Since I started working at Sweetwater earlier this year, many people, including customers, friends, and family, have asked me a question that goes something like this: “I’m looking for an 88-key digital piano for myself (or my son/daughter/friend). I want something to practice/gig on that has a weighted feel. I’m not looking to spend too much, and I want it to be lightweight. What are your recommendations?” Here’s my three cents minus one.
For me, the most important thing with any piano-style keyboard is the feel. If you don’t like the feel, touch, weight, or texture of the keys, then it won’t matter if the keyboard has a huge library of sounds, great onboard speakers, computer/app compatibility, or whatever bells and whistles. Eventually, you will become dissatisfied with the physical act of playing the instrument — which should be the most enjoyable part! Keep in mind that many keyboard actions are graded, meaning the low end is weighted heavier than the high end, as you’d find on a real acoustic piano. If you need an acoustic-like touch, then graded action is a necessity.
Next, consider if you need specific features such as a metronome, accompaniment tracks (such as drums and bass), or built-in speakers. Then think of what styles of music you’ll play on the instrument. This will inform what sounds you should look for in the keyboard, other than piano. Examples might include Clavinet, Rhodes, Wurlitzer, strings, or synth sounds.
I regularly venture into Sweetwater’s Music Store and explore the vast collection of keyboards. I like playing the weighted digital pianos and then going straight to an acoustic piano to compare the feel. On one visit, Clete Goens, Sweetwater’s resident tamer of black-and-white-keyed acoustic beasts, suggested I try out the Roland FP-30. I’ll admit that I haven’t owned a Roland keyboard before (I’ve mostly played Yamaha and Nord), but the weighted feel of the FP-30 made an impression on me. The meticulous design of the weighted touch is extremely apparent. The grands and electric pianos sounded great, too.
I also tried out the brand-new Yamaha P-125. It’s definitely an improvement over the P-115 and has a solid, weighted feel. Yamaha’s consistent quality is the reason why I’ve gigged with my faithful P-95 from high school through today. You just can’t beat the feel, sound, and simple controls. The P-125 also has a new integrated app that can control the entire keyboard from an iOS device.
If you or someone you know is in the market for an affordable, lightweight, 88-key digital piano, then I recommend adding these two keyboards to the top of your “must check out” list.