Casio's CT-S1 electronic keyboard is an ideal option if you're looking for a reliable instrument to start learning on. With 61-touch sensitive textured keys, a quality AiX sound source, brilliant performance, and a suite of free online lessons included, the CT-S1 is a beginners dream. Key Features Like one or two other beginner keyboards, the CT-S1 has the potential to act as a rehearsal keyboard for a more advanced player. I’m not suggesting you should buy it for that purpose, but it does sound good enough to be a reliable, lightweight substitute. Build quality 4.7

It’s the slimmest stage piano in the world, which makes the weighted keyboard even more impressive. It’s also one of the lightest, so practicing anywhere you like won’t be a struggle. Another decent option if you're looking for a piano-style entry-level keyboard, the NP-12 is lightweight and portable, and sounds great. The Casio CT-S1 isn’t the best-sounding keyboard in its class. The Yamaha NP-12 beats it for grand pianos and the more expensive Roland Go:Keys potentially outdoes it, too. What I need to make clear is that it’s a close call, and the Casio CT-S1 is one of just a few exceptional keyboards at this price. Tone-wise, the piano is the headline act, but the unassuming top panel also contains dedicated sound selection buttons for two electric pianos, organ, ‘keyboard’ (the default is a harpsichord), synth and the mysterious ‘others’. What you do get are extremely responsive keys. Even without the weight, the different levels of touch sensitivity are enough to allow for dynamic playing. Overall, maybe not the best I’ve felt at this price, but not far from it. Features 4.7It’s at its best as a practice keyboard at home, and it’s very light, so moving it around the house won’t be a problem, even for younger kids. As I said above, it can be battery-powered, so you can easily take it anywhere with you. There are three ways to experience the CT-S1's amazing sound quality at its best. First, the bass-ported stereo speaker system delivers eyebrow-raising punch and clarity throughout the entire volume range. Second, plug in a good set of headphones for personal play. Third, press the SURROUND button, and the sound from the speakers will place you right in the middle of your music. One of the reasons that the grand pianos sound so good on the CT-S1 is that they are rendered in virtual concert halls. You have a few concert halls to choose from, each adding its own unique acoustics to the piano. Chordana Play app

The PSR-E373 is a feature-rich portable arranger keyboard. It’s a lovely keyboard, but for complete beginners, the Casio CT-S1 is better. We’re not going to run you through every tone that’s included, but we’re happy to report that Casio’s AiX sound engine really delivers the goods, providing pretty much everything you need and very little of what you don’t. The HPM1000 headphones from Behringer are ultra-affordable, offering high resolution sound at an amazing price point. Audio Versatility Roland's take on the portable keyboard concept features 61 keys, more than 500 sounds, onboard Bluetooth and a Loop Mix feature.It should be said, though, that if you just want to do the basics - ie, sit down and play - the CT-S1 is about as easy to use as you could hope for.

If you love creating music with vintage Electric Pianos, Synths and iconic sounds from pop music history, there’s lots to like in the CT-S1. New Advanced Tones use studio-grade digital effects to add amp simulation, phaser and more without the need for editing or time-consuming programming. Just select and play! Go Wireless with Bluetooth The CT-S1's AiX Sound Source delivers sound quality that you'd expect from a keyboard costing hundreds, if not thousands more. Power on the CT-S1, and you'll be presented with a dynamic, expressive German concert grand piano placed in a virtual concert hall. You'll also find essentials like electric pianos, organs, strings, synths, and more, with Advanced Tones adding complex layers that react to your playing. A collection of vintage keyboard sounds is also included, featuring recreations of timeless, sought-after keyboard instruments. We've even included classic Casio sounds from our VL, VZ and CZ series. Small Size, Huge Sound The Privia PX-S1100 is a keyboard that I highly recommend to beginners who already know they are serious about learning. It’s not overly expensive; in fact, it’s outstanding value for money, but there are cheaper options. If you are sure you can commit to learning to play piano, the PX-S1100 will serve you well for many years. Connect seamlessly to your tablet, computer or smartphone to improve your technique with an app, or play along to your favourite tunes via USB. Fortunately, your favourite setup can be saved for easy recall later on, as can your favourite tones. Performance & VerdictThe app makes learning fun and easy with notation and piano rolls. You can even use the app to loop audio or change key. It’s an ideal practice companion. Built-in effects A musical instrument should be intuitive and inspire you to want to play, wherever you may be. This design philosophy is at the heart of the CT-S1 and it’s what sets it apart from other keyboards. With 61 full-size, touch sensitive textured keys, you’ll be enjoying your style of music anytime, anywhere. Compact Size, Incredible Sound The Casio CT-S1 has a nice linear layout, with all buttons in a row under the speaker bar. There is a function button that is used in combination with others to trigger various functions. Other than that, it’s as straightforward as can be.

Compatible with the optional Bluetooth dongle for wireless audio and MIDI functionality (sold separately). It features powerful built-in speakers that are perfect for showing off what you’ve learned to friends and family. When friends and family have heard enough, you can always use headphones. In 1980, the original Casiotone CT-201 allowed anyone to make music, regardless of skill level or budget. With the CT-S1, its spiritual successor, we've raised our own bar. The Casiotone CT-S1 is a great-sounding, stylish, ultra-portable keyboard designed for anyone to enjoy playing. Its incredible sound quality makes it an ideal musical partner for beginners and seasoned players alike, and its sleek, portable design makes it fun to play anytime, anywhere.Compatible with Android and iOS devices, Chordana Play connects via USB or optional Bluetooth dongle and teaches you to play in a fun, visual way. Select from a library of over 50 traditional songs or import any MIDI file you choose. Follow the music score or piano roll notation at your own pace, with the app guiding you through each step. Interactive Online Learning Included Right from the off, the tones are impressive, with the default stage piano being immensely playable and easily good enough to perform with.