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It’s an exciting experience to learn the piano; however, your choice of instrument will determine how well you progress. Finding how to choose a piano ensures you get every vital feature required to develop your keyboarding skills to another level.
In this article, you will get all the information required to choose a piano or keyboard with the correct elements you need for better learning even if you are a beginner. Take advantage of these details to improve your learning options towards becoming an experienced keyboardist without hassle!
How to Choose The Best Piano for Beginners
Consider the following elements while shopping for a keyboard or piano for newbies:
Sound
You must consider the sound of an ideal beginner keyboard, as it will largely determine your learning experience. Shopping for a keyboard that offers quality sound will see you go for options that provide traditional tunes that come from regular pianos.
Two sound components – polyphony and multimodality – should be vital points to consider while planning to choose a keyboard for beginners. Polyphony refers to how many sounds a keyboard is equipped to produce at a go. Multimodality refers to a keyboard’s ability to play multiple sounds from instruments like strings, drums, and other background music.
Output
Beginners should closely consider the keyboard output, as it’s a must-have feature. Your chosen beginner keyboard should seamlessly connect to amplifiers and speakers to deliver over a wider range with ease. The right output ensures you have enough connections required to perform for audiences without hassle.
Type
Digital keyboards
Three different types of keyboards exist and they offer distinct features that could be beneficial to users of different skill sets. Let’s see each type and which skill level is recommended for each:
Workstation (Recommended Skill Level(s): Expert or Intermediate)
Workstations are often quality, high-priced keyboards that come with a vast range of impressive features. Many workstations possess a computer with A-grade programming support to help users compose and program their song offerings. Workstations also come with weighted keys and serve professional users better than other skill levels.
As a beginner, learning with a workstation could be challenging but not impossible. Hitting off your learning journey with a workstation improves your chances of becoming an expert keyboardist; however, you might struggle with basic concepts in the beginning.
Synthesizer (Recommended Skill Level: Beginner)
Synthesizers usually come as portable keyboards and can offer a wide range of sounds through its electronic operation. Most synthesizers also come with improved sound effects and can serve as an ideal alternative for newbie keyboardists.
Arranger (Recommended Skill Level(s): Beginner or Intermediate)
An arranger keyboard will often feature an auto-accompaniment design. You just need to choose a few options and your keyboard will come up with a backing track to match your music’s rhythm, tempo, and style. Different options of a beginner-level keyboard or piano could possess these features; however, they may be challenging to use at first. You can check out our article about easy piano cords to learn for beginners
Beginners could struggle with the advanced features available on an arranger as their first keyboard, and it could take some time to fully grasp how all its functions should work.
What to Look for When Buying a Keyboard
When you are looking to choose the best piano or keyboard for you, here are all the details you should consider first.
Digital pianos
Digital pianos are much larger and come with steeper price points than most digital keyboards. These mimic the feel of an acoustic piano and can be a versatile option for beginners. However, the price tag and size requirements turn off most beginners from the thrilling options this piano has to offer.
Acoustic pianos
Acoustic pianos are the gold standard and offer superior sounds and better playing experience than other options. However, these pianos are quite massive and are available at very high prices.
Action
A keyboard’s action influences how well it responds during use. Keyboards vary in resistance levels and firmness, thereby providing unique playing experiences.
Unweighted keys usually have lower resistance and are present on most beginner-level keyboards. Weighted keys present on professional keyboards usually have firmer resistance levels and can be tough to the touch.
Choose a keyboard that offers more support and allows you to tap its keys without much effort, but this could be different based on your age range. Children and teens at the beginner level are more likely to relate better to unweighted keys. Adult beginners could do well with weighted or unweighted keys based on their learning aspirations and access to lessons.
Storage
Keyboards usually come with blank settings for users to fill in new presets and sounds. Someone keen to experience new sounds should have ample blanks for improved practice. Beginner-level keyboards should have over eight (8) or more user presets that deliver more storage options for easier learning.
