Top-10 Keyboard Arranger
Loved in the USA

The Yamaha PSR-E383 is a versatile touch-sensitive keyboard well-suited for beginners and intermediate players. With its 61 keys, it offers a great way to develop proper playing techniques while introducing users to music at their own pace. The Keys to Success feature allows learners to tackle songs step-by-step, making the learning process engaging and manageable. Additionally, the Touch Tutor helps users understand dynamics in their playing, enhancing their skills.

One of the standout features is the Smart Chord function, which simplifies chord playing, allowing users to create complex sounds with just one finger. This is particularly beneficial for those who may be new to music theory. The keyboard comes equipped with hundreds of built-in songs, appealing to a wide range of ages and skill levels, which ensures that users can find something enjoyable to play.

The user interface is friendly and intuitive, making it easy for newcomers to navigate through different sounds and features. However, some users might find that its 61 keys could feel restrictive for more advanced playing styles or complex pieces. Considering its strengths and weaknesses, the Yamaha PSR-E383 is an excellent choice for learners and casual players looking for an engaging and accessible keyboard-arranger, but those seeking advanced features or extensive customization might want to consider additional options.

The Yamaha PSR-SX920 is a flagship keyboard arranger designed for professional musicians who want an immersive performance experience. With 61 keys, it provides ample range for playing melodies and chords, making it suitable for various musical styles. The sound quality is impressive, featuring Super Articulation 2 Voices that offer realistic expressions, enriching your music with nuances, perfect for those who enjoy adding depth and emotion to their performances.

One of the standout features is the accompaniment styles that act like a backing band, allowing you to control chord changes seamlessly. This capability is ideal for solo performers who wish to create a full-band feel in their songs. The joystick controller and customizable real-time control knobs add versatility, enabling users to manipulate pitch and modulation easily, which is a plus for those looking to experiment with their sound.

The PSR-SX920 may not be the best choice for beginners. It targets a professional skill level, which means it might have a steeper learning curve for those new to keyboard playing. Additionally, while it offers a robust set of features, its weight (34.1 pounds) might be cumbersome for musicians needing a more portable solution. In terms of connectivity, the USB options are useful for integrating with other devices, but it lacks some advanced networking capabilities that some users might expect from a high-end model. The user interface is generally easy to navigate but could overwhelm those unfamiliar with complex arrangements and settings.

The Yamaha PSR-SX720 Arranger Workstation Keyboard is a feature-packed instrument designed for professional musicians. With 61 keys, it offers considerable versatility for various music styles. The sound quality is impressive, especially with the Super Articulation (SA) Voices that produce natural instrument sounds like guitar string scratches and saxophone slides, making your performances feel more authentic. The accompaniment styles feature lets you add a professional-sounding backing band, enhancing your solo performances and giving you full control over chord changes and arrangements.

The joystick controller simplifies pitch and modulation control, adding to the ease of use. Additionally, the customizable control knobs and Chord Looper feature allow for real-time adjustments and seamless looping of chord progressions, giving you the freedom to focus on soloing or two-handed playing without worrying about chord changes. Connectivity options include Bluetooth, providing modern and convenient ways to integrate with other devices. However, the keyboard might feel heavy at 34 pounds, making it less portable for some users.

The user interface, while rich in features, may require a learning curve for those not familiar with advanced keyboards. Despite these minor drawbacks, the PSR-SX720 is a powerful tool for professionals looking to enhance their performances with sophisticated features and high-quality sound.