Best Digital Piano For Professional Pianists

Pianos are one of the most sophisticated instruments, along with violins. The elegance and grace that comes with these are unmatched by any other. However, buying a digital piano is not a small purchase. In fact, if you are a professional, then it is a significant purchase. But choosing the best one is not a walk in the park. It can be a cumbersome task and can take a lot of time, which is why we went to the trouble of searching, selecting, and reviewing the best digital piano for professional pianists.

But before you go and look at the best-reviewed products in our list, let’s look at the criteria required to buy a digital piano.

Criteria For Buying Digital Piano/ Buyer’s Guide:

Experience/Skill Level:

You might be able to get by with a low-cost digital piano with some built-in learning tools until you are ready to step up to a more advanced model. However, as an intermediate or advanced pianist, you will likely need to be more selective about velocity sensitivity and touch response.

Size:

If you plan to put the piano in a specific space, make sure it will fit. Check the keyboard height when purchasing the piano for your size. Adjustable stands or a phone book underneath the pedal(s) can help resolve any mismatches.

Portability And Storability:

Check the weight of the digital piano and whether it can be broken down quickly if you intend to store it or carry it.

Polyphony:

Polyphones refer to the number of notes or sounds that the piano can produce at the same time. A 32-note polyphony should be the bare minimum, while a 64-note polyphony is more capable of creating complex sounds. Electronic pianos with the highest quality have a polyphony of 128 notes or 264 notes.

Amplification And Speakers:

Make sure the digital piano you choose has the ability to connect to external amplifiers, recording consoles, or PA systems if you plan to use it during live performances.

You should also look for a headphone jack and USB port, depending on how you intend to use the piano.

Digital Pianos For Stage And Studio:

Pianos designed for the stage are more versatile and mobile than console pianos, and they are designed specifically for musicians who frequently travel to different venues and studios. They do not have bulky cabinets and typically have more voices, effects, and connectivity options than digital pianos designed for home use. As a general rule, their sound engines are of higher quality to meet the needs of professional performers.

Digital Piano Accessories:

You should also consider picking up a few optional accessories, depending on the instrument you choose and your intentions. Depending on the package you select, you may or may not receive these items. You might need the following accessories:

• Amps
• Cables
• Benches
• Covers
• Gig bags
• Cases
• Stands

Now that you know what to look for let’s move on to the list of best digital pianos for professional pianists.

Top Picks:

Nord 3 88-Key Fully Weighted Hammer Action Digital Stage Keyboard:

Why just get a digital piano when you can get a whole workstation?

Yamaha YDP184 Arius Series Console Digital Piano:

A robust digital piano that comes with the looks of classical pianos. Perfect for aesthetics and digital use.

Wangzi Portable Electronic Musical Teaching Detachable Portable Electric Piano:

A budget-friendly choice for professionals who don’t want to break their bank.

Best Digital Piano For Professional Pianists:

Nord 3 88-Key Fully Weighted Hammer Action Digital Stage Keyboard:

For workstation:

For just Piano:

Although many performers prefer the versatility and customization provided by workstation keyboards, like those made by Korg and Yamaha, Clavia has prioritized playability with their stage keyboards. The brand has become renowned because of this focus. And this playability has earned this model the top place on our list of best digital pianos for professional pianists.

Since its release, Stage 3 has established itself as an excellent stage keyboard and is a prized instrument among musicians. There are 88 hammer action keys on this full-size keyboard. Piano players will enjoy the 88-key version, a full keyboard ranging from A to C. It is important to note that other than this, it also comes in 2 other variants; 76 key Stage 3 HP76 and 73 key Stage 3 Compact.

However, the question here is: do you want just a digital piano or a complete workstation? Because you can have both.

Specs:

• Brand: Nord
• Style: Digital
• Number of Keys: 88
• Instrument: Piano, Synthesizer
• Weight: 41 pounds (only the piano)
• Package Dimensions (L x W x H): 51 x 13 x 5 inches
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• 2 clear OLED displays

Comes With:

The workstation comes with

• AKG K 240 Pro Headphones
• Sustain Pedal
• Dust Cover
• 2x MIDI Cable Bundle
• 2 GB memory
• Power Cord
• USB Cord
• Gold-Plated 1/4″ Adapter
• 2 x Nord Sample & Piano DVDs
• Detachable Cable
• 1-Year Warranty

Key Features:

• Nord’s libraries included
• creative filter presets
• song list mode is available

Pros:

• brilliant effect section
• produces excellent organ and electric piano sounds
• lightweight
• A great selection of sounds included

Cons:

• The synth section can be a bit hard to navigate.

