Product Description

3 1/2 disc drive plays and records songs in standard MIDI file format76 piano-size touch sensitive keys32 note polyphonyPortable Grand mode for authentic Grand piano soundBuilt-in song sequencer records up to 5 songs with 6 tracks eachYamaha Education Suite teaches timing note reading chordsDigital Signal Processing Advanced Wave Memory technology200 song title music database610 instrument sounds 135 accompaniment styles2-way stereo speakers with bass boost systemHeadphone and sustain pedal jacksOriginal Dealer Cost: $379.99Shipping package dimensions: 20x10.5x50 (len x wid x dep) ... Read more

Features

• Digital Signal Processing and Advanced Wave Memory; 1-year warranty
• 76-key touch-sensitive keyboard with 3.5-inch floppy disk drive
• Integrated 6-track recording system for multitrack home recordings
• Floppy drive includes ability to read and write Standard MIDI Files (SMF)
• 135 built-in styles; sophisticated DJ function

Reviews (3)

Yamaha DGX300
Considering the price of this keyboard, it is of very good quality. It sounds 80% like a real piano and feels 70% like the real one (the keys are still a little too light).And like many have reviewed this keyboard, I also feel the sound is not "loud" enough.I have to turn the volumn close to max in order to have a decent volumn with or without headphone (btw, if you turn off the touch function then the keyboard will be louder but it will be mono-tone).However, it is still a wonderful keyboard in this price range.I am glad that I got it.If you don't mind spending a bit more money (~$500), the Casio 88-key ones sounds and feels better than the Yamaha ones.

A WONDERFUL BIRTHDAY PRESENT!
Hey, guess what? My mother's gonna bring me this keyboard on my birthday on November 15th. It has a total of 200 songs, 5 user songs, 135 accompaniments, and more. The manual is multilingual, but you can access the English version and the Spanish version on www.yamaha.com. So come on and check it out! Oh yeah!

Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo doubt this is the best keyboard, or should I call it "Digital Piano", that YAMAHA's ever made. It's incredible how it sounds, so you'd like to check out the audio samples on YAMAHA's page, www.yamaha.com

COME ON!

Tremendous Instrument
I've owned several Yamaha Clavinova's over the years & have liked their playability, sound & quality. Though no digital piano in any price range can sound like an accoutic piano, most come close.

What interested me in the Yamaha DGX500 was the educational software included since I'd been away from the piano for several years. Plus having 88 keys to play Jazz was also an added bonus. ....

Once assembled, I turned on the instrument & amazed at the sound from a digital piano ... It has a beautiful blue LCD display that indicates both treble & bass clef & also shows all the keys on the piano so when you play you can instantly see where each key is & what note you are playing. Also included are over 200 songs (complete w/sheet music) that can be easily learned via the display. The educational software makes learning (or re-learning) music fun since it can teach you right hand-left hand techiques,timing, etc.

All in all this instrument is well worth the money even if you pay retail ...P>If you are an inspiring student or someone like me who took a hiatus from playing, take a serious look at this piano before choosing a more expensive instrument. ... Read more

Product Description

A stereo-sampled dual-element ZPI sound source includes separate waveforms for strong key pressure and light key pressure, which accentuates the differences between the sounds produced by each. Multiple stereo samples are also taken of tones produced by an acoustic grand, from the low range to the high range. Notes remain natural sounding and realistic from the moment a key is pressed until the note decays, providing you with sound quality that is virtually identical to that of an acoustic grand piano.The keyboard is designed for a heavier feel in the lower range and a lighter feel in the high range, for a touch that is just like that of an acoustic piano. The keyboard does not use springs, and its action is provided by hammer weight for a truly authentic piano feel.The CELVIANO's Music Library includes a choice of 50 tunes for lessons and listening enjoyment. (A score book is included.)You can turn off the left hand part or right part during playback of a Music Library tune, and play along with the remaining part.88 KEYS with TOUCH RESPONSE: (3 sensitivity levels, off)16 TonesLayer / Split17 DIGITAL EFFECTS : 8 reverbs, 8 choruses, brillianceMetronome50 Lesson TunesSONG MEMORY : 2 tracks, 1 song, up to 8,000 notes, real-time recordingFour 2-way speakers provide rich and exquisite piano sound.64-note polyphony (max.)16 demonstration tunesPedals : 3 (soft, sostenuto, damper)Comes with a score book Slide type keyboard c... ... Read more

