10 Best Musical Keyboards 2025 in the United States

The Nord Electro 6HP Stage Piano is a highly versatile and portable keyboard with 73 hammer action keys, making it a great choice for both electric and acoustic piano sounds, as well as organ playing. The velocity-sensitive keys provide a realistic playing experience, accommodating various dynamics and touch sensitivity crucial for expressive performances. One of its standout features is the ability to use its three independent sound sections (Organ, Piano, and Sample Synth) simultaneously, allowing you to layer or split sounds for creative freedom.

With 6 keyboard split points and Split Point Crossfade, transitioning between sounds is smooth and seamless. The Organize/Page mode helps keep your sounds and settings well-arranged, which is particularly useful during live performances or practice sessions. Additionally, the piano section offers a wide selection of high-quality sounds from the Nord Piano Library along with extended voice polyphony and new Piano Filters, giving you a rich array of tones to choose from. Enhanced memory for the Sample Synth Section and extended polyphony also add to its sound capabilities.

Connectivity is well-covered with USB and external keyboard features, allowing for flexible control and integration with other gear. Weighing around 25 pounds, it's relatively portable for a stage piano, though it may still be a bit heavy for some. While the Nord Electro 6HP is beginner-friendly, it’s also suitable for more experienced players who need a reliable and feature-rich instrument for gigs or studio work. However, it’s worth noting that its price range might be on the higher side, which could be a consideration for those on a tighter budget.

The Nord Stage 4 is a powerful and versatile digital stage piano, ideal for musicians who need a reliable instrument for live performances or studio work. With its 88 fully-weighted keys and triple-sensor keybed, it offers a realistic piano feel, which is great for players who seek authentic touch sensitivity. The sound quality is top-notch, boasting three sound engines that include piano, organ, and synthesizer sounds, making it suitable for various musical styles. The organ section is particularly impressive, featuring renowned simulations of classic models like the B3 Tonewheel and Vox, which will delight organ enthusiasts.

A standout feature is the doubled sample memory, allowing you to load a variety of high-quality instrument sounds from the Nord Piano Library. This means you can customize your sound palette extensively, making it adaptable for different performances. The inclusion of a three-layer synth engine enables complex patch creation, which can be appealing for more advanced users looking to explore synth capabilities.

On the downside, the Nord Stage 4 has a few considerations. Its premium build and extensive features come with a higher price point, which may not suit budget-conscious beginners. Additionally, while it is labeled as portable, the 88-key design can be cumbersome to transport compared to smaller, more compact keyboards. The learning curve for mastering all its features may also be steep for novice players who are not familiar with digital synthesizers.

The Yamaha P143B is an 88-key digital piano designed with beginners in mind, featuring a compact and lightweight structure that makes it portable for home practice or travel. One of its standout strengths is the acoustic piano expression, providing a realistic playing experience with weighted keys that respond to touch sensitivity. This feature is particularly beneficial for novice players looking to develop their skills with a genuine feel akin to an acoustic piano.

Sound quality is a major highlight, boasting a premium grand piano sound with 10 unique voices. Users appreciate the natural resonance and full tones that can elevate practice sessions and performances. The built-in speakers are a convenient addition, allowing for immediate sound output without the need for external equipment.

In terms of connectivity, the P143B includes a USB option, making it easy to connect to various devices, enhancing its versatility. The one-button control and compatibility with the SmartPianist app simplify the user experience, making it easier for those unfamiliar with digital pianos to navigate the features. There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the compact design lends itself to portability, it may sacrifice some sturdiness that might be preferred in a more permanent setup. Additionally, the power source is corded, which might limit where you can play without needing a nearby outlet. The weight of 24.5 pounds is manageable for transport but may be cumbersome for some. The Yamaha P143B is an excellent choice for beginners or casual players who value sound quality and realistic touch in a portable format. It might not replace a full acoustic piano for advanced players but offers a solid solution for home use or on-the-go practice.