{"id":9302,"date":"2022-11-06T07:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-11-06T15:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/?p=9302"},"modified":"2023-05-03T13:28:02","modified_gmt":"2023-05-03T20:28:02","slug":"piano-brands","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/piano-brands\/","title":{"rendered":"The Most Popular Piano Brands"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Buying a piano can be very challenging. If you are shopping around for your dream instrument, you may be curious about piano brands and how much a brand&#8217;s authority impacts its quality. And while a piano should ultimately be selected because its pianist enjoys playing on it, understanding a little bit about a brand\u2019s history can help inform one\u2019s choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The following are some of the most popular piano brands today in both the acoustic and digital piano markets. Remember: a Steinway isn\u2019t always better than a Yamaha just because it\u2019s more expensive. The golden rule: try a piano before you buy it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Acoustic Piano Brands<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#steinway\">Steinway &amp; Sons<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#yamaha\">Yamaha<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#kawai\">Kawai<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#fazioli\">Fazioli<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#bechstein\">C. Bechstein<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#bosendorfer\">B\u00f6sendorfer<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Digital Piano Brands:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#roland\">Roland<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#yamaha-digital\">Yamaha<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#kawai-digital\">Kawai<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#casio\">Casio<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#nord\">Nord<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#dexibell\">Dexibell<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#korg\">Korg<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>We&#8217;ll also briefly discuss <strong><a href=\"#brand\">whether brand really matters<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<span class=\"blue-text-block\"><center><h2 style=\"font-size:22px\"><b>\ud83c\udfb9 Your Go-To Place for All Things Piano<\/b><\/h2><p>Subscribe to <i>The Note<\/i> for exclusive interviews, fascinating articles, and inspiring lessons delivered straight to your inbox. Unsubscribe at any time.<\/p><iframe class=\"email-form-include\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/weeklyemail\" frameborder=\"none\"><\/iframe><\/center><\/span>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><em>*This article contains affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission from the product seller if you make a purchase. For more info, check out our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/privacy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">privacy page.<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity has-text-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-background is-style-wide\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-text-color wp-block-heading\" id=\"acoustic-piano-brands\" style=\"color:#f61a30;font-size:32px\"><strong>ACOUSTIC PIANO BRANDS<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large full-width\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.unsplash.com\/photo-1612016410921-264f6afed556?ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;ixid=MnwxMjA3fDB8MHxwaG90by1wYWdlfHx8fGVufDB8fHx8&amp;auto=format&amp;fit=crop&amp;w=2370&amp;q=80\" alt=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"steinway\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><strong>Steinway &amp; Sons<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em>Considered by many as the best of the best<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Why Steinway Grand Pianos Are So Expensive | So Expensive\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/mnquWUItsVM?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Steinway is regarded by many as <em>the<\/em> piano brand. If you attend a concert hall performance, chances are the house piano is a Steinway. Many of the world\u2019s best pianists, from Lang Lang to Billy Joel, are Steinway artists. In fact, Steinway claims that <a href=\"https:\/\/www.steinway.com\/about\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">97%<\/a> of concertizing artists choose their brand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The company was founded by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.steinway.com\/news\/features\/steinway-an-american-story\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Henry E. Steinway<\/a> in 1853, a German immigrant in New York City who achieved the American Dream. Despite deteriorating popularity in piano sales, Steinway has stood the test of time and it is <a href=\"https:\/\/thehustle.co\/how-one-of-americas-last-piano-manufacturers-stays-alive\/?utm_content=null&amp;utm_source=Sailthru&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=Sunday%20%23225:%20CHANGE%20ME&amp;utm_term=4ABCD\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">one of only two<\/a> surviving American piano brands (the other being the much smaller Mason &amp; Hamlin). The more affordable Boston and Essex brands are also designed by Steinway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Steinway pianos are <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/mnquWUItsVM\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">notoriously expensive<\/a> because they are meticulously crafted from only the finest materials, such as Alaskan sitka spruce. A single piano takes 11 months to produce and the company makes and sells about 1,100 year. And unlike Yamaha, Steinway\u2019s line of pianos is very small\u2014they offer just one upright model. Still, the buyer is rewarded with a warm, beautiful tone and what many consider the best piano in the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Product examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Upright: K-52<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flagship grand: Model D<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Player piano: Spirio R<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<span class=\"blue-text-block\">\ud83c\udfb9 <b><i>DID YOU KNOW?<\/i><\/b> During World War II, Steinway parachuted 3,000 specially-made <a href=\"https:\/\/www.steinway.com\/news\/features\/steinway-sons-victory-vertical\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u201cVictory Vertical\u201d<\/a> morale-boosting pianos for American troops.