🎹 Budget Digital Pianos: Don't buy a Digital Piano Before Watching This! 🎹

[@jasonjayalap]

My first 2 years of classical piano were on a 37 key soundblaster keyboard with no weighted action at home and a baby grand at the teacher's. While it was in no way an advantage to have a cheap keyboard, it didnt sabotage my early lessons in the way a bad saxophone or basoon could easily do. My warning to parents is that in no way do they need to bring financial distress to the family to get lessons going.

[@MerriamPianos]

That is a good point of course. If the passion and desire to learn and progress is there, things will always work out with any instrument. :)

[@Zoco101]

@@jasonjayalap I don't know who can afford lessons but can't afford a few hundred bucks for a weighted action. If the lessons come free for some reason, then yes, a family might make do with a secondhand PSR or whatever, but a secondhand FP10 or P-45 makes more sense than a new unweighted keyboard. Equally, a new dp can be purchased over a year or so. And it doesn't have to be a main brand. I might be the only one here who supports the Alesis Prestige and Prestige Artist, but I must say that these dps are excellent value for money.

[@cmfrtblynmb02]

If you really want to learn an instrument, you will learn even on the worst one. If your kid doesn't want to play, then they will not even if you get them the best device on the market. I see parents forcing those hobbies on their kids and it makes no sense for me. I wanted to learn guitar and my religious mother said no. Now I blame her but then again, if I wanted learn, I would learn. I would insist, bargain, do it behind her back. Those are things I did for things I was passionate about. This is one extreme. Then on the other extreme is my aunt who drags her daughter to violin lessons and she literally cries. Having said that, we live in the age of really high quality inventions being sold for cheap. Even those 500 dollar beginner digital pianos nowadays can be better than what many musicians started with back in the days. No need to financially distress the parents but 500-1000 dollar instruments will satisfy most of what is counted here and they will not make a dent on 90% families budget in any time soon

[@richarpadilla1891]

As always Stu ! you did a great job with this video !

[@MerriamPianos]

I'll be sure to pass on the kind words to Stu! Thanks for tuning in! :)

[@mr.bauerpower4285]

After many hours of research, especially your reviews, i wanted a Kawai kdp 120, but no dealer in Denmark had them anymore, and prices went up online in EU. So ended up with a really good deal on a Thomann dp-51. Thomann really gives bang for the buck.

[@MerriamPianos]

I'm happy to hear that you found a good quality piano that fits your needs! Thanks so much for tuning in! We appreciate it. :)

[@WorstSanta]

@@mr.bauerpower4285 I took one day a car rent in Germany and visited the flagship store which is located in the middle of nowhere, but man, I spent whole day up there paying all the pianos. Indeed, in terms of bang for the buck Thomann own pianos are unbeatable.

[@drjoanasmith]

Thank you for a great overview of what to look for in a basic digital piano. Returning to the instrument after a 50+ year break, and mostly want to focus on piano voices, not so much on other aspects. This was a useful review of important versus non-essential elements, and has been a big help in figuring out which model to buy. Thanks again!

[@MerriamPianos]

You're welcome! Thank you so much for the kind words! We're very happy to hear that you found the video helpful and that you've decided to resume your piano journey. Playing piano is incredibly rewarding! Thanks again and happy playing! :)

[@jackconnolly4567]

Hi...I ordered a digital piano, and I must say thanks for your videos. After a couple weeks of research I landed on the Roland RP 701. Not wanting to spend thousands, and not wanting to buy something to be outgrown in 6 months, this seemed like a good option for me. I really enjoy your videos and will continue to watch. Thanks again.

[@MerriamPianos]

You're very welcome! Thank you kindly for the support and congrats on your Roland RP701! It is a wonderful piano with an incredible touch and tone. I know you will thoroughly enjoy everything it has to offer. Thanks again and happy playing! :)

[@Biozene]

Polyphony of 2 cracks me up!

[@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12]

The 49 key Casio CTKAT I used before had a polyphony of 5. *Upgrade! LOL😂😂😂😂🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🎹🎶

[@Biozene]

@@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12 That's a full triad and an octave in the bass, or a 4-note chord with a bass note. Why would anyone ask for more?

[@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12]

@@Biozene because if you turn onn the rhythm/accompaniment it becomes polyphony of 2😂😂😂😂😂🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🎹🎶

[@MerriamPianos]

Well, monophonic synths technically have a max polyphony of 1! ;)

[@joelluth6384]

My old micromoog almost beats it

[@WorstSanta]

I bought myself ES920 2.5 years so when I started to play classical piano and while the action is just fine, you really cannot express yourself good enough compared to even the simplest acoustic piano that I play at my teacher’s home. But man, you just cannot practice with full sound unless you live in a detached house alone. I’m a geek, I fully embrace all the bleeding edge technologies, but man, this is not the case. When I get the budget, I will buy a silent upright like K-500 ATX4.

