What should I look for when buying a used electronic keyboard?
November 20th, 2009I found a couple of electronic keyboards at a thrift store and I’m thinking of buying one to practice on. Just so I don’t make a bad decision, what should I check for/ask about?
Most of the keyboards I see in thrift stores are home keyboards made by Casio and Yamaha. Ignore brands that you’ve never heard of. If you find one, test it:
1. Make sure it’s clean and complete. I see many that look like the kids had it in the playroom for a few years.
2. Turn it on, and set it to patch 01 – piano – and check every key. Make sure each key activates the note and releases. Also make sure the keys return to the original position.
3. Go through a few more sound banks and listen to the speakers for crackling. Usually a bass sound will push them hard, so try that.
It would also be a good idea to check the price against new home keyboards. You’d be surprised what you can get new for $100.
Also, the newer keyboards usually have newer samples (recorded instrument sounds) and, therefore, sound better.
Still, if you find a decent keyboard for $20 or $40, go for it.
November 20th, 2009 at 7:13 pm
Most of the keyboards I see in thrift stores are home keyboards made by Casio and Yamaha. Ignore brands that you’ve never heard of. If you find one, test it:
1. Make sure it’s clean and complete. I see many that look like the kids had it in the playroom for a few years.
2. Turn it on, and set it to patch 01 – piano – and check every key. Make sure each key activates the note and releases. Also make sure the keys return to the original position.
3. Go through a few more sound banks and listen to the speakers for crackling. Usually a bass sound will push them hard, so try that.
It would also be a good idea to check the price against new home keyboards. You’d be surprised what you can get new for $100.
Also, the newer keyboards usually have newer samples (recorded instrument sounds) and, therefore, sound better.
Still, if you find a decent keyboard for $20 or $40, go for it.
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