<\/span>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"yamaha\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><strong>Yamaha<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em>A consumer and professional favorite<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Secrets of Yamaha Pianos Revealed | Cunningham Piano | Lacefield Music\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/_8EcgDricE8?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Yamaha is an industry giant. Not only do they sell acoustic and <a href=\"#yamaha-digital\">digital pianos<\/a>, Yamaha produces other musical instruments and even motorsports equipment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The company is named after founder <a href=\"https:\/\/www.yamaha.com\/en\/about\/history\/brand\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Torakusu Yamaha<\/a>, a watchmaker and equipment repairer who was fascinated by Western technology. His music journey began when he was asked to repair a school\u2019s reed organ. He then created his own organ, which was initially panned for being badly tuned. But Yamaha didn\u2019t give up; he studied music theory and tuning and today, the Yamaha logo includes three tuning forks to represent overcoming this hurdle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yamaha pianos have a reputation for being high-quality without breaking the bank. They also have a bright sound that some people enjoy, others not so much. Today, the <strong>Yamaha U-1<\/strong> upright remains a popular fixture in many homes and studios. The brand has a diverse line of products that includes concert grands, digital pianos, synthesizers, and acoustic-digital hybrids.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Product examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Compact upright: B1<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Most popular upright: U1<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flagship grand: CFX<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"kawai\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><strong>Kawai<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em>Piano specialists with an innovative, next-generation action<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"The Piano Company | Sangah Noona | Shigeru Kawai SK-EX\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/g7x2eZae-eo?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Kawai\u2019s story actually begins with Yamaha. Founder <a href=\"https:\/\/kawaius.com\/company\/koichi-kawai\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Koichi Kawai<\/a> worked in research and development at Yamaha before splitting off to create his own company. He was later succeeded by his son, Shigeru Kawai, for whom Kawai\u2019s line of high-end concert grands is named after.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What sets Kawai apart is their use of <a href=\"https:\/\/kawaius.com\/technology\/carbon-fiber-technology\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">carbon fiber technology<\/a>, which is present in their current Millennium III action. Traditional actions (like those of Yamaha and Steinway) use wood. The advantage of carbon fiber is a lighter action and better durability. This allows quicker repetition (25% faster according to Kawai) and an action that is less vulnerable to variations in climate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kawai pianos have been described as having a \u201cdarker\u201d tone than their Yamaha cousins, which some musicians find preferable. Unlike Yamaha, Kawai has chosen to focus on pianos and they also boast a competitive line of <a href=\"#kawai-digital\">digital and hybrid instruments<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Product examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Professional upright: K-800<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Premium grand: SK-EX (Shigeru Kawai)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Grand: EX Concert Grand<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"fazioli\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><strong>Fazioli<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em>A new standard of excellence (and purveyor of striking designs)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"UNBELIEVABLE Pianos You Never Knew Existed\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/JA7nBhyJcRY?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Fazioli is a newer piano brand, founded in 1981 by Italian <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fazioli.com\/en\/profile\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Paolo Fazioli<\/a> and based in Sacile, Province of Pordenone. Their pianos are even more expensive than Steinways\u2014a single piano takes two to three years to build and the brand makes fewer than <a href=\"https:\/\/joshuarosspiano.com\/steinway-vs-fazioli\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">140 pianos a year<\/a>. They also use Italian red spruce (as opposed to Alaskan sitka spruce) and gold hinges, compared with Steinway\u2019s brass and nickel hinges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The company only manufactures grand pianos, and their key action has been described as being incredibly light. Fazioli is also known for its series of <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/JA7nBhyJcRY\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">custom designer pianos<\/a> in buildings around the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Fazioli is the brand sponsor of artists like Angela Hewitt and Herbie Hancock. At the XVIII Fryderyk Chopin International Piano Competition, many winners (including 1st prize holder Bruce Liu) chose to play on a<strong> Fazioli F278<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Product examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Smallest grand piano: F156<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Largest grand piano: F308<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aesthetic variations: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fazioli.com\/en\/art-case-aesthetic-variations\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">explore here<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"This Is What A Million Dollar Piano Sounds Like!\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/WLrrHtTJjms?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">We got a chance to play the Fazioli Butterfly. Watch the vlog!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"bechstein\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><strong>C. Bechstein<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em>Continuation of a centuries-long European legacy<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Can You Hear the Difference Between These Pianos?\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/X9r1-vh9b00?