Isako Hoshino
2011-07-09 04:27:01 UTC
Archive-name: music/piano/digital-pianos-faq
Posting-Frequency: monthly
Last-modified: 19 July 2010
Version: 1.8
This is the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) list for
rec.music.makers.piano regarding digital pianos.
This FAQ list is intended to present information frequently asked in
rec.music.makers.piano about digital pianos. It is automatically
posted every month. Updates, additions, suggestions and corrections
are always welcome: send e-mail to the address at the end of this FAQ.
However, it has become increasingly difficult to keep up with the
demand (not to mention the number of SPAM received, so response, if
any, may be very delayed.
This FAQ is periodically posted to rec.music.makers.piano,
news.answers, and rec.answers. This FAQ can also be retrieved from
rtfm.mit.edu via anonymous FTP under:
/pub/usenet/news.answers/music/piano/digital-pianos-faq
If you do not have access to anonymous FTP, you may retrieve it by
sending e-mail to mail-***@rtfm.mit.edu with the message (leave the
subject line blank):
SEND usenet/news.answers/music/piano/digital-pianos-faq
You also have access to rmmp FAQs on WWW:
http://rmmpiano.tripod.com/rmmp-faq.html
==========================================================
changes since version 1.6
updated RMMP FAQ web site address
removed some obsolete references and links
Added the physical modeled piano sound synthesis info
==========================================================
Digital Piano FAQ
You may run a search on the topics using the [Q#] pattern
where "#" is the question number.
CONTENTS:
[Q1] What are the differences between "acoustic",
"digital", "electric" and "electronic" pianos?
[Q2] Okay, now that I know the difference between
acoustic and digital pianos, tell me more about
digital pianos.
[Q2.5] What is this "virtual" or "physical modeled" digital
piano sound synthesis I hear about?
[Q3] What are the advantages of buying a digital piano as
opposed to an acoustic one?
[Q4] What are the drawbacks?
[Q5] Should I buy a digital piano or an acoustic piano?
[Q6] What are the basic things I should look for in a
digital piano?
[Q7] Are there any magazine reviews on digital pianos?
[Q8] What's different between the different manufacturers
and the different models?
[Q9] What are the most popular brands?
[Q10] What is the mean time between repairs?
[Q11] How much pounding can they take?
[Q12] Where can I get the best deal on a digital piano?
************************
[Q1] What are the differences between "acoustic",
"digital", "electric" and "electronic" pianos?
An "acoustic" piano is the traditional piano everybody is familiar
with, that produces sounds by means of hammers striking strings. It
is generally referred to as "the piano." The term "acoustic" is
usually used when specifically making a distinction between other
various forms of piano (digital, electric, etc.)
A "digital" piano is an instrument which does its best to duplicate
the sound and feel of playing an acoustic piano. It typically uses
digitally sampled (recorded) sounds or use physical modeled sound
generators (more on this in a separate section), amplifiers and
speakers instead of strings and hammers to produce the piano-like
sound. They have weighted key action to imitate the action of an
acoustic piano.
An "electric" piano is an electro-acoustic instrument analogous to an
electric guitar. It has a real action, some sort of metal tine or
string which vibrates, and pickups to detect the audio signal for
subsequent amplification.
An "electronic" piano, better referred to as an "electronic keyboard"
is an instrument with a keyboard, but usually without the weighted key
action or velocity sensitivity, and the sound is usually generated
through synthesizers (computer-generated), but unlike digital pianos,
there is not much emphasis on replicating the actual acoustic piano
sound; however, some may have sampled sounds. You see these for
children's toy keyboards and other uses that do not require "simulate
piano" sound.
[Q2] Okay, now that I know the difference between
acoustic and digital pianos, tell me more about
digital pianos.
A complete digital piano system consists of the following: a keyboard
with a weighted key action, optical or other electronic sensors which
detect the velocity with which you strike the keys, a digitized sound
bank or some other method to generate piano-like sound, an amplifier
or two, and speakers/headphone jacks. Usually the sound for each note
has been sampled off a high-quality acoustic piano. When a key is
pressed, the sensors detect the key's velocity, and a microchip
produces the note with corresponding loudness (the faster, or harder
you hit the keys, the louder), just like a piano. Keys are usually
weighted to approximate the feel of a piano's keyboard rather than
that of an organ (soft, very little resistance, light).
Most digital pianos also offer other than piano sounds (such as pipe
organ, harpsichord, etc.), plus miscellaneous digital technology
"gadgets". Since all the sounds are stored in electronic form, you
can listen to the piano through headphones instead of speakers,
thereby allowing you to play the piano without anyone else hearing it.
[Q2.5] What is this "virtual" or "physical modeled" digital piano I
hear about?
In the past few years (since ~2006 or so) there has been a development
in the method of how the piano sounds are created/generated. The
traditional digital pianos uses sampled sounds--which means the
manufacturer records piano sound from an actual piano, each key played
and recorded at different loudness and conditions (damper off, damper
on, etc), store each record within the piano and use those recording
to reproduce the piano when one or more keys are struck. This method
works well, but has its limitation in that the authenticity of the
sound produced will highly depend on how many times each note was
recorded using different loudness, and how the computer within the
piano determines which recording it should use. It also has some
limitation in that it doesn't truly generate how the piano resonates
as a whole when multiple keys are struck, etc. Sampled sounds are
basically a "snapshot" of what the acoustic piano can really do.
