The Essential Guide to Finding the Best Cheap Keyboard Piano + Reviews
Find in this short paragraph the best cheap keyboard piano, in case you have little to no time on your hands. After thoroughly examining the most popular and critically acclaimed models on the market, our research team concluded that the Yamaha DGX-660 is the product that should sit comfortably on top of your list. This model gets as close as it is possible to an acoustic piano, imitating the sounds such a piano can produce. A nice touch that many buyers appreciate is the ability to follow the MIDI songs with notation while you play, so you can perform your favorite tunes while feeling entertained in the process. The padded seat comes with three height settings, so you can sit as comfortable as possible as you practice. In case the Yamaha DGX-660 is not in stock, you can safely choose the Casio Privia PX160BK, with no regrets.
Comparison Table
Our Top Choice
Getting better at playing the piano is easy and convenient with this Yamaha keyboard piano. Designed to reproduce the same tone as a concert piano, this unit comes with features that will up your experience and get you ready for some stage play. Thanks to the pedals it features, you can customize your sound whereas the Half Damper effect will get you more control.
At least one customer was dissatisfied with the quality of the stand.
Consider this model if you’re a novice exploring the versatility of this instrument. Its various features will help you advance and do so conveniently.
2nd Best
Ideal for beginners and easy to move around, this piano stands out not only through its design but also through the technology invested in it. Thanks to the Advanced Hammer Action IV-F featured, you will get to enjoy enhanced sound accuracy and hardly believe that it’s not a real piano in front of you when playing. It weighs only 33 pounds so you can easily take it with you when on the go.
The unit does not feature a duet mode (four hands) to help beginners learn.
Take this model into account if you want a portable piano that sounds like the real instrument. You also get a few piano lessons to help you improve and level up your experience.
Also To Consider
This model is an improved version of an older piano made by this company and, as the term improved suggests, comes with better features. You get a memory that is three times the size of the one the original product offers and the Acoustic and Intelligent Resonator for superb sound detail. Enhanced key responsiveness and 250 integrated tones are other benefits the player enjoys with this piano.
Some customers were unhappy with the quality of the keys.
If you’re a novice interested in taking your passion for playing the piano one step further, this model is worth trying, considering the features it comes with.
14 Best Cheap Keyboard Pianos (Reviews) in 2022
Our research team selected the most critically acclaimed models on the market, and we are listing them below. They are picked based on their high ratings, on the keyboard piano reviews written by buyers, and the overall satisfaction they offer for the price. We organized them into categories so you can easily find the model you want, but what you should know is that they are all affordable keyboards depending on your budget.
Best digital pianos under 1000
- 1. New Model Yamaha P-45 Digital Piano Bundle by Chase
- 2. Kawai ES100 Digital Piano
- 3. Casio PX350 88 Key Digital Stage Piano Packages
- 4. PX-160 BK Privia
- 5. Alesis Coda Pro 88-Key Digital Piano with Hammer-Action Keys
- 6. Yamaha P45B Digital Piano Basic Bundle Package
- 7. Yamaha YPG235 PAK YPG-235 76-Key Portable Grand Piano Pack
- 8. Alesis Recital 88-Key Beginner Digital Piano
- 9. Yamaha PSREW300UK Portable Electronic Keyboard
- 10. Casio Inc. CTK4400 61-Key Touch Sensitive Personal Keyboard
- Yearly Guide & Report
- Best cheap digital piano brands
1. New Model Yamaha P-45 Digital Piano Bundle by Chase
One of the most significant aspirations of any pianist is to perform on a big stage. Until that happens, you need to focus on practicing as much as possible. All the Yamaha keyboard piano reviews agree that this particular model deserves all the praise from its buyers, for the ease and convenience it provides to anyone looking to get better at their art.
The digital model is created to reproduce the same tone as a concert piano made by the same company.
The Pure CF Sound Engine is responsible for this performance, which means that you will not be disappointed at all with what this keyboard piano can do for you.
The model comes with its own seat for which you can adjust the height. You will be able to use the pedals for customizing the sounds you want to reproduce; another feature that will surely catch your eye is the Half Damper effect that will give your performance more control.
Pros
Learning a new musical instrument has never been easier thanks to this kit that contains all the necessary accessories and items to get you started. It counts for a keyboard piano, a free keyboard bench to comfortably sit while practicing, a pair of stereo headphones optimized for the product, as well as a tutoring package containing a CD and a DVD, and an exercise booklet.
