At the 2013 NAMM Show, Korg introduced the SP-280 stage piano.
The Korg SP-280 combines acoustic and electric piano sounds with a “Natural Weighted Hammer Action” keyboard.
Features:
- Rich, dynamic acoustic piano sounds that are enjoyable to play
- Authentic vintage electric piano sounds, perfect for live performance
- High-output amp section produces plenty of volume
- Stylish design
- Natural Weighted Hammer Action (NH) keyboard faithfully reproduces the touch of an acoustic piano
- Lightweight design makes transportation easy
- Newly designed stand is light and easy to attach
- Stereo audio input is provided, for playing along with external audio sources
The Korg SP-280 is expected to be available in April with a street price of about $700.
I hate the design.
If you JUST want a good piano, $700 seems like a rational price for a graded action, but it’ll have some real competition from Roland and Casio on price and range of functions. Someone who wants a few synth options or zones will be looking more at controllers and things like Roland’s 64-key piano. I can’t remember the last time I only had to wear one hat in what I do, so I expect to see the combo mutants to do well over time.
I also think this Korg will lose points for a case angle that makes it harder to use as a bottom keyboard in a stack. Its a bit home-styled and pushes it away from multi-keyboard users a bit.
This piano has powerful speakers — which sets apart very much from the slab keyboards you mention. You wouldn’t want it as the bottom in a stack. This is for people who want to play piano, so it’s great for gigging if that’s what you want. I’m worried about the keyboard feel, but nothing from Roland or Casio has close to the speakers on this board. I miss the “anchor the sustain pedal to the stand” aspect of the SP250, though.
can somebody please tell me the big difference between the 280 and the 250 from korg? thank you!