In recent times, major developments within the realm of digital keyboards has turned the humble piano into a powerful tool for creative expression. Today, a wide and incredibly varied range of instruments resembling classic pianos exist around the world, each with their own features and capabilities to appeal to professional musicians and newcomers alike.
While many experienced musicians are very likely to know exactly what they want in a piece of new equipment, hobbyists and casual enthusiasts can struggle to understand which digital keyboard is right for them. To help anyone new to the scene, let’s delve into the world of digital keyboards to explore what’s available and empower inexperienced musicians attempting to make the most sound investment possible.
Understanding the Current Keyboard Market
Individuals who have used a range of digital keyboards in the past will know that the market for new equipment has transformed rapidly in recent decades. While these musicians can simply read up on new keyboard reviews to get a good idea of what’s available within their price-range, the process of finding the right instrument is far more difficult for newcomers.
Since digital pianos, portable keyboards and many other specialized instruments entered the market and became widely available for purchase, the challenge of finding an instrument that includes all the features a novice musician needs has increased. Some keyboards will offer limited features and closely resemble acoustic pianos. Others, like the highly-specialized, battery powered microKORG might include extra buttons, dials and features that allow them to connect to a laptop or other pieces of musical equipment.
Before settling on a specific instrument, individuals should seriously consider which features they want the device to include as each addition in capability is likely to add to the instrument’s price tag. To navigate the current market, it can be helpful to ask a piano tutor for advice or read reviews and guides online to understand what each feature might be used for.
Digital Pianos vs Portable Keyboards: What’s the Difference?
In essence, both digital pianos and portable keyboards are electronic instruments used to produce sounds and melodies. Depending on preferences and how an individual plans to express themselves creatively, each variety has its own special features and characteristics.
Digital Pianos
Digital pianos are better suited to players who wish to more closely replicate the sensations and sounds experienced when playing a classic, acoustic piano. Their features include more keys than typical digital keyboards and these keys will typically be weighted to provide a more realistic experience. In addition, digital pianos might have limited features relating to recording capabilities and may or may not allow their owner to connect the device via Bluetooth to other devices.
Individuals may choose to purchase a digital piano because they’re often more affordable than other, more feature-rich instruments and are likely to require less maintenance over their lifetime. For these reasons, digital pianos are favored by novice musicians who have the space in their homes to accommodate one.
Portable Keyboards
On the other hand, portable keyboards are valued for their compact size. These instruments are typically lightweight to make them easier to transport and are ideal for musicians who perform in public settings. Individuals who have limited space in their homes may also choose to purchase a portable digital keyboard because they’re easier to store away when not in use.
Often, portable digital keyboards will feature built-in speakers and a range of capabilities designed to make learning how to play simpler for beginners. This choice of piano also comes in at a variety of price points, making them ideal for individuals on a budget or musicians who move around a lot for their art.
Key Considerations to Make When Choosing a Keyboard
If an acoustic piano is not the ideal choice for someone looking to invest in a new instrument, there are a variety of factors one should consider before making a purchase:
- Budget: Instruments of all varieties can be a significant investment in both time and money. Be sure to consider how much time and cash will be needed to purchase and enjoy a digital piano or keyboard to the fullest.
- Sound Quality: It’s always a good idea to test out the instrument before purchase if possible. Make sure to listen carefully to the kinds of sounds the instrument can create and avoid buying equipment that doesn’t produce the right sounds.
- Size and Portability: Before settling on a specific kind of keyboard, pay attention to how much space it will take up when it’s in use. If space is limited within a home or studio, consider options that will be easy to transport and store away.
- Skill Level: Digital instruments can vary greatly and some devices are far better than others for beginners. Depending on individual skill level, choose an instrument that will bring the most benefits and enjoyment to the learning experience.
- Additional Features: Read up on the additional features offered by the instrument and make sure the best one within a given price-range has all the capabilities needed to maximize enjoyment as well as creative expression.
It’s useful to keep in mind that built-in effects to manipulate how an instrument sounds can elevate the creative process. While choosing the ideal keyboard, don’t be afraid of trying out any features the instrument may include. The act of playing an instrument is meant to be enjoyable and beneficial for a wide variety of reasons relating cognitive performance and wellbeing. Embracing unique features can lead to new sounds and discoveries if individuals are brave enough to try new things.
Exploring Special Features and Unique Functionalities
Today, the act of creating and producing music has evolved in leaps and bounds. Modern musicians will often make use of synthesizers and software to create the perfect combinations of sounds. To accurately record and create for a variety of modern music genres, digital keyboards now come with a host of unique features to facilitate this new style of creating music.
No matter which functionalities are most valued to a specific composer or musician, basic tactile features relating to touch sensitivity remain important. The way an instrument feels can greatly impact how a musician interacts with it and can help or hinder the creative process in a variety of ways.