Acoustic Piano vs Digital Piano: Which One is Better?

Wow, you’ve realized it: The piano is a sensationally versatile instrument that belongs to every genre and allows you to express any musical idea. ❤ Whether you play classical, jazz, or pop, read sheet music or play by ear, compose your own pieces or cover songs: the piano offers you the entire range of musical expression. 🎹 

The piano has a range that rivals a symphony orchestra and can switch from the softest pianissimo to a thunderous fortissimo in an instant. It’s no wonder that it’s the instrument of choice for most composers: you can do almost anything with it, and – a bonus for beginners – all the notes are neatly arranged on the keyboard and can be played at the touch of a button.

Acoustic Piano or Digital Piano – Which Is Better?

Modern digital pianos are so advanced that you can definitely learn to play just as well on them as on a traditional acoustic instrument. However, the classic acoustic version is far from obsolete. So, what are the pros and cons of both options?

Acoustic Pianos

• • Yamaha b1 PE
  • Yamaha B3 SC3 PE
  • Kawai E 200 Piano

An acoustic piano or a grand piano is a traditional instrument that vibrates and resonates, providing a more direct feel for the sound compared to a digital piano. Unfortunately, this also brings one of its disadvantages:

You can’t lower the volume of an acoustic piano. The vibrations travel through floors and walls, which can bring your neighbors knocking with a broomstick, especially if you indulge in your new passion late at night.

If you want to play an acoustic piano, you’ll need the right space (or perhaps a good lawyer). Tip: Some manufacturers offer acoustic instruments with a mute function, such as the Kawai E-200 ATX3-L SB Piano by Kawai.

Another significant drawback becomes apparent during a move – even if it’s just from one room to another: you’ll need the help of specialized and expensive piano movers.

Yamaha B3 SC3 PWH

And of course, acoustic instruments need regular tuning – a recurring cost that shouldn’t be underestimated. A clear advantage of acoustic pianos and grand pianos is:

High-quality instruments are a costly investment but retain their value very well, often being passed down through generations. They’re a “lifelong” asset – and possibly more than one life.

What Are the Advantages of Digital Pianos?

Digital pianos, available in various sizes, designs, and price ranges, excel where acoustic pianos have weaknesses: They are more compact, lighter, often significantly cheaper, and – the biggest everyday advantage – they don’t require tuning, and you can simply turn down the volume or practice with headphones.

Digital pianos that resemble acoustic pianos in size and design – even some digital grands – are available. If you’re short on space or need to move the instrument occasionally, compact digital pianos are a great option, being far more space-saving and lightweight.

Yamaha YDP-145 WH Arius

This is where the line blurs into stage pianos, which often lack built-in speakers – they’re meant to be connected to a sound system for live performances – and are thus less suitable for home practice.

Stagepiano Yamaha P-45 B

The quality of keyboards, sounds, and speaker systems in digital pianos has seen remarkable progress. Sophisticated key mechanisms, meticulously sampled sounds, and powerful speakers ensure that with mid-range and high-end instruments, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to tell them apart from an acoustic piano upon first listen.

Even affordable digital pianos, often sold as a set with a piano bench and headphones, no longer need to shy away and provide an excellent entry point for learning to play the piano.

Thomann DP-51 B

For beginners, we recommend the Thomann DP-51 B or the Thomann SP-120 Digital Piano. The Thomann SP-120 Digital Piano is the perfect introduction to the black-and-white world of keyboard instruments – at an unbeatable price. Its lightweight design makes it a practical musical companion for stage performances.

Thomann SP-120 Set

This set includes a foldable keyboard stand. Your musical journey can begin – and the Thomann SP-120 will be your perfect companion.

Where Can You Learn to Play the Piano?

Your passion has been ignited, and you’ve done it: your new piano, whether analog or digital, is set up at home. Now, all you need is a master to guide you through the intricacies of playing. One option is to look for a good piano teacher offline, someone who matches your style and preferences and can provide face-to-face lessons tailored to you.

Advantages: With in-person lessons, your teacher can cater specifically to your individual preferences and provide immediate feedback.

Disadvantages: Lessons require regular appointments, scheduled at fixed times (which can also be an advantage for discipline!).

Alternatively, you can opt for an online piano school. Today, there are many high-quality options available online, such as music2me, which are well-structured and feature professionally produced video tutorials.

Advantages: You can practice whenever and wherever you want, and it’s significantly more affordable than hiring a personal teacher.

Disadvantages: Despite advancements in artificial intelligence, some learners may miss the personal connection. However, it’s ideal for getting started and taking the first steps.

Advice: Pianos and Digital Pianos

If you have any questions or need advice, feel free to reach out to us – we’re here to help. We provide non-binding consultations.

Contact for acoustic pianos and digital pianos:

Piano Gallery
klaviere@thomann.de
Tel: 09546-9223-34

Contact for stage pianos:

📖 Free Online Guide

Our extensive online guide offers information about all instrument categories and much more.

Find more information and tips in our blog: 5 Tips for Beginners…

More information in our blog: Digital piano vs. Stage piano vs. Keyboard

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Joe has been singing since he can remember and started playing guitar when he was 10. He's been using it as a songwriting tool ever since. He is passionate about melody and harmony and admires musicians who create these in unique ways. Check out his alternative / indie projects Best of Feelings and Zef Raček.

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