Help me choose a keyboard (piano)!

Off-topic Chatter
1

I’ve always wanted to learn how to play the piano and never had the opportunity. I’ve finally decided to start this summer but now I need to choose a good piano to start with.

Now, I don’t understand all the technical terms and what not but here are some of the features I want. Price range I am working with is below 300 preferably.

- weighted keys (feels real, not a necessity though)

- sensitivity (I think this is if I hit the key lightly it will result in a softer note)

  • 88 key or something close

I would likely be using this with a computer/headphones or other speakers so the quality of the speakers does not need to be amazing.

Hopefully someone here with experience can lead me to a nice keyboard!

2

Check a Costco brick and mortar if you have one close. I have seen them closing out 88 key models with pedals for wicked prices.

This is their current offering in the $300 range:

http://www.costco.com/Casio-WK-6500-76-Key-Keyboard-Bundle.product.100016525.html

I don’t have a serious keyboard, so I can’t steer you. There may be different models in the store compared to online offerings.

3

I have a casio privia px-line digital piano my wife likes. I have also seen some of their other px-line models and all seem to perform rather well. Digital pianos are a bit pricier than keyboards, but if you can snag a used one at a nice price then go for it. I have also heard good things about the yamaha offerings.

4

Before you buy one, make sure you play it.

Some sound quite poor to even an average ear.

5

Costco has a deal on a 88 key Casio for the next 3 weeks. Shipping is only $20. You probably need to be a Costco member.

Word to the wise: This is “While Supplies Last”.

And no, I don’t work for Costco.

http://www.costco.com/Casio-CDP220-88-Key-Keyboard-Bundle.product.100058113.html

6

https://blogs.city.ac.uk/music/2013/09/25/release-of-ian-paces-5-cd-set-of-michael-finnissys-the-history-of-photography-in-sound-on-october-10/

i've ordered 1 copy

7

For learning I think 88 key is pointless. Were I to do it again I would pick up a couple musician quality used keyboards with MIDI output and let a PC do all the sound creation. One smaller one that is easily portable, even lap topable, and something larger with more keys etc on a stand. Try some out at a music store and get a feel for it.

BTW I’ve tried to learn piano about 3 times and crashed and burned, so I would not suggest diving in too deep until you know if you will keep at it.