The Japanese manufacturer has been in the business for over a century and is known for delivering high-quality products that are designed to last you many years from now. Thus, you can rest assured your new keyboard piano will guide you through your first years of study and practice.
The digital model is specifically made to reproduce a similar tone to a concert piano, while the Half Damper effect will offer your performance improved control.
The seat’s height is adjustable so it can comfortably accommodate players of various ages and heights.
Cons
The product comes with a plastic pedal which you may want to replace if you’re looking to get “the real deal”.
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2. Kawai ES100 Digital Piano
The Kawai ES100 may be precisely what you have been looking for when shopping for a good beginner’s keyboard piano. It serves well as a stage piano, and it weighs 33 pounds, which means that you can move it around, although you will want to enlist a friend’s help to do that. The appearance of this instrument may make you fall in love with it, but it is the technology invested in it that makes it unique.
The Advanced Hammer Action IV-F is behind the accurate sound this digital piano can deliver, and it will help you on your path to get better. Another technology invested in this model is the Harmonic Imaging, another signature feature of this brand.
If you want a decently priced stage piano that sounds just like the real thing, you will not go wrong with this particular model. The model comes with a few piano lessons to get you started, which is why this model is a good option for novices.
Pros
Equipped with all necessary keys to interpret classic pieces or make your music, this keyboard piano is the perfect option for beginners and those who have not yet mastered the skills of this instrument.
Unlike full-size acoustic pianos, this product only weighs 33 pounds, which means it is easy to move around and even carry with you as you travel.
The digital piano is powered by the advanced Hammer Action IV-5 technology that delivers accurate tones and helps you sound like a true professional.
The harmonic imaging is another signature feature of the brand and, combined with the memory functions, it allows you to create music and save your favorite sounds and settings to perfect them the next time you practice.
Cons
There is no duet mode on the instrument, meaning you won’t be able to practice with your instructor or with someone else at the same time, which makes little sense for a product designed for newbies.
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3. Casio PX350 88 Key Digital Stage Piano Packages
The Casio PX350 BK is an improved version of an older line-up produced by the company, and it proves, time and time again, this company’s dedication to innovation. The memory of this particular model is three times the size of what the previous line-up could provide, and it comes with new features that will convince you that this is the model for you.
The Acoustic and Intelligent Resonator installed on the Casio PX350 BK is intended to deliver superb sound detail, as close as possible to the sounds a grand concert piano could provide. The hammer action keyboard comes with three sensors for each key, which will give the user a unique experience.
You will love how fast the keyboard responds to each action you undertake. With more than 250 tones integrated into its configuration, this proves to be the ideal tool for learning piano and for storing the desired splits and layers. You will even be able to compose your own music on this keyboard piano.
Pros
The product represents an improvement of one of the company’s older versions, which shows Casio’s dedication to innovation and to catering to the needs of its customers.
It features an intelligent resonator installed to deliver exquisite sound detail and perfectly mimic the sounds of a grand concert piano.
The keyboard displays 88 keys and 3 sensors for each key, ensuring a unique experience to the end-user.
There are also over 250 tones integrated into the piano’s software program, meaning you will not only be able to learn how to play and store your desired layers for future practice but also compose original music.
Cons
Although the product is equipped with a series of accessories to help the user learn better and experiment with new sounds, the built-in speakers don’t sound too good. Unfortunately, there isn’t much you can do about it, so maybe you should keep this Casio piano just for your practice hours.
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Best digital pianos under 500
4. PX-160 BK Privia
The Casio Privia deserves a special place in any selection of keyboard pianos due to its popularity among users, as well as its flawless performance. Any Casio digital piano review out there can tell you that the Privia is an excellent model that you should not overlook.
One of the many things that may convince you that this model is the one you should pick is the speaker system. It is capable of delivering excellent sound quality, making it a unique experience each time you play. Whether you are in a practice room, or you perform on a stage, the system will be able to connect to other loudspeakers, for more power.
The model comes with 18 authentic tones so that you will not have to suffer from not being able to play on a traditional piano.
For sound accuracy and excellent performance, there is hardly a better pick than this model.
Pros
This is a full-size digital piano, complete with 88 keys to help you play and study the most common pieces.