Some manufacturers have come up with a different way to generate the
piano sound that does not depend on physically recording the notes--by
allowing the computer calculate how all the strings and the wood
resonates with each other, based on how each component behaves under a
certain condition or a "mathematical model", and generate the sound
based on such models. The common terminology used to describe this
method of generating piano sound is "virtual" or "physical modeled"
sound synthesis. As of 2010, Pianoteq and Roland V-Pianos are two of
such digital pianos (Roland V-Piano is a physical instrument, while
Pianoteq is a software you run on your computer) that use physical
modeled sound generation technique.
Analogy to this phyical modeled synthesized sound is using computers
to generate movie special visual effects, instead of using stop-motion
animation, robotics, drawings, etc. to generate the effects. So
instead of taking a series of snap shots of a flag flapping in the
wind and using it to create a motion picture of a flag moving in a
specific way, you tell the computer what the flag looks like and let
the computer calculates and generates the motion of the flag flapping in
the wind based on series of rules you tell the computer how the flag
behaves when a wind hits it in a certain way. If your model is very
accurate, you can get a video of a very realistic flag flapping in the
wind in a very realistic manner. Physical modeled sound generation
is a similar concept, except you are using a computer to generate sound
based on how the wood resonates with the strings, and how the strings
resonates with each other.
This technique is inherently much more difficult to do than simply
recording each note and replaying it. But the computer/computational
technology has reached to a point where such things are now possible.
If you want to know more about this, do a search on Wikipedia (or your
other favorite encyclopedia) on "physical modeling synthesis".
[Q3] What are the advantages of buying a digital piano as
opposed to an acoustic one?
The biggest advantages of digital pianos are:
(1) Relative portability. Most digital pianos weigh less
than 200 lbs., as opposed to 450--500 lbs. for a typical
upright and much more for grand pianos. You have
the luxury of disassembling the major parts of the
digital piano, stash it in your hatchback, and drive away
with it.
(2) Does not need tuning. If you have a piano, you will
usually have to tune it once or twice a year. The sounds
for a digital piano are recorded and stored "digitally"
within the hardware, so it does not go out of tune.
(3) Option to play silently. By using headphones, you can
play a digital piano as loud as you want whenever you
want without producing any sound which others can hear
(well, except for your fingers hitting the keys and some
low-level noise from the keys moving). If you live in
close-quarters or in an apartment with poor sound
insulation, this silencing ability is very useful.
(4) Relatively low maintenance. Beyond the usual practices
of keeping liquids away, keeping it out of direct
sunlight, and occasional dusting, etc., digital pianos
are virtually maintenance-free.
(5) Electronic interface. Many digital piano models have a
MIDI interface capability, which allows you to connect
the piano to your favorite computer or other MIDI
hardware and enjoy the benefits of digital technology.
As you pay more, the built-in recording and playback
capability available will become more elaborate.
(6) Many voices. Most digital pianos come with several
different types of piano sounds, plus the sounds of other
instruments. For example, with a press of a button you
can make it sound like a harpsichord, a pipe organ or
something else. The variety of sounds you get differs
among models, but generally as you pay more, you get more
voices. Some models come with a full orchestra sound,
allowing you to compose a symphony right on your piano!
[Q4] What are the drawbacks?
(1) Sound quality. No matter how well the piano sound is
sampled, you can never truly get away from the
"amplified", "digital" sound quality. As digital
sampling technology improves, the gap between the
acoustic and digital sound may diminish, but digital
sound will never equal or be superior to those of an
acoustic.
(2) Inability to produce a "color" to the tone. In an acoustic
instrument, by using various playing techniques, you can produce
almost infinite kinds of "color" to the tone. Digital pianos can
only produce sounds that were originally sampled (recorded) or
programmed, and thus very limited in terms of variety in the
sound produced. For a very accomplished pianist, the limited
sound produced by the digital piano can be disturbing or
distracting.
(3) As with any electronic mechanisms, digital pianos can
develop problems like damaged spring action on the keys,
bad contact, bad amplifier, bad speaker, etc. Digital
pianos in general are considered relatively robust, but
there have been reports of key action break down, hissing
and crackling speaker noise developing, and having
difficulty in getting it fixed correctly.
(4) As with any electronics, the technology used to create
the current digital piano may (well, almost certainly
will) become obsolete in the near future. Whereas, in an
acoustic piano, one can assume if you buy a good piano
and take good care of it, your grandchild or great-
grandchild can still play it and will find someone who
can maintain your piano. This is not necessarily the
case with digital pianos. Digital pianos haven't been
around long enough to really make a good case study of
its longevity. One reason to purchase digital pianos
from a reputable company.
[Q5] Should I buy a digital piano or an acoustic piano?
