We depend on our phone,tablet,i pad apps to make life easier ,our jobs quicker and more enjoyable.Why stop there? It seems to me digital pianos and apps are tailor made for each other. Of course,Ive been known to be wrong at times. Peace in,out ,over and through !
Nord series boards are lightning fast with their dedicated buttons & knobs. My Casio PX-560 does everything I need on the touch screen. An app, at least to me, is a distraction - now I need not only the board, but another device (my phone or tablet) to operate the board quickly. While a nice addition.... thanks but no thanks.
Piano man,I appreciate your views and response to my comments.Obviously,Nord is a great board with a great,big price that many pianists of humble means cannot afford. The red color is too loud for most of my gigs- weddings,churches,coffee shops, high class parties.,etc.If I only had the bucks and if only everyone loved the color red! The Casio you name is less impressive but quite good at the price. Many of its sounds are average and need to be upgraded to the new. AIX level.Adding another grand sound like a Bechstein would make it more attractive.But the cost would rise. Until we get the new Px570 or whatever, I'm gonna give the new Yamaha ha p515 a test drive when it comes out. Looks like it's fairly comparable to the popular Kawai Es8 but 500 dollars less( and nice NWX action which I've played and the CFX. and Bosendorfer grands that compete well with the ES8 grands). I also look forward to seeing both Es8 and MP7 se upgrades from Kawai.Im sure they would be real cool. .For now I'll rely on my Pc88 mx Kurzweil., and my Technics DP and Kn7000 to do the job.Those still sound good even if old technology. So keep those Kool keyboard reviews coming Chuck and I'll go along for the ride! Peace once more.
I like Korg. I really do. But the RH3 action, while impressive, is very outdated and behind the competition. It was the only reason I didn't buy the Grandstage. The RH3 is slow and numb. Great review as always, Chuck.
I'll agree, it's good, but not great. Once you've played a recent Yamaha, and MP7 or MP11, or even the recent RD series from Roland, the Korgs seem to lack the finesse and "feel" of these other current boards. I know this is a subjective subject, so each person has their own opinion on this. Personally, I would like to see Korg up their game a little bit. ;-)
Yes, its highly subjective, and I hear you. But the whole selling point of this board is that it uses their RH3 action for a cost of just $629.... that's the draw!
I agree Chuck. Even though the RH3 action is a little outdated. You are getting the great action at such a low cost. That is sensational. I have the RD-2000 and would consider using the D1 as a gigging keyboard because of it's size and price (i.e. if you bang it up during transport, your not as chapped because you didn't lose too much money).
There's one pedal jack, so I highly doubt a triple-pedal is available for the D1. The ES110 I had was a review unit - like all review units it was returned after the review.
I just got this today. The keys feel very good, but sadly the piano sounds like what you pay for. I will not be able to use this for the piano, as it sounds ok at best. I will now just use it as a midi controller.
Do you know the middle of the piano sound like a banjo I had to use the external mixer for busking I guess my ears tell me what's our status thanks and I need at mid range control do you understand what I mean
The sp 280 has built in speakers. The sp 280 keyboard uses the Korg Natural Weighted Hammer Action, which is not considered to be as good as the RH3 action used in the D1 and others mentioned in the video. D1 for me, you can add speakers later.
I'm a noob so excuse my question: Can you actually feel the difference from for example key 22 to 23 because there are 4 separate zones? if not, how else can I understand 4 zones?
"Zones" have nothing to do with this keyboard. There may be 4 VELOCITY LEVELS (not zones).... but those change the feel of the entire keyboard (light touch, medium touch, heavy, etc). There is no difference from one key to the next, but there may be a difference from one key GROUP to the next, depending on how many keys they use in a group when they designed this board.
Korg should release a D2 with more sounds, pitch bend and modulation wheels, usb connectivety, the ability to split the keyboard and an internal power supply and I'd buy it in a heartbeat.
Just want to say thank you for your review, not only on this piano but for everything. I love your style of talking about the instrument. Also I love the fact that you are honest, without every being unkind or aggressive in your approach to both the good points and the things that could be better. I made my purchase of a piano primarily on the basis of your in depth reviews.
Many thanks,
Clyde
I really wish Korg would issue a board with just the SGX-2 piano sound engine, three-pedal support and their RH3 key action. Fewer bells and whistles than the Grandstage but more substantial acoustic piano sounds than the D1 or SV-1. Love the sound of the SGX-2 pianos!