Yamaha YDP184 Arius Series Console Digital Piano:

Yamaha is known as one of the most recognizable names in the music industry. Their lineage began in the late 1800s when they began producing high-quality acoustic pianos. Yamaha went above and beyond expectations with its Arius YDP-184, which the company released early in 2018, along with the slim YDP-S34. There are plenty of features that make this 88 critical digital piano an excellent competitor in the market, including one of the best technologies available. It produces a beautiful, realistic sound and uses the best technology on the market.

We have tested Yamaha YDP184 this is the best option if want to buy a piano in cheap prices.However, its numerous features and robust design are not the reason why it is the 2^nd number on this list of best digital piano for professional pianists. It’s a fact that Yamaha YDP184 is an excellent digital piano, both for beginners and professionals. Additionally, it comes in the mid-range, so budget-wise is a reasonable choice.

Specs:

• Brand: Yamaha
• Color: Dark Rosewood
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 5 x 18.1 x 36.5 inches
• Weight: 123 Pounds
• Number of Keys: 88
• Number of Polyphony (Max.): 128
• Full dot LCD display for navigation of the instrument
• Designed after acoustic pianos

Comes With:

• padded bench
• music stand
• power supply
• sheet music book

Key Features:

• Virtual Resonance Modeling (VRM) for vivid and expression-filled sounds
• synthetic ivory keytops for adding a tactile surface to the white keys, as well as prevent slipping and moisture absorbance
• takes less space

Pros:

• Designed to recreate Yamaha’s flagship CFX concert grand piano powerful voices.
• Works with smart devices
• It comes with dual headphone jacks
• Half pedal capability.
• Record and replay capacity due to internal memory

Cons:

• The keys are a bit heavy
• Compatible for average size only

Wangzi Portable Electronic Musical Teaching Detachable Portable Electric Piano:

So, we admit that you might have never heard of Wangzi pianos. But the reason why this particular one made it into our top 3 best digital piano for professional pianists is not its low price; it is its beautiful design. You will fall in love with the piano as soon as you lay your eyes on it. Add in the powerful speakers that provide a perfectly amplified sound, and you have a package deal.

Additionally, this is made from solid wood without any use of formaldehyde. Thus, if you are conscious of climate change and prefer eco-friendly instruments, this should be your first choice!

Specs:

• Brand: Wangzi
• Style: Digital, portable
• Weight: 44 pounds
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 126×36×72cm
• Connectivity Technology: Auxiliary
• Material: Solid wood of Huanghuali tree
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Number of Keys: 88
• Pedals: external three pedals
• Sound source: 9.0 sound source
• Polyphony: 128
• Interface: USB socket/MID with bomb interface/power interface
• Headphones: support stereo audio output in headphones
• Support equipment: support Android/IOS smart learning
• Rated power supply: 15V, 3A

Key Features:

• Made of wood, with no formaldehyde
• 8-ohm 40-watt stereo speakers
• step by step weighted keyboard

Pros:

• Beautiful design. You will fall in love with it as soon as you lay your eyes on it.
• Eco-friendly choice.
• Pedals come in the same material as the piano itself.
• The seller is very cooperative

Cons:

• Not a very well-known model.

Nord USA, Key Grand 88-note Keyboard:

Unfortunately, even though this list is of the best digital piano for professional pianists, not all the entries are piano. Instead, they are keyboards; however, they will more than serve your purpose.

As for Nord Grand, it is an instrument that combines a console-style digital piano with a stage piano.

A fact reflected by this: on the front panel, you’ll find fewer controls than on a stage piano or keyboard, but many more than on a living-room digital. There are quite a few patches, a few effects, a lot of memory, no automatic rhythms, no spaceships, machine guns, barking dogs, or other absurd effects. It’s finished in what a reviewer described as “Swedish Red,” and its case is wooden. This would make a great stage piano.

