How to Choose a Digital Piano Extra Edition - Piano Accessories that Make Your Life Easier

Hi, I’m Aoi. I’m in charge of keyboard instruments at Sound House. In my previous articles, I talked about the mechanics of the keys and the sound of digital pianos.

Part 1 - The Features of Digital Pianos/Keyboards
Part 2 - Sound

This blog post is also for those who are considering purchasing their own digital piano. This time around, it’s not about the piano itself but I’m going to introduce you to some digital piano accessories that are more important than you think.

■ Check the included accessories first

Some piano accessories come with the digital piano. Once you’re set on choosing a piano, check for the added accessories. It varies depending on the model, but here's a quick look at some of the most common accessories.

Almost every model comes with:

• User’s Manual/Warranty Card
• Power Adapter
• Music Stand

Some models come with:

• Carry Case
• Sustain Pedal
• Bench
• Headphones
• Headphone Hook
• Music Book

You can check the product page on the manufacturer’s website or online instruction manual to learn what’s included beforehand.
If items are not included, purchase them separately if you need them.

I would like to show some useful accessories that you can purchase separately. These items actually make a huge difference in making your practicing time easier.

■ Music Stand

A music stand is included with most home digital pianos. I think this is an important part because the ease with which you set up the sheet music you normally use will make a significant difference in your comfort level when practicing. Imagine playing piano with a thick open music book, taped photocopies of sheet music or a tablet on the music stand.
Check to make sure that the shape of the music stand will fit with your personal practice.

■ Bench

The bench is included with most fixed piano models.
If it is not included, you can use your own chair instead. However, the chair greatly changes your posture when playing, so an adjustable bench for your piano is definitely recommended.
If the digital piano you are considering for purchase doesn’t include the piano bench, please check out some options below.

PLAYTECH / KS40B Piano Bench

This classical look blends in well with authentic digital pianos and acoustic pianos!

PLAYTECH / KS50W Piano Bench with Storage

This bench has a storage compartment underneath the seat. You can keep loose leaf sheet music, music books, and pencils in it.

Adjust the height of the bench so that your forearms can be horizontal to the floor when you sit with your back straight and place your hands on the keyboard.

■ Headphones

Headphones are a must-have item when you cannot play piano at a loud volume. Some digital pianos come with a set of headphones. If you purchase them separately, I recommend purchasing headphones that are from the same manufacturer as your digital piano. However, you can use headphones from any manufacturer without problems. Most digital pianos do not support wireless headphones, so choose wired headphones.

→ List of Headphones for Musical Instruments

■ Rug for Digital Piano

A rug is rarely included with digital pianos. This is an item that should be placed down before assembling the digital piano. Even if it doesn’t come with the piano, it is strongly recommended that you purchase it separately because it helps to prevent scratches on the floor and reduces vibrations when striking the keys. It is a good idea to use your favorite rug as a vibration dampener instead.

ROLAND / HPM-10

■ Keyboard Cover/Cloth

Dust will quickly pile up on the keyboard of digital pianos if they don’t have a fallboard. It is difficult to remove the dust once it gets in between the keys and buttons, so protect the keyboard with a cover beforehand. PEARL RIVER / Piano Key Cover

PEARL RIVER / Piano Key Cover

Also, keep a cloth or handkerchief around your piano so that you can frequently wipe off fingermarks and sweat on the keys.

YAMAHA / MCLEXYCJ

■ Last but not least...

Any musical instrument, not only a digital piano, is a big purchase. Whether you are taking lessons or just playing as a hobby, I believe that your instrument will become your buddy who you hang out with every day. This is why I wrote these blog posts on how to choose a digital piano so that you will never have to regret your purchase. You will not be able to see the instrument in person, especially if you are buying online, so I hope some of the points that I gave in this blog post and my previous posts will help you to wisely choose your digital piano and accessories!