Still use my old SG1 73 for both acoustic and electric piano sounds. I generally add a nice smooth Yamaha pad underneath and it's still one of my favorites! Haven't tried a SGX-2 but I'm going on Ebay today to look around.
You are so positive person, I keep smiling watching your video.
had the piano for a year now and never did i know how to transpose thanks to u haha
You and ThePianoForever guy are the best reviewers on pianos. Just love watching these videos. Still have no idea which DP to get, lol, but that's my own issue.
What did you finally get?
@@eugeniar7101 I eventually got a Korg D1. ThePianoForever guy never demoed that one. I'm happy with it. I think it's the nicest looking of the bunch, perfect for my studio. However, when I play my real piano, there's just no comparison... even though it's a cheap junky Sojin. I got that thing for LESS money than the D1 too.
@@MIDERA have you ever tried roland FP-30?
@@eugeniar7101 i also consdiering choose one betwenn fp30 and d1,can you give me some advice
Simply amazing review Chuck, thank you very much for providing top notch videos!
RH3, Layering, Seamless transition, great sounds, great control, great features, decent effects, compact and portable, all this at $600-700, is hard to beat.
If only Korg released a competitor to the Yamaha CK series with the RH3…
Finally a video that has closeups of this keyboard and is very informing. Well done!
Had mine now for a few days. I call it the 'unicorn'. Why.....because it is a real pro stage piano for under $1K. They key bed is superior to anything close in price. When you play high up on the key (meaning closer to the case, not higher in the register) itdoesn't feel stiff like most entry level pianos. The reviews on the action sold me over Yammie, and man they were right.About as close to acoustic as it comes at any sane price. Sound? Seems really good to me, esp. the default piano. But if I want more, w/ an adapter cable, I can run the Korg sound module app on my iPhone 13 and get way more sounds and polyphony, plus, having true legacy mid....could always add hardware module. It looks great and seems very robust. I could care less about lack of onboard speakers and all the electronic doo dads like player/teacher stuff. I wanted a pro stage piano and this is the one I could afford. Can't recommend enough if you don't care about onboard speakers. Thanks again Chuck.
Chuck I have used your videos in my shopping for keyboards over the years and just want to say thank you for saying it how it is, we must have a very similar taste in gear :)
Your right Chuck. Layers are more important than splits for us piano players. Korg makes great boards and synths.. but needs to come up with apps( like Yamaha' s Smart Pianist app for their P and Clp series) that make future Korg DPs more user friendly! More peace to the Tube's premier piano puncher!
Hey Chuck, awesome job on covering this keyboard.It sounds great for the price. And getting a great key action for a low price is also great.
I've got one on order. I'm a drummer but wanted piano for my studio. Was gonna get Yammie P125 but all the reviews say the RH3 keyyboard is superior as you said. Like that you can adjust relative volumes on layers. Thanks man, you helped sell me on this. I didn't care about built in speakers or tons of sounds or rhythm tracks or any of that stuff. Great channel. subscribed
Good choice!
Sir, thank you for taking time to reply. I figure that that since the D1 has legacy MIDI, even if the onboard sounds aren't the best, I can always add an outboard module like the V3. Love you playing brother. Always entertaining. Pick it up on Wed. Will post thoughts.
Mr. Chuck (and others) First of all, I'm not a piano player. I bought this to have on hand in my jam studio. But I did play keys as a kid. on acoustics. This key bed feel way better than anything I tried at the same price point. Most of the cheaper key beds get stiff if you press your fingers higher up on the key toward the case. This does not have that issue. It's very impressive. I think it sounds fine. But if I want more, the $40 app and a $50 legacy MIDI to USB can turn my iPhone 13 into a sound module. Zero regret over this vs the Yammie p125, and I love Yamaha gear. If you can live w/ out built in speaker......I think this is THE sub $1K piano. OH....street price just dropped from $800 to $700! I missed out on the price drop.
@@joseph-ow1hf Yes:) Thanks for the after-purchase feedback:)
Great video Chuck. Your enthusiasm is infectious, and lots of great information. I'm buying one tomorrow, and excited about it!
Awesome review as usual! How does it stand up to 2023 competitors?
