Casio CDP-S360 Review: The Digital Piano That Makes Learning Fun and Easy

The Casio CDP-S360 Digital Piano is a powerful instrument designed to bring the classic sound of an acoustic piano into your home. With its weighted keys and intuitive controls, you can experience a realistic piano playing experience without taking up a lot of space. Featuring quality components and hundreds of built-in sounds, this digital piano is perfect for beginners, advanced players, teachers, and professionals alike. Read on to learn more about what makes the Casio CDP-S360 a great choice for any musician.

Casio CDP-S360 Specs

  • 88-key digital piano with scaled hammer action and touch response
  • AiR Sound Source with 128-note polyphony
  • 700 built-in tones, including 200 rhythms and 10 user rhythms
  • Chordana Play for Piano app connectivity via USB and Bluetooth
  • LCD display with backlight Pitch bend wheel and modulation button
  • 1/4″ headphone output and 1/8″ audio input
  • Class-compliant USB port for MIDI connectivity
  • Built-in speakers with 8W + 8W amplifier
  • Optional battery power (6 AA batteries)
  • Dimensions: 52″ x 9.1″ x 3.7″ Weight: 24.7 lbs.

Key Features of the Casio CDP-S360

The Casio CDP-S360 features a full 88-key weighted hammer action keyboard, meaning the keys feel and respond just like an acoustic piano. It also features an intuitive user interface with dedicated buttons that simplify navigation. The built-in sound engine offers hundreds of tones to choose from, as well as a variety of effects and reverb to create unique sounds. Additionally, there are 10 different onboard songs and a 3-pedal system for added expression.

1. Authentic Piano Sound

The CDP-S360 produces some of the most realistic piano tones you can find in a digital instrument. With its advanced sound engine and carefully tuned samples, it accurately reproduces the nuances of an acoustic grand piano. The keys are also weighted correctly to give you a more natural feeling when playing.

Dual 8W Speakers

Casio CDP-S360 Review

The CDP-S360 also features dual 8W speakers, which can fill any space with rich sound. You can adjust the volume and reverb levels to create perfect tone. Plus, you can plug in headphones for private practice sessions or connect the keyboard to external speakers for larger performances.

AiR Sound Source Technology

The CDP-S360 has Casio’s AiR (Acoustic and Intelligent Resonator) sound source technology, which ensures that each note is accurately reproduced. This technology also delivers a more natural decay and sustain when playing.

10 Built-In Tones

The Casio CDP-S360 includes 10 built-in tones, including electric pianos, organs, strings, and more. With the dedicated buttons on the front panel, you can quickly select your desired sound without having to navigate through menus or layers of settings. This feature makes it easier for beginners to get started on their musical journey.

Polyphony

An important upgrade on the CDP-S360 is the boosted polyphony of 128 notes, compared to just 64 notes on the previous CDP-S350. This allows for more complex passages and layering of sounds without cut-off notes. The improved polyphony provides room to grow as your playing skills advance.

2. Responsive Keys

The Casio CDP-S360’s weighted hammer action keys are designed to respond like an acoustic piano’s. The keys also have velocity sensitivity, so you can control the dynamics of your performance. Plus, there is a 3-pedal system for added expression and control when playing.

Casio CDP-S360 Review

88 Fully-Weighted Keys

The Casio CDP-S360 has 88 full-size, weighted keys to give you a realistic piano-playing experience. The keys are weighted correctly and are velocity-sensitive, so they will respond accurately to your touch. This allows you to play with more expression and control when performing.

Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action II

Casio CDP-S360 Review

The CDP-S360 features Casio’s Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action II keyboard, which provides a realistic feel when playing. The keys are weighted correctly to accurately replicate an acoustic piano, and the hammers respond to your touch for added expression and control.

