Keyboard instrument type

Piano
Electronic Piano
synthesizer
Stage Piano
Portable Keyboard
MIDI Keyboard

In a word, even if it has a keyboard, there are various types of keyboards such as synthesizers, MIDI keyboards, etc. besides pianos. So many people are at a loss as to which type they should choose when purchasing an instrument. Here we will explain the types and characteristics of the main keyboard instruments in an easy-to-understand manner.

Piano (Acoustic piano)

A type of stringed instrument that produces sound by striking a string inside with a hammer. The standard piano consists of 88 keys and has a very wide range.
It is versatile and widely used for music education, work research, music composition, etc. besides just performance purposes. It is divided into a grand piano with a frame and strings arranged horizontally to the ground, and an upright piano with a frame, strings and soundboard arranged vertically. Upright pianos that do not take up space in homes are widely used.

Grand piano

Upright piano

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Electronic piano (digital piano)

Piano-type electronic musical instrument that uses an electronic circuitry in the sound source section. It is evolving with the advancement of electronic technology and computer technology in order to reproduce the tone and structure of the piano and the feeling of keying (keyboard touch). The purpose is to reproduce piano performance and expression to the last. Basically equipped with 88 piano keys.

Feature

Lightweight and compact size. Many colors, designs
No need for tuning
Monitoring with headphones possible
Amplifier / speaker is built into the body
The number of simultaneous notes is limited
The feeling of hitting (touch) is close to the piano
There is a limit to expressive power

Slim / compact type

Standard type

Full-fledged type

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Synthesizer

A musical instrument that synthesizes various sounds electronically to create sounds. There are two main types, analog and digital synths, and the main difference with electronic pianos is that you can create and process your own sounds. There are a wide variety of workstations, synths, etc. where you can complete music production, single units that integrate monophonic synths that can only produce single tones, samplers, recorders, etc., These are widely used in a band where using various tones is common, or music production Etc.. The number of keys also varies from 0 (no keyboard) to 88 keys.

Feature

Lots of sounds and effects
Free to create sounds
Many have high portability
You need an amplifier and speakers
Some models require knowledge of waveforms etc.
The number of simultaneous notes is limited

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Stage piano

A keyboard specialized for piano performance used in band, live etc. Manufacturer’s are also particular about piano sound quality and touch, and many are highly portable. Many are designed for professional musicians and semi-professional. Usually equipped with 88 piano keys.

Feature

The sound quality and touch of the piano are reproduced realistically
It is more portable than a piano
Equipped with multiple piano tones
You need an amplifier and speakers
Some models cannot be adjusted like real pianos (such as tuning settings and string points) .
The number of simultaneous notes limited

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Portable keyboard

A keyboard that is easy to handle even by beginners, designed mainly for home use, and can be enjoyed by children and adults, without complicated functions. There are also a variety of models, such as models equipped with lessons using glowing keyboards, and high-quality piano touch types. Portable pianos with 49 and 61 keys are popular.

Feature

Compact and lightweight. Do not take up much space
Easy to operate and safe for beginners
Play while enjoying it like a toy
Due to the limited number of keys, it is not suitable for full-scale piano music
Amplifier / speaker is built into the body
The number of simultaneous notes limited
Designed for home use, not suitable for live or recording

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MIDI keyboard

A type of MIDI controller intended to send and receive MIDI data. It has a keyboard, knobs, modulation wheel, etc., and is similar in appearance to a synthesizer, but it has no sound source inside, so it cannot be played on its own. A tool for controlling an external sound sources in the DAW environment. There are models with 25 keys, 49 keys and 61 keys.

Feature

It cannot be played on its own
There are many variations in size, function and can be selected according to the DAW environment
There are many cheap models because no sound source is installed

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Keyboard list