Thanks Chuck, now I have to go listen to 'Dark Side...' again. Blessings, peace out ✌️
Thanks for the review, PMC! I actually ordered a D1 3 days ago, sight unseen, because I know the RH3 action is widely liked, and the sound engine seems strong. Seeing your review is very reassuring. I had been considering the Dexibell S1 and S3, but the D1 has a better action than either of those, and it has 88 keys. The Dexibell sound engine is a bit better to my ear, but even the S1 is much more expensive than the D1, despite its having 20 fewer keys, and other disadvantages.
would you recommend this piano for a beginner? i like grand piano sound
Thanks for going over the transpose and touch functions!
Fantastic review thanks! Great gig in the sky... hearing that might just have sealed the deal on this thing
omg i love you and your review. You even give out a great choice of monitor speakers. And you end with the great gig in the sky. Peace brother. Subscribed and convinced:)
Thanks!!
Thanks Chuck for your review. First time 88 Key ... this setup will be perfect for me.
you are a really good piano player. i dindt know that korg release this d1, great news
I think the sounds on my system which is normally warmer in nature were harsh. However this keybed is great, the only thing they really should have put on it was a USB midi and bluetooth. Its a great idea, strip everything and build it solid with the best Keybed. The VSTi's these days blow anything any keyboard can offer. I personally love its got midi din as that suits my gear. Its bloody heavy the keyboard I was suprised! I will probably just keep this in my home studio and its all about the 1. Keybed, 2. VSTIs and 3 it fits on the desk! Its so slimline. I am a poor player but I find the action allows you to got into the keys too and they stay sensitive. For me at this money there are only two options which is this or the Kawai ES110. Brilliant review and I think I will stay with D1 even though I'm not happy with just 4 layers of sound. Its worth noting though that the TRS outputs enough info to make your own 3 pedal keyboard.
Same. Great tip on the VSTs. I find Korg's choice brilliant of focusing on the essentials. Action (then sounds). Glad to know sounds quality isnt that essential though as VSTs can replace it well. Great. Build quality. Connections. I'll do without speakers just fine, it's just the downside of the bold choice.
The Kawai ES110 is great by all accounts but it doesnt draw me in as hard. It's still their OK keyboard for the price range. OK it is great because Kawai is great, but... it just lacks the specialness peps. This Korg has the brand's top action plus the brand's overall quality. That's a seller. Nobody else does this. That's bold and brilliant. I'm so in.
The register sounds especially good
That's why I bought the Korg D1... It's all about the action... More bang for your buck... I call it my poor man's Fender Rhodes... I highly recommend the DS-1H pedal and Korg ST-WL Wooden Stand to go with it...☮🔥🎹
Thanks brilliant video I have now bought one.
Enjoy it
Chuck, thank you for your videos. They are very helpful.
I know that you have answered the question before about which digital piano would be better, but the question does remain, based on features, the choice between the D1 and a Kawai ES110.
Action aside, they both have great sounds, but it seems as though the D1 would be a bit better on stage with a multi-keyboard setup. The ES110 has more button/key memorization than the more direct approach on the D1.
The non-cutoff of the sounds when changing is also a welcome feature.
Regarding the action, the action on the D1 is really great, as is the action on the ES110. I know it boils down to 'feel' between the actions, but it seems as though if Korg is going to put the same action in this entry-level instrument that is also found in their flagship models, that makes this purchase a bit more attractive. I agree about the foot pedal too - going to the upgraded half-damper unit is a better option.
Based on the features, it seems like the D1 is a better choice than the Kawai ES110 for gigging pianists/keyboardists like myself.
I have had Kawai digital pianos before and LOVED my MP5, when I had it. I currently have a Lowrey EZP3 (basically a Kawai, since Kawai owns Lowrey), and LOVE its action in my studio. I have also played the Kronos 88 and felt that action was pretty good too. I am not particular on actions, as I can adapt well to just about any action out there. I know that the ES110 has more polyphony than the D1, but if using it only for piano (MIDI'ing the other sounds to external units), 120 voices of polyphony on the Korg should be fine.