Ebony and Ivory Textured Keys

Casio CDP-S360 Review

The keys on the CDP-S360 are textured to replicate the feel of real ebony and ivory, giving you an authentic piano-playing experience. The keys also feature a matte finish that helps prevent slipping when your hands become sweaty during performances.

3. Connectivity and Compatibility

The Casio CDP-S360 has a variety of connections and is compatible with a wide range of software and hardware. It has USB, MIDI, and audio inputs, so it can be used to record and connect to other devices. The keyboard also comes with an included stand that makes it easy to use on stage or in the studio. Plus, it comes with a sustain pedal for added expression when playing.

Casio CDP-S360 Review

The CDP-S360 is also compatible with the Chordana Play app, which allows you to access hundreds of songs and tutorials. With this app, you can practice your skills or enjoy playing some of the world’s most popular tunes.

USB Connectivity

The CDP-S360 is fully compatible with USB devices, allowing you to transfer data and audio signals quickly and easily. This makes it easier for you to connect to other instruments or computers for recording purposes. Plus, the USB port also allows you to connect a flash drive so you can store your recordings directly onto the keyboard.

MIDI Connectivity

The CDP-S360 also has MIDI connectivity, so you can send MIDI signals to other instruments or computers. This makes it easy to integrate the keyboard with digital audio workstations and other production software. Plus, it allows you to control multiple devices at once for a more streamlined experience.

Auxiliary Input/Output

The CDP-S360 also has an auxiliary input and output for connecting to external speakers or amplifiers. This makes it easy to use the keyboard on stage or in larger performances. Plus, there is a headphone jack so you can practice privately without disturbing anyone else.

6 Track Sequencer

The CDP-S360 has a 6 track sequencer built in for creating and recording your own music. This allows you to lay down multiple tracks as you play, giving you more control over the creative process. Plus, the keyboard also comes with variation kits so you can customize each sound to fit your individual style.

7 Digital Effects

The CDP-S360 also has dozens of built-in digital effects to help you shape your sound. You can choose from reverb, chorus, delay, and more so you can fine-tune your performances. Plus, an onboard arpeggiator for creating expressive melodies will add a unique flavor to any track.

8 Built-in Metronome

The CDP-S360 also comes with a built-in metronome so you can practice with perfect precision every time. This is especially useful when learning new pieces or trying to perfect difficult passages. Plus, the metronome will help keep your timing tight when playing live or in the studio.

– Audio In/Out Jacks

The CDP-S360 also has audio in/out jacks for connecting to external sound systems. This allows you to amplify your performance or use the keyboard as an instrument in a live setting. Plus, the audio jacks can also be used to record directly onto a computer or other recording device.

Casio CDP-S360 Review

All in all, the Casio CDP-S360 is a great keyboard for anyone who is looking for an authentic piano-playing experience. Its textured keys, USB and MIDI connections, built-in sequencer, digital effects, and audio in/out jacks offer an impressive range of features that will help you easily create unique music. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned professional, the CDP-S360 is sure to meet your needs.

– Bluetooth Audio Compatibility

The Casio CDP-S360 also has Bluetooth audio compatibility, allowing you to stream sound from your device wirelessly. This makes using the keyboard with external speakers or headphones easy for a more immersive experience. Plus, you can also connect multiple devices at once so everyone in the room can listen and learn together.

Price and Value

The Casio CDP-S360 is a great value for the features it offers. With its textured keys, USB and MIDI connections, built-in sequencer, digital effects, and audio in/out jacks included in one package, it’s an excellent choice for beginners and experienced players alike. Plus, its Bluetooth compatibility and reasonable price provide even more value.

Casio CDP-S360 review

Whether you’re looking for a great starter keyboard or an experienced player wanting to upgrade their setup, the CDP-S360 is sure to meet your needs.

Altogether, the Casio CDP-S360 is a great choice for anyone looking for an authentic piano playing experience. With its textured keys, USB and MIDI connections, built-in sequencer, digital effects, audio in/out jacks, and Bluetooth compatibility all included in one package, it’s sure to bring an impressive range of features to any musician’s setup. Whether you’re just starting out or a professional, the CDP-S360 has something for everyone.

