As players strike the chords, automatically created basslines, rhythm tracks and other styles of accompaniment play along. Daryl Robertson Physically, it looks very similar to an upright piano, only smaller. Know that Kraft Music is here to assist in any way that we can. To be fair, keyboard manufacturers have been working hard to ensure that the styles included in their latest models are elevated above the cheese level normally associated with this kind of thing. The user blows through a pipe on the top of the instrument while playing the keyboard on the side. The one thing a keyboard cant do, however, is sound like another instrument. Buy any of the best Casio keyboards or digital pianos and youll be granted free access to the Casio Music Academy. There are a variety of hurdy-gurdies, but they all sound like a combination of an accordion and a violin. In addition, PSR-I500 features a number of lesson functions, including a built-in tabla/mridangam and tanpura function called Riyaz, to help you learn how to play songs or traditional Indian Raga scales. The powerful portable keyboard offers musicians an immersive playing experience, thanks to 801 Voices including 40 Indian instruments such as Sitar, Bansuri, Santoor, Harmonium and Shehnai. Sign up for exclusive deals, updates on the hottest new gear, and more! If you are uncertain as to whether a dealer has been authorized by Yamaha, please contact Yamaha's Service Department or check Yamaha's website. RiyazPSR-I500 has a built-in tabla/mridangam and tanpura function called Riyaz. Yamaha 61-Key Portable Keyboard with Voices and Styles for Indian Music Genres. Contributions from SplitFor players who want to switch back and forth between two instruments or take on two instrumental roles for example playing bass and pianos together while singing PSR-I500 features a split function that lets you split the keyboard and assign an instrument to the lower and upper halves of the keyboard. Indian StylesIf you're struggling with finding other band members or simply want to perform alone, PSR-I500's Styles auto accompaniment function is invaluable. You can also buy songs from the impressive collection at Yamaha MusicSoft or even download practice music or lesson songs your teacher has made for you. Dual voiceDual voice allows players to play two instruments together, for example using both piano and strings together for a dreamy atmosphere; layering bansuri and a pad sound provides a similar feel. Despite keeping many of the features the same, there have been a few tweaks to the velocity and decay time on the core piano tones, which results in a very natural and satisfying piano tone. This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. It was only made for a few years in the 1960s and is increasingly hard to find. Yamaha's liability for any defective product is limited to repair or replacement of the product, at Yamaha's option. The PSR-I500 includes 282 types of auto-accompaniment Styles including 50 Indian-inspired Styles. Three controller knobs will enable you to tweak sounds as theyre playing, and theres also a pitch bend wheel, a rudimentary built-in sampler, plus Bluetooth audio streaming and wireless MIDI support with the included WU-BT10 Bluetooth dongle. Almost identical in spec to the CT-S300, the LK-S250 features 61 full-size, velocity-sensitive, light-up keys. 
Sophistication levels will naturally rise in tandem with price, but most of the keyboards on this list feature a good mix of traditional and current styles. Yamaha suggests that you read the Limited Warranty thoroughly, and invites you to contact your authorized Yamaha dealer or Yamaha Customer Service if you have any questions. Any implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose shall be limited in duration to the applicable period of time set forth above. The majority of the keyboards and pianos shown here conform to these numbers, the exception being the SA-76, which sports 44 mini keys for a more child-friendly alternative. What sets this model apart is that you can store 100 user rhythms in the keyboards memory, and get direct access to instrument categories via dedicated buttons. The difference is that instead of directly seeing the holes, the musician is using the keyboard placed over the center tube. A Harmonium is a lesser-known cousin of the accordion. The piano was initially called the pianoforte, the common musical term for soft and loud (since it could do both). It borrows part of its name and design from the hammered dulcimer, which utilizes padded hammers hitting a string. This warranty covers only the Original Owner and is not transferable. Aside from that, the spec is the same, this mini marvel squeezing in 100 instrument tones, 50 rhythms and 10 basic integrated songs, an LCD display, five drum pads for tapping out your own rhythms, twin speakers and, perhaps most importantly, a headphone jack! If a harpsichord is the mother of the piano, the Clavichord is the father. Registration Memory that allows users to recall stored settings including Voices, Styles and effects with the push of a button. Power supply Please refresh the page and try again. The term style refers to a set of backing instruments that play along with you as you hold down a chord with your left hand. Users can download MIDI song files from an extensive library on Yamaha MusicSoft. These hooks pluck the strings within the instrument instead of hitting them. Instead, the instrument itself acts like a bellows. This model seems more geared up for live performance than the other models in the line-up, due to the line outputs and microphone inputs found on the back panel, along with the powerful, room-filling twin-15W speaker system. Some keyboards sound like vastly different instruments! All rights reserved. A harmonium is like a small upright piano but with two large pedals. You still get a 61-key, full-size, velocity-sensitive keyboard, a pitch-bend wheel and the AIX sound engine, but the CT-S400 improves on the CT-S300 on a number of fronts, offering more than 600 tones, 200 accompaniment styles and an improved yet still simple interface that employs five user-configurable soft buttons beneath a new backlit screen. Yamaha may request that you send the defective product to a local authorized Yamaha Servicer or authorize return of the defective product to Yamaha for repair. 