I welcome your input, sir.
so many CZcamsrs said Korg D1 is a really good keyboard, but then today I tried a Korg Kronos 2 in a local piano store (they don't have a D1), and the Kronos 2 has the same RH3 keybed as the Korg D1. I tried and the keys are really heavy, and then it felt like it had a "click" moment, so the key felt like a heavy mouse click... so that was pretty weird. The store had a Roland RD-88, and it is the same PHA-4 keyboard as the Roland FP-30X or FP-10, and the keyboard was quite good. I'd say it is better than Yamaha DGX670, and Yamaha DGX-670 is better than Yamaha P125 for some reason, even though they both have GHS (Grand Hammer Standard). I am suspecting the DGX-670 has an improved version of GHS. So... I suspect that the Korg Kronos 2 probably has a bad keyboard at the store? Maybe it was just abused for a couple of years in the store? I don't know. But since so many CZcamsrs said they like the Korg D1, and one CZcamsr even said he can play on it for hours and he won't feel tired, so I am still suspecting the Korg D1 has a good keyboard similar to the Roland RD-88 or FP-30X, or better. If you own a Korg D1, what do you think? (I think the guy who said he can play for hours is the guy in this video!)
Sounds like there may have been a problem with the one at the store. In any case, most all keyboards have a "key touch" or "velocity" setting that changes the perception of how it feels to you. If its set to 'heavy', the keys will feel heavy and require more force to play.... in that case you'd want to change that setting to 'medium' or 'light'. Next time you try it out have the sales person show you how to change this setting.
Great this digital piano.
I also have one negative. Changing any setting for a sound gets reset to default when changing to a different sound or turning off the instrument, which for me is turbo annoying as I need the extra reverb or brilliance. I don't mind no keyboard split.
Which action, Kawai ES-110 or this Korg D1 do you prefer? 10 pound weight difference.... Thanks....
He reviewed the ES-110 in 2017. This D1 review is from 2018, and he says it is easily his favorite in the price range.
Chuck appreciate your videos. I'm Looking for entry level digital piano I will never outgrow, shouldn't be to hard as I'm in my late 50s.
Q. For a novice piano player/student would you recommend Korg D1 with top of line action or Kawaii ES110 with new action, blue tooth, and lessons built in? Does the Korg beat the Kawaii in sound? I realize I would need studio monitors with Korg.
최고예요
👍👍👍👍👍
pretty nice instrument for the price.
I love the song you opened this video with. Can you please tell me what the titles is and is there sheet music for it. I really want to learn how to play that song.
Also, I need to find out which portable digital piano has the most acoustic like key action of all the portable digital pianos on the market. And which one would be your second choice. Price is not a problem.
Please keep doing these videos they are extremely helpful!
Thanks Bruce. That song is one of my originals called "Forgotten". MIDI of that file is available at www.PianoManChuck.com/MIDI.html where you can get more info. As for your other question, please see the NOTE paragraph of our policies at czcams.com/users/PianoManChuckabout
Thanks again for your comments.
Somebody to love improvisation :v
Hey Chuck , thank you how about Casio, Yamaha and Roland for entry level piano?
Thanks a lot for your videos. They are extremely helpful.
One small question. Is the motor engine (I mean, the sounds and the quality of them) the same than in the C1 Air? I mean, speaking about the sound (without counting on the speakers of the c1 and other features), are they the same piano in sound and action?
Thanks in advance.
HI PIANOMANCHUCK GREAT VIDEO THANKS FOR THE INFORMATION THIS IS A BIG HELP FOR ME I HAVE A QUESTION WITH THE KORG D1 IS IT POSSIBLE TO USE KEYSCAPE AND ALSO OTHER SOUNDS FROM MY LOGIC PRO DAW??? THANKS FOR YOUR REPLY AND ADVICE ALL THE BEST MIKE
No prob, just use MIDI to connect to your computer. 👍
how does the keybed compare against the junods88 (or fa08 )? I surprisingly found the latter keybeds remarkable for their price
So now I save up, sell my used Dgx and some other gear, and get in line to buy this thing.
Thanks alot for this vid, it was very useful for me! I was wondering if I could ask your advice on the Korg D1 vs other pianos.
I'm looking for a digital piano that is connected to my PC(VST) > amp > speakers. I will always use it in this configuration so my only considerations is action, connectivity, and of course price. Unless I've missed something that's all I need. I will never mix, make or compose music. Never connect another midi-device. Never use onboard speakers, sounds, samples or other functions.
I want an action that is as close to an acoustic grand piano as possible while keeping it on a budget, and the Korg D1 sounds like a prime contender.
