Main advantage
This is the ideal keyboard to get if you are a novice. Because of its compact size, this model is easy to store. So, if you are short on space, but you still want a keyboard that you can use to practice, this model is the right choice for you.
Even though it has a small frame, this model features 44 mini-sized keys and it includes plenty of options that come in handy for a novice. For instance, the top part can be used to access the 10-song bank, 100 different tones, and no less than 50 rhythm patterns.
It also comes provided with a power button and with a digital screen that allows you to navigate through patterns, tuning and the tempo options. The keypad has + and – buttons for increased convenience.
The five drum pads can also be easily accessed because of the special symbols that the keyboard includes. As a novice, you will also be happy to learn that this model features a striking change-over switch that you can use to switch between organ and piano mode with ease. Overall, the keyboard is rugged, yet lightweight and very convenient to travel with. A carry handle is also incorporated into its design.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($84.95)The main con
The one aspect that you should keep in mind before investing in this choice is the fact that it is rather basic. Therefore, it might not be a good purchase if you are an experienced player. For instance, this model does not come provided with midi outputs or other similar features that allow you to utilize it with various music programs.
Still, given its size and design, it can deliver the practicality that a novice player needs. It is simple to transport around and it can be used for practicing at home. It also comes supplied with added accessories that make it worth your time and money.
Main features explained
Convenience
As we have mentioned before, one of the biggest advantages of this model is its size. Differently from larger keyboards, this option is compact and lightweight. Still, it was manufactured using high-quality materials and, as a result, you will be able to carry it with you when you travel.
Besides, given its size, you will surely have no problems installing and using it in your room. Because it has built-in speakers, you can control the volume and, thus, you won’t risk bothering your family or neighbors.
If you want to practice in silence, you can also do so because this keyboard features a very practical headphone output. So, to do so, you just have to plug the headphones in and start playing your favorite pieces of music.
Even more so, it should be added that this product is shipped alongside a pair of Samson HP30 headphones. These headphones feel comfortable because they are lightweight and they have an adjustable headband and a closed-back design. They can fit users of all ages.
The model has 40mm full-range drivers, as well as a frequency response that ranges from 0Hz to 20kHz. It can be used for a wide array of applications. For example, you can also connect and use them when practicing playing the guitar, or when listening to music on an MP3.
The keyboard itself is made of high-quality plastic and it will not break unexpectedly. This makes it suitable to be used by children. It is the go-to option for those who want to learn to play and who are not yet ready to invest in a more high-tech model.
It features no less than 44 keyboards and it allows you to switch between two modes, piano, and organ. The choice also features a melody cut rehearsal system that you might also enjoy using.
Design
The small frame of the model was optimized so that you can enjoy plenty of features. It includes 100 tones that you can use, as well as 10 integrated songs that supply you with added variety. The 50 rhythms that this keyboard comes with vary from waltz to salsa. They are fun to combine and use to create new pieces of music and they can surely help boost your creative process. This way, you get to explore various music styles.
Because it features a striking change-over switch, you can utilize this keyboard to practice on the organ or the piano. It also comes supplied with distinct buttons for tone, pattern, song bank, and tune. This can help you play the instrument easier.
It has an 8-note polyphony that ensures that you are provided with good sound quality. Polyphony is an aspect that is worth exploring in detail. To put it in simple terms, the more notes of polyphony your keyboard can produce, the more you are able to use it to play complex pieces.
As a novice, an 8 polyphony model is suitable for your needs as it enables you to practice combining various notes and, consequently create unique pieces.
In total, this choice is 23 13/16” by 8 5/16” by 2 1/4” and it weighs 3.1lbs. It is fairly simple to play on by both children and adults. Given that it comes fitted with speakers, it has that vintage type of sound that most players are looking for.
The model also comes equipped with 5 drum pads. Each drum pad button has an individual sound that you can integrate into the music that you are creating. Hence, you can utilize this keyboard not just to practice, but also to make music that you can, later on, share with your friends and loved ones.
Instructional software
We all know that playing the piano is not easy. To learn how to master this instrument, you have to dedicate a lot of time to practicing before you can see the first signs of improvement. To help new players, the manufacturer supplies its buyers with award-winning software that they can use to learn the basics.
This software comes with 50 step-by-step lessons that can teach you the right-hand position, how to read notes and how to correctly play the keys. The lessons are taught by Irma Irene Justicia, M. A., a renowned piano teacher from Juilliard School of Music. All the techniques that you get to learn are demonstrated by her.
The lessons and the exercises that the software includes are accompanied by audio recordings so that you know whether or not you have performed them correctly. Throughout these lessons, you learn how to train your ear to spot mistakes.
All in all, this software is very easy to use and it is convenient. By using it, you can get the practice that you need without having to pay a teacher. Of course, once you get the gist and you feel like you know how to play simple pieces, you should look for specialized lessons, especially if you plan on developing your skills even further.
Because it includes this software, this keyboard is a great gift for that friend of yours that you know would love to learn how to play basic piano but who has no actual time to get lessons or hire a teacher. It is particularly fun to have around for busy adults who are still interested in learning a new skill after a stressful day at work.
Because it has a headphone output, this keyboard is also very convenient to use at home without disturbing others.
It is kid-friendly
Kids are always interested in exploring the world and learning new things. However, it is often difficult to find the resources and the time to support their passions and hobbies. With this instrument, you can do just that.
The keyboard is sturdy in its construction and, thus, it won’t break easily. Additionally, it comes packed with many features that make it simple to use and, more importantly, fun. All the rhythms and the soundbank can help and encourage your children to express themselves in a creative way.
Furthermore, this keyboard is light and small enough to be carried around easily during trips and on the way to concerts or parties. It has a carrying handle that you will surely find practical in the long run, especially if you are on the road often.
Another reason that makes this model suitable for children is its size. Differently from larger, full-scale keyboards, this one is compact and it does not weigh a lot. The fact that it comes supplied with special headphones is also worth considering.
Once it is plugged in, your children can use it to learn new songs and to practice the ones that they already know without bothering you. Plus, you don’t have to spend extra money on extra accessories. The software that it is shipped with makes it simple to operate and it can keep the user engaged and interested in learning more.
This aspect is especially important for children as they often tend to get bored with musical instruments. However, having all the 50 lessons available can turn into an incentive that can keep them hooked and eager to practice day after day.
Learning how to play the keyboard can also prove helpful in making your children feel more confident and more open when it comes to creating and expressing themselves.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($84.95)
