I'm planing on purchasing a digital piano to start learning on with the hope of eventually getting an acoustic piano down the road if I stick with it.

Since I have zero experiance playing a real piano, I'm finding it difficult deciding on a model, particularly when it comes to which
keyboard action I prefer. The models I'm looking at are the Roland F-100 and something in the Yamaha P series, probably the P-120 (or
possibly PF-500). I think I prefer the Roland's lighter action over the Yamaha, but I'm worried that learning on a keyboard with lighter action may mess me up when I finally switch over to an acoustic. On the other hand, the Yamaha seems to error on the heavy side. I've read were people have actually had tendinitous problems from the P
series digital pianos. That may be an exageration, but I don't want my hands to be worn out after practicing for 20 minutes.

Anyway, does anyone out there have experiance with either of these models, or an opinion on which type of keyboard action is preferable
for a beginner? Any tips or comments would be appreciated.

Thanks.
-dr

If getting a nice acoustic is the long-term goal, why do you plan on waiting, if I might ask?

William88,

Well I live in a condo right now so the digital piano will allow me to practice with headphones without bothering my neighbors too much. Plus, in case I don't stick with it, I'm not out as much money as with an new acoustic. I've heard used acoustics can be had cheaper, but I haven't really looked into that option.

I figure by the time I've moved in to a single family home down the road someday, I'll know whether I'm going to stick with it and can then look into getting an acoustic.

-dr

Well, those are all good reasons to start with a digital. Personally, I have always preferred Roland's touch, and the RD100 is no exception. I would recommend however that you also try the Roland HP series and the Yamaha CLP. I've been told that there is no difference in the actions from the HP to the RD, but every time I've tried them, I've always felt the HP and CLP's felt more like a traditional piano. I might just be being swayed by the case however, so try them and decide for yourself.

Also, that's very interesting about the Yamaha/ tendonitis issue. That actually has the ring of a competitive salesperson trying to bash the competition. Do you remember where you read it?

William88,

Hey thanks for your quick response.

I've looked into both the lower end Roland HP and Yamaha CLP series and have decided against both.
They cost more then their respective "portable" models, but it seems like most of the extra expense goes towards the cabinet and speaker system. Neither of which is a high priority for me right now. I'll look into the RD model you suggested though, thanks.

I caught the story about the tendonitous a message board somewhere, don't recall which one. I believe the person claimed to be a teacher and was refering to students he had.

-dr

Good luck with the purchase! Let me know what you get!

Roland has the best sound, action and dynamic range among digital pianos. Try a HP 3

sorry, I meant RD700!