The technology of digital pianos has made some impressive strides in
the last couple of years. For between $2000 and $3000 (at the best
available discounts), you can get some fairly satisfying instruments.
However, the current state of the art isn't perfect (yet :-) ), and
for those prices you can pick up a decent used acoustic piano. If
your situation doesn't require the advantages of a digital piano
(relative portability, and the option of practicing silently with
headphones are the big ones), you might be happier hunting down a good
deal on a new or used upright. If you really want to splurge, you can
get something like a Yamaha Silent Series, which is an acoustic piano
with the digital piano silencing capability added. You get the best
of both worlds, but you also pay the price.
[Q6] What are the basic things I should look for in a
digital piano?
Before you set out shopping, fetch a good-quality (the best quality
you can get your hands on) headphone sets and take it with you to the
piano dealers. If you're buying a digital piano instead of an
acoustic piano, the chances are you'll be practicing through
headphones a lot and should determine how it sounds through a headset
as well as through the speakers. Using headphones is also practical
because it is easier to hear many subtle defects which might be masked
by the speakers. Don't be afraid to play away on the floor models.
That's what they're there for. If you want, you can grab a friend who
can play the piano well, so you can listen how it sounds while your
friend plays it. But don't be a passive observer. Also, if the
showroom also has fine acoustic instruments, use them for comparison.
Keep in mind that it is *you* who will be playing the digital piano,
and not your friend or the salesperson. Buying digital piano is like
buying a stereo system. You can spend almost infinite amount of money
if you don't watch out. Get what you are satisfied with, not what
others say that you will be satisfied with.
Here are some common concerns for picking a good digital piano,
whatever your needs.
(1) Action. Does it *feel* like a piano to you?
Do the keys have the proper weight and do they move
under your fingers the way you remember a good piano
does? Is it easy to imagine that you are picking up and
throwing a hammer forward at the end of each stroke?
Some pianos offer many levels of velocity-response (i.e.
how heavy you have to hit the keys before you get a
sound out), so check those settings also.
(2) Dynamic range. Does it respond to velocity
properly? How loudly and how softly can it be played?
Is it easy to play and maintain an even dynamic level?
Does the timbre change properly with dynamic shifts?
(3) Sound. Pick a note, play it loudly, hold it and
listen carefully while it decays into silence. Does it
sound natural? Does it take long enough? Does it last
*too* long? (Time a note at similar loudness on a grand
piano for comparison). Can you hear obvious, repeating
patterns ("loops")? Repeat this test, playing a chord
instead of a single note.
(4) Realistic sound source. Play something moving up
and down the keyboard (scales, arpeggios, etc.). Does
the sound "move" realistically from side to side (do the
bass notes seem to be coming from the left side of the
cabinet while the treble notes come from the right)?
(5) Polyphony. How many notes can you hear at once?
Ones with less polyphony (12-16), you can run out of
notes quickly if you start sustaining multiple notes or
playing big chords, resulting in notes being abruptly
"cut-off". A good test is to hold down the sustain
pedal, play the two lowest C's, then play a glissando
about five octaves or more long. Not-so-good models
will prematurely and abruptly drop notes in a fashion
that you can hear clearly; the worst models will drop
one or both bass notes. The best models will chose
notes that are acoustically masked by others.
(6) Design. Is the control panel (and the manual)
well laid-out and easy to understand? Some poorly
designed panels have buttons which are too close to the
keys, and while you play you may accidentally hit the
control buttons and change the setting of the
instrument.
(7) Gadgets. Does it have many bells and whistles?
Are the ones it does have useful for you? Is there a
built-in key cover? If you need some non-piano voices,
does it have the ones you want? Are they good enough for
your purposes? Some models offer various levels of
reverb, imitating the acoustic "echo" effect you hear
when you play an instrument in different environment
such as, room, concert hall, studio, etc.
(8) Fine-tuning capability. What kind of hidden
"effects" does the model have? Some digital pianos
offer a few special purpose modes (like alternate
tunings, variable harmonics, adjustable decay length,
etc.). Alternate tunings are useful if you play in an
ensemble often, because you will be allowed to tune your
piano to the ensemble. Others are useful for those who
like to fiddle with electronics to get the sound "just
right."
(9) Pedaling levels. Does the damper (or sustain)
pedals have multi-level of pedaling response, or is it
just on-off? In a piano, depending on how much you
depress the pedal, you get different amounts of
sustaining of the notes. A simple "on-off" pedaling may
hamper pianists who are trained to use half-pedaling
techniques in a piano.
(10) How powerful is the amplifier/speaker system?
Bigger amplifiers and multiple number of speakers
generally give you a better sound. You may not
necessarily ever use all that excess power, but having
that excess power can give you more balanced sound when
you play (doesn't sound as if the speakers are
straining, etc.).
[Q7] Are there any magazine reviews on digital pianos?
Due to the nature of technology and product, this section is
out-of-date, but the original info is left in here for historical
benefit. These days you can run a search on "digital piano reviews"
in your favorite internet search engine, and you should find some
satisfying more up-to-date reviews out there.