257 Panel Voices including 40 Indian Voices, Varies based on numbers of notes in songs, The ideal keyboard for Indian music lovers, for both performance and learning, 801 instruments, including 40 Indian instruments, 282 types of auto accompaniment Styles, including 50 Indian Styles, Riyaz (tabla/mridangam and tanpura) function with 30 taals, Quick Sampling function: normal, one shot or loop, Powerful amplifiers with bass reflex speakers. Find out more about how we test. You will be responsible for any installation or removal charges and for any initial shipping charges if the product(s) must be shipped for warranty service. Thank you for signing up to Musicradar. 28 Of The Best Songs About New York City: Big Apple Playlist, 10 Best Songs About New Mexico: Land Of Enchantment Playlist, 15 Of The Greatest And Most Famous Female Soul Singers, 11 Of The Greatest And Most Famous Turkish Singers. It was commonly used in homes because of its small size. Plus you can plug an external music source into the keyboards minijack audio input to play along with MP3s of your favourite tracks. Master EQThe newly added India master EQ type makes your PSR-I500 sound more punchy and rich for Indian instruments in particular when you are connected to a PA system. This brand new Casio keyboard builds on the legacy of its predecessor - the CDP-S100 - but employs a few valuable upgrades. You will receive a verification email shortly. Casio Music Space Thank you for selecting a Yamaha product. PSR-I500 has a variety of accompaniment Styles including 50 different types of Indian Styles from around the country. So whether youre an aspiring musician or a fully-fledged virtuoso, youre sure to find this best Casio keyboards guide helpful. "The PSR-I500 is attractive to musicians wanting to play traditional and contemporary Indian music, and its Voices and Styles also lend themselves to those wanting to blend Indian musical flavors with hip hop or electronic dance music," said Ben Harrison, marketing manager, Digital Piano & Portable Keyboard, Yamaha. Based around the functionality of Chordana Play but with an expanded array of features, its aimed at complete beginners, people taking up an instrument again, or intermediate to advanced players who want to experience a new way of playing. Even the fourteen on this list arent all as common as you would thinksome of these you might not have heard of! Its different from an electric keyboard, however. The claviola works like a combination of the accordion and the melodica. Want to stream audio from your smartphone or tablet to your keyboard so that you can play along? Happily, almost all Casio keyboards offer educational features, from onboard lessons to compatibility with downloadable apps and services, some of which are outlined below. Clavichords only had a few octaves and were primarily used in the home for practice or composition. The CT-S400 is a worthy range-topper, but if illuminated keys are your thing, theres an equivalent light-up model called the LK-S450. A place for keyboard players of all levels of experience and talent to chat about equipment and music. While you could control how hard you hit the keys, the instrument is too small to make enough sound in a large concert hall. The most famous use of the celeste in modern music is in the theme song for the Harry Potter movies. Korg produce the Indian version of their EK50 which they term an entertainer keyboard but in reality it is their entry level arranger. Sixty-one full-size, velocity-sensitive keys, a solid-sounding pair of 2.5W speakers, a generous 600 tones, 100 arpeggios and 195 rhythms, a six-track song recorder and Casios Step Up onboard lesson system are just a few of the features squeezed into this keyboard. This is the only express warranty applicable to the product specified herein; Yamaha neither assumes nor authorizes anyone to assume for it any other express warranty. Yamaha's touch-sensitive keyboards have been recognized and certified by world famous Trinity Music College London. Yamaha qualityYamaha has a long history of strict quality control after decades of dedication to world class quality and durability. Casio has even thoughtfully provided a dedicated pad to rest your smartphone on when using it as a sound source via the audio-input jack on the back of the instrument. The dulcitone is a quiet and high-pitched instrument, generally only spanning four or five octaves. The PX-S1100 has two headphone outputs for duets or lessons, and is available in three colours black, white or red. However, a harmonium is much quieter and bulkier. Compatible with all of Casios current keyboard and piano line-up, Chordana Play and Chordana Play Piano are free educational apps (Android or iOS) thatll help you learn how to play songs using a simple interface. The notes of the song will then drop down in a videogame style (and light up the keys if you have an LK-S250), enabling you to play the song while the app scores your performance. Though its not usually included in the box, if you shop around its possible to find deals that include the WU-BT10 in the purchase price. Battery powerPSR-I500 can be powered by batteries! Its vocal synthesis technology holds great promise, and even without that feature its an extremely capable and entertaining machine. Available in black, white or red, it comes with 61 tones that are powered by the excellent AIX sound engine and accessed by a simple interface, with no screen or menu diving. With a sharp, modern geometric design and crimson accents, the CT-X5000 both looks and sounds the part, with over 800 preset AIX voices, 235 rhythm tracks, 100 DSP effects, a USB