How to choose a digital piano

Today, more and more artists and beginners are choosing digital pianos. They really have a lot of advantages: compared to classical instruments, digital pianos take up very little space, and if you do not use the instrument, it can be easily removed. The sound of the instrument can be adjusted, and headphones can be used in the evening so as not to disturb the neighbors. In addition, the digital piano does not require any tuning at all.

However, when choosing a digital piano, there are a number of features to consider that can affect both the sound quality and your comfort when playing the instrument.

Key points to consider

First of all, when choosing a tool, you should consider your own skill level. So, for a novice musician, an inexpensive model with built-in programs that allow you to learn is suitable. But immediately be sure to pay attention to the keystrokes and the response of the instrument.

When choosing a piano for a child, consider the size of the instrument and the height adjustment of the stand.

For those who plan to travel with a piano, the size and weight of the device are also important, but in addition to this, it is necessary to separately determine the strength of the case so as not to damage it on the road and during transportation.

Do not forget that the piano must be a full octave, that is, have 88 keys.

Digital piano keys

One of the biggest differences between a real piano and a digital piano is how hard you play it. On a real piano, the keys are more resilient, because the mechanism includes strings and hammers, which make the sound. If, after a real piano, you immediately start playing on a digital one, this is what will catch your eye the most. That is why it is best to choose a tool with weighted keys, when pressed, resistance is felt.

Another characteristic worth considering is the speed and response of the keys. The keys of a digital piano must respond to both force and velocity in order to produce a sound of varying length and volume, depending on how you play. Therefore, before buying a tool, it is best to try it out.

Digital piano sound

The sound on digital instruments is always different from the acoustic piano, but manufacturers are constantly striving to improve the sound to bring it closer to the real thing. Since the sound comes out through the speakers, be sure to make sure that they have a loud and spacious sound. In addition, pay attention to the sustain – the duration of the sound and its decay. For a musician with a developed ear, it will not be difficult to determine the similarities between a digital instrument and an acoustic instrument, simply by listening to its sound. But for a novice player, it is best to measure the sustain on the piano, and use the obtained data when buying a digital instrument.

As for polyphony, or the number of notes a piano can play at once, the minimum requirement is 32 notes. However, more complex pieces may require 64 notes. A professional instrument is capable of playing 128-264 notes at a time.

Additional functions

Digital pianos include many additional features: metronome, synthesizers, strings, voice, arpeggios, and more. The metronome is a really useful addition, especially for those who are just starting to learn. As for the rest of the functions, their presence is absolutely not necessary if you plan to practice classical piano and do not plan to use the instrument for recording orchestrations and arrangements.

We have already noted the presence of special lessons and programs that simplify learning. If you practice on your own, these features can really come in handy. If you study at a music school or study with a teacher, these lessons will rather distract from the main program, so do not be discouraged if the right instrument is not equipped with them.

Digital pianos for various purposes

Casio are popular digital instruments that combine both affordable price and high-quality sound. A separate plus is the realistic keystroke on most instruments.

For a beginner musician, the Casio CDP-130 is great. The keys are almost the same weight as on a real instrument and exactly the same size. Polyphony is 48 notes. Additional features include a metronome, transposition and reverb. Nothing superfluous, so nothing will distract you from the learning process.

The instrument weighs 10 kilograms, which makes it suitable for outdoor performances.

Another instrument that will satisfy both the learner and the performer is the KORG B1. KORG brand pianos and synthesizers are incredibly popular among musicians. Thanks to the presence of a large speaker, KORG B1 gives a loud and clear sound without rattling. The size of the keys completely coincides with the size of acoustic instruments. Keystrokes are realistic thanks to the Natural Weighted Hammer action. For students, the Partner mode is provided, which allows you to simultaneously play the instrument together, dividing one keyboard into two with the same reduced range. Dynamic keyboard feedback is customizable, so everyone can tailor the tool to their preferences. In addition, the instrument is great for outdoor concerts, as it weighs 11.6 kg and has a solid body.

For those serious about practicing at home or recording their own music, the Casio PX-360MBK is an excellent choice. This instrument has 550 Voices and 200 Auto Accompaniment Styles. Operation is simplified by the presence of a color touch display, and everything played back can be recorded in the instrument’s memory. The keys follow the weight of an acoustic grand piano, and thanks to the texture they prevent fingers from slipping.

The sound of the instrument is comparable to a real acoustic instrument, so it is pleasant and easy to play it.

Two plastic speakers are directed frontally and are able to provide a loud powerful sound.

The Kawai KDP90 is ideal for home performance or concert hall use. Many musicians choose these instruments because they recreate the sound of a concert grand piano using special Harmonic Imaging technology. Reverb simulates the acoustics of a room.

The IV-F hammer action is designed to follow the stop when real keys are pressed.

A separate advantage of this instrument is its 192-voice polyphony, which will allow you to perform even the most complex polyphonic works.

The kit includes a three-pedal block (soft pedal, sustain, sostenuto). The unique design of Kawai KDP90 will allow the tool to fit perfectly into any interior. However, this tool is not suitable for transport.

Digital Piano Accessories

When purchasing a digital piano, you should always pay attention to its packaging. Some models include a stand, there are fixed tools that are more compact than classic ones. But in most cases, when purchasing a piano, you should immediately choose a suitable stand. Best for students and beginners

Stand with pedal block. For various models of digital pianos from Kawai, there is a large selection of stands that fit perfectly into the interior and do not require height adjustment, just like an acoustic piano.

For performances, it is better to purchase a simple adjustable stand, such as the Gator Frameworks GFW-KEY-2000X. This rack can withstand up to 90 kg, has rubberized feet that prevent slipping. The stand can be used in both sitting and standing positions. When folded, it locks for comfortable transport and weighs 6.35 kg.