What is it you’re looking for in a music keyboard?  Are you looking for something just to be able to plunk out ideas for compositions?  Is MIDI important to have so that you can connect your keyboard to the computer?  Are you looking for a professional-level instrument with realistic instrument sounds for performance?  You can have a keyboard with only 25 keys if you want the most portable option or a full size 88 key music keyboard.  Many electronic music keyboards will have built-in speakers but some won’t so you’ll need to buy separate speakers for these.

Don’t forget the pedal!  If you’re looking for a music keyboard instrument that you’ll be performing with, you’ll probably want to get a sustain pedal, which is not always included with the keyboard.  If you’re looking to use your keyboard to enter music into a sequencing program, the pedal can serve several useful functions that will make the entry of music into your computer easier.  Accessories like a pedal are another important thing to look at when selecting a keyboard.

Some music keyboards are designed for specific music production purposes.  You will see keyboards that also work as a control for a digital audio workstation (DAW).  These more professional music keyboards will have additional functionality to control levels, panning, and channel selection in audio recording and mixing programs on computers. This kind of keyboard, often called a workstation (or sometimes “synth”) keyboard, also allows you to manipulate your own sounds and interface with sequencing software to compose music and create a sequence of music that you can solo over during a performance.  Another type of music keyboard is known as an “arranger.”  These will usually have a standard set of instrument sounds and a collection of rhythm styles (such as rock, country, jazz) included in their sound library.  These keyboards specialize in giving the player the ability to play a backing rhythm section, control the chord progression, and play a lead all at the same time, essentially performing as an “instant” one-man band.  Many arrangers (as well as some workstations and digital pianos) also have pre-installed piano lessons that essentially help you learn some songs and develop keyboard skills.  Some even have keys that light up to guide the student in which keys to press.  Although these won’t replace a “real” teacher, they can be used to learn a few simple songs built-in to the keyboard program.

Here are a few more questions to ask to pinpoint what music keyboard is best for you:

• Is this a keyboard just for practice or will you be performing for an audience?

• Will you be traveling with it (to a gig or a friend’s house)?

• Will you need it to interface with computer sequencing software to compose music?

• Will you use it to control mixer functions in recording software?

• Do you want synthesizer functionality to be able to create sounds from scratch or manipulate existing sounds?

• What kind of keyboard action are you used to?  Do you prefer piano or organ touch?

• What style(s) of music do you play?

There are a variety of features that you’ll want to consider as well.  When looking at built-in speakers, consider the quality of sound and the volume.  The headphone jack should also reproduce a high-quality sound so that you can enjoy the music on headphones.  The number of keys will play a role in how heavy and portable the keyboard is and what repertoire you can play.  If you’re used to playing classical piano pieces (and/or just really like the lower bass tones in general) you’ll definitely want a full 88 key keyboard.  Polyphony (how many notes can play at the same time) will be an important factor especially when playing the built-in rhythm styles or any MIDI sequences you may have created.  The layout of the controls will affect your creativity and how intuitive and enjoyable your music making experience is.  Expression controls such as modulation wheels can expand your creativity and allow you to add extra character to your performances.  Listen to the quality and authenticity of the built-in sound samples, drum kits, and rhythm styles.  If you want to record your performances pay attention to how many tracks you can record and for how long.  Digital effects such as reverb and synthesizer tone generators give you greater control over the character and manipulation of sounds.  Connectivity options such as MIDI, USB, microphone (for karaoke applications), and foot pedals are also important considerations in terms of expanded functionality and the ability to connect seamlessly with computers and other MIDI keyboards and devices.  The keyboard action (i.e. graded-hammer action, semi-weighted keys, etc.) will make a big difference in how the keyboard feels.

You will find that certain types of keyboards will fall into certain price ranges. Digital music keyboards with the built-in speaker and built-in library of sounds, for example, will typically be in the lower price range, whereas the music keyboards with DAW functionality will be “the next step up.”  The keyboard instruments designed as digital pianos (that produce the most realistic piano sound) will usually be in the upper price range.

When you know what you need the music keyboard for, it will be easier to search for the one that best fits your needs.  Decide what features you want that will meet your needs, then go try out the musical keyboards at your local music store to make a final decision.