The December 1993 issue of "Keyboard" had a review of many models, and
the July/August 1994 issue of "Piano and Keyboard" had a similar
review -- Obviously there are more recent versions available by the
time you read this. I suggest that you check your local library or
search the web and see if you can find them.
"Electronic Musician" publishes a yearly "Digital Piano Buyers Guide"
(the last one came out around October 1994. Again, newer versions are
probably available by the time you read this); you won't find any
recommendations for specific models, but it gives a pretty
comprehensive listing of *everything* on the market, and an easy
overview of the current technology for people unfamiliar with it.
The December 1995 issue of the "Keyboard Magazine" is a hardware
buyer's guide, and it seem to have specifications on most digital
pianos and synthesizers. Check for newer issues that may have more
recent listings.
[Q8] What's different between the different manufacturers
and the different models?
As for *manufacturers*, they usually differ in:
(1) how they sampled or generate the sounds,
(2) key action design,
(3) sound output design,
(4) overall appearance.
Thus each company's product line has a distinctly different feel and
sound. There are many makers out there. (In alphabetical order)
Baldwin, Casio, Kawai, Korg, Kurzweil, Roland, Samick, Technics,
Wersi, Yamaha, to name a few. The best way to decide what these
differences mean to you is to go to a local dealer and try out the
different brands.
Usually, the main differences between various models within the *same
maker* are in:
(1) the weighted key action (how the keys feel),
(2) amplifier power,
(3) number and size of speakers,
(4) number of voices (piano and non-piano sounds),
(5) polyphony (how many notes you can play simultaneously),
(6) the miscellaneous "gadgets" (like sequencing
capabilities, metronome, etc.)
In general, the more money you shell out for a digital piano, the more
closely it imitates a piano and better sound. The difference between
a low-end model and a mid-range model is usually pretty dramatic.
Some low-end models do not have all 88-keys. Some may not even have a
sound output system (you basically play it through your stereo
speakers or use headphones). The difference between a mid-range model
and a high-end model is mostly in the "gadgetry" department and in
amplifier power; most of the key elements don't vary a whole lot. The
majority of the digital piano market is in the mid- price range, and
that's usually good enough to keep most people happy.
[Q9] What are the most popular brands?
For overall satisfaction within this newsgroup, the general consensus
seems to center around Yamaha Clavinova and Technics Digital Piano
series. Roland HP series seems to have good reviews on key action and
miscellaneous sounds, but they tend to be more expensive. Kurzweil is
another brand which is well received. But as stated before, go check
them out yourself. Like/dislike is a very personal thing, and you
should not make a decision based on what others say.
[Q10] What is the mean time between repairs?
Nobody really seems to know the answer to this. This is akin to
asking how often does a new car or a stereo component breaks down.
There are many people who have had the digital pianos for 10+ years
with absolutely no problem, and there are people who ended up with a
"lemon" which needed frequent repairs soon after the purchase (within
the warranty period).
[Q11] How much pounding can they take?
The general consensus is that digital pianos can take as much pounding
as a piano can. One would hope that the manufacturers have designed
them with that in mind. But there have been reports of people
chipping the plastic on the key, or losing a spring which helps the
feel of a weighted action and have been playing gingerly ever since,
but this seems to be in the minority.
[Q12] Where can I get the best deal on a digital piano?
Prices vary greatly depending on the make and the model, and the
suggested retail price (SRP) can range anywhere from $1500 to $7000.
Don't be daunted by this, though. You can buy most of these from
mail-order houses for substantial discounts, as much as 50% off the
SRP. Some local dealers may or may not try to match the mail order
price. You will just have to shop around and ask. There are many
mail-order firms. Any copy of the magazines "Keyboard", "Electronic
Musician" or "Piano and Keyboard" will have ads for them.
You might also want to do a search on google or other of your favorite
online search site to get most up-to-date information on available
models and current ball-park prices.
NOTE:
One thing you will want to consider is, that in some states, a
"Use Tax" law is enforced, which is a sales tax levied on mailorder
purchases made out-of-state and delivered out-of-state. If you are
not aware, you may receive a rude surprize few years down the road
from the Department of Revenue of your state. If you are found liable
to the Use Tax, and did not file a Use Tax return by 15 April of the
following year, you may be required to pay up to double the sales tax
amount in taxes, interest, and penalties.
**************************
end Digital Piano FAQ
I would like to extend my thanks to Michael Scott for his extensive
contribution to this FAQ, and Philip Tompkins for giving me
suggestions and corrections. Also, to many others in the RMMP
newsgroup for bits and pieces of information contained in this FAQ. I
couldn't have gotten this thing started without their help.
This document is copyright (c) 1995-2010 by Isako Hoshino. It may be
freely distributed in its entirety provided that this copyright notice
is not removed and the link to the permanent web site is not removed
(http://rmmpiano.tripod.com/rmmp-faq.html). It may not be sold for
profit nor incorporated in commercial documents or web sites without
the author's permission. This article is provided "as is" without
express or implied warranties. While every effort has been taken to
ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this article, the
maintainer assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions, or for
damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein.
