Electric Keyboards Buying Guide
Whether you are a beginner looking to learn a bit about playing the
piano or a seasoned player, there is an ample selection of
computers. On the other hand, there are some basic features that should be considered when buying one's first keyboard.
* '''Key number''': Key number, or in other words, the size, is important depending on how you plan to use the piano. Is this for at home use? Or are you planning to play it elsewhere, say in a lesson or performance? Most keyboards range from the portable and versatile
weighted keyboards which will react more like a real piano with the ability to be turned on or off.
* '''
Headphone jack''': Virtually all models come equiped with this, so as to not disturb anyone while practicing.
* '''Effects''': All keyboards come with some, such as chorus, reverb, delay, echoing, and more. The idea is that the more you pay, the more fun effects you get for your price.
* '''Lefthand override feature to layer and play splits. This way, you can play a guitar sound on the left side while playing an organ sound with the right.
* '''
Speakers''': All keyboards have their speakers built into the model. If you find that a higher volume of sound is needed, you can always invest in an additional set.
* '''Demo songs: '''For educational purposes, demo songs offer a great way to start learning simple songs, basic chords, and develop an ability to read
music.
* '''Recording''': Keyboards that offer a recording feature are great to see how you progress from one lesson to the next and enable you to make your own music.
* '''Voices, instruments sounds, timbrals''': The more you have, the more versatility there is for making complex and creative music.
* '''Editing''': DJ's and wannabes can look out for filters, modulation, and envelopes for adjusting EQ levels, timbre, volume, and motion effects. Editing can also be useful for creating new or customized sounds.
* '''LCD display''': Many models offer this feature. Some have the ability to show bitmap displays of sheet music that automatically scroll as you play.
* '''MIDI compatibility & USB connectivity''': These days, hardly anyone is caught without a computer. If you are interested in saving and recording your compositions to an electronic device, find a keyboard with a
Smart media slots which allow you to transfer music and MIDI files. Also, some keyboards feature music arrangement programs which let you download and follow along with the music via a computer.
Recommendations
Roland keyboards, which tend to be a bit pricier. Check out our picks for what's available on the market right now.
Fun Features
* '''For the kids: '''
** An add-on
microphone for
karaoke.
** A keyboard that features light-up keys and guideboard for easier learning.
** Keyboards for children come in all types of fun colors like
pink, so playing will be even more entertaining!
* '''For the player who likes an extra kick:'''
** An
amp or the ability to connect to a home stereo system or audio monitor.
**
drum pads.
** Ability to download songs off the Internet and onto your instrument.
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