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At Oz Academy, one of the most frequent questions we have receive our students is: “how do I pick my first keyboard?”
There is a plethora of options around, and for a person who is just getting into music it might get confusing, and overwhelming. That’s why we have come up with this small guide which will help you choose your first ever instrument.
Below, you can find some options we prefer as instructors at Oz Academy, but please keep in mind that these are simply our recommendations—you can always find alternatives that suit your needs.
When we are picking out the instruments listed here, we paid attention to brand awareness, the build, and the main features every piano should have. Many other pianos in the market have these 3 features that all pianos should have, and by taking this text as a reference you can make your own decision when it comes to it.
Below are the 3 musts of a piano, regardless of the brand.
Weighted keys:
Basically, weighted keys make a keyboard feel more like a traditional piano, which can help you transition between instruments more easily. It helps with your technique, it helps develop muscle strength and it sounds more realistic.
88-Key Range:
Pedals:
Let’s look at 3 pianos and compare them.
This well-known brand, which manufactures everything from bikes to military equipment, is also renowned for its high-quality musical instruments. This is a model that offers some great Yamaha quality at an affordable price.
PROS
GHS Weighted Keys:
The Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) action gives the keys a weighted feel, heavier in the low end and lighter in the high end. This touch really helps mimic an acoustic piano and builds finger strength effectively. It’s an excellent feature for beginners looking to develop good technique.
Design:
This piano has 88-keys but carries none of the bulkiness of traditional upright pianos. Yamaha did a good job on delivering good design without sacrificing functionality.
Sound Quality:
Yamaha’s AWM (Advanced Wave Memory) stereo sampling technology gives this keyboard a warm, realistic sound.
CONS
Minimalistic Features:
While the sound and feel are excellent, the P71 doesn’t offer advanced features like split mode or extensive voice options. For beginners, that will defjnitely not cause a problem. However, If you are looking to discover different sounds and instruments, this isn’t a good choice.
Verdict:
Overall, the Yamaha P71 is a fantastic choice for beginners who want a straightforward keyboard, great sound and feel. It’s perfect for those who prioritize quality over added features.
Next up is another Japanese brand: Roland. Roland is known for manufacturing excellent quality musical instruments, and specializes in producing top-notch keyboard synthesizers. FP-10 is one of their beginner-friendly keyboards. It provides a highly realistic piano experience that’s worth considering.
PROS
PHA-4 Standard Keyboard:
Roland’s PHA-4 action is one of the best I’ve come across in this range. The keys feel natural, with a smooth response. This feature is ideal for beginners and even intermediate players who want a realistic feel without investing in a full acoustic piano.
Bluetooth Connectivity:
This is a huge plus. Bluetooth allows you to connect with various music apps, which can help with learning and practicing. This is an extra feature that makes it stand-out for those interested in more integrations with their devices.
Sound:
The sound is full and dynamic, offering a level of detail that’s impressive for an entry-level digital piano.
CONS:
Limited Built-in Sounds:
Yamaha’s P71, The FP-10 is primarily focused on acoustic piano sounds, so you won’t find a wide variety of voices. If you’re interested in experimenting with other sounds, like electric piano or synth, you might find it a bit restrictive.
Verdict: "For those who are looking for a high-quality, realistic playing experience and want to incorporate some tech features, the FP-10 is a strong choice.
This is the most budget-friendly option in this list. It’s a solid choice for beginners who are exploring piano without committing to it.
PROS
Variety of Voices:
The Alesis Recital Pro includes 12 different voices, like acoustic piano, electric piano, and organ, which makes it a great tool for experimentation. Beginners can explore different sounds and find what resonates with them musically.
Affordability:
For beginners unsure about investing heavily right away, it’s a great choice.
CONS
Semi-Weighted Keys:
The Recital Pro offers semi-weighted keys, which can be a bit easier on the fingers, but it doesn't have the real feel of an acoustic piano. This might be a good option for very young players.
Build Quality:
While it’s decent for the price, it doesn’t feel as robust as the Yamaha or Roland models. The keys and casing aren’t quite as sturdy.
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