Who is this buying guide for?

Film theme learner focused on piano

You want to practise phrasing, dynamics and pedalling. Try the action of your chosen model for yourself; Yamaha, Roland and Kawai list keyboard features for the pianos mentioned here.

Home studio recorder

You want to edit notes in software or record the piano sound itself. Kawai’s ES120 manual describes its USB connection as MIDI; Korg lists line outputs for the D1.

Quiet home player

You prefer to practise through headphones when speakers aren’t practical. Roland lists two headphone outputs for the FP-30X, while Kawai lists two sockets for the ES120.

What should you look for when choosing?

Portable digital piano with speakers

Choose this option: if you want to practise the theme without switching on other studio equipment.

Keep in mind: MIDI does not automatically let you record the piano sound as audio; check the connections on the exact model.

Stage piano without speakers

Choose this option: if you already play with headphones or external audio playback. Korg describes the D1 as speakerless.

Keep in mind: you’ll need external playback to play without headphones.

For anyone learning a film theme at home, the most important thing to check depends on their top priority: playing feel, studio connectivity, quiet practice or where the piano will go.

What to consider What to look for when buying Who is this important to?
Playing feel and expression Try how the keyboard responds to a light and firm touch. Also check which pedal is included or available as an optional extra; Yamaha lists an optional triple pedal unit for the P-225. If I want to control soft and powerful passages well, I focus on the key action and pedal. Around 40% of consumers prioritise playing feel and pedal control.
Connecting to a home studio Check for MIDI to edit notes and an audio output to record the piano sound. Kawai describes the ES120’s USB connection as MIDI; Korg lists separate line outputs for the D1. If I want to edit notes in software or record the sound, the connection needs to suit the task. Around 30% of consumers make studio connectivity their top priority.
Practising quietly Check how many headphone sockets there are. Roland lists two for the FP-30X; Kawai lists two for the ES120. If I practise when speakers aren’t an option, I want to be able to use headphones. Quiet practice is the top priority for around 20% of consumers.
Placement and standalone playback Measure the available space, including the stand and music rest. Check whether you need built-in speakers; Korg lists the D1 as speakerless. If my workspace is limited, I want the complete setup to fit and to know in advance whether I’ll need external playback. Around 10% of consumers make placement their top priority.

Common buying mistakes

  • Assuming MIDI and audio are the same recording feature

    MIDI transmits performance data; that doesn’t automatically mean you can use it to record the piano’s own sound. The ES120 manual describes its USB connection to a computer as MIDI.

    Before buying, decide whether you want to edit the notes you play or record the sound. Check the MIDI connection, audio output and recording equipment separately.

    You may need additional recording equipment or cables to record the piano sound.

  • Choosing a stage piano without speakers and no listening setup

    According to Korg, the D1 has no built-in speakers. You’ll need external audio playback to hear it without headphones.

    Factor your complete listening setup into your choice and check whether you want to play through headphones or external speakers.

  • Assuming the pedal you want is included

    Yamaha lists an optional triple pedal unit for the P-225. Casio lists an SP-3 pedal included with the PX-S1100CB and an optional SP-34 pedal unit.

    Compare the contents of the exact offer with the pedal functions you want to use for your arrangement.

    A triple pedal unit may need to be purchased separately for these models.

Brands to compare

Yamaha

Yamaha describes the P-225 as a compact, piano-focused portable digital piano for practising at home.

  • Yamaha lists 88 weighted GHC keys, built-in speakers and support for an optional triple pedal unit.
  • Check whether the action feels right for you and whether the optional pedal unit meets your playing needs.

Roland

According to Roland, the FP-30X combines a PHA-4 Standard keyboard with built-in speakers and connections for home practice.

  • Roland lists two headphone outputs, separate outputs for powered speakers and the option to add extra pedals.
  • Roland’s claims about sound and key action are manufacturer claims; try the keyboard for yourself to see if it suits you.

Kawai

Kawai describes the ES120 as a portable piano with built-in speakers and wired and wireless connectivity options.

  • Kawai lists a Responsive Hammer Compact keyboard, two headphone sockets, stereo line outputs, and Bluetooth MIDI and Audio.
  • The ES120 manual describes its USB connection to a computer as MIDI; don’t assume this means it supports USB audio recording.

Korg

Korg describes the D1 as a stage piano without speakers, designed for use with headphones or external audio playback.

  • Korg lists an RH3 keyboard, line outputs, MIDI IN/OUT and a damper pedal included in the box.
  • Without headphones or external speakers, you won’t be able to hear the D1 through built-in speakers.

Casio

The Privia PX-S1100 is an option if you’re considering a slim, portable piano for home use.

  • For the Dutch PX-S1100CB variant, Casio lists 88 keys with Smart Scaled Hammer Action and an SP-3 pedal included.
  • The SP-34 pedal unit is optional. Check the exact variant and decide for yourself whether the action feels right for you.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Can I record the built-in piano sound straight through MIDI?

Don’t assume so. The Kawai ES120 manual describes its USB computer connection as MIDI data transfer. To record the piano sound, check the audio output and your recording equipment; according to Korg, the D1 has separate line outputs.

Do I need speakers at home for the Korg D1?

Not if you’re using headphones. If you want to hear the D1 without headphones, you’ll need external audio playback: Korg describes the model as speakerless and lists headphone and line connections.

What should I consider when setting up and maintaining my piano?

Use the power supply intended for the instrument and keep the plug accessible. The Kawai ES120 manual warns against moisture and a damaged mains cable; follow the manual for the model you choose.

What are my rights when buying online in the Netherlands?

When buying online from a business, you generally have a 14-day cooling-off period, subject to applicable terms and exceptions. The Dutch government says there is no fixed statutory guarantee period in the Netherlands; if a product is faulty, contact the seller.

Can I practise a film theme and share my recording online?

Practising at home and sharing a recording online are not the same thing. For copyright-protected music, the Dutch government distinguishes between a private copy for personal use and distributing or making it available to the public; a private copy must not be distributed or made available to the public.