Recording
Do you have an interest in musical composition? You’ll want to learn with a keyboard that offers better recording capabilities. In most cases, electronic keyboards offer better recording options, allowing you to explore different aspects of the keyboard. Sharing music, documenting your progress, and other vital parts of learning becomes easier with such keyboards.
MIDI
MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) could be an essential element to consider if you plan to learn from an electronic keyboard. With the MIDI feature, it’s easier to share communications between your keyboard and a computer, allowing you to measure progress levels with ease.
Size
Size plays a role in the selection of an ideal keyboard for beginners. As an adult, you could choose a full-size, weighted set of keys to begin your learning experience. However, if you’d like to build your knowledge of electronic keyboards or start off as a teen or pre-teen, smaller keyboards with unweighted keys will be an ideal option.
Electronic keyboards usually come with more sound options and other capabilities new users can appreciate.
Support for Accessories
You should choose a keyboard or piano that offers improved support for accessories. Extra items like pedals, movable stands, and other accessories will likely fit most beginner-level keyboards or pianos.
Best Keyboard Brands for Beginners
When it comes to musical instruments, Yamaha is a name that resonates with quality and innovation. Yamaha keyboards stand out not just for their exceptional sound quality but also for their beginner-friendly features, making them an ideal choice for those taking their first steps into the world of keyboards.
- Yamaha: Unmatched Musical Prowess
Yamaha’s legacy in the music industry is unparalleled, and this extends to its keyboard offerings. The brand’s commitment to delivering high-quality sound and user-friendly interfaces makes Yamaha keyboards the perfect choice for beginners and professionals. Whether you’re a budding pianist or an aspiring electronic musician, Yamaha keyboards offer a diverse range of options to suit your musical preferences.
- Casio: Precision and Affordability
Casio, another stalwart in the world of keyboards, has consistently delivered precision instruments at affordable prices. For beginners seeking a balance between quality and budget, Casio keyboards are an excellent choice. The brand’s user-friendly designs and innovative features make learning the keyboard an enjoyable experience.
- Roland: Technological Innovation at Your Fingertips
Renowned for its technological innovation in the music industry, Roland’s keyboards offer a unique blend of tradition and modernity. The brand’s commitment to cutting-edge features, coupled with a user-friendly interface, makes Roland keyboards a solid choice for beginners. From classic piano sounds to contemporary synthesizers, Roland caters to a diverse range of musical styles.
- Korg: Craftsmanship and Creativity
Korg has carved a niche for itself with keyboards that boast exceptional craftsmanship and a focus on creativity. Beginners looking to explore a wide range of sounds and styles will appreciate the versatility of Korg keyboards. The brand’s commitment to quality ensures that your musical journey is both enriching and enduring.
- Alesis: Entry-Level Excellence
Alesis has gained recognition for providing entry-level keyboards that don’t compromise on quality. With a focus on simplicity and functionality, Alesis keyboards are perfect for beginners seeking a straightforward learning experience. The brand’s commitment to making music accessible to everyone is evident in its diverse range of affordable and user-friendly keyboards.
FAQs
What type of piano is best for beginners?
Digital keyboards are ideal for beginners as these instruments offer considerable learning support at affordable prices. However, acoustic pianos provide a superior sound and playing experience, but they don’t come cheap.
Is there a difference between cheap and expensive pianos?
Cheap pianos often produce electronic sounds devoid of natural tones and progressions available from expensive pianos. Pricey pianos usually come with more features and can deliver better sounds and improved playing experience compared to budget options.
Final Word
Choosing the best keyboard or piano for beginners will determine how well your learning curve develops from newbie to professional pianist. You must consider every vital element that could improve your chances of developing better skills overall on a keyboard. After reading this article, you will learn exactly how to choose the right piano for you.
Select the piano or keyboard best suited to your learning needs and budget for an improved learning experience with ease!