Features

• Polyphony (maximum): 64-Note
• Casio AP38 Features:
• Headphone Jacks: 2
• Watts Per Side: 20 Watts
• MIDI: Yes

Product Description

Casio's new WK-3000 incorporates the universally available SmartMedia Data Storage Format. This pro quality 76-note touch sensitive keyboard comes equipped with advanced features like a Digital Equalizer, Synthesizer Function, Digital Effects, Bass Reflex Speaker System and more.790 tones including 566 preset tones 300 advanced tones 128 GM, 72 various, 16 drum sets, 50 Drawbar organs plus 224 User programmable tones (100 User tone, 20 User tone +wave, 4 Drum set +wave, 100 user Drawbar). Piano Setting Switch for instant access to the Stereo Piano SoundDrawbar Organ lets you control simulated organ sounds easilySynthesizer function lets you create and store your own sounds232 Digital Effects: 100 DSP; 100 User Effects; 16 Reverb; 16 ChorusDigital EQSplit and Layer function140 Preset Rhythms including 20 piano patterns and 16 User Rhythms156 One-Touch PresetsAuto Accompaniment System includes: Casio Chord; Fingered Chord; Full Range ChordAuto-HarmonizeSMF Player (Standard MIDI File) Backlit LCDMixer function allows control over each MIDI channel and accompaniment part6-track / 5 songs Song MemoryPitch Bend Wheel and Modulation switch16-part multi-timbralTranspose and Tuning control1/4" stereo lineout/headphone jackOperates on "D" batteries or AD-12 AC adapter ... Read more

Features

• 76 full size keys
• Touch sensitive (with on/off)
• 32-note polyphonic
• General MIDI

Product Description

The Evolution MK-425C is a 2-octave USB MIDI controller that?s small enough to put in a backpack with your laptop. 8 assignable rotary knobs, 10 assignable buttons and 25 full-size touch sensitive keys make it a perfect compliment for controlling software like Reason and Live. The sustain pedal, pitch bend and modulation wheels are all fully assignable too?a total of 21 assignable controllers. The MK-425C has 10 memory locations to store your configurations?and it comes already set up for your favorite music software. The keypad and backlit LCD even allow you to program while you play?an Evolution exclusive. USB powered design allows you to make music with your laptop anytime, anywhere.25 full-size touch sensitive keys 8 assignable rotary knobs 10 assignable buttons transposition for 10 octave access assignable pitch bend, modulation wheel and sustain pedal input total of 21 assignable controllers, each with independent channel assign controller mute function allows positioning before tweaking snapshot mode sends all controller values simultaneously drawbar mode for sliders allows realistic control of classic organ sounds 10 memory locations preconfigured for popular software keypad and backlit LCD for data entry while you play global channel assign allows controllers to command up to 16 different channels at the touch of a button RPN/NRPN and pre-programmed sys-ex messages for SoundBlaster, XG and GM-compatible soundcards MIDI Out delivers MI... ... Read more

Features

• Mac
• 25 full-size touch sensitive keys
• 8 fully assignable controllers

Product Description

The Evolution MK-461C is a 5-octave USB MIDI controller ideal for both computer-based and standalone MIDI control applications. It features 9 assignable 35mm sliders, 12 assignable rotary knobs, 10 assignable buttons and 61 full-size touch sensitive keys?perfect for controlling today?s virtual studios. The sustain pedal, pitch bend and modulation wheels are all fully assignable too?a total of 30 assignable controllers. The MK-461C has 10 memory locations to store your configurations?and it comes already set up for your favorite music software. The keypad and backlit LCD allow you to program while you play?an Evolution exclusive. Drawbar mode makes playing products like Native Instruments? B4 and authentic experience. USB powered design allows you to make music with your laptop anytime, anywhere.61 full-size touch sensitive keys9 assignable 35mm Alps sliders12 assignable rotary knobs10 assignable buttonstransposition for 10 octave accessassignable pitch bend, modulation wheel and sustain pedal inputtotal of 34 assignable controllers, each with independent channel assigncontroller mute function allows positioning before tweakingsnapshot mode sends all controller values simultaneouslydrawbar mode for sliders allows realistic control of classic organ sounds10 memory locations preconfigured for popular softwarekeypad and backlit LCD for data entry while you playglobal channel assign allows controllers to command up to 16 different channels at the tou... ... Read more