Unlike many other similar devices, the new Casio Privia boasts a state-of-the-art built-in speaker system, capable of delivering excellent sound quality and helping you enjoy a unique experience every time you play.
There are 18 authentic tones provided, meaning this keyboard instrument can perfectly mimic the sound and the feel of a traditional acoustic piano.
It also provides split and layer capability, allowing you to play two layered tones with your right hand and bass with your left. Moreover, it comes with a duet feature, meaning you can play alongside your teacher simultaneously.
Cons
If you try recording your songs, you will notice some unsettling sounds made by the keyboard which cannot be ignored in any recording software, not even if you turn down the volume.
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5. Alesis Coda Pro 88-Key Digital Piano with Hammer-Action Keys
What are you searching for in a keyboard piano? If your answer is high fidelity sound, the Alesis Coda Pro will deliver as promised. Also, if you want versatility, you will not be disappointed in this particular product. The 88 keys with hammer action will put you in control, and allow you to express your creativity.
For anyone just looking to get started, this digital piano will help them learn the beautiful art of playing the piano. The product comes with 60 songs so you can efficiently practice, and one nice thing about it is that it allows you to record your own, for playing along purposes.
Even if the model seems to have been made mainly for practice, it can be successfully used for performing on small stages. The minimalist design helps, and you will find it easy to focus on practicing, without too many complicated features standing in the way. 20 piano voices accompany the Alesis Coda Pro.
Pros
If you’re looking for a device to deliver high-quality sounds, the new Alesis Coda Pro is the perfect option if you’re on a budget also.
The full 88-key piano features a hammer action that will put you in control and allow you to express your creativity, so it is a great instrument for both newbies and professional players.
Mainly created for practice, the device is also a good option if you want to test your live abilities and perform a real show in front of your friends and family.
Another thing that we liked about this Alesis Coda affordable keyboard piano is that you can play one of the 60 preset songs or record your own with the help of the user record mode.
Cons
Although not a product flaw per se, the customer support service could be improved to deliver better solutions to struggling customers and those who have questions about this piano.
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6. Yamaha P45B Digital Piano Basic Bundle Package
If you want a portable keyboard piano that does almost everything a traditional and much more expensive model can do, the Yamaha P45B should be right up your alley. Featuring a slim profile, this model is lightweight and comfortable to move around. The company uses advanced technologies to make sure that the sound delivered is on par with a grand piano.
The technology making this possible is accompanied by the hammer action keyboard with 88 keys that makes your performance sound more accurate and expressive. You will have the same sensation as you would when striking a traditional piano’s keys, which is the effect the company aimed when making this keyboard model.
In case you forget the instrument on, the model will shut off on its own to save power. All these little things count towards making this particular model from Yamaha a good option for many piano students. The slim design offers excellent portability, as well.
Pros
Affordable and extremely reliable in the long term, this device from Yamaha was built to last and to help you practice your piano skills, regardless if you’re a newbie or a more experimented user.
One of its greatest qualities is the slim and lightweight design which makes it compact and extremely portable, so you can carry it with you anywhere you want, unlike real acoustic pianos that weigh several hundred pounds.
The USB to HOST port helps you connect and interact with a wide variety of apps designed for music creation or entertainment, so you can record and play with different sounds and store your creations on any mobile device or computer.
It is delivered with a full set of useful accessories, including a pair of quality headphones so you can play without disturbing anyone in the room, and an adjustable-height bench for you to sit comfortably while performing.
Cons
The piano itself is of good quality but the rest of the accessories seem rather flimsy, so we suggest looking for another bench that can support higher weights.
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Best digital pianos under 300
7. Yamaha YPG235 PAK YPG-235 76-Key Portable Grand Piano Pack
This 76-key keyboard piano will help you practice and even record the music you play with great ease. While it may not be on par with expensive models, it is an excellent replacement for a traditional piano as it will help you familiarize with various techniques for playing the piano.
The keys on the keyboard look like real piano keys, and the GST action allows various resistance levels, to make it easier for you to grow from this type of keyboard piano to an acoustic model. GTS stands for Graded Soft Touch, and it is one of the great pluses of this particular model.
It comes with 30 preset songs, and the CD-ROM included with your purchase also has 70 more songs, to allow you to practice and get better. The Yamaha Education Suite comes in handy and provides real aid for beginners who are just trying to get the hang of things. You will get a pair of closed-cup headphones along with the keyboard and the stand.