Isako Hoshino
***@yahoo.com
==========================================================
Posting-Frequency: monthly
Last-modified: 19 July 2010
Version: 1.8
This is the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) list for
rec.music.makers.piano regarding digital pianos.
This FAQ list is intended to present information frequently asked in
rec.music.makers.piano about digital pianos. It is automatically
posted every month. Updates, additions, suggestions and corrections
are always welcome: send e-mail to the address at the end of this FAQ.
However, it has become increasingly difficult to keep up with the
demand (not to mention the number of SPAM received, so response, if
any, may be very delayed.
This FAQ is periodically posted to rec.music.makers.piano,
news.answers, and rec.answers. This FAQ can also be retrieved from
rtfm.mit.edu via anonymous FTP under:
/pub/usenet/news.answers/music/piano/digital-pianos-faq
If you do not have access to anonymous FTP, you may retrieve it by
sending e-mail to mail-***@rtfm.mit.edu with the message (leave the
subject line blank):
SEND usenet/news.answers/music/piano/digital-pianos-faq
You also have access to rmmp FAQs on WWW:
http://rmmpiano.tripod.com/rmmp-faq.html
==========================================================
changes since version 1.6
updated RMMP FAQ web site address
removed some obsolete references and links
Added the physical modeled piano sound synthesis info
==========================================================
Digital Piano FAQ
You may run a search on the topics using the [Q#] pattern
where "#" is the question number.
CONTENTS:
[Q1] What are the differences between "acoustic",
"digital", "electric" and "electronic" pianos?
[Q2] Okay, now that I know the difference between
acoustic and digital pianos, tell me more about
digital pianos.
[Q2.5] What is this "virtual" or "physical modeled" digital
piano sound synthesis I hear about?
[Q3] What are the advantages of buying a digital piano as
opposed to an acoustic one?
[Q4] What are the drawbacks?
[Q5] Should I buy a digital piano or an acoustic piano?
[Q6] What are the basic things I should look for in a
digital piano?
[Q7] Are there any magazine reviews on digital pianos?
[Q8] What's different between the different manufacturers
and the different models?
[Q9] What are the most popular brands?
[Q10] What is the mean time between repairs?
[Q11] How much pounding can they take?
[Q12] Where can I get the best deal on a digital piano?
************************
[Q1] What are the differences between "acoustic",
"digital", "electric" and "electronic" pianos?
An "acoustic" piano is the traditional piano everybody is familiar
with, that produces sounds by means of hammers striking strings. It
is generally referred to as "the piano." The term "acoustic" is
usually used when specifically making a distinction between other
various forms of piano (digital, electric, etc.)
A "digital" piano is an instrument which does its best to duplicate
the sound and feel of playing an acoustic piano. It typically uses
digitally sampled (recorded) sounds or use physical modeled sound
generators (more on this in a separate section), amplifiers and
speakers instead of strings and hammers to produce the piano-like
sound. They have weighted key action to imitate the action of an
acoustic piano.
An "electric" piano is an electro-acoustic instrument analogous to an
electric guitar. It has a real action, some sort of metal tine or
string which vibrates, and pickups to detect the audio signal for
subsequent amplification.
An "electronic" piano, better referred to as an "electronic keyboard"
is an instrument with a keyboard, but usually without the weighted key
action or velocity sensitivity, and the sound is usually generated
through synthesizers (computer-generated), but unlike digital pianos,
there is not much emphasis on replicating the actual acoustic piano
sound; however, some may have sampled sounds. You see these for
children's toy keyboards and other uses that do not require "simulate
piano" sound.
[Q2] Okay, now that I know the difference between
acoustic and digital pianos, tell me more about
digital pianos.
A complete digital piano system consists of the following: a keyboard
with a weighted key action, optical or other electronic sensors which
detect the velocity with which you strike the keys, a digitized sound
bank or some other method to generate piano-like sound, an amplifier
or two, and speakers/headphone jacks. Usually the sound for each note
has been sampled off a high-quality acoustic piano. When a key is
pressed, the sensors detect the key's velocity, and a microchip
produces the note with corresponding loudness (the faster, or harder
you hit the keys, the louder), just like a piano. Keys are usually
weighted to approximate the feel of a piano's keyboard rather than
that of an organ (soft, very little resistance, light).
Most digital pianos also offer other than piano sounds (such as pipe
organ, harpsichord, etc.), plus miscellaneous digital technology
"gadgets". Since all the sounds are stored in electronic form, you
can listen to the piano through headphones instead of speakers,
thereby allowing you to play the piano without anyone else hearing it.
[Q2.5] What is this "virtual" or "physical modeled" digital piano I
hear about?
In the past few years (since ~2006 or so) there has been a development
in the method of how the piano sounds are created/generated. The
traditional digital pianos uses sampled sounds--which means the
manufacturer records piano sound from an actual piano, each key played
and recorded at different loudness and conditions (damper off, damper
on, etc), store each record within the piano and use those recording
to reproduce the piano when one or more keys are struck. This method
works well, but has its limitation in that the authenticity of the
sound produced will highly depend on how many times each note was
recorded using different loudness, and how the computer within the
piano determines which recording it should use. It also has some
limitation in that it doesn't truly generate how the piano resonates
as a whole when multiple keys are struck, etc. Sampled sounds are
basically a "snapshot" of what the acoustic piano can really do.