Features

• Mac
• 61 full-size touch sensitive keys
• 16 fully assignable controllers

Product Description

The Nord Electro 2 is the next big step in the development of the Nord Electro series of stage keyboards. Among the features of the Electro 2 you'll find the new Mega Clavinet sound which offers all the filter and pick-up variations of the original Clavinet D6! This means that you'll be able to access no less than 60 + 4 different Clavinet D6 sounds in the Electro 2!Thanks to the remade piano sample playback engine, the polyphony for the piano sounds is now greatly enhanced. The new piano sample playback engine also made it possible for Nord to digitally model the sounds you get when you release keys on a piano instrument. For example, the Clavinet and the Wurlitzer have very characteristic key release sounds. In Nord Electro 2 this is very faithfully modeled. The new sample playback engine also allows for playback of stereo pianos. In the new factory sound library Clavia has included a great new Acoustic Grand piano - in stereo. The Electro 2 also features great new vintage-style effects in the Effects section. Nord has also beefed up the Overdrive distortion to sound more like an overdriven tube amplifier.Nord Electro 2 fully supports USB download of Nord Electro piano samples. Now you will be able to download new piano instrument samples using Nord's specially developed Electro Tool sample dump program for Mac and PC! Additional piano sounds are available on the CD-R that comes with the Nord Electro 2 and also for download at www.clavia.se - free of charge! More... ... Read more

Features

• The organ in the Electro 2 is based on a digital simulation of the mechanical tone wheels of the B-3 organ
• It offers innovative solutions to mimic the typical B-3 sound, for example:
• A complex digital model of the original chorus and vibrato scanner
• Modeling of the individual random contact bounces for each partial
• Modeling of the unique frequency characteristics of the built-in pre-amplifier

Reviews (1)

Absolutely great keyboard
I've been using this fine keyboard for over a year. Your audience may notice little more than the cool red color, but if you have any experience with instruments that emulate electro-mechanical keyboards and organs, you will realize right away that this is a truly fantastic product. The semi-weighted keyboard action is excellent. The controls are very easy to understand and use. I find the number of knobs to be a good compromise to satisfy both players who prefer to just call up presets, and players who like to modulate their sounds constantly. The "virtual drawbar" concept is very elegantly implemented -- it's a snap to adjust sounds, and the presets provided cover a good gamut of organ tones, from very mellow and smooth to highly modulated, ultra-beefy shrieks. The other instruments (grand piano, Yamaha C3 electric grand, Fender Rhodes, clav, and Wurlitzer electric piano) are super authentic. The unit looks good, and is rather light for its size. Also, Nord makes a padded gig bag for this keyboard which is really, really nice, with straps that let you wear the keyboard on your back -- very handy when you've also got to lug an amp and a keyboard stand! For keyboard players that are "purists" in the sense of only playing traditional keyboard sounds, this is the perfect gigging keyboard. ... Read more

Product Description

Yamaha PSR 1000, Startling Performance & Remarkable Versatility. Turn on Your Creative Imagination With the PSR1000 keyboard you'll feel your musical creativity start to flow the moment you turn on the keyboard. That's because this keyboard contains well over seven hundred song-inspiring sounds that are so full and expressive, you'll swear you're playing the real thing.Beautiful grand pianos, rich acoustic instruments, sparkling synthesizers and more. When a melody comes to mind, the PSR1000 keyboard is ready to follow with a fully arranged accompaniment. Incredible Music Styles The PSR1000 keyboard contains a wealth of fully arranged music styles, including specially designed Pianist Styles, to backup your musical performance. Yamaha style makers around the world have been working very hard to create some wonderful new styles for the release of the PSR1000 keyboard. Each style has 3 Intros, Main A/B/C/D variations, and 3 Endings, as well as four fill-in patterns for added musical expression. You can change the instrument part settings of any music style, or even create your own custom styles Built-in Floppy Disk Drive The PSR-1000 is equipped with a floppy disk drive that allows you to play back MIDI song data in a variety of formatsincluding SMF 0 and format 1, DOC, XG, and Disklavier formatsand gives you the benefit of unlimited storage for your original musical compositions. The PSR-1000 also features Quick start On/Off (MIDI files play immediately after touching Start button) and Chain Play On/Off (advances to next song and starts playing). ... Read more