Pros
The bundle includes all the necessary accessories to start playing and composing the music you want. It is equipped with a pair of headphones so you can practice quietly, a power supply, and a standard keyboard stand for more flexibility and comfort.
One of the piano’s best features is that it is lightweight, making it extremely portable and compact. You can carry it with you from one place to another, and even bring it with you on stage, without requiring the help of someone else.
The new YPG-235 is packed with 30 built-in songs and 70 extra included on a CD, together with their parts, so you can easily learn how to play them.
You can connect your keyboard piano to any computer or smart device via USB and use the Yamaha Education Suite feature to learn more and compose your own music.
Cons
The headphones included with this bundle are not of high quality, so you won’t be able to clearly listen to the sound of your songs.
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8. Alesis Recital 88-Key Beginner Digital Piano
This product has a name that indicates its possibilities. Whether you just want to practice or go on a small stage, you will be able to use the Alesis Recital and make use of its features. The semi-weighted keys will help you get used to the same experience you would have when playing music on an acoustic piano.
The model is designed with novices and their particular needs in mind. You will get more than just an easy to use keyboard piano; you will also receive three months of premium membership for Skoove, a service that offers online lessons to those looking to learn how to play the piano.
The keyboard piano comes with its own speakers and an array of sound effects that will allow you to customize the music you play as you see fit. The power adapter included with the product adds excellent value, as it allows you just to plug the keyboard piano into a wall and play music to your heart’s content.
Pros
This electric keyboard with 88 premium full-sized keys features an adjustable touch response to perfectly mold on your preferred playing style.
It is designed for beginners and comes with a user-friendly interface so that all players, even the inexperienced ones, can easily learn how to play it and make use of all its amazing features.
Unlike most other products within the same range, this one ensures maximum portability and freedom of movement. It is powered by an included adapter or 6 D-type cell batteries, meaning you can take the piano with you anywhere and make your music where you feel most inspired.
It features powerful Educational modes, including standard, split, layer, and lesson so you can learn how to play pre-recorded songs and improve your skills.
Cons
The product is marketed as a semi-weighted device; however, it feels more like a toy than an actual piano. The keys don’t have the minimum weight to even be considered as semi-weighted, so playing the instrument will not feel at all like playing a real piano.
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9. Yamaha PSREW300UK Portable Electronic Keyboard
The amount of extras provided by the Yamaha PSREW300AD is one of the many reasons why you may want to consider this particular model an excellent choice. The keyboard has 76 keys, so it offers excellent performance, while still keeping the unit compact and easy to carry around. There are no fewer than 574 voices, 154 songs, and 165 styles already available.
Another great plus is the availability of the Yamaha Education Suite that helps you practice while playing the included preset songs. You will also appreciate the Touch Tutor mode that keeps track of your speed and strength when hitting the keys, to offer you the necessary corrections for more accurate play.
The USB port comes in handy, and it lets you connect the unit for increases usability. Whether you want to use software installed on your PC or Mac, you will be allowed to do so through the means of this particular feature.
Pros
The Japanese manufacturing company Yamaha has been in the business for over one century, delivering high-quality music instruments that not only look great but also sound incredible, and it is also the case of this keyboard piano.
It is slightly smaller than a full-size 88-key device as the keyboard only displays 76 keys but this means it is more portable and easy to carry around, anywhere you want.
Equipped with Yamaha’s personal education software, the Education Suite helps you practice and gain experience while playing a list of included preset songs.
The USB port is extremely convenient as it allows you to connect your unit to any PC or Mac and later record your own tracks or monitor your progress.
Cons
Despite sounding great and being incredibly useful, this Yamaha keyboard is rather complicated to use as it lacks an intuitive button layout. However, by carefully reading the instructions and practicing regularly, you will learn to properly use the device.
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Best keyboard pianos under 200
10. Casio Inc. CTK4400 61-Key Touch Sensitive Personal Keyboard
For the price, the Casio Inc. CTK4400 offers an unbeatable alternative to the more expensive keyboard pianos on the market. While you cannot expect it to perform as a grand concert piano, this one has its perks, and it will provide you with a lot of entertainment value.
The unit is compact, as it has only 61 keys. However, for a person who is just starting out, and all they need is a keyboard piano to help them begin learning, it is an excellent choice. The 48-note polyphony is part of what makes this model so popular with novices, and you will discover a few other reasons why you may want to purchase the Casio Inc. CTK4400.