port, a 3.5mm auxiliary input, and much more besides. If nothing else, this instrument has the most entertaining name on the list. Styles are usually categorised by genre, with all of the keyboards on this list offering a broad selection from across the globe. The accordion works like a tiny organ, using air, stops, and a keyboard to control the sound. Musicians can learn the fundamentals of Indian Classical music and Bollywood styles through the keyboard's built-in Tabla/Mridangam & Tanpura function called "Riyaz." Launched in January 2022, Casios latest offering features a pretty unique selling point in the shape of vocal synthesis. With the latter, you need only play a chord with your left hand (this can usually be done with a single finger if you dont feel like playing the complete chord), and your virtual band will play along while you pick out the melody with your right hand. Blurring the lines between the digital piano and its cousin the portable arranger keyboard, the CDP-S350 is a super-slim and truly versatile hybrid instrument that would be just as comfortable in a professional setting as it would in a learning situation at home. Another example of effective use of the dual voice function is layering harmonium with string slap to achieve a more realistic sound. In a feature not found on any other keyboard at this price or indeed any other keyboard full stop the CT-S1000V will sing lyrics typed into it via an app on your mobile device in one of 20 different voices. Indian instrumentsAuthentic sounding Indian instruments are essential for anyone who wants to play traditional Indian songs or modern Indian movie songs. All rights reserved. Its affordable enough to help determine whether or not you have a budding Mozart in the house, without breaking the bank. Keys If you hook a synth up to an external computer, theres no end to the number of different sounds it can make. By The instrument works much the same way; it uses keys to pluck strings. Yamaha products are designed and manufactured to provide a high level of defect-free performance. Dave has been making music with computers since 1988 and his engineering, programming and keyboard-playing has featured on recordings by artists including George Michael, Kylie and Gary Barlow. Don't miss the latest deals, news, reviews, features and tutorials. Overall, its quite a useful feature for beginners wanting to learn their favourite songs, though the process can be quite involved. It makes a characteristic sound found on many Baroque instrumental pieces and requires technical precision. However, the difference in sound makes the celesta sound almost magical. Step Up lessons The instrument pushes air through various pipes to make music using pedals, while the dual keyboards and a series of stops open and shut the pipes. Just bring six AA batteries for street performances, touring or camping without a stable electricity supply. Unlike the melodica, however, the claviola is no longer in production. While the dulcitone had its uses, it was often replaced by a louder, sharper-sounding percussion instrument such as a xylophone or a glockenspiel. Copyright 2022 Kraft Music. Educational features However, the dulcitone attaches these hammers to a keyboard in a portable version of the clavichord. Though its not the cheapest instrument around, this updated model ticks all the right boxes, featuring a solid set of unparalleled acoustic piano tones, great keyboard action, excellent speakers and a slim profile. Now, its just called a piano. A vast collection of onboard Indian instruments (Voices) and auto accompaniment function (Styles) covers a broad spectrum of Indian music genres from every corner of the country. This feature gives Indian music-lovers the ability to learn songs and traditional Indian Raga scales, practice to traditional Indian rhythms, or use the instrument for backing rhythm. While both plug into a wall and look like a smaller version of a regular piano, synthesizers have varying functions and are capable of many different sounds. However, unlike an organ, it doesnt use pipes. Unlike many of the other keyboard instruments, the autoharp sounds much more like a stringed instrument (unsurprisingly, it sounds a lot like a small harp). Dual voice that allows players to play two instruments together. Because the accompaniment styles are pre-programmed at the factory, theyre pretty much dependent on the in-house composers music tastes. Even without the vocal trickery, this is an extremely capable arranger keyboard, with 800 AIX instrument tones, a great-feeling 61-key velocity-sensitive keyboard, and some slick-sounding auto-accompaniment grooves. Think of the melodica as a recorder, but with a keyboard on top instead of openings. Yet this 88-key, professional-sounding instrument has a few tricks up its sleeve. Im Dan and I run this website. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. The CDP-S350 features Casios latest Scaled Hammer Action II keyboard, which, together with the simulated ebony and ivory textured keys, provides the authentic playing feel of an acoustic piano. Additional features of the PSR-I500 include: Yamaha PSR-I500 Digital Workstation Brings the Joys of Authentic Indian Music to Life. This makes instruments sound more natural, especially when you play using certain Voices such as bulbul tarang, veena, strings, synth, bass or sitar. The air is blown upwards through the instruments reeds to create sound, which is then controlled by the keys. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. Theres a good chance that youre looking at keyboards because you want to learn how to play. At the opposite end of the scale from the CT-X700, we have the CT-X5000, the flagship model of the CT-X range. Bath He also lectures on synthesis at Leeds Conservatoire of Music and is the author of Avid Pro Tools Basics. Powerful amplifiers with bass reflex 6-watt speakers. Repairs may be performed using new or refurbished parts that meet or exceed Yamaha specifications for new parts. Find out more abouthow we test music gear and servicesat MusicRadar. