Choosing the right Digital Keyboard
By Matt Jamison
Choosing the right electronic or digital keyboard to suit your needs will require some research and hands on time. Never make the mistake of purchasing a keyboard without first physically playing it at your local music store. Electric or digital keyboards come in many styles , functions, manufacturers and pricing. Your budget will most probably be the deciding factor in your purchase with functionality and style coming in second and third. Although many professional piano teachers insist on students purchase based on functionality.
In regards to functionality , a weighted or semi-weighted Keyboard is a great choice for a beginner keyboard/piano student. Weighted or Semi weighted keyboard have a similar feel of a acoustic piano when the keys are pressed. Weighted Keyboards help the beginner and experienced player build or continue to build finger strength and is very helpful when transitioning to an acoustic piano. Below are a few digital keyboards to consider purchasing .
Alesis Recital Digital Keyboard
A good starter 88 Key semi-weighted digital keyboard is the Alesis Recital , priced at around $219 USD.
Alesis Recital Pro Digital Keyboard
Alesis Recital Pro is a great fully weighted 88 Keys digital keyboard available for $379 USD
Yamaha P71 Digital Keyboard
The Yamaha 88-Key weighted digital keyboard . Priced at around $479 USD.
Yamaha Piagerro N-12 Digital Keyboard
The Yamaha Paigerro N12 is a 61 Key Lightweight portable keyboard. Available in black or white and priced at around $219 USD . (Adapter sold separately)
The Yamaha NP-12 is recommended for beginners because of ease of portability ( small spaces and uses 6 AA batteries ) , functionality and price . There are no confusing buttons or controls , which allows the beginner to concentrate on learning how to play. However the Yamaha NP12 is not a weighted keyboard and is limited to 61 keys but is very versatile and can be used in many musical environments.
Youtube Review of the NP-12 Yamaha NP12
Please see the below links for additional keyboards that we recommend as well but may be priced a bit higher Top 5 Digital Keyboards