If taking the Korg D1 as a point of reference, which digital piano is the cheapest that has a better action than the Korg D1 what quality and closeness to a grad is concerned?
For example, is the action on the Kawai VPC1 better? And if so are there any digital piano cheaper than the VPC1 that is still better than the Korg D1 what action is concerned?
:)
Emil Amundsen u should m audio hammer 88
ótimo vídeo. você acha que esse teclado é melhor que a ação da roland ph4?
The Transpose feature is definitely a negative, but I can live with it.
I'm really torn between the Korg D1 and the Roland fp-30 :/
Me too :(
which did you decide on?
@@QR_Code I went with the korg because I heard good things about the action and figured I could always hook it up to a laptop if I felt like I needed different/better sounds. I also really like the clean small form factor.
Me too
me too,its torture me every day,can you give some advice
@PianoManChuck
- Thanks alot for the vid. Im torn between the Korg D1 and the YamahaP-121 (76key). I'm a big Wurlitzer and Rhodes fan so I'm interested in using my Ipad and apps with one of these. Would the Roland Adapter connect easily to an Apple Camera kit? Which one of these keyboards would you recommend for the stock piano sounds?
Thank u
Hi Chuck, Thanks for the recommendation of looking at the D1. What is your opinion on this keybed vs. the Fatar from the Studiologic SL88 Studio. Thank you!
hi Chuck, which key action do you like the most of the portable DPs? es110, D1?
Thank you for your video!
Would you recommend JBL One Series 104 BT studio monitors to use along with this keyboard?
Thank you
How do you consider RH3 D1 action compared to the one of NumaXPiano GT (TP400 Woodland 88 normal (TP110) by Fatar? (Do not matter about price and other features, the action only I need to know)
Nice, Piano Chuck Man.
I´m looking for a midi controller with 88 wieghted keys.
My 3 main options are Korg D1, Px160 and Roland Fp10.
How do you compare the 3 actions in feel, weight and responsiveness ?!
What do you recommend for this Korg D1 as a portable amp that is a stronger than the KC110? For up to 50 people that is portable for piano and vocals.
Hi . What do you think about the performance of the RH 3 keyboard versus Pha4? For example Roland Fp30x vs. korg D1 ?
thx!!
Hey, Chuck! Could you please tell me how have you recorded / hooked the Korg D1 to a pair of speakers? I currently own one and would like to start recording myself. Will connecting this to unbalanced inputs will cause interference?
Nice video man. How does the DH3 action compare to the one found in the Roland FP-10 & FP-30?
Coincidentally I was in visiting a music store today and encountered the Korg D1 for first time. The keyboard action / feel to me was immediately and obviously better than the Roland FP30, which in turn was better than the Yamaha P45 (just physically too light). They had quite a few Casios, I think all with that tactile textured pretend old ivory feel, which to me was a distraction. Otherwise the Casio action was as good as the Rolands.
Incidentally my current board is a Kurzweil SP4-8, and the overall experience of its keyboard was equal to the Korg.
Comparing the sound in a showroom I have concluded is a waste of time unless you go around plugging in decent studio monitor headphones. The difference in quality and general flavour of the prime piano voices on all these keyboards impossible to appreciate with the type of monitors used. But having said all that... I thought this Korg also had the best piano of all of them, with exception of Roland RD2000, which also bested them for kB feel / action too. Being more than x3 the price of the others, that shouldn’t be a surprise!
Have you / will you be doing a review on the Korg LS 88 key? Would be interesting to hear your thoughts on how the keys on that instrument feels.
In the description of several people. The korg d1 keyboard is reportedly much heavier than the Roland fp30. Is that so?
I was seriously considering the Korg D1 up until I found out that you can't split the keyboard! Why oh why did you omit such an essential feature for any gigging keyboardist Korg????
May I ask another question that not related to piano. To check what is the microphone you use that place in front? Thank you. Happy new year
Ciao Chuck,
Thank you for this review !
About the keyboard action do you think the Rh3 from Korg is similar or better than Kawai's Rhc on es110?
about the Roland adapter how compares to Korg PlugKey?
Korg PlugKey is for iOS devices. Roland UM One is for any USB compliant computer.
which keyb do YOU feel closest to fender rhodes....sound...
Is fast key repetition possible with D1 as in Prelude To Angry Young Man?
