Start by finding a stable place for your sheet music and a keyboard that feels comfortable to play. Then decide how you want to listen at home and whether you want to connect the piano to a computer. A model with built-in speakers can be convenient for practising on its own, while a speakerless stage piano may suit you if you already have suitable headphones or an audio setup. Also check which stand, pedals and connections you need.
If you often learn new pieces from paper or a tablet, a music stand that keeps the score stable and easy to see can make a real difference. Korg lists a stand as included with the D1, and Kawai does the same for the ES920.
If you pay attention to dynamics and pedalling as you read, you can compare the keyboards and pedal configurations of different models. Manufacturers describe their weighted keyboards in different ways, so try the action for yourself if possible.
If you want to connect the piano to a computer or an existing audio setup, check the USB, MIDI and audio connections, as well as the listening options, for each model.
First, decide how you want to position your sheet music and play the keyboard. Then work out whether you need built-in speakers, headphones or studio audio.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Positioning sheet music | Check whether a stand is included and whether it can hold paper or a tablet securely. | If I want to keep my score clearly in view while playing, I pay attention to the stand’s position and viewing angle. For shoppers who prioritise sheet music placement, this accounts for around 31% of considerations. |
| Keyboard and pedal | If possible, try the action and check which pedal is included. | If I’m learning new pieces while working on dynamics and pedalling, I want to know how the keyboard responds. Shoppers who prioritise keyboard feel account for around 25% of considerations. |
| Listening at home | Decide whether you’ll use built-in speakers or need headphones or external audio. | If I want to practise without extra equipment, I check whether the instrument has its own speakers. Shoppers who prioritise listening at home without extra equipment account for around 19% of considerations. |
| Computer and studio audio | Check which USB, MIDI and audio functions are supported by each model’s connections. | If I want to use the piano with software or my studio equipment, the connection needs to support the function I need. For shoppers who prioritise studio connections, this accounts for around 13% of considerations. |
| Complete setup | Check which stand, pedals and listening equipment are included with each offer. | If I don’t already have a permanent setup at home, I want to know in advance which parts I already own and which ones I need. Shoppers who prioritise a complete setup account for around 12% of considerations. |
Korg says the D1 has no speakers, while Roland lists built-in stereo speakers for the RD-88 EX. Listening options can therefore vary from one model to another.
Before you buy, decide whether you want to listen through headphones, external audio or built-in speakers, and check that the connections are compatible with your equipment.
You’ll need suitable headphones or an external audio setup to listen to the speakerless D1.
The fact that a rest is available for a model doesn’t automatically mean it comes with the specific offer you’re considering. Yamaha lists the YMR-04 as a rest for the CP88; check what’s included with your chosen offer.
Check whether the rest is included and whether it can hold your paper or tablet securely.
A suitable music rest may be a separate accessory.
A keyboard on its own doesn’t automatically make a complete home setup. For example, Korg says the stand for the D1 is sold separately.
Make a list of the stand, pedals and listening equipment you need, then compare it with what you already have.
Depending on your existing setup, you may need a stand or listening equipment.
The Korg D1 is a slim stage piano with no built-in speakers, designed for uses including practice and live performance.
According to Roland, the RD-88 EX combines a stage piano with built-in speakers and USB audio/MIDI.
Kawai positions the ES920 as a portable digital piano for home, studio and stage use.
The CP88 is a stage piano with a weighted 88-key keyboard and multiple audio outputs.
The Nord Piano 6 88 is designed for playing piano alongside piano and synthesiser layers.
Yes, if you use suitable headphones or an external listening setup. Korg lists a headphone output and a line output for the D1; check that they’ll connect to your equipment.
Check whether your chosen model comes with a suitable rest, then see if you can position your paper or tablet at a comfortable viewing height. Korg lists a stand with the D1, while Kawai lists a detachable stand with the ES920. Yamaha lists the YMR-04 as an accessory for the CP88; check whether it’s included with your offer.
For many distance purchases made by consumers from a business, there is a 14-day cooling-off period, according to the Dutch government. This doesn’t apply to online purchases from a private individual. Before ordering, check the returns policy and how you can send back a large instrument.
No. According to the Dutch government, there is no fixed statutory guarantee period in the Netherlands. You are entitled to a product that works as it should, and you can contact the seller if there’s a problem. An additional manufacturer’s or retailer’s guarantee doesn’t replace this right.
