The two new models in the Casio Privia series are the PX-200 and the PX-800. The 200 is a portable piano and the 800 is a console model. Both are GM-compatible "arrangers" albeit not very sophisticated ones, but what's really interesting is that both feature 128-note polyphony and string resonance effects, which should be a great improvement over the 32-note polypony of the current Privias. Also, the PX-200 is a portable graded hammer action keyboard that only weighs 26 lbs.

Casio's press release:
PX-200
The PX-200, releasing in March, is a brand new addition to the Privia family that caters to the Professional Piano enthusiast. This 88 key digital piano is equipped with the tri-element AIF sound source (Acoustic and Intelligent Filtering system). The sound source provides 128 note polyphony and allows notes to reverberate naturally without being cut off during high-speed passage, giving the sound of a grand piano. The PX-200 carries a 16 watt (8w per side) sound system to effectively recreate the
sound of a Grand Piano. Additional features include:

1. 162 tones
2. 82 songs
3. Expanded song memory
4. SD card slot
5. USB and MIDI
6. 2 extra speakers that allow for 2-way Multi Speaker Bass Reflex System

PX-800
The PX-800, releasing in March, is another brand new addition to the Privia line. The PX-800 is equipped with the new revolutionary tri-element AIF sound source (Acoustic and Intelligent Filtering system). The sound source provides 128 note polyphony and allows notes to reverberate naturally without being cut off during high-speed passage, giving the sound of a grand piano. The PX-800 carries a large 40 watt (20w per side) sound system to effectively recreate the sound of a Grand Piano. A custom wood stand, 3 pedal unit is included giving the PX-800 a unique European design and elegant appearance. Additional features include:

1. 162 tones
2. 82 songs
3. Expanded song memory
4. SD card slot
5. USB/MIDI

Casio owner's manual downloads

http://tinyurl.com/26hvow

PX800

[This message has been edited by Dnj (edited 01-19-2007).]

Esh you gettin one?


[This message has been edited by Dnj (edited 01-19-2007).]

Probably. I use a Casio CDP-100 as a MIDI controller on stage now for my Yamaha 9000 Pro and love it, and I assume the PX-200 has the same keybed but much better sound. It has the same form factor of the older Privias, but now has an option for am optional three-pedal unit. I use a Kawai ES4 with MP3 backing at other gigs (96-note polyphony, 45lbs) and if the Casio PX-200 compares favorably sound-wise then I would use the PX-200 on stage due to it's lighter weight and retire the Kawai to home/studio use. I use the Kawai as a studio MIDI controller and rehearsal piano now and it works well for that. So yeah, I could see the Casio PX-200 as a handy keep-in-the-van gig piano. Gotta play one first though... they are supposed to come out in March.

Also I've been shopping for a piano for permanent placement in my mother's new house and that new Casio PX-800 has potential there. It will list for about $1000 USD and will also be available in March. Here's another picture of it:



[This message has been edited by Esh (edited 01-19-2007).]

More detailed information and pictures have been released here.