Reviewed by: Josh
Getting into the keyboard market can be a bit of a hassle for a beginner. Knowing what features should come standard, and what to expect based on price range, size, features, it can feel like trying to learn Greek. Especially in a seemingly over-saturated low-mid range keyboard market. But I actually really like the Yamaha PSR-EW300 keyboard. This portable, 76-key keyboard has a lot of little bells and whistles that make it a really great value for the price tag. So whether you are trying to learn piano for the first time, or already have intermediate skill and experience, this keyboard is probably a great fit for your needs.
Features:#
- 76 touch-sensitive standard-sized piano keys.
- USB connectivity for MIDI support.
- 574 voices, 165 styles, and 154 preset songs for a wide range of mixing options.
- Built-in speakers.
- Free downloadable songbook that offers tips and lessons to improve your playing.
What I like about it:#
- *Touch-sensitive keys.
Unlike a lot of beginner keyboards, these keys are actually touch-sensitive. That means the keys will respond in accordance to how hard you press them. Light tap, you get a soft note. Smash the keys, and you get a loud resonating note. This can be great for learning to add a little nuance to your sound and playing style as a beginner.
- *Portability.
The Yamaha PSR-EW300 is made to move. It comes in at just 14lbs and can be powered by AA batteries. That means you can load it up, and take it to your lessons, band practice, or even just move it around the house easily. This is a nice little advantage for a musician who likes to travel.
- *Sound Quality.
Yamaha is no stranger to the music scene. They manufacture pianos, guitars, drums, you name it. The Yamaha PSR-EW300 is no exception to that quality you expect from Yahama. Even though this is a 'budget' keyboard, the sound is very nice. The built-in speakers deliver a smooth, and crisp audio quality as you play. In addition, the wide range of instrument sounds you can play with, and use for your recordings, sound very nice. Mixing songs is a lot of fun on this thing. Not to mention there are plenty of ports for connecting to amplifiers, and digital devises.
What I don't like about it:#
- *No sustain pedal.
This keyboard does come with sustain pedal compatibility. However, there isn't one included. While buying a descent sustain pedal is a pretty simple task, I would like to see one included here. it would go a long way towards increasing the value of the purchase.
- *Flimsy music rest.
The music rest that comes equipped with this keyboard doesn't exactly feel rock solid. It can wiggle a bit and has a little more give than I'm comfortable with. However, as long as you aren't putting it under extreme stress, it should be fine.
Overall thoughts:#
The Yamaha PSR-EW 300 is a pretty awesome little keyboard. It really does anything you could ever reasonably ask of it, for the most part. In my opinion, for the price and capabilities, this just may be one of the best budget keyboards out there. I would definitely consider giving this keyboard a look if you are in the market for a beginner-intermediate keyboard, that won't break the bank or leave you feeling cheated.