Scale practice
You want to practise your touch and keep a steady tempo without a computer. A self-contained instrument with a metronome could suit the way you work; Yamaha, Korg and Alesis list these features for the models described.
Who is this for?
Practising in a shared space
You want to be able to use headphones while practising when other people are in the room. Check how the headphone output works with the built-in speakers on each model. Alesis and Korg describe different connection options for the models mentioned.
Piano-focused players
You want to practise scales on a keyboard with 88 weighted keys and have space for a larger instrument. Korg and Alesis specify weighted keys for the digital pianos mentioned.
What should you consider when choosing?
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Touch and tempo | Check the touch response and whether the exact model has a metronome. | If I want to play louder and softer while practising scales and keep track of my tempo, I check both features for each model. Around 40% of consumers list touch response and steady practice as their main buying needs. |
| Quiet practice | Check the headphone socket and whether it switches off the built-in speakers. | If I want to practise with headphones in a shared rehearsal space, I want to know what happens to the speakers. Around 30% of consumers say being able to play quietly is their top priority. |
| Portability and setup | Measure the space available and check the power options and included accessories. | If I take the instrument with me or set it up in a limited space, I consider its dimensions, portability and power supply. Around 20% of consumers put portability and placement first. |
| Piano range and key feel | Check both the number of keys and the action type; touch-sensitive is not the same as weighted. | For piano-focused practice, I want enough range and a weighted keyboard, even if the instrument takes up more space. Around 10% of consumers list piano range as their main buying need. |
Common pitfalls
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Confusing touch-sensitive keys with weighted keys
Touch sensitivity and a weighted action are different features. Yamaha lists touch-sensitive keys for the PSR-E383; Korg and Alesis specify weighted keys for the digital pianos mentioned.
Compare the key range and action separately, then choose based on the technique you want to practise.
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Assuming every headphone output is also a separate line output
According to Korg, the B2 has a combined headphone and line output. Alesis describes the Recital Pro MKII as having a headphone output and a connection for external amplification.
Decide whether you only want to listen through headphones or also connect a sound system. Check the connections and cables required for the exact version.
Depending on your sound system’s connections, you may need a suitable cable.
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Assuming accessories are the same across different model versions
Alesis lists a pedal as included with the Recital Pro MKII. For the older Recital Pro, Alesis mentions a pedal input but does not list a pedal as included.
Check the full model name and what comes with the specific version or retailer’s bundle.
If a required pedal or suitable power solution is not included, you will need to arrange one separately.
Brands to compare
Yamaha
The PSR-E383 is a portable 61-key option for anyone looking for a self-contained instrument to practise on.
- According to Yamaha, the PSR-E383 has touch-sensitive keys, lesson functions and battery power.
- Its 61 keys offer a more limited range than an 88-key keyboard.
Korg
The B2 is a digital piano for anyone who values 88 weighted keys.
- According to Korg, the B2 has a metronome and a combined headphone and line output.
- Korg lists a width of 1.312 mm and a weight of 11,4 kg. Check whether the combined output suits your setup.
Alesis
The Recital Pro MKII is an 88-key option for anyone who wants to practise piano and needs a separate headphone output.
- For the MKII, Alesis specifies weighted hammer-action keys, a metronome, an included pedal and battery power.
- Don’t confuse the MKII with the older Recital Pro: connections and included accessories vary by version.
Joybuy products
These Joybuy products are 61-key options for anyone looking for a keyboard to practise scales in a rehearsal space.
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MLS-931 digital piano, 61 keys, black
An option for anyone looking for a 61-key instrument for scale practice.
61 keys.
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Electronic keyboard, 61 keys, black
An option for anyone looking for a 61-key instrument for practising on their own.
61 keys.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a special minor mode to practise minor scales?
For this choice, the key range, touch response and a useful metronome matter more than a special scale mode. Check that the range suits the exercises you want to play.
Can you practise with headphones while other people use the speakers?
It varies by model. Alesis says the headphone output on the Recital Pro MKII switches off the built-in speakers, so don’t assume that sound can play through both at once unless this is confirmed for the exact model.
What should you check when setting up and after use?
Check the space available, the correct power supply and the connections for your headphones or sound system. According to Korg, the B2 comes with an adapter, music rest and damper pedal; check again what is included with another model or bundle.
What if the keyboard you bought online doesn’t fit or breaks down too soon?
For online purchases made by consumers in the Netherlands, there is usually a statutory cooling-off period of up to 14 days after delivery, subject to legal exceptions. Products must also meet what you can reasonably expect of them; if a fault occurs through normal use, contact the seller about your statutory guarantee. ACM ConsuWijzer explains these consumer rights.
Is a CE logo independent approval of every keyboard?
No. The CE marking is the manufacturer’s declaration that the product meets the applicable EU requirements; it is not central approval by the EU. For a specific offer, check the product information and the requirements that apply to that version.