[@Zoco101]

That might be a good choice for you, though you haven't tried the digital hybrid pianos it seems. Some of these have acoustic piano actions. The last two acoustic pianos I was expected to play jazz on were worse than any basic hammer action dp I've played. The actions and sounds were inferior. And the tuning? Yuk! It's getting to where I always need a dp in the car in case the acoustic piano is rubbish. But all too often I am expected to play the old piano anyway.

[@MerriamPianos]

The ES920 is an excellent all-in portable digital piano, but even the very best digital pianos will not be able to emulate the magic and nuance of an acoustic piano for most players. The K500 Aures 2 is certainly a best-of-both-worlds solution. It is a truly impressive instrument in all regards. :)

[@vicmartinez4532]

Once Again detailing Action is a great Contribution from this channel

[@MerriamPianos]

Thank you kindly! We appreciate that. :)

[@mfurman]

Interestingly, I have been, for the last four years, trying to follow the advice of those who said that digital piano action has to mimic acoustic piano and was never happy when comparing what I had (I went through more than ten digital pianos) with actions of acoustic pianos. I started to regularly play Yamaha C7 grand piano a few months ago. Recently, I have given up on the idea of an “ideal” digital piano action and bought a keyboard with waterfall action. I discovered that although the feel is quite a bit different from C7 action I very much like playing on it and I can play much faster and better than on any previous digital pianos. Michael

[@MerriamPianos]

It is a good point. Some digital pianos/instruments offer entirely different experiences (both in terms of touch and tone when it comes to digital pianos specifically). While they may not be identical to what they are trying to emulate, there is nothing to say that the unique experience is very rewarding and enjoyable in its own right. Thanks for writing in! That is an excellent insight in my opinion. :)

[@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12]

@@mfurman that is what I also experienced after trying a Hamburg Steinway B a wile ago, however if I switched to waterfall style/non weighted keys my tecknique might get worse. That or the Steinway B I tried might have needed some more work on the action?. It was brand new, and I enjoyed every singel second with it🎹🎶🎹🎶

[@emaldonadog]

After seeing many Stu's videos and using my cheap entry level piano, some really important thing: the piano sould sound like a real piano.

[@MerriamPianos]

Thanks for tuning in! Trying to achieve as authentic of a touch and tone as possible is the goal when it comes to digital pianos of course. :)

[@javiersauceda4204]

Amazing video as always! Found your channel a while back and it's been so helpful in learning all things piano. I've been playing on a Yamaha p125 for a few years and though it's good, I agree with what you mentioned, you do notice the difference when playing at home vs your teachers nice piano. I've been really wanting to upgrade but my house has terrible climate and humidity control so even though an acoustic is what I'd love, it would probably not be a wise idea. Sadly a digital is all I can get for the time being.

[@MerriamPianos]

Thanks so much! We appreciate you tuning in. The P125 is a very solid instrument of course. I totally understand your situation. Not every living situation can accommodate an acoustic piano. With that said, there are a lot of amazing digital piano options out there that offer more authentic piano experiences that might be worth exploring if you're looking to upgrade. :)

[@juankaloobe]

From Colombia a very big greeting. it's a wonderful channel. thank you master STU.

[@MerriamPianos]

Thank you so much from Canada! We appreciate the support. :)

[@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12]

@MerriamPianos we'll see. Hopefully I will get to try it. Also hoping to come across the GP6 or GP9 one of these days too. I prefer a good acoustic grand piano for my forever instrument. I just want to know how these new high end digital pianos play/sound like🎹🎶

[@MerriamPianos]

They are quite impressive! Roland has made some leaps and bounds when it comes to capturing an authentic piano experience in these new models. :)

[@brockmannolaf7182]

Great Information!

[@MerriamPianos]

Thank you! We're glad you found it helpful. :)

[@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12]

I came across a Roland LX6 a week ago, however due to it being unplugged I wasn't able to play it. At least I know where to find one, and if the salesman is willing I may be able to have it plugged so I can try it out for my self. Also tried the Yamaha P225 several weeks ago, and to be honest it wasn't that bad as how I thought it was going to be🎹🎶

[@MerriamPianos]

I'm sorry to hear that the LX6 was unplugged. I hope you're able to give it a proper test drive next time you go to that dealership. It is an excellent piano with a wonderful touch! Thanks for tuning in!

