Who is a keyboard for practising blues suitable for?

Beginner learning chords

You want to learn to play the I, IV and V changes and the rhythm yourself, without having to set up a computer first. Berklee PULSE describes the typical 12-bar blues as a repeating form using these chords.

Improviser working with a chord progression

You want a repeatable pattern to play along with as you try out melodies and variations. Roland describes the GO:KEYS 3 as letting you create your own chord progressions.

Player with a rehearsal set-up

You take your keyboard with you and want to weigh up whether easy portability or connecting to external audio equipment matters more to you. Casio and Korg list portability details and audio connections respectively for their CT-S300 and EK-50.

What should you look for when choosing a keyboard?

First decide whether you want to practise the chord changes yourself or would rather improvise over a repeating pattern. Then check that the connections will work with the set-up you plan to use in the rehearsal room.

What to consider What to look for Who is this important for?
Learning chords and timing yourself Try changing between I, IV and V chords yourself; check whether the keys are touch-sensitive and what practice functions the model offers. If I want to learn to play the blues progression myself, I look for features that support my practice without making the changes for me. Around 36% of consumers prioritise learning chords and timing themselves.
Repeating a blues backing Check whether you can set up a chord progression or play along with the chords live; see how the controls work. If I want to try out melodies while a chord progression continues, I look at how I can set up that backing. Around 29% of consumers prioritise repeatable backing.
Set-up and connections Compare the dimensions and weight with your transport and playing space; make sure the audio output matches the system’s input. When I take my keyboard to the rehearsal room, I want to know in advance whether it will be practical to transport and connect. Around 21% of consumers prioritise their rehearsal set-up.
Using parts in software Decide whether you need MIDI notes, keyboard audio or both, and check the connections on the exact model. If I want to record or edit the parts I play, I want to know whether the computer connection transfers the type of data I need. Around 14% of consumers focus mainly on using software.

Common mistakes when buying a keyboard

  • Confusing a built-in chord progression with practising your own chord changes

    A repeating backing can give you room to improvise, but it may play the changes you want to learn yourself.

    Practise the I, IV and V changes yourself if that is your learning goal; use a chord progression when playing along or improvising is your priority.

  • Confusing USB-MIDI with an audio output for an amplifier or recording device

    MIDI data and audible keyboard sound are different things to transmit. Korg describes USB-MIDI and separate audio outputs as different connections; Yamaha lists USB audio/MIDI for the PSR-E383.

    Decide whether you need MIDI data, keyboard audio or both, and check the connections on the exact model separately.

    Depending on the model and set-up, you may need a suitable cable or additional recording equipment.

  • Looking only at the keyboard’s weight

    The instrument’s dimensions and weight alone won’t tell you whether the full set-up will fit your transport and available playing space.

    Measure the space where you plan to set it up and check what is included with the version you choose.

    You may also need to carry a bag, cable, stand or pedal; check what comes with the version you choose.

Brands to compare

Yamaha

The PSR-E383 is a standalone practice keyboard with touch-sensitive keys, lesson functions and accompaniment styles.

  • Yamaha lists 61 touch-sensitive keys and lesson functions for the PSR-E383.
  • Check whether the accompaniment function you choose lets you practise the chord changes yourself.

Casio

The CT-S300 is a portable option if easy transport and quick set-up matter to you.

  • Casio lists a carry handle, a weight of 3,3 kg and touch response for this model.
  • These portability details don’t tell you whether the connections will work with the amplification in your rehearsal room.

Roland

The GO:KEYS 3 is worth considering if you want to try out melodies over chord progressions you create yourself.

  • Roland describes this model as letting you create your own chord progressions.
  • Playing a set progression is different from practising the chord changes yourself.

Korg

The EK-50 is a standalone keyboard to compare if audio connections or accompaniment are high on your list.

  • Korg specifies separate OUTPUT L/MONO and R connections, as well as accompaniment styles.
  • Korg lists a weight of 7,5 kg without the music rest or batteries. Check whether that suits your transport and whether the connections will work with the equipment available.

Joybuy products for practising blues and rehearsing

This selection focuses on digital keyboards for standalone practice and use in a rehearsal set-up.

MLS-931 digital piano with 61 weighted keys

MLS-931 digital piano, 61 weighted keys

Suited to practising chord changes and timing: the product description mentions touch-sensitive keys, automatic bass chords and a metronome.

61 weighted keys; 300 sounds and 300 rhythms.

USB-MIDI, audio inputs and outputs, stereo speakers and a headphone socket.

Joybuy
61-key digital keyboard piano with stand, bench and music rest

Digital keyboard piano, 61 keys, with stand and bench

The title mentions a learning mode and a set with a stand and bench, making it a good fit if you’re looking for a practice set-up.

61 keys; 300 tones, 300 rhythms and a three-level learning mode.

The title also mentions a music rest and USB-MIDI; the product description lists audio, headphone and microphone connections.

Joybuy

Frequently asked questions about keyboards for blues

Do you need to use automatic accompaniment to learn blues?

No, you can play the chord changes yourself. Berklee describes the typical 12-bar blues as a repeating form using I, IV and V chords; use accompaniment if you want to practise your timing or improvise over the progression.

Can you connect a keyboard directly to the rehearsal room’s sound system?

That depends on the keyboard and the input available. Korg specifies separate 6,3 mm OUTPUT L/MONO and R connections for the EK-50; compare these with the sound system and check which cable you need.

What should you keep for servicing or warranty claims?

Keep your proof of purchase and the seller’s details. According to the Dutch government, the seller must provide a solution if a product is faulty; there is no fixed statutory warranty period for all products.

Do you have a cooling-off period when buying a keyboard online?

For a distance purchase from a business, the Dutch government says that in many cases you have a 14-day cooling-off period. Check the terms of your purchase; an online purchase from a private individual does not fall within the stated definition of a distance purchase.

What does a CE mark mean on an electronic keyboard?

The European Union states that CE rules apply to product groups for which harmonised EU rules require the mark. Check the information for the specific keyboard and power supply; the mark does not tell you whether the audio connections will work with your rehearsal set-up.