Specs:

• Brand: Nord
• Color: Red
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 50.7 x 15.2 x 6.6 inches
• Weight: 46 Pounds
• Number of Keys: 88
• Power Source: Corded Electric

Included In Bundle:

• keyboard itself
• triple pedals
• power cable
• manual

Key Features:

• Exclusive Nord Piano Library and Nord Sample Library 3.0 are available to provide a vast range of sounds.
• Triple sensors for tracking movements on the hammers for stage performances.
• Dedicated knobs and buttons for all essential functions

Pros:

• Fantastic combination of electric effects with acoustic sounds.
• Amazing keyboard action
• Gorgeous sounds

Cons:

• Well, it is a keyboard, not precisely a piano.
• Does not comes with an organ.

Roland RD-2000 Premium 88-key Digital Stage Piano:

Founded in the early 1970s, Roland’s RD series is known for its legendary RD-1000. Since then, they have gained a reputation as some of the most trusted stage pianos among producers and performers. Its reputation is mainly due to the ability to combine high-quality sound, professional features, and a straightforward workflow. RD-2000 is the flagship model of the brand and the most advanced yet.

The Roland RD-2000 stage piano was released in early 2017, and it is a powerful keyboard packed with features perfect for gigs and recording sessions. The 88-key digital piano is encased in a smooth aluminum shell and weighs just under 48 lbs. Although it is sturdy and well-built, it is still much lighter than its competitors (such as the Korg Kronos at 51 pounds and Yamaha Montage at 63 pounds). It features an array of inspiring sounds and authentic hammer action. Gigging musicians will appreciate its portability, exquisite feel and sound, and collection of useful features.

However, keep in mind that this is on the list of best digital piano for professional pianists for a reason, namely that it is not for beginners. It is not hard to use; instead, it comes with a lot of features that a learner may never need.

Specs:

• Brand: Roland
• Color: Black
• Style: Piano
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 55.6 x 14.5 x 5.6 inches
• Weight: 47.14 Pounds
• Display : Graphic LCD 256 x 80 dots
• Number of Keys: 88
• Polyphony: 128-voice

Included In Bundle:

• One Roland RD-2000 Digital Stage Piano
• Owner’s manual
• Power cord
• Damper pedal

Key Features:

• 2 independent sound engines
• modern controller features
• With Roland’s legendary RD-1000 and MKS-20 electric pianos on board

Pros:

• Dedicated acoustic piano sound engine
• 8 knobs with LED status indicators
• A game-changing stage piano
• Perfect for space conservation

Cons:

• The piano stand is not included in the package.

Yamaha Genos 76-Key Digital Workstation:

Yamaha designed the Genos with the goal of becoming the best arranger workstation on the market. It has done a lot right with this keyboard, and there aren’t many things that they didn’t do well, either. Yamaha Genos has a beautiful interface that catches your attention right away. You can tell it means business by looking at it. This arranger keyboard is well laid out and easy to use.

However, remember that the Yamaha Genos arranger is, after all, an arranger. Thus, it is primarily designed for musicians who want to play songs all the time and always have a band with them. If you aren’t looking to dive deeply into editing, this is for you, but instead, you want to write and play songs as if you were a band—a perfect candidate for the list of best digital piano for professional pianists, but only for bands.

Specs:

• Brand: Yamaha
• Color: Black
• Style: Workstation
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 48.5 x 18 x 5.5 inches
• Weight: 29 Pounds
• Number of Keys: 76
• 58 GB memory

Key Features:

• 9″ color touch screen
• Revo! Drums included
• Assignable Sliders to control a wide variety of parameters

Pros:

• Automated mode for left hand
• Amazing choices for selection of sounds
• A complete workstation that would satisfy professionals.

Cons:

• The sequencer is more of an afterthought with this model.

Korg KRONOS:

KORG’s light-touch keyboard makes it easy, from playing rapid organ licks to playing synth phrases to glissandi. With the redesigned keyboard mechanism, the velocity can be controlled more easily than on existing light-touch keyboards, even when playing complex chords and complicated phrases. Box-shaped keys are reminiscent of KORG’s RH3 action while providing a synth keyboard-like playing feel. The semi-weighted keyboard allows you to play piano and electric piano with ease, no matter what style you prefer.

KRONOS features up to 9 sound engines, up to 16 simultaneous effects, 16-part Combinations, and so much more, making it the most powerful synthesizer KORG has ever created. A new light-touch 88-key model further unlocks the KRONOS’ potential by adding portability and playability. Truly, a worthy addition to the list of best digital piano for professional pianists.

