For left-hand patterns, a sensible starting point is a keyboard that lets you assess the range you need and the feel of the keys for yourself. An 88-key keyboard offers more range than the 61-key instruments in this product selection. A metronome, recording and suitable studio connections are especially useful if you want to practise in time, listen back or play through the sound system.
If you repeat bass notes, leaps or chord patterns, pay attention to the keyboard range and key response. Yamaha, Roland and Kawai list 88-key keyboards for the models mentioned; try the feel of the exact model for yourself.
If you want to practise in time and check your playing, look at how the metronome and recording function are operated. Kawai lists both features for the ES120; Roland’s manual describes them for the FP-30X.
If you share a set-up or want to listen through headphones or studio equipment, check the model’s connections in advance. Roland lists headphone sockets and separate outputs for the FP-30X; Kawai lists Line Out for the ES120.
Start with the pattern you want to practise and try the feel of the exact model. Then check that its practice features and connections suit the equipment and space in your studio.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who it matters most to |
|---|---|---|
| Key response and keyboard range | Try your own pattern on the exact model; check the number of keys and the available touch-sensitivity settings. Yamaha lists 88 GHC keys with adjustable touch sensitivity for the P-225. | When I practise bass notes and leaps, I want a key response and range that suit the way I play the piano. Around 33% of consumers put this combination first. |
| Tempo and playback | Check how to start the metronome and recording, and how to play back a passage. Kawai lists an adjustable metronome and song recorder for the ES120. | When I want to repeat a pattern in time and check my playing, these practice features are important. Around 27% of consumers give tempo and playback top priority. |
| Listening and connections | Compare the connections with the headphones, cables and equipment in the studio. Roland lists separate outputs for the FP-30X; Kawai lists Line Out for the ES120. | If I want to listen on my own or with others through the equipment in the rehearsal space, the listening set-up needs to be suitable. Around 20% of consumers choose listening and connections as their main consideration. |
| Moving and setting up | Measure the space for the instrument, stand, chair and, if applicable, pedal. Yamaha lists the P-225 as 1.326 mm wide and weighing 11,5 kg. | When I move the instrument or share the set-up with others, I want to know whether everything will fit in the space. Around 20% of consumers put set-up and portability first. |
The Roland FP-30X manual describes Split as left- and right-hand zones to which you can assign different sounds. This does not confirm that you can use it to switch off a recorded part separately.
Check the manual for the exact model to see separately how the metronome, recording, playback and sound zones work.
For the Roland FP-30X, stand and pedal options are described separately. The listening connection you need also depends on the equipment in your rehearsal space.
Before choosing your set-up, check what is included in the specific offer, what is compatible and which connection accessories you will need.
A suitable stand, pedal or connection accessory may mean extra parts and additional work to get your set-up ready. Check what is included and what else you need.
Casio gives the PX-S3100BK’s casing depth as 232 mm. This measurement does not tell you how much space you need for the stand, chair and player.
Measure the complete playing set-up in your rehearsal studio, not just the instrument casing.
The P-225 is a portable option to compare if 88 keys, adjustable touch sensitivity and limited set-up space are all important.
The FP-30X is an option to compare if playing together or connecting separately to studio equipment is important.
The ES120 is a portable option to compare if recording, using a metronome and having a separate output are important.
The Privia PX-S3100BK is an option to compare if rhythm sequences and automatic accompaniment would be useful alongside piano playing.
This selection includes two 61-key instruments with features for practice and variety. They offer less range than an 88-key keyboard; also check that the connections and set-up suit your rehearsal space.
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An option to compare if you’re looking for a 61-key keyboard with weighted keys and built-in rhythms.
The product name lists a weighted keyboard, 300 rhythms, 300 sounds, USB-MIDI, speakers and a headphone socket. It has a range of 61 keys.
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An option to compare if you want to use a metronome and recording function while practising.
The product name lists a metronome, recording function, MIDI, speakers and a music rest. It has a range of 61 keys.
Not necessarily. The Roland FP-30X manual describes Split as two zones to which you can assign different sounds; this alone does not mean you can switch off a recorded right-hand part separately. First decide whether you’re looking for a metronome, recording function or two different sounds.
Decide whether you want to listen through headphones or the sound system available. Then compare the connections on the exact model with the equipment and cables in the studio. Roland lists separate outputs for the FP-30X; Kawai lists Line Out for the ES120. Follow the chosen instrument’s manual for set-up and power connections.
That depends on the version being sold. Roland describes a separate stand and various pedal options for the FP-30X. Check the specific offer to see what is included and what is compatible.
According to the Dutch government, electronic devices placed on the market in the EU must carry a CE mark. Check the marking and details for the specific version; the general requirement does not prove that a particular offer complies.
When you buy as a consumer, you are entitled to a product that is fit for purpose. According to the Dutch government, the Netherlands has no fixed statutory guarantee period: what you can expect depends, among other things, on the product, its price and the information provided. If a fault was not caused by misuse or normal wear and tear, you may be entitled to a free repair or replacement, or in some cases a refund.