Some manufacturers have come up with a different way to generate the
piano sound that does not depend on physically recording the notes--by
allowing the computer calculate how all the strings and the wood
resonates with each other, based on how each component behaves under a
certain condition or a "mathematical model", and generate the sound
based on such models. The common terminology used to describe this
method of generating piano sound is "virtual" or "physical modeled"
sound synthesis. As of 2010, Pianoteq and Roland V-Pianos are two of
such digital pianos (Roland V-Piano is a physical instrument, while
Pianoteq is a software you run on your computer) that use physical
modeled sound generation technique.
Analogy to this phyical modeled synthesized sound is using computers
to generate movie special visual effects, instead of using stop-motion
animation, robotics, drawings, etc. to generate the effects. So
instead of taking a series of snap shots of a flag flapping in the
wind and using it to create a motion picture of a flag moving in a
specific way, you tell the computer what the flag looks like and let
the computer calculates and generates the motion of the flag flapping in
the wind based on series of rules you tell the computer how the flag
behaves when a wind hits it in a certain way. If your model is very
accurate, you can get a video of a very realistic flag flapping in the
wind in a very realistic manner. Physical modeled sound generation
is a similar concept, except you are using a computer to generate sound
based on how the wood resonates with the strings, and how the strings
resonates with each other.
This technique is inherently much more difficult to do than simply
recording each note and replaying it. But the computer/computational
technology has reached to a point where such things are now possible.
If you want to know more about this, do a search on Wikipedia (or your
other favorite encyclopedia) on "physical modeling synthesis".
[Q3] What are the advantages of buying a digital piano as
opposed to an acoustic one?
The biggest advantages of digital pianos are:
(1) Relative portability. Most digital pianos weigh less
than 200 lbs., as opposed to 450--500 lbs. for a typical
upright and much more for grand pianos. You have
the luxury of disassembling the major parts of the
digital piano, stash it in your hatchback, and drive away
with it.
(2) Does not need tuning. If you have a piano, you will
usually have to tune it once or twice a year. The sounds
for a digital piano are recorded and stored "digitally"
within the hardware, so it does not go out of tune.
(3) Option to play silently. By using headphones, you can
play a digital piano as loud as you want whenever you
want without producing any sound which others can hear
(well, except for your fingers hitting the keys and some
low-level noise from the keys moving). If you live in
close-quarters or in an apartment with poor sound
insulation, this silencing ability is very useful.
(4) Relatively low maintenance. Beyond the usual practices
of keeping liquids away, keeping it out of direct
sunlight, and occasional dusting, etc., digital pianos
are virtually maintenance-free.
(5) Electronic interface. Many digital piano models have a
MIDI interface capability, which allows you to connect
the piano to your favorite computer or other MIDI
hardware and enjoy the benefits of digital technology.
As you pay more, the built-in recording and playback
capability available will become more elaborate.
(6) Many voices. Most digital pianos come with several
different types of piano sounds, plus the sounds of other
instruments. For example, with a press of a button you
can make it sound like a harpsichord, a pipe organ or
something else. The variety of sounds you get differs
among models, but generally as you pay more, you get more
voices. Some models come with a full orchestra sound,
allowing you to compose a symphony right on your piano!
[Q4] What are the drawbacks?
(1) Sound quality. No matter how well the piano sound is
sampled, you can never truly get away from the
"amplified", "digital" sound quality. As digital
sampling technology improves, the gap between the
acoustic and digital sound may diminish, but digital
sound will never equal or be superior to those of an
acoustic.
(2) Inability to produce a "color" to the tone. In an acoustic
instrument, by using various playing techniques, you can produce
almost infinite kinds of "color" to the tone. Digital pianos can
only produce sounds that were originally sampled (recorded) or
programmed, and thus very limited in terms of variety in the
sound produced. For a very accomplished pianist, the limited
sound produced by the digital piano can be disturbing or
distracting.
(3) As with any electronic mechanisms, digital pianos can
develop problems like damaged spring action on the keys,
bad contact, bad amplifier, bad speaker, etc. Digital
pianos in general are considered relatively robust, but
there have been reports of key action break down, hissing
and crackling speaker noise developing, and having
difficulty in getting it fixed correctly.
(4) As with any electronics, the technology used to create
the current digital piano may (well, almost certainly
will) become obsolete in the near future. Whereas, in an
acoustic piano, one can assume if you buy a good piano
and take good care of it, your grandchild or great-
grandchild can still play it and will find someone who
can maintain your piano. This is not necessarily the
case with digital pianos. Digital pianos haven't been
around long enough to really make a good case study of
its longevity. One reason to purchase digital pianos
from a reputable company.
[Q5] Should I buy a digital piano or an acoustic piano?