The unit also offers access to 152 songs that will let you practice. The 32 memory slots will allow you to register your settings so you can revert to something you already master anytime you want. Plus, the 180 available rhythms will help any aspiring pianist learn on the go.
Pros
This is probably an unbeatable alternative to professional keyboard pianos on the market and provides plenty of useful functions for newbies and more experienced users alike.
The unit is compact as it only has 61 keys, as opposed to many other professional items that boast 88 or more. However, it is lighter and portable, meaning you can easily carry it around without requiring the help of your friends.
The unit is equipped with 152 pre-recorded songs that you can practice and also provides 32 memory slots that allow you to register your settings and check out your progress in time.
For those of you who are willing to make some original music, the Casio Inc. instrument offers 180 rhythms that will help you experiment with new sounds and find your music signature.
Cons
Unfortunately, you cannot connect a pedal to the keyboard so the product doesn’t get anywhere near the feel of an original, full-size acoustic piano.
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11. RockJam 561
It is essential to get good value for the money whenever you purchase something. The RockJam 561 offers you more than just the keyboard; the package includes a stand for the keyboard, a stool to sit on, and a pair of headphones. That is more than most similar models on the market offer.
You will be able to learn how to play the piano, with the help of the built-in 100 rhythms, and the available 50 songs. You can also get 30 extra songs for free, by using the Piano Maestro application available for iPad and iPhone.
The model is portable, which means that it operates on batteries. However, when you practice at home, you can hook it up to a power socket, as its configuration allows it. You will find the LCD screen handy, as well, since you will find displayed all the information in crisp images that are easy to read. Do not worry that the keys will be too small; they are designed to have the same size as normal ones.
Pros
This full-size keyboard piano features 61 standard keys and is designed for music enthusiasts and beginners who have just picked up the piano.
The kit comes with all necessary items to ensure a comfortable learning process and help you improve your skills in no time.
It includes a set of high-quality headphones so you can practice anytime you want without worrying about disturbing your neighbors and a strong and adjustable stand designed to hold your keyboard and make sure you can practice in a comfortable position, without worrying about back pains.
Apart from these accessories, you will also receive a durable and sturdy padded stool where you can sit and practice for hours.
The company provides one month of free membership of the Simply Piano App, compatible with both Android and iOS devices so you can easily pick up the basics of playing the piano.
Cons
Keep in mind that the product doesn’t power up instantly so you’ll have to wait about 10 minutes after you plug it in to use it.
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12. Hamzer Digital
The Hamzer Digital is one of the cheap keyboards available right now that offer good value for the price. The speakers on the unit provide good sound accuracy, and you will not feel like you lose something because you picked this particular model instead of another. The stereo outputs contribute to sound fidelity, as well.
In case you do not want to disturb others while practicing, you will be able to do so by using the headphone jack present on the unit. The model comes with its own headphones, which means that you will be able to use it in this fashion right away.
One of the things you will surely appreciate is the built-in learning system. The 61 keys will give you the same feeling as an acoustic piano, and the 24 demo songs will guide you through the necessary steps for learning how to play the piano. Additional features include tempo adjustment control, volume control and rhythm sync.
Pros
Affordable and with a user-friendly interface, this product from Hamzer represents a reliable choice for beginners and more experienced piano users who are looking for a day-to-day device to practice.
The step-by-step assembling instructions are easy to follow and will help you set up the piano and all its accessories in less than half an hour, so you can start practicing right away.
The kit contains an adjustable keyboard stand to add more comfort and perfectly match your height, as well as a microphone to start recording your tunes and check your progress. There is also a headphone jack where you can plug in your favorite headphones to practice all day long without disturbing your parents, friends or neighbors.
Unlike many other similar devices that require a power outlet, all you have to do is use 6 AA batteries to start the piano, meaning you can take it with you and play anywhere you want.
Cons
The keys are not weighted and feel as if you are using a toy instrument, far from the weight of actual piano keys.
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Best piano keyboards under 100
13. Yamaha PSRE253
If you are looking for a cheap piano for sale that will not just take your money and offer too little in return, your choice should be the Yamaha PSRE253. As other keyboard pianos in this category, it comes with 61 keys, to keep the unit compact and lightweight. However, the keys are designed to be full-size, so that you don’t lose the opportunity to play on the keyboard like on a real acoustic piano.
