When you have the huge choice of keyboards and digital pianos that is available today, it can seem a little overwhelming. Any trip to the local music shop or even a quick online search will show you the vast array of instruments in this niche available to you -but which one is right for your needs? Which one will best suit you? Here are a few tips that you should be considering before you go out and buy your keyboard:

1)  Affordability. Take the time to look around and get the best deal you can -set yourself a top level that you would pay and don’t go over that. Because the selection is so large, it really shouldn’t be too difficult in finding one that will fit your particular budget, no matter how conservative it is!

2)   Weighted action versus synth action. The weight of the keys will be directly affected by the style of play that you are intending to buy the keyboard for. The more weighted keys lend themselves more to the trained pianist or those who are looking to develop their piano skills. The synth action, on the other hand, is more suited to those who play a more synthy or techno style, as the keys can be played a lot faster. Synth action simply means that the keys are a little lighter.

3) Consider the number of keys. It may seem that you have as much of a choice when it comes to the number of keys as you did in looking for them in the first place! The number of keys can range across the board, from as little as 20 right up to 88. As ever, the choice on this remains squarely with the needs of the customer, i.e.: you. If you are purchasing your keyboard for things that only require a small range like samples, you only need a few keys. If you’re looking to play about with sound development, then you want to make sure that you have as many keys as possible.

4) Is an onboard sequencer worth it? If you’re working without a computer, then yes. If you’re working with a computer, then it probably won’t be necessary. This comes down to a very simple factor.

5) Do I need a workstation? The workstation on your keyboard will perform a myriad of functions, from sequencing to effects. If you are already using a computer which handles all of that, paying extra for a workstation may not be the most economical vantage point. This should be weighed against the fact that the workstation is, however, an incredible tool to use.

6) Aftertouch and velocity features. Put simply, the velocity relates directly to the sound produced relative to the amount of the pressure applied to the keys, like how quickly they are pressed. The aftertouch, on the other hand, refers to the sound that is produced after the keys have been pressed, whilst they are resting on the keybed. Whatever you have in mind as the use of your keyboard, you should seriously look into the velocity and aftertouch features.

7) Can I take this to a gig? It may seem obvious to say, but do you really want to be lugging some huge keyboard around from one gig to another? If one of the reasons you are buying the keyboard is to take it to gigs, then this should definitely be considered. You might want to think about a hard case to protect it, and obviously maneuverability is going to be a factor.

When you take the time to find the best keyboard, one that will suit your needs and your goals, then you are much more likely to develop the long-term relationship with your instrument. Think about what is available online -this is often the best way to buy a new keyboard -with the added advantage that they will deliver straight to your door!

Copyright 2009 Lauren Paltrow (Stage Pianist)

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