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The Best Keytars
title
The Best Keytars

Keytars

Ah, the Keytar! A fascinating blend of keyboard and guitar, it's a musical instrument that packs a punch of innovation. Dive into this article, where we'll be rounding up the best Keytar options for you, making sure you can strum and tickle the ivories all at once. So, let the melodic adventure commence!

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Reviews

yamaha-shs-500-sonogenic-keytar-1

The Yamaha SHS-500 Sonogenic Keytar is an exciting and versatile musical instrument for musicians of all levels. Playing along with your favorite tunes has never been easier, thanks to the JAM function. With 30 high-quality instrument sounds and 48-note polyphony, you can create a wide range of music genres. The assignable real-time control knobs, pitch bend, and modulation wheel provide complete control over your music. The built-in USB audio and MIDI interface make it easy to connect and compatible with various devices, while the wireless Bluetooth MIDI connectivity offers the freedom of performing on stage.

As someone who's used this keytar in their everyday life, I've had a great experience with it. I love the fact that it has no power supply, making it lightweight and portable for musicians on the go. The mini keys might not be as great, but having three octaves is an advantage. However, one significant drawback is the lack of user patch space. Additionally, when using a 1/4 cable, the volume control is defeated, making a volume pedal necessary for external devices.

Despite these cons, the Yamaha SHS-500 Sonogenic Keytar provides an incredible value for its price, especially considering the variety of synth leads and programmable mod wheel features. The led screen on the left side handle is easy to use and provides quick access, making it perfect for seasoned musicians. The high-quality emulated voice sounds are impressive and on par with Yamaha's top-of-the-line instruments. Overall, it's a great, inexpensive choice for beginners and experienced musicians seeking a versatile keytar.

yamaha-shoulder-keyboard-sonogenic-white-shs-300wh-1

The Yamaha Shoulder Keyboard Sonogenic White SHS-300WH is a compact and fun addition to any music enthusiast's collection. Its lightweight design and sleek appearance make it an easy accessory to carry around while you're on the go, and its user-friendly controls make it simple for anyone to pick up and start playing right away.

One of the most exciting features of this keyboard is the JAM function, which pairs perfectly with the free Chord Tracker app on your smart device. By doing so, it allows you to play along with your favorite songs as if you were a member of the band, making your experience as immersive as possible.

Users have praised the sound quality of the keyboard, noting that it offers a wide variety of tones and effects to choose from, making it versatile and adaptable to various musical styles. The portability and ease of use of the SHS-300WH also make it an attractive option for musicians of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals.

However, there have been a few minor drawbacks pointed out by some users, such as limited range in terms of its instruments and a few physical design issues. Regardless, the overall positive reception and high rating make the Yamaha Shoulder Keyboard Sonogenic White SHS-300WH a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to add a unique and fun twist to their musical journey.

eastar-electric-piano-61-key-with-luxury-package-ek-620s-1

The Eastar Electric Piano offers a fun and engaging learning experience for both children and beginners. Equipped with a powerful music library and numerous useful functions, this 61-key digital piano stimulates interest in music while meeting various playing habits.

With a lightweight and portable design, it's perfect for indoor or outdoor performance, making it an excellent choice for music enthusiasts of all ages. The pink color and ABS plastic keys ensure a comfortable and safe learning environment for children. The keyboard also comes with a variety of accessories, making it a complete package for music education.

However, some users have reported issues with customer service and product quality. Overall, the Eastar Electric Piano is a great value for the price, offering an enjoyable way to learn and practice the piano.

roland-ax-1-45-key-keytar-midi-controller-1

I recently had the chance to try out the Roland AX-1 45-Key Keytar Midi Controller, and let me tell you, it was quite the experience. This little gem packs quite a punch, with its three-and-a-half octaves of full-sized keys that give you plenty of playing room without making the controller unwieldy.

