Duet players with two different parts
You share one keyboard and want its range, touch and pedal feel to suit the score. A split teaching mode won't necessarily be the right layout.
Who is this buying guide for?
Students practising quietly together
You both want to listen at the same time without using the built-in speakers. Check that your chosen model has two headphone sockets.
Users of a shared music room
You need to be able to move or store the instrument after your session, while having a stable, suitable set-up to play on.
What should you look for?
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Range and touch | Check the highest and lowest notes in both parts, and try the touch and seating position together. | When we play two different parts on one keyboard, we want to know that both parts fit and that the touch works for us. Around 36% of consumers put range and touch first. |
| Two headphones | Check whether the model has two sockets and whether your headphone plugs will fit. | If we want to practise quietly at the same time, we both need to be able to listen without using the speakers. Around 29% of consumers give listening together the highest priority. |
| Moving and setting up | Check the weight, which stand is compatible and which pedal configuration comes with the model. | When we need to clear a shared room after a rehearsal, both moving the instrument and having a stable place to play matter. Around 21% of consumers prioritise moving and setting up. |
| Side-by-side practice mode | Check whether the exact model has Duo or Partner mode and whether the playing ranges suit your practice. | If we mainly want to learn the same passage side by side, a mode with similar playing ranges can be useful. Around 14% of consumers make this practice mode their top priority when choosing. |
Common buying mistakes
-
Assuming a split teaching keyboard will suit every duet
Duo and Partner modes are designed for players using similar playing ranges. A standard duet may need to use the shared lower and upper registers.
First check the highest and lowest notes in both parts, then decide whether the teaching mode is suitable.
-
Assuming a standalone piano is a complete set-up
For the models mentioned, a compatible stand or more extensive pedal options may be sold separately.
Check what's included with the specific version or bundle, then compare it with the stand and pedals you need.
-
Confusing the cabinet depth with the space needed to play
The depth of the piano alone doesn't tell you how much space the stand, two seats and players will take up together.
Measure the complete set-up in the music room, not just the instrument.
Brands to compare
Yamaha
The P-225 is worth considering if you're looking for a portable digital piano with a standard duet keyboard and a documented Duo function.
- Yamaha lists 88 GHC keys, Duo and a weight of 11.5 kg for the P-225.
- Check separately whether the stand and more extensive pedal options are suitable. The specifications can't tell you whether the touch will feel comfortable for every player.
Roland
The portable FP-30X is an option to consider if two players want to practise with headphones at the same time.
- Roland specifies 88 PHA-4 Standard keys and two headphone outputs for the FP-30X.
- A fixed stand and a three-pedal unit are add-ons, and won't necessarily be included with every version.
Kawai
The ES120 is a portable option for a shared room if two headphone sockets and easy moving are important to you.
- Kawai lists two headphone sockets and a weight of 12.5 kg for the ES120.
- The stand and three-pedal accessories mentioned are optional. These details apply to the ES120, not automatically to the entire ES series.
Casio
The Privia PX-S1100BK is worth considering if cabinet depth matters when storing your piano.
- Casio specifies a depth of 232 mm for this model.
- The cabinet dimensions don't tell you how much space you'll need for the stand and two players.
Korg
The B2+ is worth considering if two players want to learn the same passage side by side.
- Korg publishes Partner Mode instructions for the B2+.
- The instructions describe a practice function specific to this model. Check how it works and the playing range of the version you're considering.
Joybuy products
These Joybuy products are 61-key models for practising together on one instrument. Check that the 61-key range suits both parts of your duet.
Image unavailable
MLS-931 digital piano, 61 keys, black
Could be a good fit if you're looking for a portable instrument for indoor use with touch-sensitive, weighted keys. Check whether 61 keys are enough for your duet.
The product information lists 61 keys, 300 sounds, 300 rhythms, a metronome and USB-MIDI.
Image unavailable
Electronic keyboard piano, 61 keys, black
Could be a good fit if 61 keys are enough and a music stand would be useful for your shared practice set-up. Check that both parts of your duet fit within the range.
The product information lists 61 keys, a metronome, a recording function, speakers and a music stand.
Frequently asked questions
Do we need Duo or Partner mode to play a standard duet?
Not necessarily. First compare the notes in both parts with the full shared keyboard. Yamaha lists Duo for the P-225, and Korg publishes Partner Mode instructions for the B2+. These modes are most relevant if you're practising side by side in similar registers.
What should we look for if we both want to use headphones?
Check that the exact model has two headphone sockets and that your plugs will fit. Roland lists two outputs for the FP-30X, while Kawai lists two sockets for the ES120.
What should we check when setting up in the music room?
Measure the space for the piano and two seats, and check that the stand fits securely. Also check which pedals come with the specific version and where the headphone plugs go.
Is a compact piano's depth enough to tell whether it will fit in the room?
No, measure the complete set-up. Casio lists the PX-S1100BK's depth as 232 mm, but you'll also need to allow for the stand and space for two players.