The Casio CDP-S360 is an excellent keyboard for anyone who wants to bring their musical dreams to life. With its realistic sound, intuitive design, and an impressive array of features, it’s easy to see why this keyboard is a popular choice among musicians of all skill levels. Plus, its reasonable price makes it an even more attractive option. So if you’re looking for an affordable and reliable way to record and play your own songs, the Casio CDP-S360 should definitely be on your list!

1. Affordable Pricing:

The Casio CDP-S360 Digital Piano is a great piece of equipment for both the beginning and advanced pianist. Featuring weighted keys, 128 built-in tones and 200 rhythm selections, this digital piano has plenty of features to explore.

Casio CDP-S360 review

Another benefit of choosing the Casio CDP-S360 is its affordability. At an entry-level price point, it’s a great option for musicians on a budget who are looking to upgrade their collection.

Ultimately, if you’re looking for a digital piano that provides excellent sound quality and tremendous value for the money, then the Casio CDP-S360 should definitely be on your list!

Competitive Pricing in its Range

The Casio CDP-S360 Digital Piano has one of the most competitive pricing in its range, coming in at an entry-level price point. While other digital pianos may offer more features or a better sound quality, they usually come with a higher price tag.

Casio CDP-S360 review

But with the Casio CDP-S360, you get a great instrument at an affordable price. This is perfect for anyone who wants to start playing the piano without breaking the bank.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for an affordable digital piano that offers a fantastic range of features and sound quality, then the Casio CDP-S360 is definitely worth considering. Its competitive pricing and quality specifications make it a smart choice for any musician looking to get started or upgrade their existing setup.

Great Value for Features Offered

The Casio CDP-S360 Digital Piano offers a great range of features for its price point. With textured keys, USB and MIDI connections, built-in sequencer, digital effects, and audio in/out jacks all included in one package, it’s an excellent choice for beginners and experienced players. Plus, its Bluetooth compatibility and reasonable price provide even more value.

– Budget-Friendly Option for Beginners

Casio CDP-S360 review

For those just starting out, the Casio CDP-S360 is an ideal choice. Its affordability and range of features make it a great option for anyone looking to get started on the piano. Plus, its Bluetooth compatibility allows you to connect with other devices such as your phone or tablet so you can enjoy playing your favorite pieces even when you’re away from the piano.

2. Additional Accessories

When investing in a digital piano, it’s always wise to consider purchasing additional accessories as well. These can help to enhance the overall experience and make for a more enjoyable playing experience.

The Casio CDP-S360 Digital Piano has some great optional accessories available, including headphones, an amplifier, stands, music racks, and more. These can help make your sessions more comfortable and improve audio quality.

Bundled Accessories Package

For those looking for a complete solution, Casio offers a bundled package including the piano and additional accessories. This bundle is perfect for anyone who wants to get everything they need in one purchase and save money at the same time.

Optional Sustain Pedal and Stand

Casio offers an optional sustain pedal and stand for those looking to achieve a more realistic piano feel. This can be used to add an extra level of nuance to your playing and make it sound even more dynamic.

Pros and Cons

1. Pros

– Lightweight and portable design

– Competitive pricing in its range

– Great value for the features offered

– Budget-friendly option for beginners

– Variety of optional accessories available

2. Cons

– No onboard recording capabilities

Conclusion

The Casio CDP-S360 delivers an impressive weighted keyboard action and great piano sounds in a slim, portable package. The keys feel fantastic and the grand piano tones are rich and realistic. Extras like built-in rhythms, recorder, and Bluetooth expand the functionality for practice and music making.

Despite a few compromises, the CDP-S360 punches way above its weight class. There are more expensive digital pianos with fancier actions and huge sound libraries, but they will cost you at least twice as much. The CDP-S360 provides tremendous value.