One of the features that stood out to me was the pitch-bend ribbon on the left-hand side, which adds a level of expressiveness to your playing that you don't often find in keyboards. The addition of the modulation bar and sustain button also gives you plenty of control over your sound.

However, there were a couple of minor drawbacks that I noticed. The first was that the strap that came with the Keytar was a bit too long, which made it a bit cumbersome to carry around when I wasn't playing. The second was that the controller seemed to have a bit of a learning curve, which took some getting used to.

Overall, I would definitely recommend the Roland AX-1 45-Key Keytar Midi Controller to anyone who's looking to add a bit of mobility to their keyboard playing. While it did take some adjustment to get used to, once I got the hang of it, it was a whole lot of fun!

vault-kt-54-keytone-54-key-electronic-keyboard-black-1

The Vault KT-54 Keytone is a stellar 54-key electronic keyboard, available in black. It's a versatile instrument suitable for performers of all skill levels, offering 300 rhythms, 300 tones, and 50 demo songs for an immersive musical experience.

The portable keyboard's user-friendly design is particularly noteworthy. It features an intuitive and efficient display, as well as smart function markers that simplify navigation. Additionally, the 8-panel micro pad set makes it a breeze to trigger drum samples during your performance, adding an element of soul to your music.

One of the standout features of the Vault KT-54 Keytone is its variety of functions that cater specifically to beginners. These include sustain, vibrato, keyboard split, transpose, fine tuning, metronome, and the unique 8-panel micro pad set. The chord modes offered further enhance the learning experience, making it a breeze for anyone to play and perform with ease.

Despite its numerous perks, the Vault KT-54 Keytone does come with some drawbacks. Depending on your preferences, the lack of other instruments might limit its versatility for certain genres. Additionally, some users have reported difficulty in finding the correct balance for their sound settings, which may require a bit of experimentation.

Overall, the Vault KT-54 Keytone makes a fantastic addition to any musician's arsenal. With its intuitive interface, versatile features, and ability to accommodate performers of all skill levels, it's a powerful tool for anyone looking to dive into the world of electronic sound and music creation.

alesis-vortex-2-wireless-keytar-usb-midi-controller-1

Imagine stepping on stage, equipped with nothing but a sleek and stylish keytar, ready to make your music come alive. That's the promise of the Alesis Vortex 2 Wireless 2 - a USB/MIDI Keytar controller that delivers seamless wireless connectivity along with an array of features designed to elevate your performance.

One of the things that stood out to me the most during my experience with the Alesis Vortex 2 Wireless 2 was its natural and responsive playability. The integrated 37-velocity-sensitive keys with after-touch allowed me to create expressive melodies without a hitch. The eight velocity-sensitive RGB trigger pads added an additional layer of complexity, enabling me to trigger samples, loops, and clips with fluidity.

Additionally, I appreciated the practicality of the volume slider and reversible pitch-bend wheel on the neck. These features allowed me to fine-tune my musical creations on the go, and the eight back-lit faders were a godsend when it came to controlling volumes and automation of VSTs.

Powering the Alesis Vortex 2 Wireless 2 could not have been easier. It offered flexibility in the form of a battery life (4 x AA batteries or via USB bus power) that allowed me to perform without having to worry about running out of power mid-show.

However, my experience wasn't completely without its issues. At first, I found the absence of a manual left me scratching my head for a bit. I had to figure out how to connect it and set it up on my own, which proved to be a minor hurdle to overcome. And, it would have been nice to receive some clear instructions on how to use the included music software effectively.

Despite these minor inconveniences, I found the Alesis Vortex 2 Wireless 2 to be an impressive piece of equipment. It was easy to set up and use, worked seamlessly, and felt like a natural extension of my creative process. From the wireless playability to the multitude of control features, the Alesis Vortex 2 Wireless 2 was a worthy addition to my music toolkit.

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Imagine being able to create music wherever you are, without being tethered to a stationary instrument. That's exactly what the Bontempi KeyRhythm offers - a unique, 37-key Keytar that provides unparalleled freedom for musicians of all skill levels. The ergonomic design and sturdy shoulder strap aren't just comfortable; they also allow the instrument to become an extension of your body, enhancing your performance.