[@-tikhi]

Hello, I will buy a piano soon and I am undecided between two models. CASIO AP-470 and KAWAI KDP75 AP470 is much more expensive. Actually, I do not want to spend that much for a piano, but if it is really worth it, I can give it. Could you please tell me the important differences between them? And if it were you, which one would you prefer and why?

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent from Merriam Music here! The AP470 was recently replaced with the APS450 model. You may be able to find a new old stock unit from a dealer, but I know Casio has sold out of units and is no longer producing them. In terms of the differences, it really comes down to the core piano experience. The AP470 has a lighter touch and a brighter tone when compared to the KDP75. The AP470 also has a more advanced 40 W four-speaker system. The KDP75 has an 18 W two-speaker system. To this point, the AP470 offers a superior sonic experience in my opinion.

[@-tikhi]

@@MerriamPianos Well, apart from the speakers, does the AP470's keyboard or the 2 different sound types it offers make a big difference? (I'll mostly be playing using headphones)

[@cyberlaurent2101]

Merci pour ces conseils précieux.😊

[@MerriamPianos]

You are very welcome! Thank you for tuning in! :)

[@Justin_collier]

Do you think there is a major difference between 128 note polyphony and 256 note polyphony? I watched your video but i really wonder why roland only put 128 note polyphony in their rd2000ex, alot of new ones coming out aren’t giving us the 256 polyphony. The more sounds you layer the less you get per channel. My other thing is to is that i want my keyboard to have the internal power supply, kurzweil, and yahama have made boards for years, and i wonder why they haven’t followed kawais example because kawai puts way more effort in their qualities. I’m very picky with it comes to those things

[@MerriamPianos]

It all depends on context of use of course. In many situations, 128 note polyphony is more than suitable. But, to your point regarding layering, there are certain situations where you may require more polyphony. It is a decision that every player/consumer will have to make based on their needs and preferences. :)

[@WorstSanta]

I just don’t get it, you have 10 fingers, ok, you played with sustain pedal 3 times by 10 fingers, that gives 30 notes that sound at once. Weird enough case, but why would you need more?

[@sonic2000gr]

@@WorstSanta Polyphony is also used to simulate sympathetic resonance and all the other nuances of an acoustic piano. Not that much of a problem for a beginner, but definitely what makes a digital piano standout in the hands of an experienced player.

[@WorstSanta]

@@sonic2000gr thanks for the hint man!

[@yunus-y9m]

I will be buying my first digital piano soon. I am undecided between two models. Which one do you think I should choose and why? CASIO PX-770 vs KAWAI KDP75

[@MerriamPianos]

It really comes down to a matter of personal preference. The Casio PX770 offers a brighter tone and lighter touch, where as the Kawai KDP75 offers a warmer tone and mid-weighted touch. Personally, I lean in the direction of the KDP75 because I think the overall musical experience is more authentic.

[@yunus-y9m]

​@@MerriamPianos Thank you very much for your quick response. I was close to buying KDP75. According to your feedback, I will buy KDP75 soon. Thanks again

[@harleycharley8323]

The DGX670 is a decent piano for the money.

[@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12]

Couldn't agree more🎹🎶

[@MerriamPianos]

For sure! The Yamaha DGX670 and Roland FP-E50 are both feature rich options that present amazing cost-to-value ratios. :)

[@Zoco101]

In Britain the DGX-670 is under £700. Incredible value! But it might be too sophisticated and distracting for a child.

[@ASHISHKNAINAN27]

Thank you. Went for the FPE based on your suggestion. Waiting for the delivery. 4 days to go!!

[@-tikhi]

Hello again, I am torn between two pianos, Casio AP-470 and Yamaha YDP145. I will use the piano I bought for a long time. Which one do you think is more logical to choose?

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent from Merriam Music here! It really comes down to a matter of personal preference. Both pianos are well-equipped to provide an excellent musical experience. Personally, I gravitate towards the Casio AP470 a little more. While the action is lighter, I think the sonic experience it offers is exceptional due to the AP470's impressive speaker system and excellent piano samples.

[@DiegoAlejandroRodriguez-yp6mu]

Hello, Which digital piano do you recommend for classical music under 1000 dollars?

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi! Brent here! The Roland FP10 would be my top choice. When studying classical music, having an authentic feeling touch that can aid in the development of proper technique and dynamic control is incredibly important. The FP10 offers this in spades thanks to its PHA4 action. :)

[@mahadipi]

fantastic 👍🫰👏🙌🫶👌

[@MerriamPianos]

Thank you so much! :)

[@FirstLast-nr6gf]

For many people "budget" piano would be something like Yamaha PSR-E383 for $200 or M-Audio KeyStation 49 MIDI controller for $100 🙂 In my opinion $100-200 MIDI controller / piano + a DAW is the best way to start learning music theory, composition and modern music.

