Specifications

In a hurry? Here’s our verdict

The SDP-2 is an ideal starting point for the aspiring pianist. Featuring 88 keys with weighted action, built-in stereo speakers, and RCA/MIDI outputs, it supports a learning player in plenty of ways. 

The keyboard’s weighted action closely mimics the feel of an acoustic piano, making the transition between instruments seamless, and the piano’s built-in stereo speakers and headphone output offer the flexibility for both silent practice and live performance. 

SDP-2 Stage Piano review

First impressions

The SDP-2 is the epitome of plug-and-play. Featuring a classic design which incorporates in-built speakers and a small LED screen, the piano’s clear interface is extremely easy to navigate.

Without the confusing menus or settings of more advanced models (which may distract you when you’re playing), the SDP-2 invites you to play as soon as you power it on. 

Weighing 8.2kg, the SDP-2 is feasible for both home and stage use, although you might want to measure your vehicle to ensure the 88-key piano’s 127cm length will fit before committing to a road trip!

The piano’s plastic body can’t be described as premium, but that is to be expected at this price point, but it feels as though it could withstand a fair amount of lugging in and out of venues with no issue. 

Sound

The piano allows you to choose from eight voices: Grand Piano, Bright Piano, Electric Piano 1, Electric Piano 2, Church Organ, Rock Organ, Vibraphone, and Harpsichord. Its sound quality is excellent, with each preset offering a high-quality replication of its acoustic counterpart.

A particularly pleasing sound is the electric piano, offering the classic Stevie Wonder/Steely Dan tone which is so loved across generations. Don’t just take my word for it, check out the demo video here!

Each voice can be tweaked using the in-built reverb and chorus effects, and the inclusion of a sustain pedal allows you to be fully expressive. The four 10W speakers are ideal for practising at home, acting as your personal monitors. If you want to use the piano for stage performance, no problem, the line outputs provide the perfect connection between piano and PA system. 

One of the piano’s few limitations is the 32-note polyphony, which caps the piano to sound a maximum of 32 sounds at once. This may get tricky if you want to use the sustain pedal with more advanced pieces. Of course, the polyphony will likely pose no issues for a beginner or intermediate player.

Key action

One of the stand-out features of the SDP-2 is its weighted keys. This mimics the feel of an acoustic piano, allowing you to become accustomed to the movements required to operate an acoustic and, therefore, hone proper technique. It also makes for a very satisfying playing experience. 

Weighted keys are known for building up finger strength. In this case, the weighted keys definitely deliver, bouncing back under your fingers as you play, with a truly natural feel. The sensitivity of the keys can also be adjusted from low to high, allowing you to tailor the response of the piano to your ideal level. 

Looking at the market, you will be hard-pressed to find any other keyboard at this price range boasting such a realistic feel and sensitivity. 

Features and effects

The SDP-2 is packed with features. Firstly, as I mentioned earlier, the piano has built-in reverb and chorus effects. The reverb is great for getting the piano to sit nicely in a live mix, and the chorus provides a unique flavour to your sound. The depth of these effects is fully adjustable and saveable, allowing you to apply varying amounts of each effect to any preset and recall this at a later date. 

Next up is layer mode, which allows you to combine and play two voices simultaneously. Experimenting with this feature opens a whole new set of timbral possibilities. For example, combining the rock organ with the electric piano creates a vast sound with a snappy attack. The volume of each layer is individually editable, allowing you to conjure up a unique blend of voices.

For productive practice sessions, a metronome is a must-have, and the one installed in the SDP-2 can easily be edited to different tempos and time signatures. There’s also a two-band EQ which can be used to adjust the bass and treble levels so that everything sounds just how you like it. 

Affordability

With a retail price of £199.99, the SDP-2 is one of the most affordable pianos with these kinds of specs.

With a full set of 88 weighted keys, built-in effects, layer mode, and eight voices, you get a lot for your money, and this would be my top pick for any beginner looking for a way to practice the piano at home. 

Who is the SDP-2 Stage Piano suited to?

The SDP-2 is a truly versatile instrument and is appropriate for players in many situations. For example, the piano is ideal for beginners wanting to expand their skill set with an instrument that can stick with them as they advance. With a plethora of features and a high-quality set of voices, the SDP-2 won’t limit you; it will serve you for years without needing replacement. 

This model is also great for people who are taking piano lessons but don’t have the budget or space for a digital piano at home. With the SDP-2’s weighted keys, the transition between acoustic and electric piano is much smoother, allowing you to directly translate what you learn in lessons to home practice. 

For live performers, the stage piano is a suitable solution. Its lightweight and rugged housing can withstand the inevitable bumps and scrapes caused by moving in and out of venues. The sleek design will fit in at any function, and with the line outputs and in-built effects, you will not only look great but sound great too! 

Finally, the piano meets the demands of budding composers and arrangers. With eight high-quality voices and the option for layering, the sonic possibilities are vast. The SDP-2 provides a great springboard for anyone wishing to put together grand pieces.

FAQs

Are Gear4music pianos any good?

Gear4music pianos offer great value for beginners and intermediate players. They combine affordability with a range of features suitable for learning and practice. 

What is an SDP piano?

An SDP piano refers to a digital piano designed for stage performance. SDP stands for Stage Digital Piano, highlighting its portability, versatility, and quality sound tailored for live settings. 

What is the difference between a stage piano and a digital piano?

A stage piano is designed for live performances, with a robust build, high-quality sound, and portability making it suitable for life on the road, while a digital piano emulates an acoustic piano’s feel and sound, often with built-in speakers and a focus on home or studio use.

Final thoughts

The SDP-2 Stage Piano is a great choice for beginners who want an instrument that’s easy to get to grips whilst offering the advanced features to stick with them as they progress. With its 88 weighted keys, it skilfully bridges the gap between digital convenience and the tactile response of an acoustic piano.

The built-in stereo speakers, along with RCA and MIDI outputs, make the piano suitable for silent practice sessions and live performances. Its high-quality voices and effects, alongside a music rest and sustain pedal, further make it great for those just starting out.

However, its limited polyphony could pose a challenge for more complex pieces, and its size might not be ideal for tighter spaces.

If you’re a beginner, we hope our SDP-2 Stage Piano review has helped you! As you consider your options, remember that the best instrument for you is one that meets your personal needs and helps you grow as a musician.