I’ve been trying to decide on a piano for a long time (1-2 years or more).

I had one in my wish list (based on a recommendation), my wife bought it, it arrived, but when i played it, I was very sad it felt ‘wrong’. Learned that it was ultraportable (super light) but that meant the keys had no weight. As someone who learned to play on a real piano, that was a deal breaker. We sent it back (had to pay $30 shipping!)

So after talking to my friend again about what I needed, he recommended some M-Audio piano’s. However, I wasn’t sure about semi-weighted vs full (and/or hammer action).

In finally went to the store (Strait Music) and played a few keyboards. The guy didn’t know what “Hammer action” was, but the semi-weighted didn’t seem “good” enough so I think I’ve decided on getting fully weighted.

I also need 88 keys (well, don’t need, but that is definitely what I’m used to).

I also thought I had to have USB. But it turns out the midi->USB converter is a simple box, doesn’t require power and is pretty cheap ($30-40).

I tested a Korg sp170 and Korg sp250 and the Yamaha P95 and Yamaha DGX 640

They all sound fine, though the Korg SP170 doesn’t have many sound options, but if I need more sounds, I’d connect it to my PC.