I highly recommend the Casio CDP-S360 to any beginner or budget-minded pianist looking for an affordable 88-key digital piano with weighted action. For under $500, you would be hard-pressed to find another keyboard that feels this good and sounds this polished. The CDP-S360 is a great investment that will grow with you as you improve on your musical journey.

Alternatives

Casio CDP-S360 VS Roland FP-10

the Casio CDP-S360 and Roland FP-10 are both excellent digital pianos, each catering to different preferences and needs. The CDP-S360 offers a wide range of features, a high polyphony count, and greater affordability, while the FP-10 focuses on delivering a more authentic piano experience with better key action, sound quality, and Bluetooth connectivity.

FeatureCasio CDP-S360Roland FP-10
Design & PortabilitySleek, lightweight (24.7 lbs)Minimalist, slightly heavier (27 lbs)
Keyboard ActionScaled Hammer Action IIPHA-4 Standard with escapement
Sound QualityAiR Sound SourceSuperNATURAL Piano engine
Polyphony128 notes96 notes
Additional FeaturesExtensive (modes, auto accompaniment, arpeggiator, lessons)Limited (Twin Piano mode, lessons)
ConnectivityUSB-to-Host, 5-pin MIDI, audio input, headphone jackUSB-to-Host, Bluetooth MIDI, headphone jack
Price (May Vary)599$599$

Ultimately, the choice between the Casio CDP-S360 and Roland FP-10 will depend on your individual priorities and preferences. If you value a wider range of features, higher polyphony, and affordability, the CDP-S360 may be the better choice. However, if you prioritize key action, sound quality, and Bluetooth connectivity, the Roland FP-10 could be the more suitable option.

Casio CDP-S360 VS  Casio PX-S3100

Both the Casio CDP-S360 and Casio PX-S3100 are excellent digital pianos that cater to different preferences and needs. The CDP-S360 offers a wide range of features, while the PX-S3100 focuses on providing a more authentic and refined piano experience with better key action and sound quality.

FeatureCasio CDP-S360Casio PX-S3100
Design & PortabilitySleek, lightweight (24.7 lbs)Slim, modern design, lightweight (25.1 lbs)
Keyboard ActionScaled Hammer Action IISmart Scaled Hammer Action Keyboard
Sound QualityAiR Sound SourceAiR Sound Source with improved piano samples
Polyphony128 notes192 notes
Additional FeaturesExtensive (modes, auto accompaniment, arpeggiator, lessons)More focused on piano playing, with fewer additional features
ConnectivityUSB-to-Host, 5-pin MIDI, audio input, headphone jackUSB-to-Host, Bluetooth MIDI & Audio, Line Out, headphone jacks
Price (May Vary)599$899$

My personal experience with both pianos highlights the strengths and weaknesses of each model. The Casio CDP-S360 is a versatile and feature-rich digital piano, perfect for those who enjoy exploring various modes, rhythms, and accompaniments.

The PX-S3100, on the other hand, delivers a more authentic and refined playing experience, with improved key action and enhanced piano samples. The connectivity options are also more advanced in the PX-S3100, featuring Bluetooth MIDI and Audio, as well as dedicated Line Out jacks.

Ultimately, the choice between the Casio CDP-S360 and Casio PX-S3100 will depend on your individual priorities and preferences. If you value versatility, a wide range of features, and affordability, the CDP-S360 may be the better choice. However, if you prioritize key action, sound quality, and advanced connectivity options, the Casio PX-S3100 could be the more suitable option.

Casio CDP-S360 VS Yamaha DGX-670

the Casio CDP-S360 and Yamaha DGX-670 are both high-quality digital pianos with different strengths and features that cater to varying preferences and needs. The CDP-S360 is a sleek and portable option, offering a wide range of features, while the DGX-670 focuses on providing an authentic piano experience with a more powerful sound system and additional functionalities.