Features

• 61 touch sensitive keys Large back-lit LCD
• 728 authentic instrument voices 170 accompaniment styles
• Lyric display on LCD 16-track sequencer with extensive editing capabilities
• Floppy disk drive Powerful recording function with step editor
• Mixing console with easy editing Sound creator

Product Description

49-Key USB MIDI Controller ... Read more

Features

• 49 keys (+/-3 octave transposition)
• 8 controller knobs assignable to any MIDI channel/parameter

Product Description

The PCR-M30 is a revised version of the popular PCR-30 MIDI Keyboard Controller. Like the PCR-30, the PCR-M30 offers direct connection to the computer through USB, 32-Keys, 27 assignable MIDI controllers, a software editor, MIDI input and output, and both sustain and expression pedal connections. Some advancement the PCR-M30 has made over the PCR-30 includes the addition of velocity curves, switchable MIDI interface, and a new key-action found on Rolands higher-end synths. The PCR-M30's key-action has been refined to produce even less mechanical noise than its predecessor and offer a consistent, playable feel. The keys themselves are slightly more rounded to keep your fingers from tripping over the keys during quick glissandi. The Pitchbend/Modulation has a new rubber coating for easier grip. High Quality Mechanism for the Serious Player With a newly designed key mechanism --- taken from Roland's 30 years of synthesizer development --- players can control a wide dynamic range with incredible subtlety. The re-designed key assemblies have a rounded shape for better reaction to the player's touch and more comfortable glissando, plus changes have been made to reduce the already low mechanical noise of the PCR-80 and eliminate vertical shake on the key strokes. The newly developed pitch bend and modulation design offers you easier and more expressive control. All these features add up to a keyboard that even the most discerning player can appreciate. ... Read more

Features

• Comprehensive Connectivity for Maximizing Players Performance
• 27 Individual Fully-assignable Controllers
• Twelve Selectable Velocity Curve Combinations

Product Description

A super-affordable controller for your MIDI rig or computer-based studio. Itâs equipped with 88 full-size semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive, piano-action keys and a modulation wheel providing you with plenty of expressive capability. Functions include program and bank change. Sustain pedal input. Compact, lightweight case. 50" x 9" x 3.1". 14 lbs. ... Read more

Features

• 88 full-size semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive, piano-action keys
• Modulation wheel
• Program change
• Bank change
• Sustain pedal input

Product Description

The M-Audio O2 follows in the footsteps of the Oxygen8?the mobile USB MIDI controller that started it all. Small enough to fit in a bag along with your laptop, the slim-line M-Audio O2 is perfect for throwing down bass lines, programming drum patterns, triggering effects and tweaking virtual studio parameters ? anywhere, anytime. You get 25 full-size, half-action, velocity-sensitive keys, along with eight fully assignable knobs, eight fully assignable buttons and other real-time control features for performance and programming. One simple USB connection serves as both a MIDI interface and bus power source. Class compliancy with Windows XP and Mac OS X means that you can get down to business without even installing any drivers.25 full-size, half-action, velocity-sensitive keysclass-compliant in Windows XP and Mac OS Xbuilt-in 16 channel MIDI interface8 fully assignable MIDI controller knobs8 fully assignable buttonsassignable volume slidermodulation and pitch bend controls+/- octave buttons (+/- 4 octaves)sustain pedal inputpowered via USB or 9VDC adapter3-digit LED screenSnapshot and Controller Mute buttonsMIDI Out portUSB porton/off switchKensington Lock holeintegrates with Enigma editor/librarian for unlimited memory storage.MIDI support for CC values, note on/note off, Program and Bank Change,SysEx, and more ... Read more

Features

• Built-in 16-channel USB MIDI interface
• Dual MIDI outputs -- one from keyboard, one from computer
• Pitch and modulation wheels
• Sustain pedal jack
• Compact and lightweight for ultimate mobility

Product Description

Hammer-action console piano combines realistic sounds with superb playability. 88 keys and 38-note polyphony with 147 voices will give you plenty of sonic territory to explore. Other features include a blue backlit LCD display, a metronome, accompaniment control, record and playback, 99 styles, 10 demo songs, and user preset memory. Handles 16 channels of MIDI. Headphone, aux. out for connecting external speakers, and pedal jacks. 25W dual speaker system. ... Read more

