Top-10 Pianos Keyboards
Loved in the USA

The Nord Grand 2 is a high-quality 88-key stage piano designed for players seeking a versatile and expressive instrument. Its improved Kawai hammer action with triple sensors offers a responsive and natural touch, which is great for those wanting a realistic piano feel. The dual engines allow you to layer or split piano and synth sounds with dedicated effects for each, offering a wide range of tones—from grand and upright pianos to classic synths and orchestral samples. This makes it suitable for performers and studio musicians who need varied sound options.

The dynamic compression, string resonance, and pedal noise features add realism and expressiveness, enhancing the playing experience. With seven split points and customizable crossfades, it supports complex performance setups. The bundled accessories—triple pedal, adjustable stand, bench, headphones, and cable—make it ready to play right away, which is convenient for beginners and gigging musicians alike. However, weighing 47 pounds and sized like a grand piano, it is less portable compared to compact keyboards, so it’s better suited for fixed setups or transport with some effort.

Though priced toward serious players, the Nord Grand 2’s advanced sound engines and key action justify the investment for those seeking a professional stage piano with rich features and excellent playability.

The Roland FP-30X 88-Key Digital Piano is a well-rounded instrument suitable for both beginners and more experienced players. With 88 keys, it provides the full range needed for most piano compositions. The PHA-4 Standard keyboard offers realistic touch sensitivity, mimicking the feel of an acoustic piano which is great for expressive playing. The SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine ensures rich sound quality, capturing the nuances from soft to loud playing, which enhances the musical experience.

Additionally, the 22-watt built-in speakers deliver powerful sound, making it suitable for home practice without needing external amplification. The compact size makes it a good fit for smaller living spaces, and at 32.7 pounds, it's relatively portable for a home digital piano. However, it may still be a bit cumbersome for frequent transportation. The bundle includes useful accessories like a bench, stand, three-pedal unit, instructional DVD, and online piano lessons, which add significant value, especially for beginners.

On the downside, the reliance on a power source rather than being purely battery-powered might limit outdoor play or areas without easy access to power outlets. The black glossy finish, while stylish, could require regular cleaning to maintain its pristine look. The inclusion of Bluetooth connectivity for auxiliary functions is a modern touch, but some might find the initial setup somewhat challenging. This digital piano offers a blend of quality, features, and value, making it a strong contender for anyone looking to start or continue their piano journey at home.

The Nord Stage 4 Compact 73-Key Semi-Weighted Keyboard is a solid choice for both beginners and performing musicians. One of its standout features is the semi-weighted waterfall keybed, which provides a responsive and comfortable playing experience, making it easier for beginners to get started while still providing the nuanced touch that more experienced players appreciate. With 73 keys, it offers a slightly smaller range than full-sized keyboards, which may be a drawback for those who prefer an 88-key setup.

However, this also makes it more portable and easier to transport, which is a significant benefit for gigging musicians or those with limited space. The piano sound generation and dynamic compression contribute to high sound quality, offering rich and expressive tones that can enhance any performance. The inclusion of a synth feature adds versatility, allowing users to create a wide range of sounds beyond traditional piano tones. Additionally, the MIDI control feature is useful for those looking to integrate the keyboard into a larger digital setup, making it a good fit for music production.

One potential weakness is the lack of touch sensitivity, which might limit the expressiveness compared to fully weighted keys. Also, the absence of additional features such as onboard recording or built-in speakers could be a drawback for some users. In conclusion, the Nord Stage 4 Compact 73-Key Semi-Weighted Keyboard excels in portability, sound quality, and versatility, making it ideal for both beginners and performing musicians, though it might not satisfy those seeking a full 88-key keyboard or advanced touch sensitivity.