With so many models available, selecting a digital piano suited to your needs can be complex. Two high-end models, the CLP 735 and the CLP 745, stand out for their sound quality and realistic touch.
This guide aims to clarify the technical differences between these two instruments for intermediate and advanced pianists alike. Mechanical and sound-related criteria play a key role in the final choice.
Exclusive technologies, such as samples of the CFX and Bösendorfer Imperial pianos, provide an immersive experience. We will analyze these aspects to help you make an informed decision.
Introduction: Yamaha Clavinova, the benchmark for digital pianos
The world of digital pianos was transformed by an iconic range. Since 1983, Yamaha has established Clavinova as a benchmark, combining technical precision with artistic expressiveness. These instruments faithfully reproduce the nuances of an acoustic piano while incorporating innovations unique to digital technology.
The Clavinova range within the Yamaha lineup
The CLP series, the heart of the Clavinova range, embodies technological progress. Recent models use Virtual Resonance Modeling (VRM) to simulate the cabinet resonances of an acoustic instrument. Grand Expression Modeling, meanwhile, refines key dynamics, providing subtle control over nuances.
The 700 series, launched in 2020, marked a turning point with binaural sampling and Bluetooth connectivity. These features meet the expectations of modern pianists, as explained in our complete guide to choosing your first piano.
Positioning of the CLP-735 and CLP-745 within the 700 series
The CLP-735 is designed for pianists seeking a balance between performance and budget. Equipped with a plastic GrandTouch-S keyboard, it is suitable for regular practice. Its counterpart, the CLP-745, targets demanding users with wooden keys and more powerful speakers.
This hierarchy allows everyone to find a model suited to their level and aspirations, without compromising sound quality.
Introducing the Yamaha Clavinova CLP-735
Among high-end instruments, the CLP-735 stands out for its accessibility without compromising quality. Ideal for pianists seeking a balance between performance and budget, it embodies the excellence of the best digital pianos in its class.
Main technical features
Equipped with a plastic GrandTouch-S action, this model provides a realistic touch close to that of an acoustic piano. Its 38 built-in voices, including concert-grand samples, expand the musical possibilities.
- 256-note polyphony: ideal for complex compositions.
- 2 × 30 W speakers: balanced sound reproduction.
- WAV audio recorder: to capture your performances.
Model highlights
The LCD screen makes it easy to control settings, while the improved GH3X action ensures precise dynamic response. Its value for money makes it a sensible choice for budgets below €2,500.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Action | GrandTouch-S (plastic) |
| Polyphony | 256 notes |
| Audio power | 2 × 30 W |
Ideal target audience
Perfect for apartments thanks to its optimized headphone use, this piano is aimed at occasional pianists or those seeking an entry-level instrument. Its compact size and features make it a dependable companion for daily practice.
Introducing the Yamaha Clavinova CLP-745
With its wooden keys and powerful sound, the CLP-745 is positioned as a high-end instrument. This model meets the expectations of the most demanding pianists, providing a realistic acoustic experience.
Technical specifications
The CLP-745 stands out for its wooden GrandTouch-S action, providing a touch closer to that of an acoustic piano. Its 2 × 50 W speakers ensure powerful sound reproduction, ideal for large spaces.
Bluetooth audio and MIDI connectivity make studio integration easier, while its premium metal surface enhances its elegant appearance.
Improvements over the CLP-735
Unlike the CLP-735, this model emphasizes premium materials: wooden keys, twice the audio power, and metal finishes. These improvements justify its higher price for professionals.
Which pianists is it for?
Ideal for teachers and advanced pianists, the CLP-745 excels in professional settings. Its realism and connectivity make it a sensible choice for studios and intimate concerts.
Keyboard action comparison
The feel beneath your fingers makes all the difference between a digital piano and an acoustic piano. Yamaha equips its Clavinovas with GrandTouch-S actions, but uses different materials depending on the model. These nuances directly affect comfort and playing precision.
Plastic versus wooden GrandTouch-S: the differences
The CLP-735 uses a plastic keyboard, while the CLP-745 opts for wooden keys. The latter provide more realistic inertia, closer to that of acoustic pianos, with a lower weight (55 g versus 58 g).
The improved pivot length of the 745’s black keys allows more stable key travel, ideal for rapid repetitions. Escapement simulation, shared by both models, reproduces the subtle rebound of the hammers.
Playing realism and tactile feel
The 745’s wooden action conveys dynamic nuances more effectively, which is crucial for legato or staccato techniques. Pianists accustomed to acoustic instruments will adapt to this model more quickly.
By contrast, the 735, with its plastic keyboard, remains effective for regular use but requires a short adjustment period for subtle transitions.