Features

• 88 hammer keys
• 38-note polyphony (max)
• 147 voices
• 99 styles + 1 metronome
• 10 demo songs

Product Description

The Evolution MK-449C is a 4-octave USB MIDI controller ideal for both computer-based and standalone MIDI control applications. It features 9 assignable 35mm sliders, 8 assignable rotary knobs, 10 assignable buttons and 49 full-size touch sensitive keys, giving computer music enthusiasts extreme hands-on control of their favorite software and hardware. Both the pitch bend and modulation wheels are fully assignable, as is the sustain pedal input?adding up to a total of 30 assignable controllers. 10 memory locations come preset with setups for your favorite music software. The keypad and backlit LCD allow you to program while you play?an Evolution exclusive. USB powered design means you can take the MK-449C anywhere you want to make music. Features like drawbar mode, controller mute, snapshot, sys-ex dump round out this very powerful controller.49 full-size touch sensitive keys 9 assignable 35mm Alps sliders 8 assignable rotary knobs 10 assignable buttons transposition for 10 octave access assignable pitch bend, modulation wheel and sustain pedal input total of 30 assignable controllers, each with independent channel assign controller mute function allows positioning before tweaking snapshot mode sends all controller values simultaneously drawbar mode for sliders allows realistic control of classic organ sounds 10 memory locations preconfigured for popular software keypad and backlit LCD for data entry while you play global channel assign allows c... ... Read more

Features

• Pre-programmed Sys-Ex messages for real-time access to parameters beyond immediate reach on products such as SoundBlaster
• XG and GM-compatible soundcards
• The Sys-Ex dump command allows the entire content of the memory to be sent from the keyboard to a location of your choice
• Librarian program for PC users is included for saving, editing and sharing keyboard setups
• The keyboard can be powered via USB, or alternatively with an optional power supply

Product Description

The new SP Series Stage Pianos are the performance keyboards you've been waiting for. Well-constructed and affordable, these stage pianos have everything you need. The SP Series comes in lightweight 76 and 88 key semi-weighted action models, plus an 88 note fully weighted action model. The Stage Pianos have the award-winning Kurzweil sounds and transmit on two, user-selectable, independent MIDI channels. Put your music on stage with this new model of performance piano from Kurzweil, the leader in sound technology. ... Read more

Features

• 88 note fully weighted action keyboard
• Sounds Include: Award winning Grand Piano Dual-Hardness Tine Electric Piano FM Electric Piano Ensemble Strings Tone Wheel Organ
• 2 independent external MIDI zones + 1 internal MIDI zone

Product Description

Stereo piano * Layer & Split * 120 rhythm patterns including 20 piano patterns * CASIO CHORD/Fingered Chrod auto-accompaniment system * 50 Song Bank Tunes Plus 50 Piano Bank Tunes * 50 songs with adjustable melody volume for sing-along. Front MIC Input Jack and Volume, Key Control * Advanced 3-Step Lesson System * Interactive Scoring with Voice/Display * Voice Fingering Guide * Practice Phrase Switch * SONG MEMORY function with 2 tracks/2songs * Musical Information System displays selections and status of Tone, Rhythm, Song, Volume, Melody Off and Tempo. * On-screen music staff and finger icons display melody notes of the built-in songs & chords played, and metronome icon indicates the beat. * MIDI IN/OUT jack; 16-channel multi-timbral (GM level 1 compatible) * Transpose and Tuning Control * Assignable Pedal jack (Sustain, Soft, Sostenuto, Rhythm Start/Stop) * 2 Built-in Speakers; 1/4" stereo lineout/headphone Jack * Operates on 6 AA batteries or optional AD-5 AC Adapter * CASIO Score Navigation System allows connection to Internet via MIDI-equipped PC. ... Read more

Features

• MIC input and volume control
• MIDI IN/OUT jack and sustain pedal jack
• 61 Full-size keys and 24-note polyphonic
• 246 tones including stereo piano, make you an instant orchestra
• 50 built-in songs that you can sing-along with using microphone input connection

Reviews (6)

You've got to be kidding me! No AC adapter!
Why on God's green earth in this digital age any company would ship an item like this without an AC adapter when they come standard with $10 items is beyond me, but sure enough, it doesn't include one. To top it off, it doesn't even tell you what kind to buy - it tells you to get some obscure coding that the guy at Radio Shack had never even heard of.