The Bontempi KeyRhythm is more than just a fun novelty; it's a tool designed to inspire. With a focus on creativity and cognitive development, this Keytar is the perfect addition to any musical instrument collection. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your musical journey, the KeyRhythm can help you unleash your true potential. And with Bontempi's commitment to designing high-quality, innovative products, you can be sure that this Keytar isn't just another toy - it's a window to a world of unlimited musical possibilities.

roland-ax-edge-49-key-keytar-black-1

The AX-Edge is a stage-ready, performance-focused powerhouse that combines modern convenience with a customizable look and sound set crafted specifically for keytarists. This 49-key keytar features a sleek, modern design with interchangeable Edge Blades and sound options tailored to keytarists. The device's lightweight construction and thoughtful design features provide artists with the freedom and confidence to truly express themselves on stage.

Overall, the AX-Edge delivers a dynamic performance experience that helps artists connect with their fans in the spotlight.

yamaha-sonogenic-keytar-black-1

Imagine playing your favorite tunes with a Yamaha Sonogenic Keytar! This sleek and ultralight instrument, designed to be your go-to device for playing music on the go, has caught my attention.

The Sonogenic Keytar's portability and ease of use instantly caught my eye. It's lightweight, weighing less than 3.5lbs, and you can run it on batteries, making it perfect for jamming anywhere. With 37 keys that play like a full-sized keyboard, this slim device made me feel like a pro.

The SHS500 is user-friendly and even if you're not a pro player, the "JAM" mode feature has got you covered. This mode allows you to focus on the rhythm while the instrument plays the right notes. I love the versatility - you can choose to play through the built-in speakers or connect to an external PA through its professional-grade output jacks.

In my experience, the Sonogenic Keytar has a high-quality sound with realistic sounds and horns. Its "touch response" feature allows me to adjust the sensitivity of the keys, and the built-in speaker system is underpowered but functional. This versatile device has its quirks but for the price, it's a pretty great value. It even comes with a bag that's convenient but could use some improvements to hold heavy items better.

Despite some minor downsides, the Yamaha Sonogenic Keytar is a fun and exciting way to play music on the go. It's a great instrument for beginners and experienced musicians who want a reliable, portable option for jamming sessions or live performances. Give it a try - you might just end up love it!

roland-ax-edge-49-key-keytar-synthesizer-white-1

The Roland AX-Edge 49 Key Keytar Synthesizer is a versatile and stylish instrument that offers an enjoyable and immersive playing experience for keyboardists both on stage and in the studio. With 49 full-sized, velocity-sensitive keys and over 500 preset tones, the AX-Edge allows players to create expressive, customizable sounds for their performances. The keytar also features intuitive controls such as a modulation bar, pressure-sensitive pitch ribbon, and an assignable knob, making it easy for musicians to experiment with different sounds and effects.

One of the standout features of the AX-Edge is its compatibility with the AX-Edge Editor app, which allows users to edit sounds wirelessly on both iOS and Android devices. This app enhances the sound quality and customization potential, adding value to the overall experience. Additionally, the AX-Edge's battery life, although it varies depending on usage, ensures that players can perform for an extended period without the need for frequent recharging.

While the Roland AX-Edge offers numerous benefits and features, it does have a few drawbacks. For instance, it does not support the use of carbon-zinc or alkaline batteries, which are more commonly available. Furthermore, some users may find that the assignable control knob is a bit of a stretch from the modulation bar, making it slightly less convenient to access during live performances.