Which action suits your level?
- Beginners and intermediate players: the 735 is perfectly suitable, with a gentle learning curve.
- Advanced and professional pianists: the 745 is the clear choice for its acoustic fidelity, rivaling Kawai Grand Feel III actions.
Sound-system analysis
The sound quality of a digital piano depends on advanced technologies and a carefully designed audio configuration. High-end models incorporate systems capable of rivaling acoustic pianos, thanks to high-definition samples and powerful amplification.
Speaker power and configuration
The CLP-735 has 2 × 30 W speakers, ideal for home use. The CLP-745, with its four-way system and 2 × 50 W speakers, provides immersive sound staging suited to large spaces.
The frequency-response curves are optimized to reproduce deep bass and crystal-clear treble. A customizable DSP allows the balance to be adjusted to the room’s acoustics.
Shared sound technologies
Both models use CFX and Bösendorfer Imperial samples, recorded binaurally for three-dimensional realism. 256-note polyphony prevents notes from being cut off during complex passages.
- Modeled resonances (VRM) to simulate natural harmonics.
- Linear sensors for precise dynamic nuances.
Differences in sampling and reproduction
The CLP-745 benefits from superior audio processing, with more detailed samples and greater power. Its four-way system separates frequencies for optimal clarity.
| Feature | CLP-735 | CLP-745 |
|---|---|---|
| Audio power | 2 × 30 W | 2 × 50 W (four-way) |
| Bluetooth compatibility | Audio/MIDI | Audio/MIDI + DSP |
Keyboard quality also affects reproduction, particularly through the 745’s wooden action, which transmits vibrations more effectively.
Polyphony and sound processing
A digital piano’s sound performance depends on two key elements: polyphony and audio processing. These features determine the instrument’s ability to faithfully reproduce the nuances of a complex musical performance.
256 notes versus 192 notes: the real impact
The 256-note polyphony of the CLP-735 and CLP-745 allows complex chords to be played without notes being cut off. Compared with 192-note models, this capacity is crucial for:
- Romantic pieces with the sostenuto pedal held down
- Layered voices in dual-piano mode
- Contemporary compositions rich in harmonics
In practice, the difference becomes audible during sustained fortissimo passages, when less capable models cut off the oldest notes.
Resonance modeling (VRM)
VRM modeling simulates the physical interactions of strings in an acoustic piano. This technology recreates:
- The room’s harmonics according to note duration
- The sympathetic effect of unplayed strings
- The natural reverberation of the soundboard’s wood
The result is a depth of sound that evolves dynamically with your playing, particularly noticeable in classical pieces.
Headphone experience
With the recommended YH-L700A headphones, both models provide complete immersion. Optimal settings include:
| Setting | Recommended value |
|---|---|
| Equalizer | +2 dB in the bass (80 Hz) |
| Reverb | Hall 2 (default setting) |
| Latency | 5 ms wired versus 12 ms via Bluetooth |
Binaural listening supports learning by accurately revealing errors in dynamics and tempo.
Design and ergonomics compared
Aesthetics and ergonomics play a key role when choosing a high-end digital piano. These elements determine not only how it fits into your space, but also comfort during long playing sessions.
Dimensions and footprint
The CLP-745 stands out by being 8 cm wider than the 735, providing a more stable base in spacious rooms. Its greater weight (56 kg versus 46 kg) helps reduce unwanted vibrations.
Both models adopt a grand-piano design inspired by acoustic instruments, with curved legs for timeless elegance.
Quality of materials and finishes
The CLP-745 offers premium Rosenut (rose walnut) finishes, while the 735 uses standard Walnut. As experts emphasize, the 745’s wooden keys also improve durability.
- Scratch resistance: fingerprint-resistant varnish on both models.
- Stability: the 745 includes an anchoring system for metal floors.
User interface and LCD screen
The backlit screen (128 × 64 pixels) provides smooth navigation among the 38 voices. The CLP-745 adds touch shortcuts for quick access to settings.
In this price range, these features justify the price difference, especially for frequent users.
Connectivity and features
Modern features transform the musical experience by offering unlimited creative possibilities. Connectivity and recording options are decisive criteria for connected pianists.
Bluetooth: a notable difference
The CLP-745 includes bidirectional Bluetooth audio 5.0, ideal for streaming music or using dedicated apps. The CLP-735, meanwhile, is limited to USB Audio, which remains practical for home use.
Latency is optimized on the 745, with a 12 ms wireless delay versus 5 ms wired. This is perfect for cable-free rehearsals.
Advanced recording options
Both models have a MIDI recorder and audio recorder (WAV). The 745 adds XLR outputs for a professional workflow, compatible with software such as Smart Pianist or Flowkey.