Outside of that, which really warrants a rating of 1 star, it is really really cool! My fiance loved it! Definitely a lot of value for the price. Looks like she'll have endless hours of fun with this thing, and it teaches you! Amazing! Lighted keys? Will the madness never end?

Great buy!!
This does exactly what it says it will do, has great sound, easy to set up and get started, lots of tones and other options.Overall great product but let me add a few things I wished were different.

More rhythms

Keyboard does not save last tone when you turn it off ( you may be able to do this but I have yet to figure it out)

Many of the songs included are lame

Casio includes a service where you can download more songs but they have like 50 songs there and it seems like a web site that they may have forgotten about since many of the "coming soon" dates are from 2000 and 2001.Also, you cant download the songs directly to your keyboard they remain on your PC.

If these features are not important to you then this is a great buy.

Great for Beginners
In my mid-30's I decided it was time to finally learn to play an instrument - and the Casio LK55 fit the bill (my husband requested I pick an instrument that could be used with headphones!).
The keyboard has realistic sounding instruments, and a pleasant piano sound. Keys are full sized, and the lcd display is very useful once you figure out what the general functions are.
It has a good range of built in songs that you can play along with - I found as a beginner that most were too complicated but I'm working on it.
I've actually found that I don't use the key lighting as much as expected. Don't expect this keyboard to 'teach' you how to play. You really need to purchase some good instructional materials and learn the old fashioned way (lots of practice!) but it is fun and gratifying to play along with the built in songs in-between regular practice. My only complaint is that if you want to learn a built in song using the key lighting - you can't learn both hands at the same time. You learn the right and left hands seperately - which I can understand as the lighting might be confusing otherwise, but it would be nice to have the option.
I'm extremely pleased with the keyboard, but it will take a while before I'm competent.
I highly recommend the book "Adult All-In-One Course: Lesson-Theory-Technic" by Willard A. Palmer. It's been extremely useful for learning the basics (such as How To Read Music!).

Pluses:
1. Portable (can use batteries or power)
2. Key lighting is great
3. Large selection of built in songs
4. Full size keys
5. Can connect to computer

Minuses:
1. Can't magically transform me into a concert pianist
2. Headphone jack is at the rear of the keyboard & is awkward to access
3. Can't learn both hands simultaneously

Great Product, but beginners will Need help to configure
This is actually a great beginner keyboard.The tutorial system is good, and the sounds are good.However, for beginners(like me), you will need some direction getting you PC to communicate the MIDI files to your keyboard.Unfortunately, the 800 number will support this product using the same manual in the box.If you write to Casio, it will take a week to two weeks to get the information I can provide you.So here it is for those who need it:
1.) The casio MIDI cables must be connected in opposite order, meaning the output-end of the cable goes into the input receiver of your keyboard.The input-end of the cable goes into the output receiver of your keyboard.Its counterintuitive, but this is the only way it will work.
2.) You must configure your sound-card by going into \'Control Panel'\'Sounds and Audio Devices'.Choose the 'Audio Devices' tab.You will find one of the boxes reads 'MIDI music playback'.Make the default device 'MPU-401' by choosing it from the drop-down menu.Hit 'Apply' then 'OK'.
3.) The MIDI software refered to as not supported in the user manual and by the 800 number is simply MS Media Player or Real 1 Player.Simply open an MIDI file with your keyboard onwith the keyboard set to GM mode 'on'.Some or all of the song will play through the keyboard speakers.The Navigation channel on the keyboard will allow you to pick-up different ranges the MIDI file is playing.

I hope someone finds this helpful.Once I got it up and running, I learned the tune from 'Cheers' in a matter of two hours with very limited exposure to piano playing.It is a very good investment for those who are musically inclined but do not want to go through paying for lessons!I highly recommend it now.

Very enjoyable keyboard
Decided to purchase a keyboard and it was between Yamaha and Casio.Although the Yamaha looked and played well, the Casio with it's lighted keys was the final selling point.

Overall experience has been outstanding, it is a very cool machine with nice features.The learning steps programmed into the machine are nice, you can follow along and learn as you go.I read music fairly well, so it's fun to watch the lighted keys, the LCD display, and the sheet music at the same time.

