For chordal accompaniment and singers performing in different keys, a touch-sensitive keyboard with transposition may be enough. Just check that its range suits the parts you need to play. If you need a written-out piano part with a wider range or a piano-style touch, compare 76-key models with an 88-key instrument. Also think about how the singers will hear you: built-in speakers, a headphone output and separate audio outputs do not necessarily serve the same purpose.
If you play parts for different singers, look at the transposition options and how easy they are to use during a rehearsal. Yamaha specifies a transposition range of −12 to +12 semitones for the PSR-EW320.
For two-handed parts, range and key action may matter more than automatic accompaniment. Yamaha specifies an 88-key GHC keyboard for the P-145; Roland lists an 88-key PHA-4 Standard keyboard for the FP-30X.
If you need to set the instrument up each time or let the group hear you, its dimensions, power supply and connections to the available sound equipment are all important considerations.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Key and accompaniment | Check the transposition function and how it works on the exact model. Compare the keyboard’s range with your part; accompaniment styles are no substitute for a written-out piano part. | If I accompany singers in different keys, I want to transpose quickly and have enough keys for my parts. Around 29% of consumers prioritise key and chordal accompaniment. |
| Range and piano-style touch | Compare the lowest and highest notes in your part with the keyboard’s range. Also check how the exact model describes its key action. | If I play a written-out piano part, I want the range and touch to suit it. Around 29% of consumers give range and piano-style touch top priority. |
| Setup, transport and power | Measure the available space and allow for sheet music and cables. Check the weight, power options and what is included with the instrument. | If I need to move or store the instrument after rehearsals, I want it to fit the available space and be practical to power. Around 21% of consumers prioritise setup space and transport. |
| Being heard and connections | Ask what speakers or other equipment are available in the studio. Check that the connection you need matches the output on the exact instrument. | If the whole group needs to hear the accompaniment, I want to know how the instrument can connect to the studio setup. Around 21% of consumers prioritise being heard by the group and having the right connections. |
Descriptions of key action vary between models. Korg lists touch-sensitive LS keys for the Liano; Yamaha specifies a GHC keyboard for the P-145.
If piano-style touch is essential, compare the action on the exact models and try them out for yourself where possible.
Using headphones as the pianist does not automatically let the singers hear you. The Korg Liano has a combined headphone/line-out connection; Roland lists separate outputs for external powered speakers on the FP-30X.
First decide how the group will listen, then compare the instrument’s output with the equipment in the studio.
Depending on the equipment available, you may need suitable cables or external powered speakers.
A wider range alone does not tell you about the touch, transport or space the instrument takes up. The models mentioned have different types of keyboard and stated dimensions.
Compare the range of your part with the key action, dimensions, weight and what is included in the offer.
Yamaha offers different options in the models mentioned: compact accompaniment, 76 keys or an 88-key instrument.
Casio offers both a 76-key model and a more compact keyboard option with automatic rhythm patterns.
The Liano is an 88-key option for anyone weighing up a full range against a low stated weight.
The FP-30X is a portable digital piano option with a full keyboard and connections for external powered speakers.
The ES120 is an 88-key option for piano parts and setups with separate audio outputs.
This selection focuses on compact 61-key keyboards for chordal accompaniment. Check that the range and connections suit your score and rehearsal studio.
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Could suit chordal accompaniment and vocal parts that can be played on 61 keys.
The product name lists 61 keys and a weighted keyboard. The product description mentions transposition, automatic bass chords, 300 rhythms, built-in stereo speakers, a headphone socket and USB-MIDI; the product name also lists 300 tones.
For musical theatre parts that need a wider range, 61 keys may be limiting. Also check what ‘weighted keyboard’ means in terms of the touch you’re looking for.
Compare a representative musical theatre part with the range of the exact instrument. Note the lowest and highest notes you need to play; the number of keys alone does not tell you whether the touch will suit your preferences.
Not through the headphones alone. Check whether you can use the built-in speakers or connect the instrument to suitable external powered speakers. Korg lists a combined headphone/line-out connection for the Liano; Roland lists separate outputs for the FP-30X.
Check the dimensions and power options for the exact model, and follow the supplied manual for safe use. Korg lists a mains adapter as included with the Liano; check separately what comes in the box with other offers.
According to the Dutch government, there is no fixed statutory guarantee period in the Netherlands. If there is a problem with a product, contact the seller to find a solution.
Electrical and electronic equipment sold in the Netherlands must comply with the applicable European product rules. The Dutch government refers to CE marking and an EU declaration of conformity where required; the rules that apply depend in part on the product and any wireless functions. CE marking alone says nothing about playing feel or sound.