Specs:

• Brand: Korg
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 62 x 18.75 x 9.5 inches
• Weight: 49.6 Pounds
• Number of Keys: 88
• Color: Multi-colored
• Material: Aluminum

Key Features:

• light-touch keyboard
• lightweight
• Quick Split functions are available.

Pros:

• The avant-Garde digital pianos
• Perfect workstation for professionals
• Elegant looks

Cons:

Yamaha CP88 88-Key Graded Hammer Action Stage Piano:

CP or combo pianos are some of the earliest models and were beloved instruments by Prince, D’Angelo, and many others. Simple and easy to play, the Yamaha CP88 stage piano has 88 keys. Its combination of vintage and modern features should appeal to working musicians. As soon as you see the CP88, you can’t help but love it. It’s one of the best-looking stage pianos you will find if you’re into retro style.

There’s no denying that the CP88 delivers in all three areas: sound, feel, and interface. When spending top dollar, you’re always faced with a tough choice, and it often boils down to what you value the most. However, we are saying this with certainty that few will perform better than the CP88.

Specs:

• Brand: Yamaha
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 51.1 x 14.3 x 5.56 inches
• Weight: 1 Pound
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Number of Keys: 88

Key Features:

• Seamless sound switching
• FC3A Sustain Pedal included
• Delay, reverb, and EQ effects with dedicated real-time controls

Pros:

• Built to withstand vigorous use
• Compact and lightweight design
• Realistic piano touch

Cons:

• No built-in speakers.

Kawai CA49 88-Key Grand Feel Compact Digital Piano:

As Kawai’s Concert Artist (CA) series’ base model in 2020, the CA49 replaces its predecessor, the CA48. It’s already a huge favorite of ours due to the musical experience it delivers at a very reasonable price. The CA49 is one of the top sellers in the lineup, though, due to the level of crucial action Kawai provides here. As a matter of fact, in our opinion, this is one of the best values on the market for a digital piano right now.

This is a more affordable entry on the list of best digital piano for professional pianists. If you want to watch a detailed review about Kawai CA49 88-Key Grand then simply go to the Rimmers Music youtube channl.

Specs:

• Brand: Kawai
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 58 x 28 x 20 inches
• Weight: 128.75 Pounds
• Number of Keys: 88

Included In Bundle:

• Kawai CA49 88-Key Grand Feel Compact Digital Piano (Premium Rosewood)
• Matching Bench
• AC Power Adapter
• H&A Versa Professional Field
• Studio Monitor Headphones
• Chopin Walzer (1-19) lesson book
• Kawai 5 Year Limited Warranty

Key Features:

• Modernized control panel layout with OLED graphics
• Tone Control setting with 8 selectable tones presets
• Kawai 5 Year Limited Warranty

Pros:

• improved tonal clarity
• comes with a 5-year warranty

Cons:

• A bit on the heavier side

Yamaha YC88 88-Key, Organ Focused Stage Keyboard:

Some of Yamaha’s best keyboards have been for stage use, including the legendary Motif series. Yamaha has surpassed itself again with the new YC88, a fusion of vintage looks and modern features. This Yamaha YC88 stage piano can also be used as a convincing drawbar organ. It provides outstanding pianos, organs, synthesizers, and more with three sound engines.

We have heard that the Yamaha YC88 has raised the bar for stage pianos ever since it was announced. In our opinion, this is true, and there is no reason to complain. We can expect great things from Yamaha in the future. Pound for pound, the YC88 is going to be challenging to beat.

Specs:

• Brand: Yamaha
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 9.1 x 9.1 x 9.1 inches
• Weight 9 pounds
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Number of Keys: 88

Key Features:

• VCM Rotary Speaker containing two authentic rotary speaker
• Nine FX processors
• Realistic acoustic and electric pianos are provided by the Dual Keys Sections

Pros:

• You have the total control over the sound
• Intuitive design
• Modern design

Cons:

• None till now.

Wangzi Digital Piano/Keyboard Electric Piano, 88-Key Heavy Hammer Smart Digital Electric Piano:

We have another entry from Wangzi on this list of best digital piano for professional pianists. Again, this model is not very well known, but as we have established earlier, the brand specializes in producing pianos that are beautiful and eco-friendly. Thus, you will not regret this purchase if you are climate-conscious. However, a little warning for both these models; contact the owner beforehand to get a sample of playing.