The learning program is nice as you can practice the song until you are satisfied with your progress.In addition, you can set the program to play on it's own and fill in background chords and extra notes that fit your style and interests, or have the program fill in the back ground chords while you play the score.I was surprised how fun that is, you can modify your music to fit your tastes and have fun with it, like having your own band.

Another feature that is nice is the built-in metronome.I always hated those things as a kid, but every built in song starts with a few drum beats at the correct timing, it is very useful.

For $... bucks, this machine can't be beat for fun and to help playing skills. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Take your talents to another level or embark upon a lifetime of music making with Casio's LK-43 keyboard. Its 61 full-size keys cover five octaves and light when touched, making them especially fun for either learning or playing. The keyboard's Song Bank offers 100 inspiring tunes to help you along: turn the melodies on or off and cut parts to suit your interests and ability.

Instructional features include a three-step teaching system. Use any key to advance a melody. Then try playing along on the keys--the accompaniment will wait for you. Last, you can play the melody in time along with rhythmic accompaniment.

Enjoy up to 12-note polyphony (simultaneous sounding tones) for complicated chords and fingerings. You can choose from 100 different PCM (pulse-code-modulated) keyboard tones and 50 rhythm patterns with the Casio/fingered chord auto-accompaniment system. The Song Bank Controller consists of CD player-like controls--play/pause, stop, rewind, fast forward--to give you instant familiarity with it.

The keyboard's built-in 76 x 42 mm LCD shows the current tone, rhythm, song, volume, melody off status, and tempo, as well as fingering and the built-in voice fingering guide. Separate Right and Left buttons let you practice left-hand and right-hand parts independently.

Built-in stereo speakers let you listen in style, while a headphone jack affords private practice, which may be advisable when you're just starting out! (Headphones are not included.) When you're ready for it, you can take advantage of the keyboard's five-channel, multi-timbral MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) output and input to hook the unit up with other devices for more sophisticated performances and/or recordings.

You can run the keyboard off of an optional AC power adapter or six AA batteries (not supplied). You can also hook the unit up with a sustain pedal through a dedicated jack.

What's in the Box
Keyboard and a user's manual. ... Read more

Features

• 5-part multi-timbre MIDI in/out jacks
• 61 full-size keys with 12-note polyphony; keys light when played
• Includes 2 built-in speakers, headphone jack
• LCD window (7 6x 42 mm) shows current tone, rhythm, song, volume, tempo, other features
• 3-step teaching system walks you through performance basics with manual melody advancement and smart accompaniment

Reviews (2)

The Casio lk-43 keyboard is GREAT!!!!!!
This product is really good! it has light up keys and teaching facility. If you do anything wrong while playing a piece the keyboard tells you what you have done wrong. It has a wide range of songs that you can learn how to play from twinkle twinkle to fur ellis! It is a great keyboard! A must have! seriously if you r looking for a keyboard then this is the one to buy! also you can dowload more songs so you dont just have to listento and learn the 100 already downloaded songs. It has 61 light up keys 50 rythems 100 songs and much much more!!!!!!!!!!!!

My Casio Keyboard is DA' BOMB
I asked santa for a electric keyboard for Christmas this year. When I saw that he left me a Casio LK-43 electric keyboard it was way more than I expected.My grandma and I have been playing it all the time together.It is easy to learn because it has voice and lighted key instructions on it and it shows which fingers go on what keys making it easy for me to learn and sound like a pro. My keyboard also has 100 songs on it that helps me learn how to play it. My grandma liked my keyboard so much that my mom returned my grandmas gift and bought her a Casio LK-43 electric keyboard just like mine. Now we both have one just alike. My Casio electric keyboard is the best present I have ever gotten from Santa, it is the BOMB of keyboards.I must have been pretty good last year huh? I can't wait to tell my music teacher when I get back in school. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

The Yamaha PSR170MS is a dream-come-true for piano students. It would be hard not to learn at least basic keyboard skills while using this model. The user-friendly LCD display shows permanent bass and treble clefs and has a small virtual keyboard. As a song played or we plunked at the keyboard, the notes were instantly displayed. At first we felt that this was a novelty feature, but as we moved into the lessons, we could see that it can be helpful to see the staff and notes.

While we were playing random chords to see what they looked like on the bass clef, we noticed that the keys are not sensitive to touch. We could bang on the keys like Jerry Lee Lewis or caress them like Yanni and the volume never changed. While this may throw an experienced keyboardist for a loop, it might be useful to the novice, who won't have to worry about volume control.