The technology of digital pianos has made some impressive strides in
the last couple of years. For between $2000 and $3000 (at the best
available discounts), you can get some fairly satisfying instruments.
However, the current state of the art isn't perfect (yet :-) ), and
for those prices you can pick up a decent used acoustic piano. If
your situation doesn't require the advantages of a digital piano
(relative portability, and the option of practicing silently with
headphones are the big ones), you might be happier hunting down a good
deal on a new or used upright. If you really want to splurge, you can
get something like a Yamaha Silent Series, which is an acoustic piano
with the digital piano silencing capability added. You get the best
of both worlds, but you also pay the price.
[Q6] What are the basic things I should look for in a
digital piano?
Before you set out shopping, fetch a good-quality (the best quality
you can get your hands on) headphone sets and take it with you to the
piano dealers. If you're buying a digital piano instead of an
acoustic piano, the chances are you'll be practicing through
headphones a lot and should determine how it sounds through a headset
as well as through the speakers. Using headphones is also practical
because it is easier to hear many subtle defects which might be masked
by the speakers. Don't be afraid to play away on the floor models.
That's what they're there for. If you want, you can grab a friend who
can play the piano well, so you can listen how it sounds while your
friend plays it. But don't be a passive observer. Also, if the
showroom also has fine acoustic instruments, use them for comparison.
Keep in mind that it is *you* who will be playing the digital piano,
and not your friend or the salesperson. Buying digital piano is like
buying a stereo system. You can spend almost infinite amount of money
if you don't watch out. Get what you are satisfied with, not what
others say that you will be satisfied with.
Here are some common concerns for picking a good digital piano,
whatever your needs.
(1) Action. Does it *feel* like a piano to you?
Do the keys have the proper weight and do they move
under your fingers the way you remember a good piano
does? Is it easy to imagine that you are picking up and
throwing a hammer forward at the end of each stroke?
Some pianos offer many levels of velocity-response (i.e.
how heavy you have to hit the keys before you get a
sound out), so check those settings also.
(2) Dynamic range. Does it respond to velocity
properly? How loudly and how softly can it be played?
Is it easy to play and maintain an even dynamic level?
Does the timbre change properly with dynamic shifts?
(3) Sound. Pick a note, play it loudly, hold it and
listen carefully while it decays into silence. Does it
sound natural? Does it take long enough? Does it last
*too* long? (Time a note at similar loudness on a grand
piano for comparison). Can you hear obvious, repeating
patterns ("loops")? Repeat this test, playing a chord
instead of a single note.
(4) Realistic sound source. Play something moving up
and down the keyboard (scales, arpeggios, etc.). Does
the sound "move" realistically from side to side (do the
bass notes seem to be coming from the left side of the
cabinet while the treble notes come from the right)?
(5) Polyphony. How many notes can you hear at once?
Ones with less polyphony (12-16), you can run out of
notes quickly if you start sustaining multiple notes or
playing big chords, resulting in notes being abruptly
"cut-off". A good test is to hold down the sustain
pedal, play the two lowest C's, then play a glissando
about five octaves or more long. Not-so-good models
will prematurely and abruptly drop notes in a fashion
that you can hear clearly; the worst models will drop
one or both bass notes. The best models will chose
notes that are acoustically masked by others.
(6) Design. Is the control panel (and the manual)
well laid-out and easy to understand? Some poorly
designed panels have buttons which are too close to the
keys, and while you play you may accidentally hit the
control buttons and change the setting of the
instrument.
(7) Gadgets. Does it have many bells and whistles?
Are the ones it does have useful for you? Is there a
built-in key cover? If you need some non-piano voices,
does it have the ones you want? Are they good enough for
your purposes? Some models offer various levels of
reverb, imitating the acoustic "echo" effect you hear
when you play an instrument in different environment
such as, room, concert hall, studio, etc.
(8) Fine-tuning capability. What kind of hidden
"effects" does the model have? Some digital pianos
offer a few special purpose modes (like alternate
tunings, variable harmonics, adjustable decay length,
etc.). Alternate tunings are useful if you play in an
ensemble often, because you will be allowed to tune your
piano to the ensemble. Others are useful for those who
like to fiddle with electronics to get the sound "just
right."
(9) Pedaling levels. Does the damper (or sustain)
pedals have multi-level of pedaling response, or is it
just on-off? In a piano, depending on how much you
depress the pedal, you get different amounts of
sustaining of the notes. A simple "on-off" pedaling may
hamper pianists who are trained to use half-pedaling
techniques in a piano.
(10) How powerful is the amplifier/speaker system?
Bigger amplifiers and multiple number of speakers
generally give you a better sound. You may not
necessarily ever use all that excess power, but having
that excess power can give you more balanced sound when
you play (doesn't sound as if the speakers are
straining, etc.).
[Q7] Are there any magazine reviews on digital pianos?
Due to the nature of technology and product, this section is
out-of-date, but the original info is left in here for historical
benefit. These days you can run a search on "digital piano reviews"
in your favorite internet search engine, and you should find some
satisfying more up-to-date reviews out there.
