Choose a piano with a touch that suits the way you practise, and consider how you want to listen at home. If you’re recording, you’ll also need to distinguish between MIDI performance data and the actual piano sound. Check the connections on each model and see what extra equipment your setup requires.
You want to practise notes and dynamics at your own pace. A keyboard that suits your playing goals and a comfortable way to listen matter more than a large sound library. Yamaha, Roland and Kawai describe different keyboards for the models mentioned here.
You share your living space and want to switch between headphones and playing out loud. Check the listening options on each model. For example, Yamaha specifies built-in speakers and a headphone socket on the CK88.
You want to use your melody in a computer project and need to decide whether you need MIDI performance data, piano sound or both. Yamaha and Roland describe USB audio on the CK88 and RD-88 EX; Kawai specifies USB-MIDI and stereo line outputs, among other features, on the ES120.
Best for: practising independently and switching between headphones and playing out loud. Yamaha specifies built-in speakers and a headphone socket on the CK88; Roland lists built-in stereo speakers on the RD-88 EX.
Keep in mind: check which recording features you’ll actually use. Extra performance features aren’t automatically necessary for learning a single melody.
Best for: practising piano at home when extensive live controls are less important. Kawai positions the ES120 for home and stage use.
Keep in mind: according to Kawai, the ES120 has USB-MIDI and stereo line outputs. To record its piano sound, you’ll need to set up the audio connection separately.
Best for: anyone considering the Yamaha CP88 for its specified 88-key keyboard with NW-GH3 keys.
Keep in mind: decide in advance how you want to listen at home. Don’t assume the CP88 has the same built-in listening options as a model that specifies speakers.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this most relevant to? |
|---|---|---|
| Touch and melody control | Try the touch for yourself if possible. Yamaha specifies 88 GHS keys on the CK88, while Roland specifies 88 PHA-4 keys on the RD-88 EX. | If you want to learn notes and dynamics carefully, look for a keyboard that suits your playing goals. Around 31% of consumers prioritise touch and melody control. |
| Quiet practice | Check for a headphone socket and whether the model also has built-in speakers. | If you share your living space, you’ll want to practise without disturbing others, as well as play out loud from time to time. Around 25% of consumers prioritise being able to practise quietly. |
| Connecting to your home studio | Decide whether you want to record MIDI performance data or the piano sound, then check which connection you’ll need. | If you want to use the melody in a computer project, decide in advance which signal your recording software needs to receive. Around 25% of consumers prioritise studio recording. |
| Space and playing setup | Measure the space for the piano and check which stand or pedal unit comes with your chosen package. | If the piano needs to fit into a home studio, you’ll also need to consider your playing space and any accessories you need. For around 19% of consumers, space and the overall setup are the top priority. |
MIDI transmits performance data; it isn’t the same as an audio recording of your piano’s sound.
First decide whether you want to edit the notes or record the piano sound. Then check which audio outputs and connections you’ll need.
Depending on your instrument and existing studio setup, you may need a separate audio connection or additional recording equipment.
Yamaha specifies built-in speakers on the CK88, and Roland does the same for the RD-88 EX. That doesn’t mean every other model offers the same listening options.
Check the speakers, headphone socket and audio outputs on the exact model before deciding how you’ll listen at home.
If your chosen listening setup requires equipment you don’t already have, you may need to buy extra gear.
Kawai lists a stand and a triple pedal unit as optional accessories for the ES120. An image alone doesn’t confirm what’s included in a specific package.
Compare the package contents with the stand and pedals you need for your practice space.
A stand or pedal unit may be an extra purchase if it isn’t included in your chosen package.
According to Yamaha, the CK88 combines piano, organ and synth sounds with built-in speakers and USB audio. The CP88 is a piano-focused stage piano with a different specified keyboard.
According to Roland, the RD-88 EX combines a keyboard and built-in speakers with connections for computer instruments.
Kawai positions the ES120 as a portable digital piano for home and stage use. It may suit you if practising piano at home matters more than extensive stage controls.
No. USB-MIDI on its own doesn’t mean you’re recording the piano sound. Kawai describes MIDI as the exchange of performance data with computer software. Decide whether you want to capture MIDI notes or the sound itself, then check the audio connections on your chosen model.
Measure your playing space and check the connections you need for headphones, a computer and any pedals. Follow the instructions for your specific instrument when connecting the power supply. For the ES120, Kawai specifies a mains socket with the prescribed voltage and the supplied power adaptor.
For a consumer purchase in the Netherlands, statutory guarantees apply alongside any manufacturer’s or seller’s guarantee. According to ACM, the seller is responsible for providing a solution if the product doesn’t meet what you could reasonably expect under normal use. This depends on the circumstances, not on one fixed guarantee period.
For a standard online consumer purchase in the Netherlands, you generally have a statutory cooling-off period of up to and including 14 days after delivery. ACM notes that exceptions apply, so check the trial and returns conditions before ordering. For an in-store purchase, you don’t automatically have the same right if you change your mind.
