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The Yamaha CLP-885 isn’t pretending to be a classic upright. In fact, it’s not even trying to be a digital piano in the usual sense. What it feels like is this: you sit down, press a key, and suddenly you’re seated in front of a world-class concert grand, lid open, with sound swirling around the room. You don’t hear the speakers — you just hear the music.
It’s hard to describe without sounding like I’ve been hypnotised by a sales brochure, but the CLP-885 really is that good. It features Yamaha’s exceptional GrandTouch™ key mechanism, offering such a wide range of expression that even casual players start phrasing like professionals.
The synthetic ebony and ivory keytops have a gentle, textured feel that’s deeply satisfying. And because the keys themselves are made from real wood, the whole playing experience feels completely natural — almost acoustic. Almost magic.
If you’re upgrading from a budget digital piano, the CLP-885 is going to surprise you — in the best way possible.
The first thing you’ll notice is the key action. It’s heavier than you might be used to, but that’s a good thing. That added resistance helps build finger strength, encourages correct technique, and allows for far greater dynamic control. In short: it helps you become a better player, faster.
Then there’s the sound. Yamaha have included a Spruce Cone Speaker in this model — and it shows. It’s not just “good for a digital piano.” It’s genuinely immersive, with warmth and richness that rival even acoustic grands. You hear the resonance of the cabinet, the layered nuance of the CFX and Bösendorfer samples… it’s honestly jaw-dropping.

When I sat down at the CLP-885, I didn’t feel the need to show off with flashy runs or complicated chords. I just… played. Slowly. Emotionally. I held notes longer. I leaned into the dynamics. It immediately made me want to write something deeply expressive — a heart-wrenching Adele-style ballad, perhaps.
That’s what the CLP-885 does. It changes how you play. It pulls music out of you. The piano you choose absolutely affects your playing. Sometimes for better, sometimes for worse. The CLP-885 is designed to push you toward better: more expressive, more confident, more inspired.
Looks matter too — and this one doesn’t disappoint.
The CLP-885 is taller than the rest of Yamaha’s CLP range, with a cabinet that feels like a serious piece of furniture. This isn’t a plastic keyboard stand in the corner. It’s something you’ll want in pride of place in your living space. Elegant curves, polished finishes… it has presence.
I’ve seen people walk into a room and gasp when they spot this piano. It’s not just something you play. It’s something you admire.

A fair question. But honestly, comparing the CLP-885 to a second-hand upright from Facebook Marketplace misses the point.
The CLP-885 isn’t here to replace an upright — it’s here to outclass one.
You’re getting the feel of a six-figure concert grand, in a smart, space-friendly package. It doesn’t need tuning. You can play with headphones. It won’t be affected by humidity or your dog brushing past it. And it gives you tools a traditional piano simply can’t: multitrack recording, built-in learning aids, layering sounds, Bluetooth audio, USB MIDI… the list goes on.
Yes, it’s an investment. But when you realise what it actually offers — it starts to look like remarkable value.
The Yamaha CLP-885 is one of those rare instruments that bridges the gap between inspiration and performance.
It’s serious enough for professionals, and yet warm and welcoming enough to spark joy in beginners. It looks stunning. It sounds divine. And — I’ll say it — it’s sexy.
If you’re looking for a piano that will make you want to play more, write more, feel more… the CLP-885 might just be your perfect match.
We welcome trade-ins and part exchanges on your current digital or acoustic piano.
Let us help you upgrade with ease!
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