Hi, i am thinking to get a D1, but my concern is that can i connect it through the MIDI-USB to smart device and using apps like simply piano? many thanks!
Which one of the Korg D1 and Kawai ES110 has the most piano-like keyboard action? I understand there are better and more expensive options, but in this price range these two seem to be among the best.
D1
Hi Chuck, I'm planning to buy this and use it with my VSTi, but my cable is Hosa Pro Midi Cable, do you think it will work? I can't find in my country the Roland UMOne
Those midi cables are intended to connect midi to midi. The Roland UM One connects midi to usb to computer host.
So this is actually the same as the lp 380 but without speakers and portable?, for a beginner should i go for one of this or save money for something like a fp 30? the missing speakers is not a problem from me.
Does anyone know how to change the octave on the D1? Thanks
include a pitch and mod wheel and you got a deal!
Hey, I have the korg D1. I am having trouble connecting the MIDI.
I have the Roland UM-one.
I am getting a light for the “out” but no “in”.
What does this mean? please help.
-Russ
Russell Joe Music You need to assign a midi channel for the D1.
Hi Chuck, I have been enjoying your channel and watching your reviews. You sold me on a KORG D1 until I got hands on with a Roland FP30 today. I'm now really struggling to decide what to go for. I'm only just learning to play but even so I could tell that the PHA-4 keybed on the Roland was superb. Might be tempted by an FP10 as I don't particularly need all bells and whistles. I was drawn by the KORG's seemingly solid build, qualty sounds, MIDI, but now I have a quandary! Which is better RH3 or PHA-4? No one anywhere near me stocks a KORG D1. Please give me a steer if you have time. Thanks!
I decided to go with Korg D1 at last, but that’s because I’d already had a kb amplifier(kc220). If u don’t have the budget to buy an kb amplifier then go with FP30. To be honest, they are both good, but FP30 is a little more expensive then D1
I'm having doubts between this one, or the roland fp-30. Right now i have a casio privia 860 in the living room. So the key action kinda has to be like that or even better. Which one of the 2 you'd suspect is best for me? If someone happens to know?
Right now leaning towards this one
I took a close look at the FP30, then purchased the Korg D1. Google FP-30 keyboard noises and you will see complaints from several purchasers that are experiencing clicking noises from the keybed after a few weeks of use.
Hi, how do you adjust volume of layer? Strings is too loud if I layer on Piano
See page 11 of user manual. If you don't have the manual, download here: www.korg.com/us/support/download/manual/0/781/3818/
@@PianoManChuck thank you very much; i've read that, but my korg d1 keeps on switching to E-piano rhodes, instead of function
Chuck - how does it compare to the Kawai ES110? Thanks
Only YOU can answer that by trying both and seeing which is better for you.
ok, Thanks
Casio has an app for their DPs,Roland has their app for their affordable DPs,and ditto for Yamaha.Korg needs to get an app out for their g1,c1, and this DP. Make accessing the functions on this board easier,Korg!!!#$+?* As always,Chuck,your reviews are without peer! Peace,fellow key ticket!
Thanks for your comment, Howard. From my perspective, I'll take the better key action any day over a competitor with an app.
Piano man Chuck,thanks for the quick reply.Your point is well taken.Yes,give me a feel good action,a great piano sound with effects,and I'm good to go. Well ,almost. New technology keeps dangling that high tech carrot in my face and I cannot resist for long. The good news is you can now have both - cool action and sound along with better ways of accessing the sounds and functions of our digital partners in music making. Case in point,Yamaha P series boards and Clp/ Csp. DPs take the Smart Pianist app that allows quick layers/ splits,setups,transpositions,touch settings,effects, and many other features. No need for multiple button pushes,slow menu hopping,and worn out function button. Just a swipe or two on a touch screen does it. Cool. Anything that makes my experience playing a gig easier,quicker,and more streamlined is a big plus in my book. We depend on our phone,tablet,i pad apps to make life easier ,our jobs quicker and more enjoyable.Why stop there? It seems to me digital pianos and apps are tailor made for each other. Of course,Ive been known to be wrong at times. Peace in,out ,over and through !
Nord series boards are lightning fast with their dedicated buttons & knobs. My Casio PX-560 does everything I need on the touch screen. An app, at least to me, is a distraction - now I need not only the board, but another device (my phone or tablet) to operate the board quickly. While a nice addition.... thanks but no thanks.
