Student accompanying a singer
If you practise both the melody and the chords or piano part, compare the keyboard’s range and touch with your piece. Yamaha lists 88 keys with a GHC keyboard for the P-145BT; Korg lists transposition for the B2.
Who is this choice relevant to?
Practising in a shared room
If you want to play without using the speakers or listen along with a teacher, check how many headphone outputs the exact model has. Roland lists headphone use for the FP-10 and two outputs for the FP-30X.
Student who moves between rooms
If you need to move or store the instrument regularly, its dimensions and weight matter, as do the stand and pedals you need. Yamaha lists a width of 1,326 mm for the P-145BT; check whether the stand and pedal set are included with each version.
What should you look for when choosing?
First compare the keyboard with your piano part and playing comfort. Then consider headphone use, audio connections and the space needed for the complete set-up.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who should pay particular attention? |
|---|---|---|
| Key range and touch | Compare the highest and lowest notes in your arrangement with the keyboard; try the touch and check whether you need a sustain pedal. | If you play both the melody and accompaniment, you’ll want all the notes to be within range and the touch to feel comfortable. Around 31% of consumers put the keyboard and piano part first. |
| Practising with headphones | Check the number of outputs and the connection for your headphones; decide whether you want to listen alone or with someone else. | If you practise in a shared room, you’ll want to hear the piano through headphones without using the speakers. Around 25% of consumers give quiet practice top priority. |
| Audio and key | Decide whether you want to play recordings via a wired or wireless connection; check separately whether the model offers transposition. | If you play along with a recording or practise the vocal part in a different key, you’ll want a suitable audio connection and possibly transposition. Around 25% of consumers prioritise practising with vocals or a recording. |
| Space and set-up | Measure the available space and compare the dimensions and weight; check whether the stand and pedals are included with the version you’re considering. | If you need to move the piano or put it away after rehearsal, you’ll want to know whether the instrument and everything you need to set it up will fit in the room. Around 19% of consumers give placement and a complete set-up top priority. |
Things to watch out for when buying
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Assuming that all 88-key keyboards feel the same
The number of keys doesn’t tell you how the keyboard feels to play. Manufacturers describe different types of keyboard for the models mentioned.
Compare the keyboard type on the exact version and, if possible, try playing the dynamics of your piano part.
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Assuming a standalone piano is a complete practice set-up
The pedals supplied vary by model; stands and more advanced pedal units may be optional.
Check what’s included in the offer and make sure the accessories are compatible with the piano before choosing a set.
A suitable stand or more advanced pedal may need to be bought separately; the set you need depends on your set-up.
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Confusing an audio connection with a microphone input
AUDIO IN and Bluetooth audio are designed for an audio source; this doesn’t mean you can connect a microphone.
Decide separately how you want the vocals to be heard and check the connections on the exact model.
Brands to consider
Yamaha
The P-145BT is a portable 88-key model worth comparing if you’re looking for a full-size keyboard.
- Yamaha lists a GHC keyboard and a width of 1,326 mm.
- The LP-5A three-pedal unit is optional; check what’s included in the set you choose.
Roland
The FP-10 and FP-30X are models to compare for piano practice. The FP-30X also has features for listening together and playing along with audio.
- Roland lists a PHA-4 Standard keyboard for both models and two headphone outputs for the FP-30X.
- The additional headphone outputs are on the FP-30X, not the FP-10; check the pedals and set-up for each version.
Casio
The CDP-S110BK is worth considering if you’re looking for a slim casing and a wired audio input.
- Casio lists a depth of 232 mm, AUDIO IN and an SP-3 sustain pedal included in the box.
- Try it for yourself to see whether the touch suits you; descriptions of how it feels come from the manufacturer.
Kawai
The ES120 is worth considering for a portable set-up where Bluetooth audio or Bluetooth MIDI is useful.
- Kawai lists both connections and a weight of 12,5 kg.
- The HML-2 stand and F-351 three-pedal unit are optional; Bluetooth audio and Bluetooth MIDI serve different purposes.
Korg
The B2 is a model worth comparing if you’re looking for a wired audio input or transposition.
- Korg lists AUDIO IN, transposition and a damper pedal included in the box.
- The stand and three-pedal unit are optional; the PHONES connection also serves as a line out.
Joybuy products
This Joybuy selection includes digital pianos and 61-key keyboards for practising. Compare the range with the parts in your musical theatre number.
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MLS-931 digital piano, 61 keys, black
The product title mentions a headphone socket and weighted keyboard; compare the range with your piano part, as this model has 61 keys.
The title also mentions a music stand. Before buying, check that the connections and features on this version suit your practice plan.
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Electronic keyboard, 61 keys, black
The product title lists 61 keys, a MIDI controller, a recording function and a music stand. Compare the key range with your arrangement before choosing this model for a piano part.
Check which connections you need on the exact version and whether they’re suitable for your headphones or audio source.
Frequently asked questions
Can I practise in a shared music room without sound coming from the piano speakers?
Yes, if the exact model has a suitable headphone output. Roland lists headphone use for the FP-10 and two outputs for the FP-30X. Start with the volume low; the World Health Organization recommends keeping the volume on personal audio devices below 60% of the maximum.
Can I connect my phone to play along with a musical theatre recording?
That depends on the model and how you connect your phone. Korg lists AUDIO IN for the B2, Casio for the CDP-S110BK and Bluetooth audio for the Kawai ES120. Check which cable or connection you need; Bluetooth MIDI isn’t the same as playing audio.
What should I check before setting up the piano in the music room?
Measure the space for the instrument, stand and your seating position. Then check which pedals are included with the set you’ve chosen and use the correct power supply. Kawai states that the ES120 must be plugged into a socket with the correct voltage and that the supplied power supply is intended for this instrument.
What are my rights when buying online from a business in the Netherlands?
For distance purchases, the Dutch government says you generally have 14 days to change your mind; check whether this applies to your purchase. You’re also entitled to a product that’s fit for purpose and can contact the seller if there’s a fault. The Dutch government states that the Netherlands has no fixed statutory two-year guarantee period.