If you want to demonstrate and practise the same passage, a documented Duo, Twin Piano, Partner or Duet function can be useful. For two different parts, first check that their notes fit on the standard keyboard. Yamaha, Roland, Korg and Casio document these functions for specific models, but the playing areas may divide up the available range. Then check that the instrument suits your needs for listening together, recording and setting up your home studio.
You want to play a score together. Check that both parts fit on the keyboard in their intended registers; a practice mode with two equal halves does not automatically give you the right layout. Yamaha documents separate Split and Duo functions for the P-225.
You want to sit side by side and play the same notes. Look for the Duo, Twin Piano, Partner or Duet function in the documentation for the exact model. Yamaha, Roland, Korg and Casio describe these functions for specific instruments.
You want to listen together without filling the room with sound, or record your playing as part of a studio setup. Check how many headphone sockets there are and whether they suit the recording setup you want. Roland and Kawai list two headphone sockets on specific models.
Start with the sheet music: decide whether you’ll play two different parts on the standard keyboard or practise the same passage on two similar playing areas. Then consider listening, recording and the space needed for your complete setup.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Range for two parts | Note the lowest and highest notes in both parts and compare them with the standard keyboard range and the layout of any duet mode. | If we’re playing different parts, I want to be able to reach the notes in their intended registers. This is the top priority for around 33% of consumers choosing this duet setup. |
| Two equal playing areas | Check the manual for the exact model to see how Duo, Twin Piano, Partner Mode or Duet Play divides the keyboard and how the pedals are assigned. | If we want to demonstrate the same passage to each other, I’m looking for playing areas with a similar range. Around 27% of consumers prioritise matching playing areas when making this choice. |
| Listening together quietly | Check the number of headphone sockets, the plug type and what happens to the speakers when headphones are connected. | If we both want to practise quietly, I want us to be able to listen at the same time. Around 20% of consumers consider this the most important feature. |
| Recording and connections | Decide whether you want to record audible audio or MIDI performance data, then check the connections and any equipment you may need. | If I want to listen back to rehearsals or use studio equipment, the connection needs to support the signal I need. Around 13% of consumers prioritise recording or connections. |
| Space and setup | Measure the available space and check whether a stand and pedal are included and compatible with each version. | If space is limited in my home studio, I want to know whether the instrument and the necessary setup will fit. Around 7% of consumers start by considering space and what’s included in the setup. |
A mode that divides the keyboard into two similar playing areas gives each player access to only part of the instrument’s physical range. This can leave the low or high notes in a part outside the intended playing area.
First, compare the lowest and highest notes in both parts with the standard keyboard layout. Then check whether duet mode works for the specific piece you want to practise.
Yamaha lists 61 keys and a Duo mode for the PSR-E383. This gives it a more limited physical range than the 88-key options mentioned here; Duo also divides the keyboard into two playing areas.
Check both parts note by note, and choose a more compact keyboard only if its range and touch response suit your practice needs.
The Korg B2+SP comes with a stand and a three-pedal unit. Roland lists the stand and pedals as optional for the FP-30X, so what’s included can vary.
Compare the contents of the exact package and check that the stand and pedal are compatible with the instrument.
MIDI performance data, audible audio output and two headphone sockets all serve different purposes. A connection that works for quiet playing together doesn’t necessarily mean you can record the rehearsal in the way you want.
First, decide who needs to hear what and whether you want to record audio or MIDI. A recording setup may also need a suitable cable, adapter or audio interface, so check what you need for your preferred connection method.
Yamaha documents 88 keys and separate Split and Duo functions for the P-225. The PSR-E383 is a touch-sensitive keyboard with 61 keys and a Duo mode.
Roland documents Twin Piano, two headphone outputs and separate audio outputs for the FP-30X.
Korg documents Partner Mode for the B2+. The B2+SP comes with a stand and a three-pedal unit.
Casio lists the PX-S1100BK as having a depth of 232 mm. The PX-S1100 manual documents Duet Play.
Kawai lists Dual and Split modes, two headphone sockets and separate stereo Line Out sockets for the ES120.
No. Roland describes Split Play as zones to which different sounds can be assigned, and Twin Piano separately as a layout for two people. Check the model’s manual to see which pitches are actually assigned to each playing area.
Look up the instructions for Duo, Twin Piano, Partner Mode or Duet Play for your specific model, then test the range and pedals with a short passage. Korg documents Partner Mode for the B2+, while Roland lists Twin Piano for the FP-30X.
Stop using the instrument. Kawai’s safety instructions for the ES120 say that, in cases such as a liquid spill or abnormal heat, you should unplug it and contact the seller. For another model, follow its own manual.
No. According to ACM ConsuWijzer, your legal guarantee applies even without buying an additional warranty. If a product breaks sooner than you could reasonably expect under normal use, the seller is responsible for providing an appropriate remedy; there is no fixed statutory warranty period for every piano.
According to Ondernemersplein, electrical and electronic equipment must comply with the applicable European rules. Where the relevant requirements call for it, the manufacturer must apply a CE mark and draw up an EU declaration of conformity. Bluetooth products may also be subject to radio equipment rules.
