Digital Pianos
Digital pianos are also referred to as piano synthesizers, portable pianos or weighed keyboards.
They differ from electronic keyboards in that they feel and sound almost identical to a real acoustic piano.
Most digital keyboards aim to look exactly like upright or grand pianos. Because of the weighted keys this is achievable. They also feature an embedded internal speaker.
There are many renowned manufacturers of digital pianos, including:
- Casio
- Yamaha
- Korg
- Roland
- Kawai
- Clavia
- Kurzweil
There are many benefits to owning a digital piano over an acoustic piano, including:
- They do not need to be tuned
- They are much lighter and easier to transport
- They cost much less than standard pianos
Digital pianos can play a number of different sounds including the organ and harpsichord. They are often used in schools to reduce cost and space issues.
These digital pianos can come in many different forms with different components including:
Console models
- Look like electronic organs or spinet harpsichords
- Often have real pedals
- Much more compact than acoustic pianos, in depth and height
- Not as portable as other models
Upright models
- Contemporary design
- Resemble acoustic upright pianos
- Ideal for home use
- Sometimes have wooden keys rather than plastic
Grand models
- The least common form of digital piano
- Precision keyboard
- High quality sound system built in to mirror real grand piano strings
- Higher in price
Stage models
- Made for live performances and recording studios
- Do not resemble an acoustic piano physically
- Usually used with a PA system
Portable models
- Similar features to a digital keyboard
- Very affordable
- Lighter in weight for easier transportation
- Ideal for home, school, stage or studio
There are many accessories available to buy for you to get the most from your digital piano, including:
- Headphones
- Stands
- Adaptors
- Foot pedals and switches
- Speakers
- Stools
- Keyboard cases and bags