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Together with B\u00f6sendorfer, Bl\u00fcthner, and Steinway, C. Bechstein is one of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.metmuseum.org\/art\/collection\/search\/503448\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u201cbig four\u201d<\/a> piano companies of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Carl Bechstein founded his company in 1853 and his pianos were praised by early legends like Franz Liszt and Hans von B\u00fclow. Fun fact: The iconic opening to Queen\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/bohemian-rhapsody-sheet-music\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u201cBohemian Rhapsody\u201d<\/a> is played on a C. Bechstein piano. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In terms of sound, C. Bechstein&#8217;s is often compared with B\u00f6sendorfer\u2019s and Steinway\u2019s (in fact, check out a neat comparison video <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/ncPRvnDW0No\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>). In general, European pianos tend to exude a warmer, rounder tone than Japanese pianos like Yamaha and Kawai. But individual pianos can differ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>C. Bechstein offers <a href=\"https:\/\/www.merriammusic.com\/pianos\/brands\/c-bechstein\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">two main piano lines<\/a>: the Concert and Residence series and the Academy series. The Concert series is the highest tier because it uses higher quality materials and more work hours. The two lines also use different actions and the Concert series soundboard is built from the same wood Stradivarius violins were built with. VARIO is a digital sound system you can connect to your acoustic piano to take advantage of digital features. C. Bechstein also produces the Hoffmann and Zimmermann lines of pianos, which are more affordably priced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Product examples: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Concert Series grand: Concert D 282<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Academy Series semi-concert grand: Academy A 228<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Concert Series professional upright: Concert 8<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"bosendorfer\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><strong>B\u00f6sendorfer<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em>Majestic sound and the largest piano you can get<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-4-3 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"The Making Of a Bosendorfer\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/HDbMumNvUVQ?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Another one of the great European piano makers, B\u00f6sendorfer\u2019s pianos are known for their deeply warm, majestic tone. The brand was officially founded in 1828 by Ignaz B\u00f6sendorfer in Vienna, Austria, so it pre-dates C. Bechstein and Steinway. The company achieved fame overnight after a performance on one of their pianos by Liszt in 1839.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In 2008, Yamaha acquired the brand, but B\u00f6sendorfer states that its manufactory in Austria remains <a href=\"https:\/\/www.boesendorfer.com\/en\/about\/history-1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">fully independent<\/a>. B\u00f6sendorfer\u2019s acquisition into Yamaha means you can access the unique sound of B\u00f6sendorfer pianos in some Yamaha digital and hybrid instruments. On the B\u00f6sendorfer side, the brand also offers Yamaha&#8217;s Disklavier player piano features.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>B\u00f6sendorfer\u2019s most notable instrument is probably its <strong>Concert Grand 290 Imperial<\/strong>, a grand piano with nine extra keys. This gives the Imperial eight full octaves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Product examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Concert Grand 290 Imperial<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Largest upright: Grand Upright 130<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.boesendorfer.com\/en\/pianos\/collectors-item\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Collector&#8217;s editions<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.boesendorfer.com\/en\/pianos\/ultimate-design\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ultimate Design<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<iframe class=\"email-form-include-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/weekly-email\" frameborder=\"none\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-text-color wp-block-heading\" id=\"digital-piano-brands\" style=\"color:#f61a30;font-size:32px\"><strong>DIGITAL PIANO BRANDS<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large full-width\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.unsplash.com\/photo-1635043702882-1bd821a08d78?ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;ixid=MnwxMjA3fDB8MHxwaG90by1wYWdlfHx8fGVufDB8fHx8&amp;auto=format&amp;fit=crop&amp;w=2370&amp;q=80\" alt=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"roland\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><strong>Roland<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em>Music tech specialists who have revolutionized the industry<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Land of the Rising Sound | A Roland Retrospective\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/JcbpRMZIQ8g?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/JrDnXq\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Roland<\/a> Corporation is an electronic music powerhouse. Among its achievements are the BOSS stompboxes for guitar, the Jupiter line of synthesizers, and numerous other mixers, workstations, and other tools for cutting-edge music-making. Roland is responsible for numerous musical milestones in the 70s, 80s, and beyond, when synthesized sound ruled (and continues to rule) music.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the piano realm, Roland\u2019s line of products is diverse. On one end, there are grand pianos like the <strong>GP09<\/strong>, which combine the traditional acoustic grand experience with digital technology. Roland\u2019s portable digitals are favorites among pianists as well\u2014these include the brand\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/0J4qoR\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">flagship FP series<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/b3nXJv\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">RD-2000<\/a> stage piano. Acoustic purists: don\u2019t be fooled by Roland\u2019s digital pedigree\u2014Roland\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/3KtUW78VJa0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">SuperNATURAL<\/a> sound engine is well-regarded for its sound quality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At Pianote, our studio piano is a (discontinued) Roland V-Piano Grand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Product examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Entry-level portable: <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/2r4Dz7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>FP-10<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flagship portable:<strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/do6Bgj\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">FP-90X<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Professional stage piano: <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/b3nXJv\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>RD-2000<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"yamaha-digital\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><strong>Yamaha<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em>Reliability in digital form<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Yamaha P-515 Digital Piano - Full Demo with Gabriel Aldort\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/eRcR_ybOYxs?