Yamaha Keyboard Guide (2019)
Table of Contents
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Introduction
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Beginner Keyboards
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Intermediate Keyboards
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Advanced Keyboards
Introduction
This article addresses the following:
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I want a keyboard for my home (beginners)
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I want a keyboard for taking classes / practicing technique (intermediate)
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I want a keyboard for church performance / music performances (advanced)
Beginner Keyboards
Yamaha makes two beginner keyboards, the Yamaha PSR-F51 and the fancier Yamaha PSR-E263.
Both keyboards are described by Yamaha as "ideal starter keyboards" and carry 61 full-size keys. Both models are fixed-response (non-touch), which is easier to play for persons completely new to keyboard.
The Yamaha E263 is fancier model over the F51, offering:
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More learning functions, including a note display screen
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Better sounding speakers
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More instrument voices and songs
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More attractive design and packaging
Yamaha PSR-E263 (left) vs Yamaha F51 (right). The E263 features a full note display screen to work with the built-in lesson system.
Intermediate Keyboards
For those seeking a keyboard for formal music classes or practicing technique, Yamaha also offers the PSR-E363 and the PSR-EW300 (essentially a 76-key version of the E363).
These keyboards offer Touch response, i.e., the volume of the note is affected by how heavily the key is pressed. A lighter touch produces a quieter sound, a harder touch makes a louder sound. Most music teachers will insist on Yamaha EW300 or E363 (or higher) keyboards for practicing technique.
Additionally, these models also have USB MIDI connectivity to work with software on the computer. They also feature slightly bigger speakers, more voices and increased polyphony for better sound.
View our product page on Yamaha PSR-E363
View our product page on Yamaha PSR-EW300 (76-key)
Advanced Keyboards
For the advanced learner or performer, Yamaha makes the E463/EW410 Series Keyboards designed for music performances or church performances. These models feature much higher power speakers, adjustable touch response, more voices and polyphony as well as sampling and recording features.
The Yamaha E463 and EW410 have many of the same features and even share the same user manual.
The differences are:
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EW410 is 76-key while the E463 is 61-key.
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EW410 has more powerful speakers. Both EW410 and E463 are significantly more powerful than E363.
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EW410 has dedicated L + R outputs for connecting to your mixer or P.A. System. This allows you to simultaneously use the built-in speakers (or headphones) + send output to your church/band PA system.
View our product page on Yamaha PSR-E463
View our product page on Yamaha PSR-EW410 (76-key)
Conclusion
Which keyboard is right for you? Here are the answers:
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As a Christmas gift or for home recreation for someone new to keyboard, we recommend the Yamaha PSR-E263. If your budget is very tight, the PSR-F51 is an option.
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For the students attending music classes or those with more advanced usage, the PSR-E363 or PSR-EW300 are recommended.
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For those seeking church performances or music performances, we recommend the PSR-E463 or PSR-EW410, depending on budget and size of system.
For pricing, visit us at https://www.gopaulelectronics.com/store/Keyboards
If you still need help, we welcome you to visit us at our Cipero Street branch (easy parking) or St. James Street branch.