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. Built-in speakersPSR-I500 is equipped with two powerful onboard 6-watt speakers, delivering punchy bass and drums without the need for setting up an external PA in smaller venues such as a caf or restaurant. Not only the vast library of onboard songs, but all songs you have imported will be supported by the PSR-I500 lesson function. The Melodica is one of the newer instruments on this list. Styles If Yamaha elects to replace the product, the replacement may be a reconditioned unit. published 5 April 22, Interested in a Casio keyboard but bewildered by the array of choices? Looking at the KN series keyboards, need to know what names of certain styles are? However, the harmonium has two main differences: the method of air pumping and the size of the instrument. Arranger keyboards often ship with hundreds of different instrument presets, representing practically every instrument that exists and probably quite a few that dont. It also has a modulation button above the pitch wheel. Its technically a member of the wind instrument family (but the piano is technically a percussion instrument). We have options that include everything from fun-sized kids keyboards to portable arranger keyboards and even pro-level portable pianos. Fear not, as weve done the hard work for you, MusicRadar's expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. You do get some drum sounds, but theres no auto-accompaniment features, so the CT-S1 is really aimed at keyboard players who are after a decent range of truly excellent, usable sounds in a portable, affordable package. Speakers/headphones Though forcasting shipping times has become increasingly difficult, general FedEx package estimated transit days are as follows: Questions? Registration memoryYou may want to change sound settings for different songs or even during a song while you perform. JavaScript is disabled. The LK-S250 can be hooked up to a smart device via its micro-USB port, and used with Casios Chordana Play app, which makes full use of those light-up keys to further broaden the keyboards educational potential. Similar to the harpsichord, the clavichord had one central issue: dynamics. However, not that many of them are commonly used. Yamaha sells its products through a network of reputable, specially authorized dealers and is pleased to offer you, the Original Owner, the following Limited Warranty, which applies only to products that have been (1) directly purchased from Yamaha's authorized dealers in the fifty states of the USA and District of Columbia (the 'Warranted Area') and (2) used exclusively in the Warranted Area. Other than the piano, the Synthesizer might be the most popular keyboard instrument on this list. BA1 1UA. Its simpler than the accordion because there are no stops to control. All of the products on this list can be powered via a standard power supply or USB, and some enable you to use batteries a handy option for those who need some portability. To help you choose the best Casio keyboard for your needs - and budget - weve put together this handy guide containing our top choices from the companys range. Although Bluetooth isnt featured as standard on a lot of the keyboards on our list, newer models like the CT-S1 and the CT-S400 are compatible with Casios optional WU-BT10 Bluetooth adapter. Launched in 2018, the CT-X range was the first line of keyboards to feature Casios now- renowned AIX (Artistic Intelligent Expression) sound engine, with the CT-X700 being the entry-level model. Welcome to Hello Music Theory! That said, Casio seems to have really done its homework in this area of late, and some of the pre-programmed styles on its more recent launches are very sophisticated and usable. As a result, auto-accompaniment features tend to be a bit Marmite you either love them or hate them. The modern piano has 88 keys and is played sitting down. If youre not bothered about the vocal synthesis, you could always opt for the CT-S500, which will give you everything found on the CT-S1000V minus the vocal features, for $70/50/60 less. Contact your local authorized Yamaha dealer who will advise you of the procedures to be followed. The classic synth or electric keyboard sound, however, is well-known in classic rock. Or if you want a great beginner keyboard for your child to mess around on and get inspired to pursue music as a hobby, then the diminutive, bargain-priced SA-76 (opens in new tab) is a no-brainer as a fun and entertaining gateway to learning the keyboard. Casios CDP model designation stands for Compact Digital Piano, and thats the perfect way to describe the CDP-S350. It only comes with 18 instrument voices but, as youd expect from a professional-grade digital piano, string resonance, damper resonance, key action noise and damper noise are all present and correct in the rich, detailed grand piano tone. Though its still a relatively portable unit, the PX-S1100 is a serious instrument, with an active touch-panel display, Casios great-feeling Smart Scaled Hammer Action weighted keyboard and a whopping 192-note polyphony to ensure you wont have any sustained notes dropping out. Reverb presets will make you feel as if you are playing in a world famous concert hall, while the rotary speaker effect will add a professional feel to organ sounds or even tanpura. The CT-S1s sounds are fantastic, and the onboard speakers go loud enough to do them justice. Despite its tiny price tag, the S110 still manages to feature a fully-weighted, hammer-action 88-note keyboard, ten unique voices and can even be run on batteries for extreme portability. Bear in mind that quantity isnt always a measure of quality, though its far better to have fewer usable voices than hundreds youll never bother with, especially if youre more in the market for a digital piano than a portable keyboard. While there are vast technical differences between them, a basic knowledge of