Start with the way you practise: do you play chords along with automatic accompaniment, want to connect your keyboard to studio equipment, or take it with you regularly? Then compare the chord controls, the connections on the exact model and the options for listening back to your playing. A larger number of built-in styles doesn’t automatically mean the patterns will suit your repertoire.
Would you like to practise chord changes with a rhythm playing along? Compare the chord controls and styles on the exact model. Yamaha describes the PSR-E383 as having automatic accompaniment Styles, while Roland describes chord-controlled accompaniment for the E-X10.
Would you like to use your keyboard with headphones, studio monitors or a computer? First decide which signal path you need, then compare the model’s connections and USB functions. Korg specifies separate audio outputs for the EK-50.
Do you take your instrument with you or set it up somewhere different each time? As well as accompaniment features, consider its dimensions, weight and power supply. Korg lists the EK-50’s weight as 7.5 kg without the music stand or batteries.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who should pay particular attention? |
|---|---|---|
| Chords and accompaniment parts | Try out a chord progression of your own and check chord recognition, tempo and the variations or fills you want. | If I want to practise chord changes with a suitable pattern, I focus on the controls and how well it matches my repertoire; around 36% of consumers prioritise practising patterns and chords. |
| Connecting to studio equipment | Compare the inputs on your equipment with the outputs and USB functions of the exact keyboard model. | If I want to send the sound to monitors or a computer, I check the signal path first; around 29% of consumers prioritise studio connectivity. |
| Transport and set-up | Measure the available space and check the weight and power supply, including any accessories you’ll need. | If I take my keyboard between practice rooms, size and portability matter as well as accompaniment; around 21% of consumers put transport and set-up at the top of their list. |
| Listening back to your practice | Check which parts the recording function captures and how you can play back or transfer the recording. | If I want to listen back to my timing and transitions, I look at the model’s recording function; around 14% of consumers prioritise listening back. |
Manufacturers list the number of patterns, but that doesn’t tell you whether your groove, chord controls or preferred transitions are available.
Try a representative chord progression and check the intros, variations and fills you need.
Audio and MIDI serve different purposes. The functions supported by a USB connection depend on the exact model.
Decide whether you want to record your keyboard’s sound or send MIDI notes, then check the model specifications.
Outputs, included accessories and weight vary by model, and can affect how you connect and use the instrument.
Check the connections, available space and contents of the specific offer before you order.
According to Yamaha’s product information, the PSR-E383 is a portable keyboard with automatic accompaniment and lesson functions.
Casio describes the Casiotone CT-S400 as a compact option with built-in rhythmic patterns.
According to Roland, the E-X10 combines automatic accompaniment with practice and recording functions.
According to Korg, the EK-50 is designed for players who want to arrange accompaniment parts and connect external audio equipment.
These products are suited to practising with rhythms and automatic accompaniment; connections and recording functions vary by version.
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Ideal for practising with rhythms and automatic bass chords.
Features 300 rhythms, USB-MIDI, audio inputs and outputs, a headphone socket, and recording and playback functions.
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Ideal for rhythm practice and listening back to recorded performances.
Features 300 rhythms, recording and playback functions, USB-MIDI, audio inputs and outputs, a headphone socket, speakers and a metronome.
No. The number of rhythms doesn’t show whether the patterns will suit your music. Try a chord progression of your own and check how you control the tempo, variations and transitions.
Compare the inputs on your equipment with the outputs on the exact keyboard model. Korg specifies OUTPUT L/MONO and R, as well as a separate headphone socket, for the EK-50; don’t assume other models have the same connections.
Check the manual and the contents of the specific version. Korg lists a mains adapter as included with the EK-50, while AA batteries are sold separately.
According to the Dutch government, you’re entitled to a product that is fit for purpose, but the Netherlands has no fixed statutory warranty period. If a product is faulty, the retailer is your point of contact; a manufacturer’s or retailer’s guarantee is in addition to your statutory rights.
According to the Dutch government, when you buy remotely from a business, you’re entitled to a 14-day cooling-off period in many cases. This doesn’t automatically apply to purchases from private individuals, so check who you’re buying from.
