Purchasing a Keyboard or Digital Piano
(I have included affiliate links to what I consider to be the most helpful options for piano parents below)
It is ok to purchase a keyboard or digital piano
When it comes to learning piano, I always recommend acoustic pianos as my first choice for their rich sound and touch. However, I understand that in today’s world, digital pianos and keyboards are often the more practical option for many households. Whether it's due to space constraints, budget, or the need for portability, digital pianos have become an essential alternative.
That said, if you're going the digital route, it’s crucial to choose a keyboard with 88 fully weighted keys to mimic the feel and response of an acoustic piano. This will give you or your student the best foundation for learning proper technique from the start.
Choosing the Right Brand
When it comes to digital pianos, not all brands are created equal. Over the years, I've worked with various models and found that some brands consistently stand out for their quality and durability, while others fall short. Here are my top recommendations:
Top Brands I Trust
Yamaha
Yamaha has a well-deserved reputation for producing digital pianos that offer excellent sound quality and reliable construction. Their models are perfect for beginners and seasoned players alike, and they deliver a playing experience that closely mimics an acoustic piano.
Roland
Roland pianos are known for their exceptional sound quality and realistic key action, making them a great choice for serious players. While they may be a bit pricier, their advanced features and durability make them well worth the investment.
Kawai
Kawai is known for its exceptional touch and tone. If you’re looking for a digital piano that gets as close to an acoustic piano feel as possible, Kawai should be at the top of your list. Their digital models are perfect for serious students and performers.
Brands I Don’t Recommend
Alesis
While Alesis may offer cheaper models, I find that their sound quality and key action leave a lot to be desired. If you're serious about learning the piano, it’s worth investing in a more reliable brand.
Donner
Donner keyboards may look appealing due to their low price, but they often fall short in terms of durability and playability. They can be fine for casual use, but I wouldn't recommend them for serious practice or long-term use.
Purchasing a brand new keyboard
My recommendations include affiliate links that help me keep this blog going to better help all of you parents!
The following shows my recommendations for Yamaha
The Best Yamaha Digital Pianos for Beginners: Affordable Options and Must-Have Accessories
If you're looking for an affordable and reliable digital piano, Yamaha offers some excellent options, particularly for beginners. The best part? You don't have to break the bank to get started. Below are my top recommendations for Yamaha digital pianos, along with the essential accessories to complete your setup. I’ve also included affiliate links to make your shopping experience as easy as possible.
1. Good: Yamaha P-71 Digital Piano (Amazon Exclusive)
The Yamaha P-71 is an Amazon exclusive and one of the most affordable entry-level digital pianos. It’s compact, lightweight, and has all the features a beginner needs to get started on their piano journey.
👉 Check out the Yamaha P-71 here
2. Better: Yamaha P-125
For more quality, the Yamaha P-125 is the best option under $1000. The Yamaha P-125 combines performance and portability, with graded hammer action keys and a powerful sound engine that replicates the feel and sound of an acoustic piano. Its intelligent acoustic control further enhances sound quality, making it an excellent choice for players seeking a solid upgrade.
3. Even Better: Yamaha P-225B with Stand Included
The Yamaha P-225B comes with a stand and is a step up in both design and sound quality. It's a fantastic option if you're ready to invest in an instrument that will last for years to come.
Don’t Forget These Essential Accessories!
A great digital piano setup isn’t complete without the right accessories. Be sure to avoid using an X stand when possible, as it can be unstable. Here are my favorite picks:
Benches
High-End Option: Hidrau 30 Piano Bench
This bench is on the pricier side but worth every penny for its comfort and durability.
👉 Check out the Hidrau 30 here
Affordable Option: Piano Bench with Storage
I use this bench in my studio, and it’s both comfortable and practical, with extra storage for sheet music.
👉 Wooden Duet Piano Bench with Padded Cushion
Stands
L85 Keyboard Stand
This stand is compatible with the Yamaha P-71, P-45, P-125, P-128, and P-35 models, making it a versatile choice.
Pedals
Compatible Sustain Pedal
If your digital piano doesn’t come with a pedal, this one will do the job for most Yamaha keyboards.
👉 Universal Sustain Pedal with Piano Style Action
3-Pedal Unit for Yamaha P-225B
For a more traditional piano experience, this 3-pedal unit is a must-have.
Other Yamaha Models to Consider
If you're looking to upgrade or want a more advanced option, here are some other Yamaha models to keep in mind:
Yamaha P525 Digital Piano
This model comes with 88 weighted wooden keys, providing an authentic piano feel.
👉 Explore the Yamaha P525 here
Yamaha Arius Series
For those who want an all-in-one setup, the Yamaha Arius models come with a stand, pedals, and bench.
👉 Discover the Yamaha Arius here
Whether you're just starting out or looking to upgrade your current setup, Yamaha offers excellent digital pianos that cater to all budgets and skill levels. Don’t forget to pair your piano with the right accessories for a complete, comfortable playing experience.
Happy playing! 😊