| Buying a digital piano can be an overwhelming and | | | | make them sound like anything you want. Digital pianos |
| frustrating task, with the incredible variety available to | | | | typically have dozens of different instrument sounds. |
| buyers today. However, knowing a few things about | | | | You may never use these, but if you intend to, you |
| what you're looking for will help you make a great | | | | should make sure it includes the sounds you want. You |
| decision and buy an instrument that will bring you years | | | | should also ensure that the basic piano sound is as rich |
| of enjoyment. Start with these five questions. | | | | and lifelike as you want. |
| Action | | | | Speakers |
| The action on a digital piano refers to the mechanism | | | | All that music you'll be playing has to come from |
| by which the sounds are activated by the motion of | | | | somewhere, and that place is the speakers. Some |
| the keys. Action generally falls into three categories: | | | | digital pianos don't include built-in speakers, and for the |
| weighted, semi-weighted, and synth. Weighted keys | | | | ones that do, you'll want to ensure they sound good |
| have an actual hammer that moves when you press | | | | and are loud enough for your needs. |
| the key, just like an acoustic piano, which most closely | | | | Size |
| replicates the touch and feel of a full-size acoustic | | | | Just like if you were buying a full-size piano, you'll want |
| piano. Semi-weighted keys also resemble a full-size | | | | to make sure that the size of the digital piano is small |
| piano, but not as closely. Synth action keys are | | | | enough to fit into the space you have for it. If you plan |
| spring-loaded and do not feel at all like a real piano. | | | | to keep the piano in a closet when not in use, ensure |
| They are generally found on the cheapest models, and | | | | that it's not too heavy to be easily moved for this |
| are usually not recommended for piano players. | | | | purpose. Don't forget to include space for the stand, |
| Polyphony | | | | bench, case, and any other accessories you have. |
| Polyphony refers to the distinct number of notes that | | | | Conclusion |
| your keyboard will be able to play at once. Generally, | | | | A digital piano can be a great investment when you |
| you want at least 32-note polyphony, as the 12 or | | | | start playing piano, and by taking the proper steps to |
| 16-note polyphony found in cheaper keyboards will | | | | educate yourself about the various options available, |
| cause problems as you begin to play complex chords. | | | | you'll have an instrument you can enjoy for many |
| Sounds | | | | years. |
| One of the advantage of digital pianos is that you can | | | | |