Ensoniq SDP-1 electric piano 76 keys (USA/1986)

Ensoniq's SDP-1 (USA/1986) is certainly a good-looking instrument. At a mere 44lbs (20kg), it's also a good deal lighter than a 65Kg Rhodes Stage 73. Each of the 76 full-size keys is weighted, and Ensoniq claim to use a controlled resistance system to 'further emulate the feel of an acoustic piano'. There is a useful "key transpose" feature, which can be instantly used.

As with other sampled pianos, the keyboard action is velocity-sensitive, but it doesn't generate aftertouch data. A useful feature is a programmable bass split point, which allows you to assign a two-note electric or string bass sound up to B3 (key 32) on the keyboard. Handy feature <> when sustain pedal is used for any sound, the bass section IGNORES this. How clever. The "string" bass sample is REALLY impressive (its duophonic, BTW).

The keyboard is 10-note polyphonic, but the sensible voice assignment employed by Ensoniq often makes this seem more. In general, if more than 10 notes are played at once, it's the first notes that are stolen. However, to avoid a sudden gap at the bottom if a bass note is sustained with note-greedy chords played on top, the piano applies 'lowest-note priority' in order to hang on to the bass.

There are 10 preset sounds on board; strung pianos, electric pianos, marimba, vibes & clavinet...most of which are usable. Piano comes with a sustain pedal and mains cord (its 220V) There is a headphone socket for silent practicing, plus midi & stereo/solo bass outputs.

Condition of this instrument is "good". There are plenty of eeny dinks on the casing. The keys are absolutely perfect, and trigger every time. Its worth the price for the feel of the keys alone.....UK price is £269, including VAT. Export price is £219

Sounds like? Find "Ensoniq Piano Evolution" on YouTube.........or hear the onboard sounds from attached video of the module version.....SPM rack (£299)...you will be impressed