Overall, the Roland AX-Edge 49 Key Keytar Synthesizer is a high-quality instrument that combines portability, visual appeal, and impressive sound quality. With its intuitive controls, customizable sounds, and compatibility with the AX-Edge Editor app, it's no wonder that many musicians have given the AX-Edge a glowing review and a rating of 4.8 out of 5.

korg-rk-100s-2-keytar-red-1

The Korg RK-100S 2 Keytar Red is a stylish and versatile musical instrument with plenty of features to offer. This keytar stands out from other models thanks to its slim 37-key keyboard that's easy to play and feels comfortable in the hands. The wooden body gives it a great visual appeal, while the two integrated ribbon controllers allow for added expression and control over the sounds.

The 200 program-ready presets provide a wide range of high-quality sounds that are ideal for stage performances, and the integrated vocoder offers more options for playing with a microphone. It can be powered by 6 AA batteries, providing up to 8 hours of playtime, or connected to a computer through USB.

The Korg RK-100S 2 Keytar Red is a truly unique and enjoyable instrument that's perfect for musicians looking to add a touch of style and versatility to their performances.

yamaha-shoulder-keyboard-37-keys-sonogenic-blue-shs-300bu-new-from-japan-1

Discover the excitement of music with the SHS-300BLU Keytar. Designed with a sleek, compact shape that fits anywhere, it delivers the ultimate freedom to play standing up or sitting down. This versatile instrument comes with sustain, vibrato, and pitch bend features, adding depth to your sound.

The dedicated "Chord Tracker" app and JAM function let you play along with your favorite songs flawlessly. Plus, this fantastic product offers a hassle-free return policy, so why not give it a try?

schylling-power-star-keytar-1

The Schylling Power Star Keytar is a vibrant instrument that instantly transports you back to the 80s. It features four stunning settings - piano, organ, electric guitar 1, and electric guitar 2. With 19 demo songs at your fingertips and a sustain/vibrato trigger that lets you soar, this keytar is versatile and impressive.

This 80s-inspired tool is equipped with a whammy bar for added authenticity, and with three included AA batteries, it's ready to perform whenever and wherever the mood strikes. Experience the nostalgia and excitement of a one-of-a-kind musical companion.

blueys-keytar-1

Introducing Bluey's Keytar - the perfect toy for little musicians and Bluey fans alike! This fun and interactive keyboard not only lets your child create their own melodies but also allows them to play along to 10 built-in melodies, including the Bluey theme. With 10 different instruments and sound effects to choose from, your child can transform the keyboard notes into various musical styles like a guitar, Chattermax, or even Bluey's sister Bingo. Plus, the included strap ensures they can rock and roll without dropping the keytar.

The product has received praise from parents and children alike, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Users laud the variety of sounds and engaging features that keep their little ones entertained for hours. However, some reviewers mention that the strap could be a potential choking hazard, and the Bluey voice might not be to everyone's liking.

Overall, Bluey's Keytar is a fantastic choice for any kid who loves music and Bluey. It's well-made, engaging, and offers plenty of fun features to explore.

Buyer's Guide

Welcome to our buyer's guide for keytars! This guide will help you understand the important features, considerations, and general advice about the product category without naming specific products. We've also structured the content for smooth reading.

What is a Keytar?

A keytar is a musical instrument that combines the features of a synthesizer, keyboard, and guitar into one compact package. Traditionally, it has a neck design similar to that of a guitar, but replaces the strings with metal keys, which are sensitive to touch like those on a keyboard. This allows the player to use their fingers to produce various sounds and generate unique musical arrangements from a single device.

Important Features to Consider

  1. Keyboard Layout: Keytars with a full or semi-weighted keyboard layout will offer better control and expressiveness. These layouts are common in more advanced keytars, suitable for experienced players. However, keytars with light or no-contact keys may be suitable for children or beginners who are learning to play.

Other Considerations

  1. Durability: As keytars are portable instruments, you should consider their build quality and resistance to wear and tear. The instrument should be designed to withstand frequent transportation, storage, and accidental drops. Materials like aluminum or steel alloys are typically more durable than plastic ones.

