The first step in buying a piano is to decide between two different types – acoustic (classical) and digital piano. To make the decision easier, you need to know the main differences and define your needs.
We have summarized the facts below to help you decide.
Acoustic piano
The piano emits sound at the touch of a key, striking the hammer and the strings. The vibrations generated by the strikes of the strings are transmitted to the sound board and diffuse, which greatly increases the sound. When these vibrations combine with the resonances of the strings that have not been struck, it creates a unique sound.
There are two types of acoustic pianos: the grand piano and the upright piano. The grand piano has a frame and strings that are extended horizontally. It has a longer body and thus takes up more space. After pressing the keys and releasing the fingers, gravity resets the keys and returns them to the starting position.
The piano has strings that act vertically. It is much more compact than a grand piano and often fits into houses or apartments and is therefore a more convenient choice.
Digital piano / piano
The digital piano is a customized, more modern version of its acoustic counterpart. Sounds digital (as the name implies): When you press a key, electronic piano speakers will play back quality recordings previously recorded from acoustic pianos.
In contrast, a digital piano has no strings. Each key is a switch for creating a specific sound. The electronic tone generator emits sounds amplified by the loudspeaker.
Yamaha digital pianos come with “hammers”. These are not intended to strike strings, as in an acoustic piano, but are used to capture the dynamics the key is playing, giving a dynamic touch response that brings the playing experience more akin to an acoustic piano.
There are three types of digital pianos: clavinova GP, clavinova and a portable piano.
The main difference between a piano (standard acoustic piano) and a digital piano is therefore the mechanism that produces the sound.
Acoustic versus digital piano – what’s better?
Now that we understand how digital and clasical pianos work, we can compare them.
Sound
One of the most important factors to consider is the sound of the instrument. Surprisingly, the sound of a classical piano gives a better sound. An acoustic piano, as mentioned above, emits sound when a hammer strikes a string. It gives you an authentic, acoustic sound that has a warmer and more resonant tone. You also have better control over the articulation and expression of musical notes.
A digital piano, on the other hand, can only record the sound of an acoustic piano.
What the digital piano may lack in audio is complemented by some additional features. Extra sounds, recording, volume control …
Tuning
To keep your piano in tune, you need to tune it approximately 1-2 times each year.
Vulnerability to humidity and temperature fluctuations. Wood and felt are very sensitive to large changes in temperature or humidity. Failure to store it in a suitable environment could result in significant acoustic loss. (Ideally, your sound piano should be stored in a humidity environment of between 40% and 60% and a constant temperature of about 20 ° C or at room temperature.)
A digital piano does not need as much maintenance as an acoustic piano, but it still needs to be maintained in the way that all electronic devices do. You definitely want to make sure it stays in excellent condition and lasts as long as possible. We advise you not to expose to sunlight, dust, or extreme temperatures. Moisture and drastic temperatures can damage the outside surface as well as the electrical components. . As all other electronic devices, a digital piano should also be unplugged during a storm.
Touch sensitivity
The touch and feel of playing a digital piano and an acoustic piano can be very different. One of the reasons is the weight of the keys. Some power is required when you press the acoustic piano keys. Power and finger movement determine the tone of the sound, and you can emit different colours of sound on the same key.
As for digital pianos, the gentle touch of their keys could trigger sound. Many manufacturers compensate for this by weighing the keys to mimic the volume of the keys. But on a digital piano, because sounds are digital, a finite amount of tone can be created. In other words, although you played the key differently, the sound may be the same. This limitation can have an effect on the expressiveness of your music.
Price
Generally speaking, an acoustic piano costs more than a digital piano. A low- to mid-range piano can cost from € 3,000 to € 5,000, while digital ones cost from € 800 to € 5,000.
Resale value of the digital piano is much lower than the value of the classical piano. It is difficult to measure the resale value, which largely depends on the model and condition of the piano. But the price of a digital piano drops much faster than a classic piano, with many new, more advanced models of digital pianos coming out each year. Although a classic piano is more expensive, it is a better investment in the long run because its value is declining very slowly.