The duo mode allows you to split the keyboard, allowing you to practice with a friend. You will be able to connect the keyboard piano with your headphones, via the Aux Line Input port. This port is more than just for your headphones, though.
You can use it to hook the keyboard with an MP3 player, a mixer, and even your computer. The unit is portable, and it works with batteries. If you want to use it as a fixed unit, you will have to purchase the adapter separately.
Pros
Just like the name suggests, one of the greatest qualities of this device is its portability. It is lightweight and easy to carry around, meaning you can set it up almost anywhere you want and start playing.
It features an impressive collection of 385 different instrument voices, including flutes, guitars, and pianos, so you can have a solid base for personal songs.
Thanks to the duo mode that allows you to split the keyboard, you can practice with your teacher or a more experienced friend, so you can improve your playing skills and techniques fast.
You can connect the piano to your headphones via the designated Aux Line Input port and rehearse at any hour of the day or night, without disturbing your neighbors.
Cons
The problem with many of these lightweight pianos is that, despite their portability, practicing on them feels like touching a toy. The keys are not weighted so you won’t get the real feel of a classic piano.
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14. Casio CTK-2550
If you are shopping on a budget and you want a keyboard piano that is a lot of fun, the Casio CTK-2550 is an excellent option. The model comes with a unique Dance Music mode that lets you practice with 50 dance rhythms. The 48-note polyphony helps, as well.
For people who have never played the piano in their lives, this model is an excellent pick. Featuring a 3-step learning process, and equipped with 400 sounds for easy practice, it will help you get the hang of the basics without paying for expensive piano lessons.
Another option is to practice using the 110 preset songs. If you want to enhance the learning process even further, the Chordata Play application is compatible with this model and can guide you through learning the songs you want to play. Creating dance tunes with the help of the dance sounds included is easy, and sooner than you think, you will become accustomed to making your own music.
Pros
Affordable and reliable, this tool is a great choice for those who want to experiment with their sounds but don’t have the financial resources to invest in professional devices yet.
The product features a dance music mode with 50 built-in dance music rhythms with which you can play and experiment, creating new sounds or giving classic tunes a twist.
Those who don’t have too much experience with keyboard pianos will find the device’s 3-step learning process very useful. It is equipped with 400 sounds for easy practice and will help you pick up the basics of the instrument, without requiring the help of a teacher.
One of the item’s best features is the compact design that makes it lightweight and portable. You can easily bring it with you anywhere you want and set it up in just a few minutes.
Cons
If you’re looking for a product that will help you learn how to play a keyboard, give this item a chance. However, if you’re considering a more authentic piano feel, look elsewhere.
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Yearly Guide & Report
There are many things to bear in mind when you are shopping for a digital piano. If your dream is to become a pianist, but the costs involved with an acoustic model put you off, the solution of a keyboard piano sounds like a good deal. We will guide you through all the necessary steps for finding a model that suits your level, budget, and expectations.
What is keyboard action?
If you carefully read through the specs offered by manufacturers on digital pianos, you will notice that something is always said about the keyboard action. What is this and what does it mean? Introducing you to the terms used will help you understand the difference between different models so that you can make an informed choice once you reach for the wallet.
If there is one thing that opponents of digital pianos have always mentioned is that the keys on an acoustic piano feel much different and that could never be replicated by an electric model. There is a mechanism inside that creates resistance for each key, and that is what produces that particular feel.
That is why digital piano manufacturers have strived during recent years to bring these levels of resistance to the products they make. If you are looking for a unit that can offer you an experience on par with what acoustic pianos can offer, you should look for weighted and semi-weighted actions.
Another term that you will find mentioned in the specs is ‘hammer action.’ The response of the keys depends on this action. You will feel the keys making a small subtle clunky noise that resembles how acoustic piano keys react when struck.
So, what you should focus on if you want the best piano keyboard is to find one with full-weighted keys. These will feel just like the real deal and will make your transition to an acoustic piano, later on, easier. If you notice that a model has a graded hammer action that is even better. The keys will respond very similar to an acoustic model.
Besides action that resembles an acoustic piano’s, you will also want the keys on your digital model to have proper sensitivity. Models that are cheaper usually allow you to modify sensitivity, so you should not expect outstanding performance from them.
