Keyboards, digital pianos and MIDI
Keyboard instruments are great for first steps in music, practising at home and writing your own songs. Choose from keyboards with plenty of sounds and rhythms, digital pianos with a full-size keyboard and MIDI keyboards for recording and making music on a computer.
Keyboards, digital pianos and MIDI
The keyboard is one of the easiest instruments to start with. You can play a melody straight away, and the keys clearly show how notes and chords are laid out.
Keyboards have built-in speakers, dozens or even hundreds of sounds and accompaniment rhythms, so you can play a whole song without a band. Many have learning functions or light-up keys that show beginners what to play. They suit children and adults alike and are easy to carry thanks to their low weight.
Digital pianos usually have 88 keys with hammer action that recreates the feel of an acoustic piano. They are ideal for anyone learning the piano or wanting to practise quietly with headphones. A sustain pedal is part of the basic set-up.
MIDI keyboards make no sound on their own but control music software on a computer or tablet via USB. They are used for recording, composing and playing virtual instruments, often with pads and rotary knobs.
When choosing, look at the number of keys, touch sensitivity and connections such as a headphone output or USB. A stand, a bench and a carry bag complete the set-up.