Start with a keyboard that feels comfortable when you assess touch and the balance between chord notes. Try it for yourself rather than relying on the keyboard name alone. Then choose how you want to record: capturing MIDI performance data is different from recording the piano’s sound, and connections vary by model.
You want to practise close-voiced chords and dynamic differences between chord notes on a keyboard that feels comfortable to play. Yamaha, Roland and Kawai describe different keyboard features and designs; try the touch for yourself to see what suits you.
You need to decide whether to record MIDI performance data, capture the piano’s own sound as audio, or do both. Kawai’s product specifications and MIDI manual distinguish USB-MIDI from the separate audio outputs.
You want to practise with headphones while allowing for the space needed for the piano, stand and cables. Roland and Kawai list headphone sockets; also check that the complete setup will fit in your room.
First assess how the keyboard feels when playing your voicings, then decide whether you want to record MIDI, the piano’s audio, or both. Measure the space for your complete setup, not just the piano itself.
| What to consider | What to look for when buying | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Touch and chord balance | Play the same voicing softly and loudly, and assess the key response and balance between both hands. A stated keyboard design is no substitute for trying it out. | If I want to practise dynamics and the balance between chord notes, I want to assess the touch for myself. Around 33% of consumers put keyboard feel at the top of their buying concerns. |
| MIDI or audio recording | Decide whether you want to record editable performance data, the piano’s own sound, or both. Check the connections and which cables or audio equipment your recording setup requires. | If I want to record piano parts in my home studio, the piano needs to suit the type of recording I have in mind. Around 27% of consumers prioritise how they will record. |
| Quiet practice | Check that the piano has a socket compatible with your headphones. Headphones won’t stop the keys and pedals from making mechanical noise. | If I practise while others are using the space, I want to play through headphones and also take the sound of the keys and pedals into account. Around 20% of consumers prioritise quiet practice. |
| Space and complete setup | Measure the available width and depth, including space for your seat and cables. Check whether a stand and pedal are included or need to be bought separately. | If my studio space is limited, I want to know whether the piano will fit with its stand, pedal and cables. Around 20% of consumers prioritise space and the complete setup. |
USB-MIDI transfers performance data; it is not the same as recording the piano’s built-in sound. According to Kawai, the Kawai ES120 has USB-MIDI and separate stereo line-out sockets.
First decide whether you want to capture MIDI notes, the piano’s sound, or both. Then check the entire signal chain and which connections you’ll need.
Your chosen audio recording setup may require an audio cable and audio interface; check what equipment your setup needs.
The instrument’s dimensions don’t tell you how much room the complete playing area will take up, including the stand, pedal, cables and space for your seat. Kawai lists a stand and triple pedal unit as accessories.
Measure the complete setup and check what stand and pedals are included with each offer.
You may need to buy a suitable stand or pedal unit separately.
Bax Music lists the black Roland FP-30X reviewed as no longer available to order. A listing from one retailer doesn’t tell you what other retailers have on offer.
Before choosing a model, check its current availability and the exact version with the retailer.
The Yamaha P-225 is a portable digital piano with Split, a feature that lets you assign different sounds to your left and right hands.
According to Roland, the Roland FP-30X combines a PHA-4 Standard keyboard with headphone and audio outputs.
The Kawai ES120 offers Split functions and options for a setup with a computer and audio equipment.
The Casio Privia PX-S1100BK is worth considering if a shallow piano case is important for your studio space.
Don’t assume so: Kawai’s MIDI manual describes USB for MIDI performance data. For the piano’s own sound, Kawai lists separate stereo line-out sockets; check what audio equipment your recording setup needs.
Use the mains voltage and power supply specified for your version. The Kawai ES120 manual warns that the supplied mains lead and adapter are intended for this instrument, and advises unplugging it if you notice unusual heat, a smell or smoke.
No. ACM ConsuWijzer states that the statutory guarantee applies alongside any seller’s or manufacturer’s warranty; what you can expect depends on the product and normal use. Assess a paid plan based on the additional cover it offers.
According to the Dutch government, consumers generally have a 14-day cooling-off period for distance purchases. Check whether you’re buying from a business and which terms apply to your order; the Dutch government says that an online purchase from a private individual doesn’t count as a distance purchase under this scheme.
Check that the version on offer meets the applicable EU safety requirements and carries the required CE marking. The Dutch government also advises checking the seller and any additional import costs when buying from online shops outside the EU.
