We Can't Get Enough of The Yamaha CK88!

In this TH-cam video, Ted showcases his preferred keyboards and synths arranged in a cozy corner of the store, with a focus on three Yamaha Keyboards, particularly the CK-88. The CK-88 combines the rich sounds of the Yamaha CP Stage Piano with the organ and synth-centric YC Stage Keyboard, offering a fresh sonic range. Its intuitive interface prioritizes music over complex menus, featuring piano, electric pianos, strings, brass, a dedicated organ section, and contemporary synth sounds. With onboard special effects for customization, an Analog to Digital (A/D) Input enables mic or instrument connectivity for direct laptop recording with effects. Additionally, the CK-88 boasts built-in speakers and batteries for portability, promising endless possibilities in new environments.
00:00 - Intro
00:46 - History of Yamaha CK88
07:55 - Yamaha YC61 Demo
12:10 - Yamaha CP73 Demo
15:59 - Yamaha CK88 Demo
19:13 - Additional Specs & Final Thoughts
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[@BensMusicDojo]

Incredible that your store has all of these boards in stock and on display. In my area, stores never have anything that you’d want to check out.

[@jimbodinan2558]

Great reviews, Ted. Just one correction. Only the YC61 has Virtual Circuitry AWM2, Modeling, 8 Operator FM Synthesis, and AWM2. The CP73 uses AWM2. The CK series use AWM2, and AWM (Organ Flutes).

[@VexylObby]

Last year, I decided to finally get an 88-key keyboard. I had been unsatisfied with my keybeds and accessibility to sounds for nearly a decade. When I went to a local shop that had all of the common competition, and top models to compare. I just could not believe I preferred the CK88. Even over the Nord Stage 3, and a bit more than the YC-88 (might be a good upgrade someday).
But just the fact the CK is so easy to operate and adjust, the sounds feel good in response, and the keys are snappy. I am just so glad I found a keyboard I loved, and I still play it 5 days a week.
The thing that I like that not many people will, is that the sounds remind me of Yamaha sounds I hear in soundtracks I love.

[@VexylObby]

OH, and I can plug in my laptop with one usb cable, and play any soft synth through the speakers of the CK. The SPEAKERS are probably one of the best features I could ever ask for.

[@marlablow116]

Thanks for this revisiting of the CK series - I’m getting adjusted to mine. I’m not completely sold on the feel of the ghs action, but I love the functionality and how easy it is to operate plus the sound is primo!

[@rcom9880]

Also, at under 29 lbs, the CK88 is impressive for giggng with 88 weighted keys

[@jeffeason853]

This is a very nice overview of these three related Yamaha keyboards Ted. I really like your videos. Like you I am a pretty good piano player - not really an organist. But with the CK I am able to quickly and easily bring in some awesome and adjustable organ tones to songs that our small band performs - and 99.9% of the audience does not know/care that I have no B3 credentials. They just love the sound.

[@GospelMusic4Life]

I’ve been so tempted to get that board since it came out. I struggle with the slender keys on the 61 and the weight on the 88 when playing organ as I tried them at the store. The sliders and audio interface are a big plus when using with an iPad.

[@Fabiano.Bittencourt]

Great review. Cheers from Brazil.

[@socalkramer]

This guy Ted is awesome, next time I am in San Antonio I will make a visit to Alamo Music Center!

[@jimbrimble3131]

It’s more a mix of the Reface YC and the Reface CP. With a bit of DX and CS thrown in.

[@unkulwilly]

nice!
i always wanted a Yamaha 88 key but they are $$$$!

[@blueeyedsoulman]

The omission of aftertouch is ridiculous as the industry is moving into polyphonic aftertouch. I don't just play piano, I need expressiveness. Even the $1200 Behringer UB-Xa has poly-aftertouch. In the near future it will be really hard to sell used keys with no aftertouch. Deal breaker. Roger Linn was right.

[@musicalsam1]

You've bought a UB-Xa, then?

[@blueeyedsoulman]

Held off. I just don't like the sound of it. Hyrdrasynth Delux seems to be the way to go. Morer controller features.

[@matthewgaines10]

Not many stage pianos have aftertouch. While you think stage pianos should have it, most stage pianos users aren’t seeking it. Generally, it makes sense for synthesizer users to have aftertouch. Get a synthesizer if that’s what you need.

[@drummer5015]

None of these keys are primarily synths, though. Two are mainly stage pianos and one is a mainly a stage organ, all geared towards playing live. These boards all have synth playing capabilities, sure. But you would not buy one of these if you were shopping for a UB-Xa, or Hydrasynth Delux, it seems like you are comparing apples to oranges here.