(looking for an electric piano)

I'm looking at the Yamaha YDP-161 piano (it's $1500), although I'm considering pianos ranging from $500-$1500.

I'm basically looking for some advice as to what I should be looking for or steering away from. The YDP-161 appears to be about right: best hammer action keys of any piano in its price range, MIDI out, excellent pre-recorded basic piano sounds, good built-in speakers. However, maybe I should be looking at more criteria?

I would greatly appreciate some input. As to what I'm doing: relearning, and I want to simply play what I want, do recordings later on, have lots of flexibility, but have a piano that I really enjoy. I will buy an additional portable piano if I ever feel I need that: this one is supposed to be just a really nice one.

This post was edited by Canadian_Man on Aug 10 2012 06:01pm

Would really appreciate help.

i have a shitty 100$ casio and it does the job just fine, as long as there's a velocity and sustain function
i don't see the point in having a $1000+ piano just to record MIDI out

my parents have a steinway babygrand and it sounds 40 quadrillion times better when recorded through my MXL condenser + stick mic set
huge waste of money
acoustic pianos ALWAYS > electric

This.. Matched with good environmental acoustics.

You sir, Are looking in the right direction. The YDP-161 is a great digital piano for the money. Roland RD-300NX would be the only other thing to consider in that price range and you'd have to buy an amp, stand and bench. But if it's a piano you're looking for, I'd say you've found a good'r.

I've made my decision. On Monday I will be picking up the YDP-161. I'm giving it tonight and tomorrow to think it over.