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/7mYPrg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Yamaha\u2019s<\/a> reputation as a master piano maker extends to its digital instruments. Again, Yamaha offers a lot of choice here, including the portable <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/MXrOzq\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">P-series<\/a>, the <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/LP96BM\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Clavinova<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/DV4oG2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Arius<\/a> home console pianos, and the <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/jWqb0P\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">CP<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/e4mzXO\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">YC stage pianos<\/a> used by gigging pros. There are several <a href=\"https:\/\/hub.yamaha.com\/pianos\/p-digital\/a-quick-guide-to-weighted-keys\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">types of digital action<\/a> available, including the Graded Hammer Standard (GHS), Graded Hammer 3 (GH3), Graded Hammer 3 With Escapement (GH3X), Grand Touch, and Natural Wood X.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Their hybrid pianos are worth mentioning. The <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/x91MKk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">AvantGrand<\/a> series features instruments with acoustic upright and grand actions paired with digital sound engines. This means you get the best of both worlds: an authentic playing experience and all the advantages of a digital instrument!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Product examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Entry-level portable: <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/jWqb7n\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>P45<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Professional stage piano: <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/e4mz0g\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>CP88<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hybrid piano: <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/154xYg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>AvantGrand N1X<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"kawai-digital\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><strong>Kawai<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em>Excellent actions in digital form<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Kawai ES920 Digital Piano - Keyboard Demo | Chuck Levin&#039;s\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/xAxYjN2s1uY?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/JrDn6Q\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Kawai<\/a> has invested a lot into creating the best digital actions possible. In fact, there are <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/8oRWQ6OVqq0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">nine<\/a> digital actions available. The <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/BX4g39\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">CA series<\/a> offers a professional-grade playing experience. Meanwhile, the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/zaJMKm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">MP11SE<\/a><\/strong> is a unique stage piano that includes real, full-size wooden hammers (which, as a downside, makes that instrument quite heavy). The R.H. III action deserves an extra shout-out\u2014it\u2019s so good that <a href=\"#nord\">Nord<\/a> integrated it into their <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/Ea4B6X\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>Nord Grand<\/strong>.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Along with Yamaha, Kawai offers best-of-both-worlds hybrid pianos too. They have two: the <a href=\"https:\/\/thmn.to\/thoprod\/520284?offid=1&amp;affid=882\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>Novus NV5S<\/strong> <\/a>and the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/thmn.to\/thoprod\/520281?offid=1&amp;affid=882\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Novus NV10S<\/a><\/strong>. The NV5S is unique in that it employs a real spruce soundboard. The Millennium III Hybrid grand piano action in the NV10S is almost the exact same thing as the action used in their grand pianos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Product examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Professional portable piano: <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/x91MGk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>ES920<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Professional stage piano: <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/zaJMKm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>MP11SE<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hybrid piano: <a href=\"https:\/\/thmn.to\/thoprod\/520281?offid=1&amp;affid=882\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>Novus NV10S<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"casio\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><strong>Casio<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em>Piano power packed in slim, low-profile elegance<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Casio Privia PX-S1000 Demo\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/BXv3ispGJDY?