music and piano would be a good start for playing each of these. When connected to your Casio piano or keyboard, Casio Music Space can act as a digital music score, a teacher, a live-performance simulator and an all-round app with which to enjoy learning and playing music. Yamaha shall not be responsible for incidental or consequential damages or for damages based upon inconvenience, loss of use, damage to any other equipment or other items at the site of use or interruption of performances or any consequences. The tiny but mighty SA-76 is a colourful and fun way to start your kids off on the path to exploring the world of music. Retailing at $80/59/70, this device plugs into a USB port on the rear of compatible keyboards, adding the ability to receive and play audio using your keyboards built-in speaker system. Casios philosophy is to help people make music any time, anywhere, and the CT range perfectly embodies that principle. PortamentoPortamento is a function that creates a smooth transition in pitch from the first note played on the keyboard to the next. Yamaha will, at its option, repair or replace the product covered by this warranty if it becomes defective, malfunctions or otherwise fails to conform with this warranty under normal use and service during the term of this warranty, without charge for labor or materials. We have already featured its big brother, the PX-S1100, but we feel its essential to showcase the entry-level Casio CDP-S110. A music technology writer since 2007, hes Computer Musics long-serving songwriting and music theory columnist, iCreate magazines resident Logic Pro expert and a regular contributor to MusicRadar and Attack Magazine.
Sophistication levels will naturally rise in tandem with price, but most of the keyboards on this list feature a good mix of traditional and current styles. Yamaha suggests that you read the Limited Warranty thoroughly, and invites you to contact your authorized Yamaha dealer or Yamaha Customer Service if you have any questions. Any implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose shall be limited in duration to the applicable period of time set forth above. The majority of the keyboards and pianos shown here conform to these numbers, the exception being the SA-76, which sports 44 mini keys for a more child-friendly alternative. What sets this model apart is that you can store 100 user rhythms in the keyboards memory, and get direct access to instrument categories via dedicated buttons. The difference is that instead of directly seeing the holes, the musician is using the keyboard placed over the center tube. A Harmonium is a lesser-known cousin of the accordion. The piano was initially called the pianoforte, the common musical term for soft and loud (since it could do both). It borrows part of its name and design from the hammered dulcimer, which utilizes padded hammers hitting a string. This warranty covers only the Original Owner and is not transferable. Aside from that, the spec is the same, this mini marvel squeezing in 100 instrument tones, 50 rhythms and 10 basic integrated songs, an LCD display, five drum pads for tapping out your own rhythms, twin speakers and, perhaps most importantly, a headphone jack! If a harpsichord is the mother of the piano, the Clavichord is the father. Registration Memory that allows users to recall stored settings including Voices, Styles and effects with the push of a button. Power supply Please refresh the page and try again. The term style refers to a set of backing instruments that play along with you as you hold down a chord with your left hand. Users can download MIDI song files from an extensive library on Yamaha MusicSoft. These hooks pluck the strings within the instrument instead of hitting them. Instead, the instrument itself acts like a bellows. This model seems more geared up for live performance than the other models in the line-up, due to the line outputs and microphone inputs found on the back panel, along with the powerful, room-filling twin-15W speaker system. Some keyboards sound like vastly different instruments! All rights reserved. A harmonium is like a small upright piano but with two large pedals. You still get a 61-key, full-size, velocity-sensitive keyboard, a pitch-bend wheel and the AIX sound engine, but the CT-S400 improves on the CT-S300 on a number of fronts, offering more than 600 tones, 200 accompaniment styles and an improved yet still simple interface that employs five user-configurable soft buttons beneath a new backlit screen. Yamaha may request that you send the defective product to a local authorized Yamaha Servicer or authorize return of the defective product to Yamaha for repair. 257 Panel Voices including 40 Indian Voices, Varies based on numbers of notes in songs, The ideal keyboard for Indian music lovers, for both performance and learning, 801 instruments, including 40 Indian instruments, 282 types of auto accompaniment Styles, including 50 Indian Styles, Riyaz (tabla/mridangam and tanpura) function with 30 taals, Quick Sampling function: normal, one shot or loop, Powerful amplifiers with bass reflex speakers. Find out more about how we test. You will be responsible for any installation or removal charges and for any initial shipping charges if the product(s) must be shipped for warranty service. Thank you for signing up to Musicradar. 