1st Note

Yamaha

Yamaha CLP-845 Review

GrandTouch action meets six-speaker immersion

MSRP

$3,000

Source: Manufacturer (2026-04)

88 Keys 72 kg grandtouch Bluetooth Intermediate

Scores

10.0 8.5 1.5 9.4 6.7 Beginner Night Practice Portability Touch Reality Value

Beginner

10.0

Night Practice

8.5

Portability

1.5

Touch Reality

9.4

Value

6.7
How These Scores Were Calculated

Beginner

10.0
Factor This Piano Points
Base Score 3.0
Lesson Function Yes +1.5
App Connectivity Yes +1.5
Recording Yes +1
Metronome Yes +0.5
Transpose Yes +0.3
Layer / Split Yes +0.3
Preset Songs 303 +1.5
Sound Variety 38 sounds +0.5

Night Practice

8.5
Factor This Piano Points
Base Score 2.0
Headphone Jacks 2 +2
Headphone Type 6.3mm, 3.5mm +1.5
Headphone Optimization Yes +1.5
Key Action Quietness grandtouch +0
Volume Control Yes +1
Bluetooth Audio Yes +0.5

Portability

1.5
Factor This Piano Points
Base Score 5.0
Weight 72 kg -3
Width 1461 mm -0.5
Battery No +0
Foldable No +0
Key Count 88 keys +0

Touch Reality

9.4
Factor This Piano Points
Key Action Quality grandtouch (grade 9) +5.4
Key Count 88 keys +1.5
Polyphony 256 notes +1.5
Sound Modeling Yamaha CFX + Bosendorfer Imperial (VRM) +0.5
Key Surface ivory-feel +0.5

Our Verdict

The CLP-845 is where the Clavinova line gets serious about touch — Yamaha's acclaimed GrandTouch action paired with a 142W six-speaker system that surrounds you in sound.

Pros

  • GrandTouch action — Yamaha's premium weighted key mechanism with exceptional dynamic range
  • 142W amplification with 6 speakers including dedicated tweeters for sparkling highs
  • Full VRM with Yamaha CFX and Bosendorfer Imperial sampling
  • 38 voices covering piano, electric piano, organ, strings, and more
  • Bluetooth MIDI and audio connectivity
  • Ivory-feel key surfaces for natural grip and comfortable long sessions
  • Dual headphone jacks with Stereophonic Optimizer

Cons

  • 72 kg — significantly heavier than the CLP-835 due to upgraded action mechanism
  • No line out for external amplification
  • Ivory-feel surface rather than real wood keys (CLP-875 has wood surface)

The CLP-845 is the model where the Clavinova line truly crosses from 'very good digital piano' into 'convincing piano experience.' The GrandTouch action is a revelation if you've only played GH3X or GHS pianos — the dynamic range, the weight, the control are all noticeably more expressive. Combined with 142W of power driving six speakers, your playing fills the room with genuine concert-grand presence. It costs significantly more than the CLP-835, but for players who prioritize touch and expression, every penny goes toward a more musical instrument.

Technical Deep Dive

About the Key Action

The GrandTouch action is a transformative upgrade from the GH3X found in the CLP-825 and CLP-835. Each key is individually weighted to match the feel of a Yamaha CFX concert grand, with longer key pivots that give you more control over dynamics — especially in pianissimo passages. The action captures the subtle 'let-off' sensation you feel just before the hammer strikes the string on an acoustic grand. Ivory-feel surfaces absorb moisture and provide a natural tactile response.

Who Is This Piano For?

You're a serious player who can feel the difference between a good key action and a great one. Maybe you studied piano years ago and your fingers remember what a real grand piano feels like — the GrandTouch action will bring those memories flooding back. Or you're an advancing intermediate player who has outgrown lighter actions and wants keys that respond to every shade of dynamics. The six-speaker system means your nuanced playing is heard, not lost.

Specifications

Keys 88
Key Action Grandtouch
Polyphony 256 notes
Sounds 38
Weight 72 kg
Speakers 142W (×6)
Bluetooth Audio + MIDI

Recommended Accessories

🪑

Stand

Stand included

A sturdy X-stand or furniture-style stand is essential if one isn't included.

🎧

Headphones

Closed-back headphones with good bass response make practice sessions more enjoyable.

🎹

Sustain Pedal

The included pedal is usually basic. A half-damper pedal upgrade is worthwhile for expressive playing.

💺

Bench

An adjustable-height bench helps maintain proper posture during long practice sessions.

Where to Buy

Yamaha CLP-845 $3,000

How It Compares

CLP-845 vs CLP-745

The CLP-845 and CLP-745 score very similarly across all axes. The CLP-745 costs $200 less.

Yamaha CLP-745 →

CLP-845 vs CA-501

The CLP-845 and CA-501 score very similarly across all axes. The CLP-845 costs $200 less.

Kawai CA-501 →

CLP-845 vs GP-310

The CLP-845 and GP-310 score very similarly across all axes. The CLP-845 costs $300 less.

Casio GP-310 →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Yamaha CLP-845 good for beginners?

Yes. The Yamaha CLP-845 scores 10/10 on our Beginner scale, which means it has strong learning features like lesson modes, app connectivity, and built-in songs to help new players get started.

Does the Yamaha CLP-845 have Bluetooth?

Yes, the Yamaha CLP-845 supports both Bluetooth MIDI and Bluetooth Audio, so you can connect wirelessly to apps and stream audio.

How heavy is the Yamaha CLP-845?

The Yamaha CLP-845 weighs 72 kg (159 lbs). It scores 1.5/10 on our Portability scale. This is a stay-in-place instrument — plan its location before setup.

Can I use headphones with the Yamaha CLP-845?

Yes. The Yamaha CLP-845 has 2 headphone jacks (6.3mm, 3.5mm). It scores 8.5/10 on our Night Practice scale. It also features headphone sound optimization for a more immersive experience.

How many keys does the Yamaha CLP-845 have?

The Yamaha CLP-845 has a full 88-key keyboard, the same as an acoustic piano. This gives you the complete range for any piece of music.

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Similar Pianos

Yamaha

CLP-745

$2,800

Where the Clavinova lineup gets serious — GrandTouch action changes everything

10.0 Beginner 8.5 Night Practice 1.5 Portability 9.4 Touch Reality 6.7 Value

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A Bechstein-tuned grand piano action in a digital body

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88 78.5 kg
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