The best music keyboard will vary according to your needs, budget, and playing ability. Some keyboard models feature a full 88 keys, while others are smaller, and some keyboards have a variety of features to modify the sound output of the instrument, while others are basic keyboards with synthesized piano sounds only. Remember that full-sized keyboards will be much larger and heavier than compact models, meaning moving the unit may be more difficult. If you will be playing professionally or are an advanced player, a full-sized 88 key music keyboard will be necessary.
Smaller music keyboard models may come in 61-key or 76-key varieties. These models will be lighter and more compact, but you will be limited in what songs you can play. Such keyboards are great for a buyer who is interested in saving space and who will be playing as a hobby only.
Full-sized keyboards also often feature weighted keys, which means the keys will feel more like those of an actual full-sized piano. The keys for lower notes will feel heavier than those of the higher notes, just like the feel of a full sized acoustic piano. Most full sized keyboards will also be touch-sensitive, which means the harder you press the keys, the louder the sound will be. This feature, again, mimics the sound and playability of a full-sized acoustic piano in an attempt to make the playing experience as similar as possible.
Once you have chosen what size keyboard you need, it is time to examine the features of the instrument. Some models will feature basic accessories such as a metronome, while others may feature more advanced accessories such as recording capabilities, pitch control, multiple playing sounds, and so on. The best music keyboard models will feature a bright, easy-to-read display with controls that are easy to use and menus that are simple to navigate. This will make using the added features much easier and more accessible for practical use during songs.
So many keyboard players use their instrument in conjunction with external synthesizers and accessories that keyboards now feature a variety of inputs and outputs. Be sure these inputs and outputs suit your needs; some inputs and outputs will allow you to hook the keyboard up to a computer or synthesizer, and others may allow you to hook up to external speakers or P.A. systems. Carefully examine the connectivity options and decide which ones you need.