28 Of The Best Songs About New York City: Big Apple Playlist, 10 Best Songs About New Mexico: Land Of Enchantment Playlist, 15 Of The Greatest And Most Famous Female Soul Singers, 11 Of The Greatest And Most Famous Turkish Singers. It was commonly used in homes because of its small size. Plus you can plug an external music source into the keyboards minijack audio input to play along with MP3s of your favourite tracks. Master EQThe newly added India master EQ type makes your PSR-I500 sound more punchy and rich for Indian instruments in particular when you are connected to a PA system. This brand new Casio keyboard builds on the legacy of its predecessor - the CDP-S100 - but employs a few valuable upgrades. You will receive a verification email shortly. Casio Music Space Thank you for selecting a Yamaha product. PSR-I500 has a variety of accompaniment Styles including 50 different types of Indian Styles from around the country. So whether youre an aspiring musician or a fully-fledged virtuoso, youre sure to find this best Casio keyboards guide helpful. "The PSR-I500 is attractive to musicians wanting to play traditional and contemporary Indian music, and its Voices and Styles also lend themselves to those wanting to blend Indian musical flavors with hip hop or electronic dance music," said Ben Harrison, marketing manager, Digital Piano & Portable Keyboard, Yamaha. Based around the functionality of Chordana Play but with an expanded array of features, its aimed at complete beginners, people taking up an instrument again, or intermediate to advanced players who want to experience a new way of playing. Even the fourteen on this list arent all as common as you would thinksome of these you might not have heard of! Its different from an electric keyboard, however. The claviola works like a combination of the accordion and the melodica. Want to stream audio from your smartphone or tablet to your keyboard so that you can play along? Happily, almost all Casio keyboards offer educational features, from onboard lessons to compatibility with downloadable apps and services, some of which are outlined below. Clavichords only had a few octaves and were primarily used in the home for practice or composition. The CT-S400 is a worthy range-topper, but if illuminated keys are your thing, theres an equivalent light-up model called the LK-S450. A place for keyboard players of all levels of experience and talent to chat about equipment and music. While you could control how hard you hit the keys, the instrument is too small to make enough sound in a large concert hall. The most famous use of the celeste in modern music is in the theme song for the Harry Potter movies. Korg produce the Indian version of their EK50 which they term an entertainer keyboard but in reality it is their entry level arranger. Sixty-one full-size, velocity-sensitive keys, a solid-sounding pair of 2.5W speakers, a generous 600 tones, 100 arpeggios and 195 rhythms, a six-track song recorder and Casios Step Up onboard lesson system are just a few of the features squeezed into this keyboard. This is the only express warranty applicable to the product specified herein; Yamaha neither assumes nor authorizes anyone to assume for it any other express warranty. Yamaha's touch-sensitive keyboards have been recognized and certified by world famous Trinity Music College London. Yamaha qualityYamaha has a long history of strict quality control after decades of dedication to world class quality and durability. Casio has even thoughtfully provided a dedicated pad to rest your smartphone on when using it as a sound source via the audio-input jack on the back of the instrument. The dulcitone is a quiet and high-pitched instrument, generally only spanning four or five octaves. The PX-S1100 has two headphone outputs for duets or lessons, and is available in three colours black, white or red. However, a harmonium is much quieter and bulkier. Compatible with all of Casios current keyboard and piano line-up, Chordana Play and Chordana Play Piano are free educational apps (Android or iOS) thatll help you learn how to play songs using a simple interface. The notes of the song will then drop down in a videogame style (and light up the keys if you have an LK-S250), enabling you to play the song while the app scores your performance. Though its not usually included in the box, if you shop around its possible to find deals that include the WU-BT10 in the purchase price. Battery powerPSR-I500 can be powered by batteries! Its vocal synthesis technology holds great promise, and even without that feature its an extremely capable and entertaining machine. Available in black, white or red, it comes with 61 tones that are powered by the excellent AIX sound engine and accessed by a simple interface, with no screen or menu diving. With a sharp, modern geometric design and crimson accents, the CT-X5000 both looks and sounds the part, with over 800 preset AIX voices, 235 rhythm tracks, 100 DSP effects, a USB port, a 3.5mm auxiliary input, and much more besides. If nothing else, this instrument has the most entertaining name on the list. Styles are usually categorised by genre, with all of the keyboards on this list offering a broad selection from across the globe. The accordion works like a tiny organ, using air, stops, and a keyboard to control the sound. Musicians can learn the fundamentals of Indian Classical music and Bollywood styles through the keyboard's built-in Tabla/Mridangam & Tanpura function called "Riyaz." Launched in January 2022, Casios latest offering features a pretty unique selling point in the shape of vocal synthesis. With the latter, you need only play a chord with your left hand (this can usually be done with a single finger if you dont feel like playing the complete chord), and your virtual band will play along while you pick out the melody with your right hand. Blurring the lines between the digital piano and its cousin the portable arranger keyboard, the CDP-S350 is a super-slim and truly versatile hybrid instrument that would be just as comfortable in a professional setting as it would in a learning situation at home. Another example of effective use of the dual voice function is layering harmonium with string slap to achieve a more realistic sound. In a feature not found on any other keyboard at this price or indeed any other keyboard full stop the CT-S1000V will sing lyrics typed into it via an app on your mobile device in one of 20 different voices. Indian instrumentsAuthentic sounding Indian instruments are essential for anyone who wants to play traditional Indian songs or modern Indian movie songs. All rights reserved. Its affordable