If you practise alone with a recorded duet part, choose based on how you want to play that part and listen back to your own performance: MIDI records performance data and is not the same as audio of the piano sound. If you’re playing together on one piano, check whether a Duo, Twin or Partner mode suits the range of both parts. These modes split the keyboard; they don’t provide two full keyboards.
You’re learning your part on your own and want to play the other part or listen back to your own performance. The difference between audio and MIDI determines which connection suits the way you work: Roland lists USB audio/MIDI for the FP-30X, while Kawai lists USB-MIDI and Bluetooth audio for the ES120.
You want to practise side by side and need to check whether playing together across the full keyboard will work, or whether a mode that splits it into two playing areas suits your parts. Roland describes Twin Piano, Yamaha lists Duo and Korg documents Partner Mode.
You practise in a shared home or small studio, so you’re considering headphone sockets, playing feel and the space available. Roland and Kawai both describe their FP-30X and ES120 models as having two headphone sockets.
First, decide whether you’ll be practising alone with a recording or playing at the same time as another person. Then consider the audio or MIDI connection you need, the headphones and the space required for the piano and stand.
The features in the table are based on specifications and documentation from Roland, Yamaha, Korg, Kawai and Casio.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who this is for |
|---|---|---|
| Playing together on one keyboard | Compare the range and overlap of both parts with how Duo, Twin Piano or Partner Mode works. | If I’m playing with someone at the same time, I want to know whether both parts fit within the split playing areas. Around 33% of consumers prioritise playing together on one piano. |
| Playing the other part and recording your own performance | Check whether your setup needs audio, MIDI or both, and which features the exact model offers. | When I practise alone with a duet track, I want to be able to play that part and listen back to my own performance in the way I prefer. Around 27% of consumers prioritise this playback and recording setup. |
| Quiet practice and listening together | Check the number and type of headphone sockets, and how the instrument behaves when you plug in headphones. | If I want to practise quietly at home or listen with someone else, having usable connections for two pairs of headphones is important. Around 20% of consumers make quiet duet practice their top priority. |
| Playing feel and studio space | Measure the available space, including room for a music rest and stand, and try the weighted keys for yourself. | When space in my studio is limited, I want a piano that fits without compromising on the key action I prefer. Around 20% of consumers place the greatest importance on size and playing feel. |
A split mode gives both players a playing area on the same instrument. This means a part may need keys outside its allocated area, or overlap with the other part.
First, check where both parts sit on the sheet music. Then decide whether playing together across the full keyboard, using a split mode or having two instruments is right for you.
MIDI transfers performance data; it doesn’t automatically record the piano’s sound as audio. Bluetooth audio playback doesn’t mean that sound is sent to a computer via USB either.
Note which signal you want to record, then check the connection and feature you need for the exact model.
Depending on the recording connection you choose, you may need additional recording equipment.
What’s included varies by version. Korg describes the B2+SP as a set with a stand and three pedals; Yamaha lists the three-pedal unit for the P-225 as optional.
Check what’s included with the version on offer, including the stand and pedals, before you decide.
Depending on the version you choose, you may need to buy a suitable stand or extra pedals separately.
The FP-30X is worth considering for two-player practice, quiet listening and connecting to recording software.
According to the Dutch specifications, the P-225 combines a compact, portable design with Duo and weighted GHC keys.
The B2+SP described in the Netherlands combines a B2+ with a stand and three pedals; Korg documents Partner Mode and USB audio/MIDI for the B2+/B2+SP.
The portable ES120 is designed for playing and connecting in a compact home setup.
The PX-S1100 is worth considering if the available depth in your studio is a key constraint.
No, not if both parts fit together on the standard keyboard. Yamaha lists Duo, Roland Twin Piano and Korg Partner Mode for exercises with two playing areas. Use your sheet music to work out whether the split will help or restrict your range.
No. USB-MIDI transfers performance data; it doesn’t automatically record the piano sound as audio. Roland lists USB audio/MIDI for the FP-30X, while Kawai lists USB-MIDI for the ES120. Check which connection your recording software needs.
Measure the space for the piano, music rest and any stand, then check that the connections work with your computer and headphones. Use the power supply specified for the instrument: the Kawai ES120 manual states that the supplied adaptor and cable are intended for this instrument.
No, it depends on the version and the purchase. Korg describes a stand and three-pedal unit as part of the B2+SP set, while Yamaha lists the three-pedal unit for the P-225 as optional. Check what’s included and whether there are any additional delivery or installation costs. According to the Dutch government, sellers must state such additional costs.