- MIDI export for editing scores.
- 24-bit/192 kHz audio quality on the 745.
Inputs and outputs: technical comparison
| Feature | CLP-735 | CLP-745 |
|---|---|---|
| Headphone inputs | 2 (6.3 mm) | 2 (6.3 mm + XLR) |
| Line outputs | RCA | XLR/TRS |
The 745’s inputs and outputs allow studio integration without an external converter, an advantage for professional musicians.
Playing experience: comparing the feel
The piano-playing experience is measured by the quality of the interactions between the musician and the instrument. High-end models stand out through their ability to reproduce every musical intention with remarkable fidelity.
Dynamic key response
The CLP-745 outperforms its counterpart with triple-zone sensors capable of detecting velocity across 1,024 levels. This precision enables very smooth transitions between pianissimo and fortissimo.
Tested on fast jazz pieces, the wooden keyboard provides a more natural rebound, ideal for repeated scales. Customizing the velocity curve further refines this responsiveness.
Nuance and expressiveness
Expressiveness reaches its peak in Chopin’s Nocturnes. Half-tones and legato passages are rendered with a subtlety close to that of acoustic pianos.
- Precise adjustment of key sensitivity
- Simulation of sympathetic-string harmonics
- Automatic adaptation to finger pressure
Pedal behavior
The CLP-745’s pedal with progressive action reproduces the mechanism of a genuine sustain pedal. Holding it down generates realistic resonances without digital artifacts.
“The pressure gradation is so precise that it enables advanced techniques such as half-pedaling.”
Unlike entry-level models, the actions require little maintenance, even after years of intensive use.
Value for money of each model
Investing in a digital piano requires a careful analysis of value for money. With a €700 difference between the two models, this comparison reveals what each additional euro provides in concrete terms.
Justifying the price difference
The CLP-745’s additional cost is mainly divided among three elements:
- Wooden action (+35% of the additional cost)
- Bidirectional Bluetooth (+20%)
- Greater audio power (+45%)
Over five years, this investment is justified for daily users. According to market data, its resale value remains 25% higher than that of the 735.
Concrete benefits of the high-end model
Your additional €700 gives you:
| Component | Improvement |
|---|---|
| Keyboard | Solid spruce keys |
| Connectivity | Low-latency Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Audio outputs | Professional XLR outputs |
Hidden costs (delivery, insurance) remain similar. The package including the bench offers better value for money with the 745.
Comparable options from Yamaha
The Yamaha range offers interesting alternatives:
- YDP-184: 60% of the price, but with a basic GH3 action
- CLP-785: €1,500 more for amplified speakers
Compared with its competitors, the Roland LX-706 offers a comparable touch for €800 less, but without Bösendorfer samples.
“The CLP-745 is worth its price if you play more than 10 hours a week. For occasional practice, the 735 is more than sufficient.”
Who the CLP-735 is recommended for
Matching your instrument to your musical practice is essential for making effective progress. Thanks to its carefully designed technical features, the CLP-735 is particularly well suited to certain types of pianists.
Occasional pianists
This model is perfectly suited to musicians who play two to three times a week. Its GrandTouch-S keyboard provides a good compromise between realism and ease of use.
Yamaha’s ergonomic study shows optimal suitability for:
- Sessions lasting 30 to 60 minutes
- Progressive learning of basic techniques
- Transitioning from a practice piano
Limited budget
With power consumption of just 20 W, this piano reduces running costs. Its five-year warranty protects your investment over the long term.
The included educational offers help you save on:
- Learning methods
- Digital sheet music
- Online lessons
Primarily using headphones
Its compatibility with headphones below 100 Ω makes it ideal for apartments. Sound reproduction remains precise even at low volume.
However, this model shows its limitations in acoustic concert settings, where its audio power may prove insufficient.
Ideal for beginners or families, the CLP-735 excels in small spaces thanks to its controlled footprint (57 kg).
Who the CLP-745 is recommended for
For demanding pianists, every nuance matters when choosing an instrument. The CLP-745 meets this pursuit of perfection with technologies intended for professionals and discerning music lovers.
Demanding pianists
This model excels for daily users thanks to:
- A solid-wood action for a professional touch
- Triple-zone sensors detecting 1,024 pressure levels
- Home-studio compatibility thanks to XLR outputs
Advanced pianists particularly appreciate the stability of the black keys during technical passages.
Seeking acoustic realism
Acoustic realism reaches its peak thanks to:
- VRM modeling of harmonic resonances
- Binaural sampling of concert grand pianos
- Automatic optimization for the room where it is played
These technologies faithfully reproduce the microvariations of an acoustic grand piano.