Piano man,I appreciate your views and response to my comments.Obviously,Nord is a great board with a great,big price that many pianists of humble means cannot afford. The red color is too loud for most of my gigs- weddings,churches,coffee shops, high class parties.,etc.If I only had the bucks and if only everyone loved the color red! The Casio you name is less impressive but quite good at the price. Many of its sounds are average and need to be upgraded to the new. AIX level.Adding another grand sound like a Bechstein would make it more attractive.But the cost would rise. Until we get the new Px570 or whatever, I'm gonna give the new Yamaha ha p515 a test drive when it comes out. Looks like it's fairly comparable to the popular Kawai Es8 but 500 dollars less( and nice NWX action which I've played and the CFX. and Bosendorfer grands that compete well with the ES8 grands). I also look forward to seeing both Es8 and MP7 se upgrades from Kawai.Im sure they would be real cool. .For now I'll rely on my Pc88 mx Kurzweil., and my Technics DP and Kn7000 to do the job.Those still sound good even if old technology. So keep those Kool keyboard reviews coming Chuck and I'll go along for the ride! Peace once more.
I like Korg. I really do. But the RH3 action, while impressive, is very outdated and behind the competition. It was the only reason I didn't buy the Grandstage. The RH3 is slow and numb. Great review as always, Chuck.
The RH3 with all its revisions has actually kept up quite well... its still better than many of its competitors that use 3 sensors.
I'll agree, it's good, but not great. Once you've played a recent Yamaha, and MP7 or MP11, or even the recent RD series from Roland, the Korgs seem to lack the finesse and "feel" of these other current boards. I know this is a subjective subject, so each person has their own opinion on this. Personally, I would like to see Korg up their game a little bit. ;-)
Yes, its highly subjective, and I hear you. But the whole selling point of this board is that it uses their RH3 action for a cost of just $629.... that's the draw!
I agree Chuck. Even though the RH3 action is a little outdated. You are getting the great action at such a low cost. That is sensational. I have the RD-2000 and would consider using the D1 as a gigging keyboard because of it's size and price (i.e. if you bang it up during transport, your not as chapped because you didn't lose too much money).
@@musikone1780 Exactly!
A comparison between Korg D1 and Kawai Es110 make sense?
Do you know if a triple pedal for Korg D1 is available?
There's one pedal jack, so I highly doubt a triple-pedal is available for the D1.
The ES110 I had was a review unit - like all review units it was returned after the review.
Which one would you say is better? Kawai ES110 or Korg D1?
This: czcams.com/video/CVSsmYCgMi4/video.html
no usb ...huh ?
Just get the roland um-one mk2 for usb.
I just got this today. The keys feel very good, but sadly the piano sounds like what you pay for. I will not be able to use this for the piano, as it sounds ok at best. I will now just use it as a midi controller.
Does the korg D1 has heavy weighted keys?
Yes
Korg D1 or Roland FP30?!
Please HELP ME
Here's your answer: czcams.com/video/CVSsmYCgMi4/video.html
Does it have aftertouch? Thanks
No.
Do you know the middle of the piano sound like a banjo I had to use the external mixer for busking
I guess my ears tell me what's our status thanks and I need at mid range control do you understand what I mean
This or sp 280? And why?
The sp 280 has built in speakers. The sp 280 keyboard uses the Korg Natural Weighted Hammer Action, which is not considered to be as good as the RH3 action used in the D1 and others mentioned in the video. D1 for me, you can add speakers later.
can i use three pedals with this digital piano?
No.
sad
How does the action compare to CASIO's tri sensor ii?
Casio's action is heavier.
I'm a noob so excuse my question:
Can you actually feel the difference from for example key 22 to 23 because there are 4 separate zones?
if not, how else can I understand 4 zones?
"Zones" have nothing to do with this keyboard. There may be 4 VELOCITY LEVELS (not zones).... but those change the feel of the entire keyboard (light touch, medium touch, heavy, etc). There is no difference from one key to the next, but there may be a difference from one key GROUP to the next, depending on how many keys they use in a group when they designed this board.
thanks for the reply!
Not having split, is not sucha big deal. But not having speakers, that's a BIG disappointed.
Dude thanks for the vid but please don't spend 30min on a review.