FeatureCasio CDP-S360Yamaha DGX-670
Design & PortabilitySleek, lightweight (24.7 lbs)Bulkier, less portable (49.6 lbs)
Keyboard ActionScaled Hammer Action IIGHS (Graded Hammer Standard)
Sound QualityAiR Sound SourceYamaha CFX Concert Grand Piano samples
Polyphony128 notes256 notes
Additional FeaturesExtensive (modes, auto accompaniment, arpeggiator, lessons)Various (styles, Virtual Resonance Modeling, Smart Chord, lessons)
ConnectivityUSB-to-Host, 5-pin MIDI, audio input, headphone jackUSB-to-Host, USB-to-Device, Aux In, Line Out, Mic input, headphone jacks
Price (May Vary)599$849$

Based on my personal experience with both pianos, the Casio CDP-S360 is a versatile and feature-rich digital piano that’s perfect for those who enjoy exploring various modes, rhythms, and accompaniments in a more portable package. The Yamaha DGX-670, on the other hand, delivers a more authentic and powerful playing experience, with its GHS keyboard action, higher polyphony, and impressive sound system. The DGX-670 also offers additional features such as Virtual Resonance Modeling and a microphone input for vocals or other instruments.

Ultimately, the choice between the Casio CDP-S360 and Yamaha DGX-670 will depend on your individual priorities and preferences. If you value portability, a wide range of features, and affordability, the CDP-S360 may be the better choice. However, if you prioritize key action, sound quality, and a more powerful sound system, along with additional functionalities, the Yamaha DGX-670 could be the more suitable option. Keep in mind, though, that the DGX-670 comes at a significantly higher price point compared to the CDP-S360.

FAQs

Q: What is the Casio CDP-S360?

A: The Casio CDP-S360 is a new digital piano from Casio’s CDP range. It is a slim and portable stage piano that offers a lot of features right out of the box.

Q: What are the key features of the Casio CDP-S360?

A: The Casio CDP-S360 has a slim form factor and a high-end keybed. It also comes with the CS-46 pedal unit and the WU-BT10 adapter, which allows you to connect the keyboard to smart devices.

Q: Can I split the keyboard into two halves on the Casio CDP-S360?

A: Yes, you can split the keyboard into two halves on the Casio CDP-S360. This feature allows you to play different sounds or instruments on each half of the keyboard.

Q: What is the polyphony of the Casio CDP-S360?

A: The Casio CDP-S360 has a polyphony of 128 notes. This means that it can play up to 128 notes simultaneously without any notes being cut off.

Q: Does the Casio CDP-S360 have auto-accompaniment features?

A: No, the Casio CDP-S360 does not have auto-accompaniment features. It is primarily designed as a stage piano for solo performances.

Q: Can I connect the Casio CDP-S360 to smart devices?

A: Yes, you can connect the Casio CDP-S360 to smart devices using the WU-BT10 adapter. This allows you to wirelessly transfer MIDI data and control various music apps.

Q: Does the Casio CDP-S360 come with a pedal unit?

A: Yes, the Casio CDP-S360 comes with the CS-46 pedal unit. The pedal unit provides realistic sustain, soft, and sostenuto pedal functions.

Q: Does the Casio CDP-S360 have a built-in sound system?

A: Yes, the Casio CDP-S360 has a built-in sound system that provides high-quality sound output. However, it also has line outputs for connecting to external amplification systems.

Q: Can I use the Casio CDP-S360 as a MIDI controller?

A: Yes, the Casio CDP-S360 can be used as a MIDI controller. You can use it to control external MIDI devices and software instruments using MIDI connections.

Q: What are the dimensions and weight of the Casio CDP-S360?

A: The Casio CDP-S360 measures 52.0″ x 9.1″ x 3.9″ (WxDxH) and weighs approximately 24.5 lbs (11.1 kg).

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