SALE 2012 Practice Piano MP8800

A basic, low cost beginners practice piano, the MP88 provides the user with an 88-note weighted key action and a selection of eight onboard voices.

While this entry-level model cannot be compared in quality to the likes of Yamaha, Roland, Casio and Korg for example, those on a budget who require a simple instrument at a low price point could well consider the MP88 if build and sound quality is not paramount.

The design itself is elegant and would look lovely in a living room, and this rosewood finished model comes complete with a sturdy stand.  No pedalboard on this model though - instead a 'hanging' sustain pedal is supplied.

The onboard voices include acoustic and electric pianos, together with strings, vibes, harpsichord and church organ and, whilst using basic 'sampling' technology to digitally capture these sounds for playback through the built-in speakers, subtle nuances and characteristics (sustain, key-off, resonance samples for example) do not feature due to the memory allocated to producing these basic voices.

Having said that, digital reverb and chorus effects lend a touch of embellishment and a simple song recorder also features on the MP88 for those who are practicing piano pieces.

The MP88 is MIDI compatible though and even extends to 'line output' for connection to a amp, and value for money is superb overall.

But, for those looking to take up piano long term and even take examinations and gradings, the MP88 will not quite provide the necessary features.