Information about purchasing a 88 key digital keyboard
Here is a list of some important elements to consider:-
1. Is the keyboard touch sensitive?
This is extremely important. To test this try playing the instrument by striking a key gently, and then with more force. There should be a noticable difference in volume. High quality keyboards will be able to handle very subtle differences. Find out more about the different types of touch sensitive keys.
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2. Does the keyboard or digital piano have weighted action keys?
Another important issue. Weighted action keys simulate the feel of a real piano. Upright or grand pianos have a resistance to the key, due to the mechanisms involved in enabling the hammer to strick the strings. Electronic keyboards and digital pianos can simulate this action by small weights which are associated with each key. Weighted action keyboards normally are closer to grand pianos in feel (which are generally lighter in touch than most upright acoustic pianos). |
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3.
What is the quality of the digital instruments like?
A simple test is to strike and hold down one of the keys near the top of the keyboard (one of the high notes) and listen to how the sound (such as a piano sound) decays. Is there any crackling or fuzz as the sound finally disappears? If this is the case then you know that you are dealing with a cheap keyboard and it is probably wiser to move on!
4. What is the overall sound quality like?
Check to see what the amplifier specification is - anything under 1 watts should be avoided.
5. What connectors does the keyboard have?
You will need to check that the digital instrument has a sustaining pedal port, a midi out and in, and a headphone socket. Other useful connectors are a USB port, an audio imput for amplifing other instruments through the keyboard (usually only available in more expensive models, such as the Yamaha P95) and an audio output (usually a jack socket) for ampifying the keyboard externally.
6. How heavy is the instrument?
Will this keyboard normally live in the home, or does it need to be moved around? Full 88 note keyboards are large instruments to lift, and if they are also 'weighted action' they can be very heavy - older models are often over 4 stone in weight. Semi-weighted keyboards are a lighter alternative and are often used for live work or when a keyboard needs to be frequently moved from place to place. If you are looking for a portable keyboard, also consider 77 note versions or 5 octave keyboards (61 note).
Thinking about a dedicated sound card for creating a home studio for your keyboard? Here's some advice about purchasing the best type of USB sound card.
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