The PSR170MS is equipped with the Yamaha Education Suite feature. This feature walks you through seven lessons at your own pace. The lessons are a blur at first, but the fact that the keyboard will repeat them as many times as you want allows you to run them over and over again until you become comfortable. The lessons can be done using the 100 voices and styles that come on the PSR170MS. This was particularly enjoyable, as we would have been bored while practicing without a little variety. It comes with 100 prerecorded songs--some we never heard before, some we can't forget. You can play along with any of them anytime.

Yamaha lets you have fun away from the lessons and learning with the DJ Mode. The DJ Mode has groovy voice and music samples you can use to play along with a prerecorded funky dance riff or to create your own. If you're like us, it may take you a while to get back to the serious side of the keyboard. As a MIDI compatible keyboard, the PSR170MS can connect to a sequencer or computer via MIDI cables (sold separately), both of which can record musical performances from the keyboard and then play them back using the instrument voices on the PSR170MS. This feature is great for adding the keyboard to an ensemble and using it to lay down tracks while recording.

Overall, this keyboard impressed us most by how well designed it was for the music student. It comes with just enough functions for learning the basics and not so many that you get bogged down in menus. The keyboard isn't all about learning, though. We plugged it in right out of the box and had a toe-tapping good time. --Brian VandiverNote: The Yamaha PSR170MS includes a keyboard stand. Pros:

• Very portable
• 61 full-size piano keys
• MIDI capable
• Great for learning

• The keys are not touch-sensitive

Features

• Download songs off Internet to play on keyboard
• 100 authentic instrument voices with Advanced Wave Memory
• 61 Piano-sized Keys
• DJ button accesses special dance voices and songs
• Interactive Yamaha Education Suite and keyboard stand included

Reviews (6)

very good deal
I purchased this keyboard based on the other reviews on Amazon, and they were very accurate. The keyboard has very good tone, and the lesson feature is quite helpful.

Best price for value keyboard I found.
This keyboard was purchased as a gift for my fiancee.SHe's ecstatic over it;the sound is MUCH better than expected.The lesson feature helped her get back into playing after a 20-year break within a matter of days.The MIDI interface capability means she'll be able to compose on it when combined with a MIDI composition program, which means she won't outgrow it quickly.And at the price, it comes out less expensive than the competing, lower-quality brands WITHOUT the stand and adapter...which adds another forty bucks to the value of the package.Two weeks of comparison shopping led me here...this is the one for a beginning or hobby player.

A goood Beginning
this is a good way for anyone to get started with piano lessons.

Overall a great product
This Yamaha keyboard is great.It just comes with so many fun and helpful features.Its great for a beginner to learn basic piano skills.AND, it comes with a stand and adapter to save money.Overall, this is a great product

great stand
The stand is great, it works for all three of my keyboards! ... Read more

Product Description

Designed for the player who appreciates the marriage of elegance and technology. The all wood cabinet, in high gloss ebony is a piece of Italian design conceived to adapt softly and elegantly to any distinct setting. Apart from elegance, the piano's lines and dimensions are designed to comply to the strictest rules of the European piano-making tradition. Comes complete with matching bench. ... Read more

Features

• 88 Grand Response full hammer action keys to enable development of finger strength and dexterity
• Simple user-friendly layout
• 10 professional quality sounds include Concert Hall Piano, Electric Piano, Baroque Harpsichord, Nylon Guitar, Orchestral Strings, Concert Choir, Cathedral Pipe Organ
• Three full function pedals
• 64 Note Polyphony

Product Description

The Concerto 1000 combines the elegant characteristics of a baby grand piano with the benefits of a feature-packed ensemble digital piano. 144 built-in rhythm styles, over 500 different professional quality sounds (including Yamaha's XG sound set), programmable effects, a 3.5" disk drive PLUS an all-wood hand polished baby grand cabinet with brass plated pedals, dual-prop lifting piano lid, roll top key cover, one-piece brass hinge, and split brass caster wheels...even a matching bench! ... Read more

Features

• 88 hammer action keys for incredible piano action precision
• 144 Built in rhythm styles
• 500+ Professional quality sounds
• 64 Note Polyphony
• All Wood construction hand polished in High Gloss Black finish, brass plated pedals and knobs, lifting dual-prop piano lid and roll top key cover. Includes matching bench.