My definition of a digital piano – it is all electric, no acoustic parts involved. (Some acoustic pianos are the modern day version of a player piano, but use CDs instead of a piano roll.)
The Digital Piano
What makes a digital piano different from an electric keyboard? A digital piano will have 88 keys and the keys will be weighted. (The ability to play loud if pressed down hard or a soft sound when played lightly.) Digital pianos may come with just the basics, 88 weighted keys with a minimum of extras to fully “loaded”. The sound quality of a digital piano will be nicer than an electric keyboard. If purchasing a digital piano please also be sure to purchase a stand and a bench if they are not included as a package. The bench is proportioned to the height of the keyboard. Using a chair is NOT a good option. The medium to higher end digital keyboards will have a cabinet (resembling an upright piano or grand piano) and a bench.
Pros to buying a digital piano
- More portable than an acoustic piano.
- No upkeep (except for dusting).
- Built in features such as a metronome and ability to record/listen to your playing.
- Has 88 keys.
- Keys are weighted.
- Should include a stand/cabinetry for proper height and a bench (the bench is matched to the keyboard height for playing posture).
- Will have a headphone jack.
- May have jack to hook up with a computer.
Cons to buying a digital piano
- Not an acoustic piano.
- Can be expensive.
- Not as portable as an electric keyboard.
- Will you be happy with the sound produced by a digital piano? Much nicer than an electric keyboard, but still lacking a true acoustic piano sound.