April 09, 2015
Five Must-Have Keyboard Accessories
There are no two ways about it – if you’re a keyboard player, you’re going to need keyboard accessories. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a wet behind the ears novice or Elton John pleasing a massive crowd at Caesar’s Palace. Accessories for the keyboard are a must-have. Keyboard accessories will nix your worries about disturbing neighbors while you play to making sure that you’re as comfortable as can be.
Let’s take a look at 5 must-have accessories for the keyboard and some specific products you should consider.
Headphones
Your next door neighbors are making a racket again. Your brother and sister won’t settle down in the other room. You’re living next to a construction zone. The list of possible distractions go on and on. Headphones can be a crucial keyboard accessory when practicing. They can give you a private atmosphere even in the busiest of environments. Having the option to play silently is an underrated gift hard to ignore.
Our recommendation: Sennheiser HD8 DJ Headphones
Along with being reliable, the Sennheiser has a stylish, fashionable look. They’re very comfortable and feature the kind of crisp audio that will immerse you in the sound quality.
Stool
Out of all the accessories for the keyboard, this may very well be the most important. Having a stool also makes using two pedals simultaneously much easier. Actually being comfortable when you play not only puts you in the right mindset to jam, but makes long sessions less of a chore.
Our recommendation: On-Stage Stands KB8902 Flip-Top Keyboard Bench
Keyboard accessories like a stool are important, simply because you’re going to want a comfortable place to sit while you play. This keyboard bench comes with a flip-top seat. Not only can you play comfortably for hours, but the flip tops allows you plenty of space to store other accessories, music books or anything else you need.
Sustain Pedal
If you are a true beginner to the keyboards, this might not be entirely necessary. However as soon as you become comfortable enough, you’ll fall in love with keyboard accessories like the sustain pedal. This accessory will allow you to link notes and chords that are positioned at larger intervals. This grants you smooth jumps and gives certain sounds the chance to resonate and fade out. The sustain pedal grants you more control. There are all kinds of pedals to choose from. It all depends on your budget and how mobile you plan to make your keyboard.
Our recommendation: Proline Professional Sustain Pedal Standard
This sustain pedal comes with switchable polarity. And the accessory works with any keyboard, so no worries about compatibility issues. The Proline Professional is also durable and reliable for the long term.
Keyboard Bags
Worried about dust, grime and damage to your keyboard? Keyboard bags are the perfect keyboard accessory for protecting against any external harm that could come your instrument’s way. For musicians on the go, the keyboard bag is an absolute must. It’s just not a good idea to have your keyboard exposed during transit on buses and subways. That’s not to say that musicians who keep their keyboards in the home shouldn’t have a bag as well. Having your keyboard in a bag after each session, protects it from collecting dust.
Our recommendation: Roland Gold Series Keyboard Bag With Backpack Straps – Deep 49 Key
Having foam padding inside the keyboard bag is always a great idea. It gives you the extra piece of mind that your beloved instrument will be okay. This Roland Gold Series comes with extra-thick foam padding and internal impact panels. It also comes with shoulder straps, which makes it perfect for on-the-go musicians.
Stand
Stands will guarantee that your keyboard is at the perfect height for you. There are many different stands available. All of them range from adjustable heights to fixed. Adjustable heights are ideal if the keyboard will be used by several different players, particularly if you’re sharing with young children. It’s also good to think about mobility, if you’ll be moving the keyboard a lot.
Our recommendation: Hercules Stands EZ Lok Double Keyboard Stand Standard
The Hercules EZ-LOK gives you the ability to switch to five different height settings without the hassle of using pins or screws. The heavy-duty constructed stand ensures durability and can handle up to 200 pounds.
Need help actually buying the keyboard itself? Check out Keyboard Buyer’s Guide