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/e4mzWg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Casio<\/a> doesn&#8217;t just make alarm clocks and watches; they also create a wide variety of keyboard instruments! These pianos have become quite popular. On one end, there are accessibly priced, portable instruments for casual players, the smallest of which are essentially very nice toys. On the other end, their Privia line of portable digitals is well respected. They also offer hybrid digital instruments like the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/GjLWNE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">GP-510<\/a><\/strong> that uses a <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/I-ubqnVUbHc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bechstein action<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Casio excels in making instruments that are very slim and portable, making them suitable for casual players, those who are low on space, or musicians who want to bring their instruments on the go. The <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/vnAMaA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Privia PX-S7000<\/a><\/strong>\u2014which comes in a variety of colorways and a stylish, modernist stand\u2014is especially eye-catching.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Product examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hybrid digital: <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/GjLWNE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>GP-510<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Portable digital:<strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/vnAMaA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">PX-S7000<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Slim portable: <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/7mYPN3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>CDP-S360<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"nord\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><strong>Nord<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em>The #1 choice of the performing pros<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/youtu.be\/B32RvLT6mpA\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In recent years, <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/rn5MdB\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Nord\u2019s<\/a> eye-catching bright red design has appeared in many stage musicians\u2019 videos. Designed especially for stage performers, Nord offers <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/kjx6dv\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">synthesizers<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/Ao4Z6D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">digital pianos<\/a>, and an <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/154xAB\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">organ<\/a>. Their stage piano combines elements from all three major keyboard instruments into one portable, killer package. Hand-made in Sweden, these instruments aren\u2019t cheap, but there must be a reason why they are popular among professionals (including Pianote Coaches <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/jesus-molina-podcast\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jes\u00fas Molina<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/summer-swee-singh\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Summer Swee-Singh<\/a>). Indeed, Nord\u2019s target customer is a professional musician willing to invest in a high-quality instrument suitable for touring and gigging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pianists will likely be most interested in the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/BX4gL4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Nord Piano 5<\/a><\/strong>, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/Ea4B6X\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Nord Grand<\/a><\/strong>, and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/3P4QQA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Nord Stage 3<\/a><\/strong>. The Nord Grand even uses Kawai&#8217;s R.H. III Hammer Action. The many knobs and switches on a Nord instrument may seem intimidating, but the brand argues this is more tactile and straightforward to use than a screen based interface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Product Examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/BX4gL4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>Nord Piano 5<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/Ea4B6X\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>Nord Grand<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/3P4QQA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Nord Stage 3<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"dexibell\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><strong>Dexibell<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em>Beautifully designed instruments, with beautiful sound to boot<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Dexibell VIVO S9 Digital Piano Demo\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/ens-r5L41Pg?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Handmade in Italy, <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/4e499G\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Dexibell<\/a> pianos are beautiful instruments. They also produce a beautiful sound: their <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/qaUowATaBq0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">T2L (True to Life)<\/a> sound engine and unlimited polyphony create an authentic and nuanced sound that includes crystal-clear hammer noise and key-off. Aesthetically designed, Dexibell produces both upright and grand digital pianos including the eye-catching <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/do6BBy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Mini Grand Piano<\/a><\/strong>, <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/MXrOON\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>VIVO H<\/strong> series of home pianos<\/a>, and the beautiful <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/7mYPPO\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">S-series of stage pianos.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Product examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Stage piano: <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/x91MMO\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>VIVO S9<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mini Grand: <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/do6BBy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>VIVO H10MG<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Organ: <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/QOkDDz\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>Classico L3<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"korg\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><strong>Korg<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><em>Synthesizer legend now innovating in the digital piano sphere<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Traveler: A Korg Retrospective\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/v7hqDRmx3yI?