Loft pianist with neighbours
You want to practise regularly without assuming that headphones will also block the sound of the keys or vibrations travelling through the floor.
Who is this guide for?
Pianist working on technique
You practise arpeggios and want to assess the action, key range and, if relevant, pedal use on a suitable keyboard.
Pianist short on floor space
You need to fit in your complete playing set-up and are weighing up a slimline or portable instrument against the space needed for a stand and somewhere to sit.
What should you look for in a digital piano for the loft?
First, choose a keyboard with the action and range to suit your practice goals. Then assess the sound where you’ll play and measure the full set-up, including any pedals and a bench.
| Buying concern | What should you look for? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Sound and vibrations | Check the headphone connection and test the sound of the keys and pedals with the piano set up securely. | If you practise with other people at home or neighbours nearby, you’ll want to know what sound can still be heard. Around 33% of consumers prioritise reducing noise and vibrations. |
| Action and range | Try the exact keyboard with both soft and fast repeated notes; check the number of keys and the action type. | For arpeggios, you’ll want an action and range that suit your technique. Around 27% of consumers say this is their top priority. |
| Space for the set-up | Measure the piano, stand and bench, and consider your sitting position beneath a sloping roof. | If loft space is limited, you’ll want to know whether the complete playing set-up will fit. Around 20% of consumers prioritise space. |
| Pedals and accessories | Check which pedal options are compatible with each model and which accessories are included with that version. | If pedal use is part of your practice, you’ll want to know in advance which set-up you need. Around 20% of consumers start by looking at pedal options and included accessories. |
Things to consider before buying
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Headphones don’t make the piano completely silent
You can listen to the electronic piano sound through headphones, but the keys and pedals can still make mechanical sounds or cause vibrations. Roland and Yamaha describe this type of noise; Roland also mentions vibrations caused by using the pedals.
Test the contact noise in the place where you plan to play and make sure the piano is stable.
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Don’t measure only the depth of the piano cabinet
The stated cabinet depth doesn’t tell you how much room you’ll need for a stand, bench and comfortable sitting position, especially beneath a sloping roof.
Measure the entire playing area before choosing your set-up.
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Don’t treat a 61-key keyboard as equivalent to an 88-key keyboard
The Joybuy listing for the MLS-931 specifies 61 keys; according to Yamaha, the P-145BT has 88. The smaller range may make a difference if you want to practise arpeggios across a wider span of keys.
Check the exact model, number of keys and action type rather than relying on the product category alone.
Brands to compare
Yamaha
The portable P series includes models such as the P-145BT and P-225, which you can compare by keyboard, dimensions and pedal options.
- Yamaha specifies 88 GHC keys for both the P-145BT and P-225. The stated width of the P-225 is 1.326 mm.
- The LP-5A three-pedal unit is an optional compatible extra for the P-145BT; don’t assume it’s also an option for the P-225. Specifications can’t tell you which action you’ll find comfortable.
Roland
The FP-30X is a portable option to compare if headphone use and an expandable pedal set-up are important to you.
- Roland specifies a PHA-4 Standard keyboard with 88 keys, two headphone outputs and stand and pedal options for the FP-30X.
- Roland warns that the hammer action and pedal use can cause mechanical sounds or vibrations; this isn’t a measured comparison with other models.
Casio
The Privia PX-S1100BK is worth considering if cabinet depth is a key factor in a cramped loft.
- Casio gives the PX-S1100BK a cabinet depth of 232 mm and specifies 88 keys with hammer action.
- The cabinet dimensions alone don’t tell you how much room you’ll need for a stand, bench and comfortable sitting position.
Kawai
The portable ES120 has a different keyboard action to consider when assessing the feel and set-up.
- Kawai specifies a Responsive Hammer Compact action and a weight of 12,5 kg for the ES120.
- These model specifications aren’t an independent assessment of whether the action suits you better; try the keyboard if you can.
Joybuy products
This selection features portable 61-key keyboards for practising in a compact space; their range is smaller than that of an 88-key keyboard.
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MLS-931 digital piano, 61 keys, black
The headphone connection is useful if you want to listen to the electronic sound through headphones; with 61 keys, this model has a smaller range than an 88-key keyboard.
The product name lists a weighted keyboard, 300 sounds, 300 rhythms, LCD, USB-MIDI, speakers, a headphone connection and a music stand.
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Electronic keyboard, 61 keys, black
This model may suit your practice set-up if you need a headphone connection and music stand; with 61 keys, it has a smaller range than an 88-key keyboard.
The product name lists a MIDI controller, recording function, speakers, metronome and music stand. Check which accessories are included with the version you choose.
Frequently asked questions
Will practising with headphones make the piano silent for the neighbours?
Not necessarily: headphones don’t automatically block the mechanical sounds of the keys and pedals. Roland and Yamaha describe audible key noise; Roland also mentions pedal vibrations. Test the piano where you intend to play, and only use any damping if the set-up remains stable.
What should you consider when setting up a digital piano in the loft?
Measure the complete set-up and position the piano securely. Roland mentions a vibration-damping mat or isolators as possible measures, but the results will depend on the room; always make sure the piano remains stable.
Are a stand and three pedals always included?
No, this varies by model and version. Yamaha lists the LP-5A unit as an optional extra for the P-145BT; Roland lists expansion options for the FP-30X. Check which accessories are included with the exact version and whether they’re compatible.
What are my rights when buying online in the Netherlands?
When you buy a product online from a business, you generally have a statutory cooling-off period of up to 14 days after delivery, with some exceptions. You’re also entitled to a product that meets the required standard. The Dutch government explains that there is no fixed statutory guarantee period in the Netherlands; if a product is faulty, contact the seller.
Can you practise the piano at home at any time?
Practice times may depend on local authority rules and agreements in your building. The Dutch government advises agreeing times with neighbours when dealing with noise, and local authorities may have their own rules. If necessary, check the rules for your address and building.