When you’re looking to buy a piano, a digital piano can be a much better option than a standard acoustic piano. Especially when you’re a beginner. Some of the many benefits of a digital piano are that they take up less space, they never need tuning, and they are immune to temperature and humidity fluctuations.
When you are just starting out, it’s also important to note digital pianos are generally cheaper than acoustic ones. Of course, the best feature they have is the ability to use them with headphones, allowing you to practise without anyone hearing you.
Here are four important things for you to consider when buying a digital piano for a beginner.
An Eighty-Eight Note Keyboard Is Essential
Every modern acoustic piano has a total of eighty-eight keys: fifty-two white and thirty-six black keys. So it is really important that you find a digital keyboard with the same number. Anything less and it’ll always feel not quite right. It may cost you a bit extra, but it’s definitely worth it. You should also make sure that the keys are a standard width of approximately 23mm. Beware of the cheap, toy-like versions on the market today.
Don’t Buy Bells and Whistles You Won’t Use
The vast majority of features on your digital piano will go unused – trust me on this! So when you are looking to buy, don’t go for hundreds of different instrumental sounds and all the extra lights and buttons.
The settings you will use the most will be the acoustic and electronic piano, and bass. Sometimes the jazz organ.
One extra that is worthwhile is a built-in metronome, which is much better than having a separate one on top of your piano.
Another useful extra to consider is the split keyboard option. This is something solo piano players use when accompanying themselves while singing at gigs. It allows them to play bass with their left hand while playing a melody or chords with their right.
Make Sure Your Piano Keys Have a ‘Weighted Action’
The cheaper models of digital pianos have plastic keys, while the more expensive models have synthetic ivory keys, providing a more realistic experience. These keys will improve your grip and help you develop your skill to play expressively. Manufacturers also use a weight action, making the keys feel more like a traditional piano. Without this, playing a digital piano can feel like playing the organ.
Sound Quality Is Key
Beginners don’t really need to have high-quality sounds and tones, but it is always good practice to buy the best digital piano you can afford. Obviously, the higher your budget the better the sound quality will be.
You must also consider speakers; here, you are looking for quality and volume. Make sure you ask about the power output and size of your speakers.
At Markson Pianos, we have a comprehensive range of digital pianos from top manufacturers. Pop into our London piano showroom to try them out or browse our digital piano range online.