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Another major brand from Japan, <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/kjx66v\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Korg<\/a> is best known for its synthesizers and music production gear and tech. Their first major product was the Doncamatic auto rhythm machine (so named after its don-ka, don-ka sound), produced under the original Keio brand. Throughout its history, Korg has also worked closely with Yamaha.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>More recently, Korg has delved into the digital piano market using their many decades of related knowledge. One of their newest pianos is the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/a1EggQ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Liano<\/a><\/strong>, an ultra-compact portable that is 7cm thick and weighs only 6.2kg. They also make the toy <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3UpM2XL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">tinyPiano<\/a><\/strong>. Note that Korg\u2019s RH action is its own thing and <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/IECxVZUwfbs?t=1584\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">not related<\/a> to Kawai\u2019s RH action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Product examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ultra-compact portable: <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/a1EggQ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>Liano<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Digital piano: <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/n1mMMa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>B2<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vintage-style stage piano: <a href=\"https:\/\/imp.i114863.net\/RyeQMy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\"><strong>SV-1<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity has-text-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-background is-style-wide\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"brand\" style=\"font-size:32px\"><strong>Which piano brand should I buy?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>We can discuss piano brands and their specs all day, but how a piano feels when you play it is a very personal experience. The best way to figure out which piano brands to buy is to try a variety of instruments.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re shopping in the digital market, you may want to choose an instrument based more on its action than its sound. Because while sound can be customizable (you can download <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianodreamers.com\/best-piano-vst-plugins\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">VSTs<\/a> for most digital pianos), once you buy a piano, you\u2019re basically stuck with its built-in action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some quick tips for buying the best digital piano to learn on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Try your best to get 88 keys. <\/strong>This is a standard, full-size keyboard. Even beginners will find they\u2019ll run out of keys pretty soon if they have fewer than 88 keys.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Look for fully weighted, touch-sensitive keys. <\/strong>This means a piano will sound soft when you play it softly and loud when you apply more pressure. Having this mechanism is essential to developing good technique.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Look for graded action. <\/strong>This means the keys in the higher register will feel lighter than the keys in the lower register, just like an acoustic piano.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Buying a piano is a very personal journey and there are no right or wrong answers. Every musician has their own preferences when it comes to price points, tech features, action, and sound. Some people may prioritize how an instrument fits with their home aesthetic\u2014that\u2019s okay, too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to learn more about pianos (and buying one), check out the following articles:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/history-of-the-piano\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">A Complete History of the Piano<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/how-to-buy-piano\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to Buy a Piano: The Ultimate Guide<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/pianote.com\/blog\/how-pianos-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How Pianos Work<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/keyboard-vs-piano\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Keyboard vs. Piano<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Also check out some of our reviews:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/cheap-vs-expensive-pianos\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Does Price Matter? (Cheap vs. Expensive Digital Pianos)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/best-beginner-keyboard\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The BEST Beginner Keyboard (Or Digital Piano)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<span class=\"blue-text-block\"><center><h3 style=\"font-size:22px;\"><b>Master the Piano YOUR Way \ud83d\udd25<\/b><\/h3><p>As a Pianote Member, you\u2019ll get access to our 10-step Method, song library, and growing community of piano players just like you. Plus: get coached by world-class pianists and learn whenever you  want, wherever you want, and whatever you want.<\/p><a class=\"join\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/trial\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">TRY PIANOTE FOR 7 DAYS<\/a><\/center><br><\/span>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Piano shopping is hard! To help you find your dream instrument, here is a summary of the most popular piano brands and why they&#8217;re unique.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":49,"featured_media":9355,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1132,1108],"tags":[865,1069],"class_list":["post-9302","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-articles","category-musicianship","tag-affiliate","tag-gsotp"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9302","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/49"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=9302"}],"version-history":[{"count":17,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9302\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":13512,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9302\/revisions\/13512"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/9355"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=9302"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=9302"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=9302"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}