[@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12]

@@FirstLast-nr6gf the models you mentioned do not have weighted keys🎹🎶

[@MerriamPianos]

There are certainly more budget keyboard options on the market, but it is important to note that when we are discussing budget digital pianos, we are referring to instruments with full 88 note ranges and fully-weighted key actions.

[@matthewweaver8212]

What about YDP 165?

[@MerriamPianos]

The YDP165 is a solid instrument, but, in our opinion, there are better options out there in terms of the cost-to-value proposition. With that said, it will always be a matter of subjectivity of course.

[@matthewweaver8212]

@@MerriamPianos thanks for getting back to me.

[@markfowlermusic]

You must appreciate the irony of owning and running a piano shop and having a successful KZbin channel alongside it that you must earn more revenue from now… as far as I’m aware selling pianos isn’t a lucrative business whatsoever as they are not in high demand and never will be, must be tough to sell them in general. Also there’s the fact that you won’t have copyright claims that take 99 per cent of the revenue from the video as Stu always plays original improv.

[@MerriamPianos]

Hi, Brent from Merriam Music here. While I suppose I could understand where the assumption that the piano business isn't a lucrative one and that not many people purchase pianos might come from, that is certainly not the case (at least here in Toronto, Canada). The pandemic years saw one of the biggest explosions of digital and acoustic piano sales (across all price points) in the entire history of the industry. The market has cooled a little since that initial surge of course, but there are still tons of aspiring pianists and enthusiasts that are purchasing pianos these. It should also be noted that we carry all types and price points of pianos. From $800 digital pianos to $300,000+ handcrafted concert grands, we offer a full range of amazing instruments.

[@wolfster421]

Thx

[@MerriamPianos]

You're very welcome! :)

[@wolfster421]

@@MerriamPianos I am about to learn piano. I look for a Kawai CN 301. Would you say this is a matching beginners instrument?

[@truetom]

I am looking at the Roland FPx range but I'm afraid it will be replaced soon by new models. Any opinions?

[@JoeLinux2000]

They are always coming out with newer improved digital instruments.

[@TuhinTulsyan]

Selling my fp30x though

[@vincecerna14]

​@@TuhinTulsyan why?

[@TuhinTulsyan]

@@vincecerna14 not able to spare time for piano anymore

[@SamStormsKBD]

FP30x is gonna be a great deal to you. I'm an intermediate player and FP30x is the best option for me

[@kaleimaile]

I grew up on an out of tune piano. 😂😂😂

[@MerriamPianos]

Old out-of-tune pianos can have a certain charm. And, for some styles of repertoire, they can sound quite appropriate.

[@kaleimaile]

@@MerriamPianos , I learned classically from the time I was 4 till 14. Now, I am in my 50’s and want to go back to lessons to play chords to play on the worship team @ church.

[@kaleimaile]

@@MerriamPianos , true.

[@PPP-on3vl]

Casio gt 310 or kawai 901

[@pianowhizz]

Depends on the price. The Kawai C901 is good value at about USD $3,000 + tax (here in Australia). Whereas the Casio GP-310 is good value if you can buy it for less than USD $2,500 (the Casio GP series is way overpriced in Australia).

[@MerriamPianos]

These are both excellent pianos. They simply offer different musical experiences. The GP310/GP510 models offer a heavier touch and brighter tone, which some players may prefer. On the other hand, the CA901 offers a slightly lighter touch and a warmer tone. I would recommend testing out both pianos in person to see which one you gravitate towards more. :)

[@PPP-on3vl]

@MerriamPianos for me is key action the most important

[@KiaBoonLim]

⁠@@MerriamPianoswith regards to tone and weight of action, where does the Yamaha 875 and 845 sit when compared to Casio GP310 and Kawai CA 901?

[@yunus-y9m]

I will be buying my first digital piano soon. I am undecided between two models. Which one do you think I should choose and why? CASIO PX-770 vs KAWAI KDP75

[@MerriamPianos]

It really comes down to a matter of personal preference. The Casio PX770 offers a brighter tone and lighter touch, where as the Kawai KDP75 offers a warmer tone and mid-weighted touch. Personally, I lean in the direction of the KDP75 because I think the overall musical experience is more authentic.

[@kaleimaile]

Casio’s were always known as ‘cheap.’ I don’t trust that brand in pianos.