Practising chord changes
You mainly want to play with both hands repeatedly and assess how the keys respond. In that case, the keyboard and key action matter more than having a wide range of extra sounds.
Who is this option for?
Rehearsing with your band
You want to connect the piano to the sound system. Check in advance that its outputs are compatible with the equipment in the rehearsal room.
Travelling between practice rooms
If you take the instrument with you regularly, consider its weight and dimensions, as well as any extra equipment you’ll need.
What should you look for when buying?
Portable piano with speakers
Suitable for: practising on your own without first connecting external sound equipment.
Bear in mind: for band use, you’ll still need to check that the outputs work with the sound system.
Piano without speakers, with line outputs
Suitable for: a rehearsal room with compatible active speakers or a mixer, or practising with headphones.
Bear in mind: you won’t hear the instrument without headphones or external sound equipment. Also check what you’ll need to carry.
Try the keyboard first, then check that the connections, listening setup and weight are right for the way you practise.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Key action for chord changes | Try successive chords, a light and firm touch, and repeated notes on the exact model. Yamaha lists an 88-key GHC keyboard for the P-145; Roland lists an 88-key PHA-4 Standard keyboard for the FP-30X. These are manufacturer specifications, not the results of a comparative hands-on test. | If you mainly want to assess the feel and response of the keys, try playing different chord changes yourself. Around 36% of consumers say key action is their top buying priority. |
| Connection to the sound system | Compare the outputs on the exact model with the inputs and cables available in the rehearsal room. Roland lists separate outputs for active speakers on the FP-30X; Korg lists LINE OUT L/MONO and R for the D1. | If you play with a band, you’ll want to know whether the piano can connect to the sound system available. Around 29% of consumers put this connection first. |
| Transport and setup | Check the instrument’s weight and dimensions, and see which accessories are included. Korg lists the D1 as weighing 16 kg and sells the stand and soft case separately. | If you travel between practice rooms, consider how much you’ll need to carry and set up in addition to the piano. Around 21% of consumers prioritise transport and setup. |
| Practising on your own or quietly | Decide whether you want to play without external equipment or prefer to use headphones. The Korg D1 has no built-in speakers but does have a headphone socket; Roland lists built-in stereo speakers and headphone outputs for the FP-30X. | If you practise on your own, you’ll want to know in advance how you’ll hear the sound and whether you’ll need extra equipment. Around 14% of consumers prioritise practising on their own or quietly. |
Common buying mistakes
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Confusing a headphone socket with a separate line output
Connections vary by model. Korg lists line outputs alongside the headphone socket on the D1; Roland lists separate outputs on the FP-30X.
Before buying, compare the piano’s outputs with the inputs on the sound system in your rehearsal room.
If the connection isn’t compatible with your existing equipment, you may need suitable cables or adapters, or a different setup.
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Choosing a model without speakers without planning how you’ll listen
The Korg D1 has no built-in speakers. You won’t hear the piano without headphones or suitable external sound equipment.
Choose built-in speakers if you want to play without external equipment, or arrange suitable headphones or a sound system in advance.
With a model that has no speakers, you’ll need to include headphones or external sound equipment in your setup.
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Looking only at the piano’s dimensions
When travelling between practice rooms, the weight and the accessories you need to take with you matter too. Korg lists the D1 as weighing 16 kg; the stand and soft case are sold separately.
Check the stated weight and what’s included with the exact version you’re buying.
You may need to buy a stand, case or other essentials separately.
Brands to consider
Yamaha
The portable P-145 could suit you if you want to practise chord changes on a weighted keyboard. Yamaha positions this model as an entry-level option.
- Yamaha specifies an 88-key GHC keyboard for the P-145.
- The description of the playing feel comes from Yamaha. Try the keyboard and check the connections on the version you’re considering.
Roland
According to Roland, the FP-30X combines a PHA-4 Standard keyboard with built-in speakers and separate outputs for active speakers.
- This combination could work well for practising on your own and playing through external active speakers.
- Roland’s claims about sound and playing feel are the manufacturer’s own, not an independent comparison. Also check which pedal setup you need.
Korg
The D1 has no speakers and is designed for use with headphones or an external sound system; Korg mentions use in a practice room.
- Korg specifies an 88-key RH3 keyboard and separate line outputs.
- The D1 has no built-in speakers and weighs 16 kg according to Korg. The stand and soft case are sold separately. Claims about the playing feel come from Korg.
Casio
The Privia PX-S1100WE is worth considering if the available depth for your setup is important.
- Casio lists a depth of 232 mm and an 88-key hammer-action keyboard for this version.
- Check that the connections on this version are compatible with the equipment you want to use.
Joybuy product selection
This selection focuses on a portable digital piano with built-in speakers for practising on your own.
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MLS-931 digital piano, 61 keys, black
This portable setup with built-in speakers could suit you if you want to practise on your own without separate speakers.
61 keys and a weighted keyboard.
The product name lists built-in speakers, a headphone socket and USB-MIDI.
Also listed: LCD, 300 sounds, 300 rhythms and a music stand.
Frequently asked questions
How do you connect a digital piano in a rehearsal room?
First check the inputs on the mixer or active speakers, then compare them with the outputs on the exact piano model. Korg lists LINE OUT L/MONO and R for the D1; Roland lists separate outputs for active speakers on the FP-30X.
Can you practise without an amplifier?
It depends on the model and how you want to listen. According to Roland, the FP-30X has built-in speakers and headphone outputs; the Korg D1 has no built-in speakers but does have a headphone socket.
Which included accessories should you check?
For each version, check whether the stand, pedal, cables and any case are included. Korg lists the adapter, music stand and damper pedal as included with the D1; the stand and soft case are separate accessories.
Who can help if a piano bought in the Netherlands turns out to be faulty?
According to the Dutch government, the seller must offer a solution, not the manufacturer. There is no fixed term for the statutory guarantee in the Netherlands: what you can reasonably expect from a product depends on the circumstances. Ordinary wear and tear or damage caused by your own actions does not automatically entitle you to a free repair.
Do workplace noise rules apply to every band rehearsal?
Not every private rehearsal is automatically covered by rules for employees. For a workplace with employees, Arboportaal states that the employer must provide hearing protection when the daily noise exposure exceeds 80 dB(A). Whether those rules apply to a particular rehearsal depends, among other things, on the working relationship and the level of exposure.