Specs:

• Brand: Wangzi
• Connectivity Technology: Auxiliary
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Number of Keys: 88
• Polyphony: 128
• Number of pedals: sustain, damper, soft

Key Features:

• Keyboard: 88 imitation piano total weight keyboard
• Tone: The latest DREAM tone
• Audio output: AUXIN auxiliary audio input interface

Pros:

• impact resistant
• heat resistance
• low-temperature material
• environmental protection
• zero formaldehyde
• frosted surface of the piano
• sweat resistant

Cons:

• Not a very well-known model

Nord Stage 3 HP76 76-Key Hammer-Action Portable Keyboard:

Bundle:

Just Piano:

Remember our first entry? Yes, Nord Stage 3 HP76 76-Key is a variant of that one, except it, has 76 keys instead of 88 keys.

Nord has always been criticized for their weak organ parts, but it sounds like the brand has taken all that constructive criticism into account with this model. Nord has evolved in ways that have become more and more responsive to music professionals. Taking into account the feedback they received, they worked hard for the next version, eliminating the shortcomings of the previous one, as my opinion is that they succeeded in doing so.

There are some alternatives to the Nord Stage 3. Still, they don’t really qualify as alternatives. Perhaps alternative workstations would be a better term. While Stage 3 offers more power in some areas and is less expensive, it combines intuitive design with easy-to-use controls. It’s impossible not to notice Stage 3’s cockpit-like front panel when looking at it rather than a musical instrument. However, this aspect is the very reason why this stage piano is a more straightforward, easier-to-operate instrument, mainly when the need arises during a performance.

Specs:

• Brand: Nord
• Style: 76-Key Hammer Action Keybed
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 44 x 5 x 14 inches
• Weight: 27 Pounds
• Number of Keys: 76
• 120-voice polyphony
• Extended effect section

Comes With:

• Nord Stage 3 HP76 76-Key Hammer-Action Portable Keyboard
• Audio-Technica Professional Monitor Headphones (Black)
• Knox Gear Adjustable Double X Keyboard Stand
• Knox Gear Adjustable X-Style Keyboard Bench
• Dust cover
• Power cord
• Nord Samples and piano DVDs
• USB cable
• 2 GB internal memory
• OLED display

Key Features:

• Advanced Split Functionality with Optional Crossfade
• Song mode available
• Clear OLED display

Pros:

• It comes with a comprehensive piano section
• Seamless transitions between inaudible program changes
• Excellent organ sounds
• Perfect variant for mobility

Cons:

• Some users have complained that keys clack loudly against the frame.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Do digital pianos sound like real pianos?

Ans: Unlike the acoustic piano, a digital piano can only mimic its sounds. Due to its digital format, it does not have the same acoustic nuances. However, a digital piano with a higher price can sound better than an acoustic piano with a low price. Also, now manufacturers have started to create hybrids, so who knows what the future might bring.

Q: Is it worth buying a digital piano?

Ans: Most of the time, yes! In general, a digital piano is worth the investment if you choose one that meets your needs and goals. It means you can get a better quality piano in many cases than you could with an acoustic piano of a comparable price.

Q: How long will a digital piano last?

Ans: An average digital piano lasts for 20 – 50 years. Higher-end pianos are built more robustly. The parts are better, the tougher material, and the piano keys can withstand heavy wear and tear. Low-end digital pianos don’t have the same lifespan, but they can last for many years if they’re well cared for.

Q: Do digital pianos need tuning?

Ans: In comparison with a traditional piano, a digital piano requires no maintenance – it’s not hammered or strung to produce sound, so it doesn’t have to be tuned.

Q: Are our digital pianos repairable?

Ans: Digital pianos and keyboards usually last for a long time, but you might have to get them repaired occasionally if they develop some defects. Your best option is to have it repaired by a qualified professional or an authorized service center.

Conclusion:

And there you have it, our list of best digital piano for professional pianists.  We have tested these pianos if you want to buy a piano then above mentioned pianos are the best option. As always, keep your mind on what you need and what your budget is. Otherwise, you may make some regrettable purchases that may haunt you for the rest of your life. So do your research, and make your choice carefully, because you are going to use the new piano like a professional, not a learner or beginner, so it’s a significant purchase.

Related Articles:

1. Best Electronic Drum Set
2. Best Electric Violin For Professionals
3. The Best Receiver For Klipsch RP-600M
4. Best Amp For Klipsch RP-600M
5. Best Amp For Klipsch RP-8000f