Sound performance
While acoustic pianos provide audio performance through craftsmanship and quality of materials used, there is an entirely different thing when we talk about the same thing involving digital models. The best electric piano is usually one that can deliver outstanding sound quality, by using an array of features that will be explained right away.
Digital pianos come with a series of samples for creating the final sounds you will hear. A lot of technology is involved in making these things happen, and you cannot have excellent sound quality without advanced technologies employed in making the samples sound like real instruments. You can tell the difference between various models on the market, by the higher digital memory top of the line models have.
The sounds the digital unit will be able to deliver must be realistic. They must also have a level of sustain and one of decay that resembles the sounds produced by real instruments. It is quite a feat that today we can enjoy high-quality digital pianos that sell for only a fraction of what acoustic pianos are sold for.
The quality of the sound delivered also depends on the speakers and amplifiers installed on the unit. You cannot have the best digital piano without good quality components like the ones mentioned earlier.
While speaking of sound quality, let’s take a moment to focus on something called polyphony. The number jotted down by this feature tells you about how many individual notes and tones your unit can make at any given time. The minimum amount you should have is 32, but 64 notes are more indicated if you want to produce music with more complex sounds. Top-of-the line models have either 128 or 264 notes.
Another thing you will notice in the specs will be how many sound and tone samples are integrated with the unit you want to buy. There is a bit of debate here whether you should have more or fewer of these. Some say that they love having the opportunity to experiment with a broad range of sounds and tones. Others say that these are just an unwanted distraction when you could just focus on the piano sounds.
Opportunities to learn
Many digital pianos are intended for beginners, and the impressive part about this aspect is that they come with learning systems that allow those who are just starting to get the hang of how they should use a musical instrument. Even if it is not the real deal, a digital piano can help you on your path to becoming a pianist in the future.
For instance, some models come equipped with LCD screens on which you can follow the notes you play so you can increase your accuracy. Demo songs, rhythms and sample sounds, can help you in your practice, as well. Even more, some models offer compatibility with various applications, so you can download more songs to practice with. Some go even further and include memberships for piano lessons.
Extras
The best keyboard piano is the one that offers everything you need and even something extra. The more popular models usually include a stand for the keyboard and a stool. You will only need to take a seat and start to practice.
If you want to practice without disturbing other people in the house, a jack for headphones will be helpful. Some manufacturers offer this feature, and they even include a pair of headphones so you can start your practice as soon as the digital piano is delivered at your home. A model that is portable and also comes with a power adapter is usually more appreciated than the rest.
Best cheap digital piano brands
Yamaha is one of the largest producers of musical instruments on the planet, and its humble beginnings make for an extraordinary company history. A whole division of the company is dedicated to making, researching and innovating keyboard pianos and other similar items, in the continuous competition for the same market share. The first upright pianos created by the company were launched on the market at the start of the 20th century. Also, the company founder was responsible for building the first reed organs in Japan, at the end of the 19th century. Tradition combines with innovation in the making of some of most sought-after musical instruments right now.
Casio is a brand known for many different products, involving the use of high-end electronics and cutting-edge technologies. So it may not come as such a surprise that they also make keyboard pianos. If you look for a cheap piano keyboard, you may just as well find one carrying the name of this company, as they specialize in affordable solutions for everyday users. Their lineup contains both cheap and more expensive items so you can depend on them in case you are shopping on a budget. Their specialty is compact keyboard pianos that you can carry around with ease so that you never skip a day of learning.
If you go for a keyboard piano, you should not overlook this particular brand. The focus of the company is on digital pianos, with an authentic sound that you will appreciate, as a user. Kawai has built superb acoustic models that enjoy a lot of popularity, and it is no wonder that they also branched out in the digital market for pianos. Some key features make these pianos stand out, such as the unique speaker system, the Harmonic Imaging technology, or the wooden-key actions. If you appreciate innovation above all else, you will surely find the keyboard pianos made by this company an optimal choice.
Alesis is a company that makes gear that helps musicians perform their art to the best of their ability, without fearing that they will have to break the bank to make their dream come true. Ever since the brand was established, back in 1980, the company focused on introducing industrial designs in the making of professional gear for recording studios, at prices that were going to offer musicians and other artists the means for creating music without depending on anyone else. Whether you want to make music at home, at your own studio or perform on a stage, you will find the Alesis products to be right there where you need them.
Bibliography:
2) Keyboard pianos-short history
4) Piano Or Keyboard – What is the difference?
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