Beginning pianists aspire to play at the highest possible level. The learning process itself is a lengthy one and everyone wants to make the most of this time. Therefore, choosing the right type of piano for you is one of the key elements on the way to achieving your goal. Acoustic vs digital piano. Which will work better for learning to play? Let’s talk about the pros and cons for both.
Acoustic pianos – a highly sophisticated instrument
The acoustic piano is characterised by an attractive and clear sound. This is all due to the combination of the soundboard and the sophisticated hammer mechanism. The classical version of the piano allows the player almost unlimited musical expression, depending on how the instrument is played.
Digital pianos – a modern and compact alternative
Digital pianos base their operation on sampling or resonance modelling. The effect of this is to produce sounds that are deceptively similar to those of an acoustic instrument. The best quality digital models are even capable of producing amazingly realistic sounds, even for a concert grand piano.
The difference between a digital and an acoustic piano
The difference relies primarily on the mechanism that produces the sound. In the case of a classical piano, this is a mechanical process that allows the player to produce a refined and personalised sound. Digital pianos, on the other hand, have an electronic tone generator that is responsible for the sound. The latest and high quality models have the ability to capture the dynamics of playing. Allowing a dynamic response to touch, giving an experience similar to that of playing an acoustic piano.
What to bear in mind when choosing a piano for learning to play
- When deciding on a piano, the first thing to do is to analyse what you specifically want from the instrument. And adapt this choice to your own needs.
- The type of mechanism (acoustic or digital) should also be considered. Whether you are a fan of classical or modern solutions. If you choose the digital version, and want to achieve the best possible sounds, you should go for models with a dynamic keyboard.
- An acoustic piano will not be the best choice for people who need a compact instrument. That has to be moved or even folded. Transport in the case of the digital version is definitely easier.
- Another important aspect to consider when choosing a piano is its price. Classical pianos especially new ones, although really beautiful, are much more expensive than their digital counterparts.
Which is better for learning to play the piano: digital vs acoustic pianos
To answer the question whether digital or acoustic pianos are better, it is not clear-cut and depends on expectations and personal preferences. To make the best choice, we need to know the pros and cons of both versions. Here they are:
Acoustic pianos
- Advantages: they have their own “soul” and history, for lovers of the classics; the possibility for the learner to get in touch with the natural sound and with the natural work of the keys; they fully reflect the expression of the player; the possibility to present musical flavours.
- Disadvantages: large size and weight; difficult to transport; higher price; tuning required.
Digital pianos
- Advantages: compactness; small size and weight; easy to transport; lower price compared to classical models; no need for tuning; volume control possible.
- Disadvantages: less opportunity to develop your own playing style compared to the acoustic version; “electronic” sound especially on the more budget models.
Now you know what to look for in order to choose the most suitable type of piano for you, which will be ideal for beginners. However, if your only argument against owning an acoustic piano is its high price. Know that there are alternatives in the form of a wide range of second-hand models that you can get at a much lower price. A great alternative would also be to rent a piano, so you can see if a classical model is right for you. Which piano do you prefer, acoustic or digital? Which one do you currently play and would recommend for learning to play?