Should I Buy An Inexpensive Keyboard Or Rent A Piano To Get Started?

keyboard

It’s like the never-ending question in the musical world: How does a person get started playing the piano without making a large financial investment? A quality acoustic piano will cost several thousand dollars to purchase new. In our experience at SoCal Pianos with showrooms in Ontario & Palm Desert, CA (appointment only at both locations) that limits many families and usually means choosing between buying an inexpensive electric keyboard or renting an acoustic piano.

ACOUSTIC INSTRUMENTS DELIVER SUPERIOR SOUND

There’s no question about our recommendation. The acoustic piano wins by a long shot when it comes to quality. It produces a rich sound from real strings and real wood that just can’t be matched by an electric keyboard.

THE LEARNING EXPERIENCE

Renting a piano offers the beginning player the best way to build finger strength and become accustomed to a finer sound control. Using the pedals and a lighter or heavier touch on the keys allows the player to convey emotion in the music, which just isn’t possible on a keyboard.

THE BUDGET CRUNCH IS REAL

The advantages of acoustic pianos are real, but as alluded to earlier, they are expensive. An upright piano can cost from $4,000 to $12,000 while grand pianos go up from there. Renting a piano from SoCal Pianos is much more affordable, but still represents a significant monthly payment. Only you can decide what’s right for you and fits your monthly budget.

THERE IS A COMPROMISE

If you don’t like the idea of renting an acoustic piano but want something better than an electric keyboard, then a digital piano may be a good choice. The sound is still generated electronically but digital pianos are designed to sound and feel much more like an acoustic piano than a simple electric keyboard. The keys are weighted to provide the right resistance to touch and are sensitive to speed and pressure. Digital pianos are a great option for more serious players who still need an affordable alternative to acoustic pianos.

READY TO ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS

If you still feel confused or can’t make a decision, SoCal Pianos is here to help. Visit us at our showrooms in Ontario & Palm Desert, CA (appointment only at both locations). You can listen in person to acoustic pianos and compare their sound with that of electric keyboards and digital pianos. And we’ll show you how easy it is to rent a piano without ruining the household budget.