enough to help determine whether or not you have a budding Mozart in the house, without breaking the bank. Keys If you hook a synth up to an external computer, theres no end to the number of different sounds it can make. By The instrument works much the same way; it uses keys to pluck strings. Yamaha products are designed and manufactured to provide a high level of defect-free performance. Dave has been making music with computers since 1988 and his engineering, programming and keyboard-playing has featured on recordings by artists including George Michael, Kylie and Gary Barlow. Don't miss the latest deals, news, reviews, features and tutorials. Overall, its quite a useful feature for beginners wanting to learn their favourite songs, though the process can be quite involved. It makes a characteristic sound found on many Baroque instrumental pieces and requires technical precision. However, the difference in sound makes the celesta sound almost magical. Step Up lessons The instrument pushes air through various pipes to make music using pedals, while the dual keyboards and a series of stops open and shut the pipes. Just bring six AA batteries for street performances, touring or camping without a stable electricity supply. Unlike the melodica, however, the claviola is no longer in production. While the dulcitone had its uses, it was often replaced by a louder, sharper-sounding percussion instrument such as a xylophone or a glockenspiel. Copyright 2022 Kraft Music. Educational features However, the dulcitone attaches these hammers to a keyboard in a portable version of the clavichord. Though its not the cheapest instrument around, this updated model ticks all the right boxes, featuring a solid set of unparalleled acoustic piano tones, great keyboard action, excellent speakers and a slim profile. Now, its just called a piano. A vast collection of onboard Indian instruments (Voices) and auto accompaniment function (Styles) covers a broad spectrum of Indian music genres from every corner of the country. This feature gives Indian music-lovers the ability to learn songs and traditional Indian Raga scales, practice to traditional Indian rhythms, or use the instrument for backing rhythm. While both plug into a wall and look like a smaller version of a regular piano, synthesizers have varying functions and are capable of many different sounds. However, unlike an organ, it doesnt use pipes. Unlike many of the other keyboard instruments, the autoharp sounds much more like a stringed instrument (unsurprisingly, it sounds a lot like a small harp). Dual voice that allows players to play two instruments together. Because the accompaniment styles are pre-programmed at the factory, theyre pretty much dependent on the in-house composers music tastes. Even without the vocal trickery, this is an extremely capable arranger keyboard, with 800 AIX instrument tones, a great-feeling 61-key velocity-sensitive keyboard, and some slick-sounding auto-accompaniment grooves. Think of the melodica as a recorder, but with a keyboard on top instead of openings. Yet this 88-key, professional-sounding instrument has a few tricks up its sleeve. Im Dan and I run this website. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. The CDP-S350 features Casios latest Scaled Hammer Action II keyboard, which, together with the simulated ebony and ivory textured keys, provides the authentic playing feel of an acoustic piano. Additional features of the PSR-I500 include: Yamaha PSR-I500 Digital Workstation Brings the Joys of Authentic Indian Music to Life. This makes instruments sound more natural, especially when you play using certain Voices such as bulbul tarang, veena, strings, synth, bass or sitar. The air is blown upwards through the instruments reeds to create sound, which is then controlled by the keys. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. Theres a good chance that youre looking at keyboards because you want to learn how to play. At the opposite end of the scale from the CT-X700, we have the CT-X5000, the flagship model of the CT-X range. Bath He also lectures on synthesis at Leeds Conservatoire of Music and is the author of Avid Pro Tools Basics. Powerful amplifiers with bass reflex 6-watt speakers. Repairs may be performed using new or refurbished parts that meet or exceed Yamaha specifications for new parts. Find out more abouthow we test music gear and servicesat MusicRadar. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. Built-in speakersPSR-I500 is equipped with two powerful onboard 6-watt speakers, delivering punchy bass and drums without the need for setting up an external PA in smaller venues such as a caf or restaurant. Not only the vast library of onboard songs, but all songs you have imported will be supported by the PSR-I500 lesson function. The Melodica is one of the newer instruments on this list. Styles If Yamaha elects to replace the product, the replacement may be a reconditioned unit. published 5 April 22, Interested in a Casio keyboard but bewildered by the array of choices? Looking at the KN series keyboards, need to know what names of certain styles are? However, the harmonium has two main differences: the method of air pumping and the size of the instrument. Arranger keyboards often ship with hundreds of different instrument presets, representing practically every instrument that exists and probably quite a few that dont. It also has a modulation button above the pitch wheel. Its technically a member of the wind instrument family (but the piano is technically a percussion instrument). We have options that include everything from fun-sized kids keyboards to portable arranger keyboards and even pro-level portable pianos. Fear not, as weve done the hard work for you, MusicRadar's expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. You do get some drum sounds, but theres no auto-accompaniment features, so the CT-S1 is really aimed at keyboard players who are after a decent range of truly excellent, usable sounds in a