Are digital pianos as good as “real” pianos? Most people cannot tell the difference between traditional pianos and digital pianos today. This is because modern technology is so advanced that digital pianos can replicate the touch and feel of ‘real’ pianos so accurately.
Do the keys feel real? Yes. The keys on digital pianos are usually ‘weighted’ so the way they feel to play and react to your input is just like the real thing. Don’t think that digital pianos feel and sound like that old Casio keyboard you got for Christmas in 1986.
Do they need tuning? No. Digital pianos never go out of tune, so never need tuning.
Do they have the right amount of keys? Yes. Most digital pianos have the standard 88 keys.
Can I wear headphones to practice? Yes. When you plug headphones into a digital piano the speakers are disabled so only you can hear the sound. This is ideal for practicing late at night or when you don’t want to disturb anyone. Note: The standard jack socket for headphones is 6.35mm. iPhone headphone plugs are 3.5mm so you would need an adaptor.
Why do digital piano prices vary so much? The price of a digital piano depends on a number of factors, for example whether the keys are plastic or wooden, whether the speakers are big or small, the amount of extra features it has like rhythms and backings or multi track recordings. The cabinet design and finish is a factor too. Small portable pianos tend to be cheaper than the more traditional looking non-portable ones.
Can I connect my iPhone/iPad? Many of the Yamaha digital pianos and keyboards allow connection to an iPad/tablet now for various purposes. Yamaha have developed a lot of apps for their instruments, you can read more about them on the App Store.
What about other manufacturers of digital piano? We are an independent shop but choose Yamaha digital pianos exclusively because they are regarded as the best in the world. You will find Yamaha digital pianos in most music schools, colleges and universities, and teachers nearly always recommend Yamaha because of how authentic the touch and sound is.