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There’s something a bit magical about sitting down at a piano that just gets you. The Yamaha CLP-800 series is exactly that kind of instrument — classy, top quality, and downright inspiring to play.
Now, I’ve played a lot of digital pianos in my time. Some are decent. Some are fun. But the CLP-800 range? This is Yamaha showing off — in the best possible way.
The moment you press a key, it screams luxury. Not in a blingy, “look at me” way — more in the same way a Rolls-Royce door shuts with a soft thunk. Smooth. Confident. Expensive-feeling.
You’re instantly transported to a grand piano sound world (without needing a country house and a tuning technician on speed dial). The new CFX and Bösendorfer Imperial samples in these models are just… stunning. Rich, expressive, and full of colour. Even a single Gmaj7 chord — my personal favourite — feels like it could score a film scene.

Visually, Yamaha’s nailed it. The whole range has that classic Clavinova elegance, but the CLP-885 in particular is a bit of a show-off — taller, slimmer, with a more upright-style cabinet that feels like a true nod to traditional acoustic pianos. Unless you spotted the subtle little LED screen on the left, you’d be forgiven for thinking it was an acoustic upright.
That’s one of the best things about the range — it’s genuinely for everyone. Whether you’re a total beginner, a casual evening noodler, or a serious player who demands the best, there’s a model for you.
But what you can count on across the range is this: you’ll always get an exceptional piano-playing experience for the money. That’s not sales talk. It’s just Yamaha being Yamaha — obsessed with quality, consistency, and giving you more than you bargained for.
Even though the Clavinova range has been around for decades (they first launched back in 1983, believe it or not), Yamaha still finds ways to improve. The button layout and LED displays on the 800 series feel more intuitive and “tactile” than before. You don’t just hear the quality — you feel it in the little details too.
And of course, there’s the CLP-885 — the one that makes people go “phwoar.” Every time someone plays it, they’re blown away. It’s got that perfect combination of tone, touch, and visual presence. I genuinely don’t know what more you could ask for. (Okay, maybe a villa in the Maldives. But this comes close.)
If you’re wondering where to begin, the CLP-845 is my go-to recommendation. It’s where the wooden keys come in — and for me, that’s a game-changer. They feel heavier, more responsive, and just real. It’s the kind of action that makes you play better, purely because it rewards proper touch and technique.

For me, the CLP-800 range isn’t just a step forward for digital pianos — it’s another bold reminder of why Yamaha is still king of the hill. Whether you’re buying your first proper piano or upgrading from something more basic, these are instruments that will stay with you for years, maybe decades.
They’re not just tools for playing — they’re places you go to feel something. And for that reason alone, I think the CLP-800 range is worth shouting about.
If you’ve already got a piano or keyboard and you’re considering making the leap to a CLP-800 model, we can help make that easier. Use our part exchange tool below to get an instant quote for your current instrument.
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