portable, affordable package. Speakers/headphones Though forcasting shipping times has become increasingly difficult, general FedEx package estimated transit days are as follows: Questions? Registration memoryYou may want to change sound settings for different songs or even during a song while you perform. JavaScript is disabled. The LK-S250 can be hooked up to a smart device via its micro-USB port, and used with Casios Chordana Play app, which makes full use of those light-up keys to further broaden the keyboards educational potential. Similar to the harpsichord, the clavichord had one central issue: dynamics. However, not that many of them are commonly used. Yamaha sells its products through a network of reputable, specially authorized dealers and is pleased to offer you, the Original Owner, the following Limited Warranty, which applies only to products that have been (1) directly purchased from Yamaha's authorized dealers in the fifty states of the USA and District of Columbia (the 'Warranted Area') and (2) used exclusively in the Warranted Area. Other than the piano, the Synthesizer might be the most popular keyboard instrument on this list. BA1 1UA. Its simpler than the accordion because there are no stops to control. All of the products on this list can be powered via a standard power supply or USB, and some enable you to use batteries a handy option for those who need some portability. To help you choose the best Casio keyboard for your needs - and budget - weve put together this handy guide containing our top choices from the companys range. Although Bluetooth isnt featured as standard on a lot of the keyboards on our list, newer models like the CT-S1 and the CT-S400 are compatible with Casios optional WU-BT10 Bluetooth adapter. Launched in 2018, the CT-X range was the first line of keyboards to feature Casios now- renowned AIX (Artistic Intelligent Expression) sound engine, with the CT-X700 being the entry-level model. Welcome to Hello Music Theory! That said, Casio seems to have really done its homework in this area of late, and some of the pre-programmed styles on its more recent launches are very sophisticated and usable. As a result, auto-accompaniment features tend to be a bit Marmite you either love them or hate them. The modern piano has 88 keys and is played sitting down. If youre not bothered about the vocal synthesis, you could always opt for the CT-S500, which will give you everything found on the CT-S1000V minus the vocal features, for $70/50/60 less. Contact your local authorized Yamaha dealer who will advise you of the procedures to be followed. The classic synth or electric keyboard sound, however, is well-known in classic rock. Or if you want a great beginner keyboard for your child to mess around on and get inspired to pursue music as a hobby, then the diminutive, bargain-priced SA-76 (opens in new tab) is a no-brainer as a fun and entertaining gateway to learning the keyboard. Casios CDP model designation stands for Compact Digital Piano, and thats the perfect way to describe the CDP-S350. It only comes with 18 instrument voices but, as youd expect from a professional-grade digital piano, string resonance, damper resonance, key action noise and damper noise are all present and correct in the rich, detailed grand piano tone. Though its still a relatively portable unit, the PX-S1100 is a serious instrument, with an active touch-panel display, Casios great-feeling Smart Scaled Hammer Action weighted keyboard and a whopping 192-note polyphony to ensure you wont have any sustained notes dropping out. Reverb presets will make you feel as if you are playing in a world famous concert hall, while the rotary speaker effect will add a professional feel to organ sounds or even tanpura. The CT-S1s sounds are fantastic, and the onboard speakers go loud enough to do them justice. Despite its tiny price tag, the S110 still manages to feature a fully-weighted, hammer-action 88-note keyboard, ten unique voices and can even be run on batteries for extreme portability. Bear in mind that quantity isnt always a measure of quality, though its far better to have fewer usable voices than hundreds youll never bother with, especially if youre more in the market for a digital piano than a portable keyboard. While there are vast technical differences between them, a basic knowledge of music and piano would be a good start for playing each of these. When connected to your Casio piano or keyboard, Casio Music Space can act as a digital music score, a teacher, a live-performance simulator and an all-round app with which to enjoy learning and playing music. Yamaha shall not be responsible for incidental or consequential damages or for damages based upon inconvenience, loss of use, damage to any other equipment or other items at the site of use or interruption of performances or any consequences. The tiny but mighty SA-76 is a colourful and fun way to start your kids off on the path to exploring the world of music. Retailing at $80/59/70, this device plugs into a USB port on the rear of compatible keyboards, adding the ability to receive and play audio using your keyboards built-in speaker system. Casios philosophy is to help people make music any time, anywhere, and the CT range perfectly embodies that principle. PortamentoPortamento is a function that creates a smooth transition in pitch from the first note played on the keyboard to the next. Yamaha will, at its option, repair or replace the product covered by this warranty if it becomes defective, malfunctions or otherwise fails to conform with this warranty under normal use and service during the term of this warranty, without charge for labor or materials. We have already featured its big brother, the PX-S1100, but we feel its essential to showcase the entry-level Casio CDP-S110. A music technology writer since 2007, hes Computer Musics long-serving songwriting and music theory columnist, iCreate magazines resident Logic Pro expert and a regular contributor to MusicRadar and Attack Magazine.