A duet playing four hands
Two players perform their parts at the same time on one full keyboard, so key action, register range and pedal use are especially important. Yamaha and Korg describe 88-key models as examples of a standard keyboard range.
Who is this choice relevant to?
A duet practising passages side by side
You want to play the same pitch ranges on both halves of the keyboard. Korg and Casio describe modes that split the keyboard for this type of practice; check how the layout works with your score.
A duet that moves between studios
You need to transport the instrument and set up a suitable listening arrangement at each venue. Weight, connections, and whether a stand and pedals are included are all important considerations.
What should you look for in a piano duet?
First decide whether you’ll play from the score across the standard keyboard or practise the same passages side by side. Then consider pedal use, portability and the studio’s listening setup.
| What to consider | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Keyboard range | Compare the score with the standard range and the range available in any duo mode. Yamaha and Korg specify 88 keys for the models mentioned. | If our parts use different registers, I want to know whether the standard keyboard range is enough. Around 33% of consumers say range is their top buying priority. |
| Key action and pedal | Play together and check which pedal is included and what it controls in the selected mode. On the Korg B2+, the included pedal controls the right-hand side in partner mode. | When we need to coordinate dynamics and pedal use, I want to know whether the key action and pedal controls suit our parts. Around 27% of consumers put the playing feel and pedal setup first. |
| Transport and setup | Check the weight and which stand and pedals are included. Yamaha lists the P-225 at 11,5 kg; Kawai Nederland lists the ES120 at 12,5 kg. | If we take the instrument between rehearsal spaces, I want to know in advance how heavy it is and what we’ll need to set up at the venue. Around 20% of consumers make transport and setup their top priority. |
| Listening and connections | Check the number and type of outputs, and whether the studio uses headphones or external speakers. Roland lists dual headphone outputs and outputs for powered speakers for the FP-30X. | If we want to practise quietly together or play through studio speakers, I want to know whether the connections suit our setup. Around 20% of consumers prioritise listening and connections. |
Avoiding common buying mistakes
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Confusing duet mode with the standard keyboard range
A mode with two similar playing areas splits the keyboard. As a result, notes in a conventional four-hand part may fall outside one player’s range.
Check the split point and playing areas in the manual, then try them with your own score.
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Assuming every headphone output supports two players
The number and function of connections vary by model. Roland lists dual headphone outputs for the FP-30X; Korg specifies one PHONES socket for the B2+, which also serves as a line out.
Check the connections on the exact version and make sure they suit your studio’s listening setup.
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Assuming a stand and pedals are included
The stand and PU-2 pedal unit are sold separately for the Korg B2+. In partner mode, the included pedal controls the right-hand side.
Compare what’s included in the offer with the stand and pedal requirements of both players.
Piano duet brands to consider
Yamaha
The portable P-225 may be worth considering if you’re looking for a standard 88-key keyboard and a documented duo function.
- Yamaha lists a GHC keyboard, duo mode and a weight of 11,5 kg for the P-225.
- Duo mode isn’t the same as playing across the full, unsplit range of a conventional four-hand piece. Consider your preferred listening and pedal setup, too.
Roland
The FP-30X may suit you if two players want to listen through headphones or the studio uses powered speakers.
- Roland specifies an 88-key PHA-4 Standard keyboard, dual headphone outputs and separate outputs for powered speakers.
- These are manufacturer specifications, not an independent comparison of sound or key action.
Korg
The B2+ is a portable digital piano with a documented partner mode for practising side by side.
- Korg specifies 88 keys and a weight of 11,4 kg for the B2+.
- In partner mode, the ranges are fixed and the included pedal controls the right-hand side. Independent sustain on the left requires the additional pedal unit described by Korg; the model has one PHONES/line-out socket.
Casio
The CDP-S350BK is a portable option with a documented duet mode for two players practising similar passages side by side.
- Casio describes an 88-key keyboard and a mode that gives the left and right sides the same pitch range.
- Duet mode doesn’t automatically provide the full, unsplit range of a four-hand score. Casio lists an optional SP-34 for certain extended pedal functions.
Kawai
The portable ES120 is worth considering if you need to take the instrument to your rehearsal space. The fixed KDP120 is another option if the piano will stay in the studio.
- Kawai Nederland lists the ES120 at 12,5 kg, with optional stand and pedal components. Kawai documents a four-hand mode for the KDP120.
- Don’t assume the KDP120’s four-hand mode is also available on the ES120 without separate confirmation. Check that the KDP120’s mode suits your score.
Joybuy products for this setup
The Joybuy products below are electronic instruments with 61 keys. That’s a smaller range than the standard 88-key keyboard that may be suitable for a full four-hand part, so check in advance that the range works for your music.
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MLS-931 digital piano, 61 keys
With 61 keys, this instrument has a smaller range than an 88-key keyboard; check whether it suits your parts.
The product name lists weighted keys, 300 sounds, 300 rhythms, an LCD screen, USB-MIDI, speakers, a headphone socket and a music stand.
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Electronic keyboard, 61 keys
With 61 keys, this instrument has a smaller range than an 88-key keyboard; compare its range with your duet score.
The product name lists a MIDI controller, recording function, speakers, metronome and music stand. The product description mentions USB-MIDI and a headphone output.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need duo mode for a conventional four-hand score?
Not necessarily. In the B2+ partner mode described by Korg, the left and right sides have separate playing areas with fixed ranges. Try the score on the standard keyboard first; the mode is designed for situations where two players practise similar passages side by side.
Can two players practise with headphones at the same time?
It depends on the model. Roland lists dual headphone outputs for the FP-30X; Korg specifies one PHONES socket for the B2+, which also serves as a line out. Check the connections on the version you choose and the studio’s listening setup.
What should I check when setting it up?
Place the instrument on a stable surface and check which power supply, stand and pedals are actually included. Korg lists a mains adaptor and damper pedal as included with the B2+, while the stand and additional pedal unit are sold separately. Follow the manual for the version you choose.
Do I need an extra warranty if the piano breaks down in the Netherlands?
You don’t need an extra warranty to benefit from your statutory rights. According to the Government of the Netherlands, if you have a problem with a product, you should contact the seller. An additional warranty may be useful if its terms offer more rights than the statutory guarantee.
Which European product rules are relevant when buying?
Specific EU rules may apply to electrical or electronic equipment, requiring CE marking. According to the European Commission, CE marking applies to products covered by such rules; on its own, it doesn’t confirm that a particular model on offer has been checked. Review the documentation for the exact version.