General Advice for Choosing the Right Keytar

When choosing your keytar, consider your level of expertise, the type of music you play, and the features you require. If you're learning, look for a lightweight, beginner-friendly model with the essential features. Seasoned players may prefer larger keyboards with more functions and customizable touch controls.

FAQ

What is a Keytar?

A Keytar is a unique musical instrument that combines features of a synthesizer and a guitar. It has a neck with buttons (keys) instead of strings, allowing players to play melodies and chords using a keyboard layout. The Keytar is often equipped with a built-in speaker system, making it a portable and self-contained instrument.

Keytars have gained popularity in recent years, especially in the electronic dance music (EDM) scene, due to their versatility and ability to produce various sounds and effects. Some popular artists who use Keytars include Daft Punk, Deadmau5, and NERO. Keytars are ideal for electronic and dance music genres, but they can also be used in other styles like pop, rock, and even classical music.

How does a Keytar work?

A Keytar functions similarly to a synthesizer or a MIDI keyboard. It has a set of keys (buttons) arranged in a musical keyboard layout, which allows users to play melodies and chords. The keys are connected to a keyboard controller, which sends digital signals to a synthesizer or a computer to produce the corresponding sounds. Some Keytars have built-in speakers, while others require external amplification.

Some Keytars also have additional controls, such as pitch bend wheels, modulation wheels, and sustain pedals, providing users with more expressive control over the sound. By combining the keyboard and guitar-like design, the Keytar offers the versatility of a synthesizer with the portability and playability of a guitar.

What are the advantages of using a Keytar?

Keytars offer several advantages when compared to other musical instruments. Firstly, they are highly portable, as they often come with built-in speakers or can be easily connected to a computer or a synthesizer for amplification. This makes them ideal for live performances, where space and mobility are important factors.

Secondly, Keytars offer a wide range of sounds and effects, thanks to their synthesizer capabilities. This allows musicians to create diverse arrangements and textures in their music, which can be particularly useful for electronic and dance music genres. Thirdly, Keytars are easy to learn and play, especially for those with prior keyboard experience. This makes them a popular choice for beginners or anyone looking to explore a new instrument.

Which Keytar brands are considered the best?

There are several reputable Keytar brands available in the market, each with its own set of features and strengths. Some of the most popular Keytar brands include Roland, Yamaha, Alesis, and Korg. These brands are known for their high-quality instruments, innovative features, and reliable after-sales support.

Roland's INTEGREX is a popular choice among professional musicians for its high-end specs and pro-quality sound. Yamaha's SLG200LB is another popular option, offering excellent playability and portability, while Alesis' Q49 MIDI controller is a budget-friendly choice for beginners and hobbyists. Korg's Kronos workstations also boast a Keytar mode, making them a versatile and powerful option for electronic musicians.

How much do Keytars cost?

The cost of a Keytar can vary greatly depending on the brand, model, and features. Basic Keytars with fewer features and more limited capabilities can be purchased for around $50-$150. Mid-range Keytars with more advanced features and better sound quality can cost between $150 and $500. Premium Keytars from top brands like Roland and Yamaha can range from $500 to over $2,000, depending on the model and specifications.

While Keytars can be expensive, their unique blend of synthesizer and guitar capabilities, portability, and versatility make them a valuable investment for electronic musicians and enthusiasts looking to create innovative and captivating music. By doing some research and finding a Keytar that suits your needs and budget, you can explore the exciting world of Keytars and experience the joy of playing this unique musical instrument.

Where can I buy a Keytar?

There are various options for purchasing a Keytar, both offline and online. Physical music stores, such as Guitar Center or Sam Ash, often carry a selection of Keytars from different brands. Additionally, specialized electronic music stores or online marketplaces like Reverb. com can offer a wider range of Keytars, including both new and used options.

When shopping for a Keytar, it's essential to consider the brand, model, features, and price range that best suits your needs. Reading customer reviews, comparing specifications, and test-playing the instrument (if possible) can help you make an informed decision and find the perfect Keytar for you.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ I earn through qualifying purchases at no cost to you.

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