The December 1993 issue of "Keyboard" had a review of many models, and
the July/August 1994 issue of "Piano and Keyboard" had a similar
review -- Obviously there are more recent versions available by the
time you read this. I suggest that you check your local library or
search the web and see if you can find them.
"Electronic Musician" publishes a yearly "Digital Piano Buyers Guide"
(the last one came out around October 1994. Again, newer versions are
probably available by the time you read this); you won't find any
recommendations for specific models, but it gives a pretty
comprehensive listing of *everything* on the market, and an easy
overview of the current technology for people unfamiliar with it.
The December 1995 issue of the "Keyboard Magazine" is a hardware
buyer's guide, and it seem to have specifications on most digital
pianos and synthesizers. Check for newer issues that may have more
recent listings.
[Q8] What's different between the different manufacturers
and the different models?
As for *manufacturers*, they usually differ in:
(1) how they sampled or generate the sounds,
(2) key action design,
(3) sound output design,
(4) overall appearance.
Thus each company's product line has a distinctly different feel and
sound. There are many makers out there. (In alphabetical order)
Baldwin, Casio, Kawai, Korg, Kurzweil, Roland, Samick, Technics,
Wersi, Yamaha, to name a few. The best way to decide what these
differences mean to you is to go to a local dealer and try out the
different brands.
Usually, the main differences between various models within the *same
maker* are in:
(1) the weighted key action (how the keys feel),
(2) amplifier power,
(3) number and size of speakers,
(4) number of voices (piano and non-piano sounds),
(5) polyphony (how many notes you can play simultaneously),
(6) the miscellaneous "gadgets" (like sequencing
capabilities, metronome, etc.)
In general, the more money you shell out for a digital piano, the more
closely it imitates a piano and better sound. The difference between
a low-end model and a mid-range model is usually pretty dramatic.
Some low-end models do not have all 88-keys. Some may not even have a
sound output system (you basically play it through your stereo
speakers or use headphones). The difference between a mid-range model
and a high-end model is mostly in the "gadgetry" department and in
amplifier power; most of the key elements don't vary a whole lot. The
majority of the digital piano market is in the mid- price range, and
that's usually good enough to keep most people happy.
[Q9] What are the most popular brands?
For overall satisfaction within this newsgroup, the general consensus
seems to center around Yamaha Clavinova and Technics Digital Piano
series. Roland HP series seems to have good reviews on key action and
miscellaneous sounds, but they tend to be more expensive. Kurzweil is
another brand which is well received. But as stated before, go check
them out yourself. Like/dislike is a very personal thing, and you
should not make a decision based on what others say.
[Q10] What is the mean time between repairs?
Nobody really seems to know the answer to this. This is akin to
asking how often does a new car or a stereo component breaks down.
There are many people who have had the digital pianos for 10+ years
with absolutely no problem, and there are people who ended up with a
"lemon" which needed frequent repairs soon after the purchase (within
the warranty period).
[Q11] How much pounding can they take?
The general consensus is that digital pianos can take as much pounding
as a piano can. One would hope that the manufacturers have designed
them with that in mind. But there have been reports of people
chipping the plastic on the key, or losing a spring which helps the
feel of a weighted action and have been playing gingerly ever since,
but this seems to be in the minority.
[Q12] Where can I get the best deal on a digital piano?
Prices vary greatly depending on the make and the model, and the
suggested retail price (SRP) can range anywhere from $1500 to $7000.
Don't be daunted by this, though. You can buy most of these from
mail-order houses for substantial discounts, as much as 50% off the
SRP. Some local dealers may or may not try to match the mail order
price. You will just have to shop around and ask. There are many
mail-order firms. Any copy of the magazines "Keyboard", "Electronic
Musician" or "Piano and Keyboard" will have ads for them.
You might also want to do a search on google or other of your favorite
online search site to get most up-to-date information on available
models and current ball-park prices.
NOTE:
One thing you will want to consider is, that in some states, a
"Use Tax" law is enforced, which is a sales tax levied on mailorder
purchases made out-of-state and delivered out-of-state. If you are
not aware, you may receive a rude surprize few years down the road
from the Department of Revenue of your state. If you are found liable
to the Use Tax, and did not file a Use Tax return by 15 April of the
following year, you may be required to pay up to double the sales tax
amount in taxes, interest, and penalties.
**************************
end Digital Piano FAQ
I would like to extend my thanks to Michael Scott for his extensive
contribution to this FAQ, and Philip Tompkins for giving me
suggestions and corrections. Also, to many others in the RMMP
newsgroup for bits and pieces of information contained in this FAQ. I
couldn't have gotten this thing started without their help.
This document is copyright (c) 1995-2010 by Isako Hoshino. It may be
freely distributed in its entirety provided that this copyright notice
is not removed and the link to the permanent web site is not removed
(http://rmmpiano.tripod.com/rmmp-faq.html). It may not be sold for
profit nor incorporated in commercial documents or web sites without
the author's permission. This article is provided "as is" without
express or implied warranties. While every effort has been taken to
ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this article, the
maintainer assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions, or for
damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein.
Isako Hoshino
***@yahoo.com
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