How would your personal preferences affect your decision?
For all classical musicians, an acoustic piano would be more appropriate. First, acoustic sound is more suited to classical music. Secondly, the key sensitivity of classical piano allows you to play more subtle musical expressions and the dynamics required by classical music.
For those who plan to study in Pop, Rock or Funk, a digital piano might be a better option. Additional digital piano features – such as other instrument sounds and drum beats – can complement your playing experience. The slightly more “digital” color of the piano sound would also fit well in these genres.
We enrolled our child in music school, what to choose to start when we do not yet know whether he will persist or if the initial excitement will pass after 2 months?
From a professional point of view, and according to many professors, the choice of classical piano is definitely more appropriate for a beginner. Despite the advanced development of digital pianos and heavy keys, the feel of playing is not the same as that of a classical piano.
When practicing on a digital piano, a child with very little effort and finger strength produces the sound, when playing music at a classical piano with the same amount of effort – does not produce the same effect or wanted sound. In the early years of music school, the emphasis is on the correct playing technique that a child can learn and refine only when practicing on a classical piano with classical mechanics.
Buying a classic piano / piano is more expensive. For beginners, we also offer the possibility of a favorable rental for a beginner with the option of later redemption ((when you see that the child is happy to play the piano).
Buying a used piano is also more affordable – be careful when buying this one, as buying an “inexpensive” instrument will cost you a lot.
When buying a used piano, we can advise you and also evaluate / review your chosen instrument before buying.
My longstanding wish is to learn how to play the piano
A digital piano might be a better choice for self-taught pianists. Connecting a digital piano to your computer will open up many learning opportunities. You can use different learning software available on your computer by simply synchronizing it with your digital piano. Some digital pianos even come with built-in learning apps.
For those who would not insist into the hobby, choose a digital piano.
Practice in the late hours or living in a building where you do not want to disturb your neighbors.
If you practice late at night or practice at home where family members are always busy or you don’t want to disturb your neighbors, then choose a digital piano or a classic piano with Silent mode. Digital pianos come with volume keys and headphone outputs so you can practice smoothly and be the only audience in your workouts. With the Silent option, you can pair the classic piano with your headphones and can practice at any time.
Third option – a hybrid piano
A hybrid piano is a relatively new member of the piano family. It is basically a combination of classic and digital piano. It has a classic piano mechanism, but can emit sounds when activated. The Hybrid Piano seems like the best of both worlds – the desired acoustic and digital piano features are all in one piano. Some examples of hybrid pianos are the Yamaha NU1 Piano and the Kawai AnyTime Piano.
But a hybrid piano is not always the number one choice, as it’s a little more expensive than an acoustic piano.
→ Why buy a digital piano?
If you need to save money and don’t want to put a heavy burden on your budget with the cost of a piano, a digital piano is a good option.
For students, the digital piano is more portable and you can take it with you.
The digital piano is suitable for pop lovers and has features that match perfectly with pop songs.
If you exercise late at night, you do not want to disturb family members who are already sleeping. Take advantage of digital piano features and play with your headphones on.
For those who would not be into the hobby for a longer time, choose a digital piano.
→ Why buy a classic piano?
Classic pianos are a better long-term investment.
If you practice on the weekends or evenings, you don’t have to worry about disturbing others, so you don’t need to get a digital piano for quieter workouts. Many models of classical pianos also have the option of incorporating Silent mode.
Choose classic piano when the cost is not a main concern. An average digital piano would not be suitable for advanced musicians.
If you spend most of your time at home, carrying and weight of the piano is not a problem
Some music institutions do not allow digital piano to be played for exams, and they do not recommend practicing on digital pianos so be sure to consult your professor before purchasing.
Conclusion
We have compared the key differences between an acoustic and a digital piano, before buying, consider how your personal preferences and habits would affect your choice of piano.
You are now ready to make the final decision. It’s okay to think. But try not to let that decision keep you from your musical path for too long.
