If you usually practise alone, check whether the exact model lets you record and play back your performance, or find out how to connect your own accompaniment material. For playing together, the range of both parts and the number of headphone sockets matter: Duo or Twin mode splits the keyboard into two playing areas, which won’t necessarily suit every duet. Also measure the available space and check which pedals and other accessories are included with the model.
You want to repeat and listen back to your own part as you practise your entries and playing together. Yamaha lists two-track MIDI recording for the P-225, while Roland’s manual explains how to record and play back on the FP-30X.
You live in a shared building and want to play through headphones. If you practise with someone else, also check whether the piano has two headphone sockets; Roland lists two for the FP-30X.
You sometimes want to play at the same time and need to decide whether you need the full keyboard or whether two separate playing areas will do. Yamaha lists a Duo function for the P-225, while Roland describes Twin Piano for the FP-30X.
First decide whether you mainly want to record and listen back on your own, or play alongside someone else. Then measure the space in your loft and check the specification and connections of the model you’re considering.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Listening back to a part | Check recording, the number of tracks and playback options on the exact model; also see how you can use existing material. | If I practise alone, I want to be able to listen back to my part while learning the other one. Around 36% of consumers rank being able to listen back to a part as their top priority. |
| Practising with headphones | Check the number of sockets and whether both players can listen at the same time. | In a shared home, I want to practise through headphones and be able to listen when playing with someone else. Around 29% of consumers put quiet practice first. |
| Key range and touch | Compare the notes in both parts with the range available in your preferred playing mode, and try out the touch. | If the parts require a suitable range and piano-style touch, I want to know whether the keyboard suits the way I play. Around 21% of consumers consider this first. |
| Space and setup | Measure the space and access route; allow for the music rest, stand, seating and included accessories. | In a converted loft, I want to fit in a piano without overlooking the space needed to play. Around 14% of consumers put available space first. |
Splitting a keyboard between two players is different from recording parts or playing together across the full keyboard. In a split mode, each player has only part of the keys.
Compare the range of both parts and, if needed, ask for a demonstration of the exact playing mode you want.
Headphones affect how you hear the instrument, but they don’t mean that the physical sound of the keys or pedals will be inaudible in your home.
Assess the setup in person. The Dutch Government advises people experiencing noise from music to make arrangements with their neighbours first.
According to Korg, the stand and three-pedal unit are separate accessories for the B2; both are included with the B2SP.
Check what’s included with each version and what else you’ll need for your setup.
A separate stand or extra pedals may mean additional purchases and installation.
The P-225 is a portable option to compare if a weighted keyboard, Duo mode and built-in recording matter to you.
The FP-30X is a portable option to compare for practising on your own and listening together.
The CDP-S110 is an option to compare if you have limited space for the instrument itself.
Compare the portable B2 with the B2SP if you’re considering a fixed setup with three pedals.
These options are 61-key models for practising on your own. Check whether the range suits your duet part and what the product information says about recording, playback and connections.
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Could suit solo practice with playback, if the notes in your part fall within the range of 61 keys.
The product name lists a weighted keyboard, 300 sounds, 300 rhythms, an LCD screen, USB-MIDI, speakers, a headphone socket and a music stand.
A 61-key range may be limiting if your part includes notes outside that range.
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Could suit solo practice if the recording function fits the way you work and your part falls within the range of 61 keys.
The product name lists MIDI, a recording function, speakers, a metronome and a music stand.
Before buying, check the connections and how you can listen back to recordings.
Not necessarily. Yamaha lists Duo on the P-225, while Roland describes Twin Piano as a way to split the keyboard between two players. If the parts together need the standard key range, assess the keyboard without the split; for solo practice, recording and playback are separate features to check.
Measure not only the space for the piano, but also the room needed for the music rest, stand and seating. Yamaha recommends using a soft cloth for maintenance and not spraying liquid directly onto the keys; check the manual for your chosen model for other placement and cleaning instructions.
Check whether the stand, pedals and the headphones you need are included with the version you’re buying. Korg says the stand and three-pedal unit are separate accessories for the B2, while the B2SP includes both. Ask the seller about delivery costs and who handles returns and complaints.
The government information cited doesn’t set a general time that applies to piano playing in every home. The Dutch Government advises people experiencing noise from music to make arrangements with their neighbours first; if you have a specific dispute, ask which arrangements apply to your home. According to the Dutch Government, online purchases from a business usually come with a 14-day cooling-off period, although there are exceptions.