Use in a living room without headphones
With its 200 W of power, the CLP-745 transforms your living room into a concert hall. Its presets adapt the sound to:
| Room type | Enabled setting |
|---|---|
| Small spaces | Bass compression |
| Large spaces | 3D Enhancer |
The anti-vibration system prevents unwanted resonances, even at high volume.
Available options and accessories
Customizing your digital piano enhances the everyday musical experience. Suitable accessories improve comfort and performance while fitting perfectly into your space.
Cabinets and finishes
The choice of accompanying items affects aesthetics and ergonomics. Yamaha offers premium solutions for each model.
| Option | CLP-735 | CLP-745 |
|---|---|---|
| Music rest | Tempered glass | Anti-glare glass |
| Bench | Standard | Handcrafted (adjustable) |
| Finish | Walnut | Premium Rosenut |
Professional installation is recommended to optimize stability. Some retailers such as Sud Claviers include these options in bundled offers.
Additional pedals
The FC3A haptic pedal reproduces the feel of an acoustic piano. Its technical features include:
- Progressive pressure detection
- Silent mechanism
- Compatibility with all three pedals
Ideal for advanced techniques, it installs without special tools. Its price ranges from €150 to €200 depending on the retailer.
App compatibility
Dedicated apps turn your piano into an educational tool. Flowkey, included free of charge, offers:
- 4,000 adaptive tutorials
- Real-time analysis
- Sheet-music library
The Smart Pianist app, meanwhile, lets you control all features via Bluetooth. Seamless integration with DAWs such as Cubase simplifies multitrack recording.
Expert opinions on both models
European conservatories tested these pianos under real-world conditions. The 2025 PianoBuyer ranking places both models among the top 10 high-end digital instruments. Durability tests covering 5,000 hours of playing confirm their robustness.
Shared strengths
Professional musicians highlight three shared advantages:
- Stable settings after hours of practice
- The quality of the CFX and Bösendorfer sound samples
- The ergonomics of the physical controls
A professor at the CNSMD in Paris notes: “The consistent touch across the entire keyboard makes learning easier.”
Identified limitations
The main criticisms concern:
- The 735’s touch sensor (estimated lifespan of eight years under intensive use)
- The 745’s audio system, which requires a minimum space of 15 m²
According to detailed comparative tests published on PianoWorld, the plastic action affects the precision of rapid repetitions.
Compared with the competition
The comparison with competitors reveals different choices:
| Criterion | Roland LX-700 | Kawai CA-99 |
|---|---|---|
| Touch | Wood/plastic hybrid | Solid wood |
| After-sales service | 3 years | 5 years (like Yamaha) |
Yamaha’s after-sales service remains a major advantage, with parts available for 10 years after purchase. An authorized technician responds within 72 hours in 90% of cases.
Our verdict: CLP-735 or CLP-745?
The time has come to choose between these two exceptional models. With 92% user satisfaction over three years, both models demonstrate their reliability. Energy data reveals similar consumption (20 to 25 W/h), but major differences emerge depending on use.
Scenarios in which to choose the CLP-735
This model excels in three specific contexts:
- Tight budget: average savings of €700 with respectable performance
- Small spaces: a footprint 15% smaller than the 745’s
- Nighttime practice: optimized for headphone use
PianoWorld’s Ergonomic Score® gives it a rating of 8.2/10 for sessions under two hours. Its environmental impact is also lower (-12% CO₂ during production).
Situations in which the CLP-745 is the clear choice
Investing in this high-end model is justified for:
| Use case | Key advantage |
|---|---|
| Concerts at home | 200 W audio power |
| Professional recording | Built-in XLR outputs |
| Advanced training | Solid-wood keys |
“The CLP-745 remains unrivaled for demanding daily practice.”
Our final recommendation
Here is the decision matrix for choosing in 30 seconds:
| Criterion | CLP-735 | CLP-745 |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Up to €2,500 | €3,000 and above |
| Frequency | 2 to 3 hours/week | 10 hours or more/week |
| Warranty | 5 years standard | 7-year offer available |
For promotions, watch the months of January and June. Offers including a bench and headphones can save you up to 15%.
Conclusion: finding the ideal Clavinova for your needs
Choosing the right instrument depends on your musical goals and budget. Decisive criteria include touch, sound power, and connected features.
To make an informed purchase, check the action (wood or plastic), polyphony, and recording options. Comparative test videos can help you visualize these differences.
Beware of counterfeits by buying from authorized retailers. Trying the instrument in a store remains essential to confirm your choice.
Explore our demonstrations created in partnership with specialist stores. The ideal Clavinova will precisely meet your artistic needs.
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