Keyboards & synths: stage pianos, workstations and synthesizers

Keyboards and synths sit at the centre of modern music: pop, rock, worship, EDM, film scoring, funk, jazz and beyond. Whether you’re buying your first keyboard, upgrading your live rig or setting up a bedroom studio, this page helps you:

• understand the difference between keyboards and synths;
• discover the main types (arranger, stage piano, workstation, modular…);
• choose the right gear for your budget, level and real-world use;
• navigate offers for new and used instruments on Muviber.

When you’re ready, explore all the listings for keyboards and synths and filter by price, brand, condition and location.

What is a keyboard and what is a synth?

In short:

• Keyboard An instrument with built-in sounds and often auto-accompaniment styles (arranger type). Perfect if you want to play many genres right away, without external modules or a computer.

• Synth (synthesizer) An instrument designed to create and shape sounds: basses, leads, pads, FX. It can be analog, digital or hybrid, usually with far more sound design options and fewer “band in a box” features.

Many players combine both: a stage piano or arranger keyboard as the main board, plus one or more dedicated synths for specific sounds.

To see what’s out there, browse arranger keyboards and analog and digital synths on Muviber.

Main types of keyboards

Arranger keyboards

Arranger keyboards are built for players who want:

• automatic accompaniment (drums, bass, harmony);
• hundreds of ready-to-play sounds (pianos, organs, strings, brass, synths…);
• tools for solo gigs, parties and events.

On Muviber you’ll find lots of arranger keyboards, from beginner-friendly models to advanced professional machines.

Stage pianos

A stage piano is the go-to choice for players who want:

• weighted keys close to an acoustic piano feel;
• fewer but higher-quality sounds (acoustic/electric pianos, pads, organs);
• a robust instrument for gigs, rehearsals and studio sessions.

Have a look at stage pianos if your main focus is piano playing.

Workstation keyboards

A workstation keyboard is your all-in-one command centre:

• large sound library;
• sequencer, arpeggiators and effects;
• the ability to build full tracks without touching a computer.

If you like composing, arranging and preparing full live sets, check out workstation keyboards.

Synth types

Analog synths

Analog synths use analog circuits and are loved for:

• warm, organic tone;
• immediate response to knob tweaking;
• strong character in a mix.

Browse analog synths on Muviber to find everything from simple monosynths to complex polys.

Digital and virtual analog synths

Digital and virtual analog synths emulate analog behaviour but offer:

• more polyphony;
• lots of presets and storage;
• integrated effects and flexible modulation.

If you want tons of ready sounds and easy recall on stage, explore synthesizers in the digital/VA world.

Compact synths, grooveboxes and pocket instruments

For portable rigs and desktop setups you’ll find:

• pocket synths and mini-synths;
• grooveboxes with built-in sequencers;
• small machines for beats, techno, hip hop, ambient and more.

Take a look at compact synths and grooveboxes if you want something you can throw in a backpack.

MIDI controllers

MIDI controllers don’t make sound on their own, but they control:

• DAWs and software instruments;
• virtual synths and samplers;
• external sound modules.

If you mainly work in the box, a good MIDI controller is often the best value.

How to choose the right keyboard or synth

1. Main use

• Home practice / lessons A simple arranger keyboard or digital piano with weighted keys works great.

• Band and live A stage piano plus a compact synth or workstation gives you enough sounds for most gigs.

• Producer / electronic music Combine a solid MIDI controller with one or two dedicated synths for basses, leads and textures.

2. Keys: number and feel

• 61 keys: the classic choice, light and portable.
• 73/76 keys: a nice middle ground for live players.
• 88 keys: the natural option if you focus on piano.

For more serious piano study, consider stage pianos and digital pianos.

3. Level and experience

• Beginner: entry-level arranger keyboard or digital piano with a few good sounds.
• Intermediate: workstation or stage piano plus a versatile synth.
• Advanced: a customised multi-board setup based on your band, genre and projects.

4. Budget

Think about how much you can invest now and how long you want to keep the instrument:

• Entry level: great to start and learn.
• Mid range: solid gear for bands and quality home studios.
• Pro: top-tier instruments for touring and studio work.

Price ranges (rough guide)

Prices vary a lot depending on brand, build quality, generation and condition. Treat this as a starting point.

• Entry level (up to ~€300–400) Beginner arrangers, small synths, basic MIDI controllers. Ideal to test the waters without over-spending.

• Mid range (~€400–900) Solid stage pianos, more advanced synths, used workstations. Perfect for players who gig or produce regularly.

• Pro (from ~€900 upwards) High-end stage pianos, flagship workstations, serious analog gear. The choice for session musicians, MDs and studios.

To get a real-world feel, browse keyboards and synths and filter by price range and condition.

Practice tips and ideas

1. Timing workout

1. Set your metronome to 60 BPM.
2. Play simple chords in quarter notes with your left hand.
3. Add right-hand melodies in eighth notes.
4. Gradually increase the tempo.

2. Piano + pad layer

• On a workstation or stage piano, layer a piano and a warm pad.
• Play simple arpeggios and broken chords.
• Great for intros, ballads and worship settings.

3. Build a lead sound on a synth

1. Start from a basic preset.
2. Tweak filter cutoff, envelope and a bit of resonance.
3. Add some delay and a touch of reverb.
4. Save it with a clear name like “Rock Lead Solo”.

4. Fewer sounds, better control

Instead of surfing 300 presets, pick 5–10 core sounds (piano, pad, lead, bass, organ…) and really learn how they respond to your touch and to the mix. In live and studio contexts, control often beats quantity.

How to navigate keyboards and synths on Muviber

On Muviber you can find new and used gear posted by:

• individual musicians;
• specialised music shops;
• creators and producers.

To find what you need:

• start from the main category keyboards and synths;

• refine your search with:

  • arranger keyboards;
  • stage pianos;
  • workstation keyboards;
  • analog synths;
  • MIDI controllers.

Use filters for:

• price;
• condition (new, mint, used);
• location (if you want to try it in person);
• brand and model.

FAQ about keyboards and synths

Is an arranger keyboard or a synth better for beginners?

If you want to play full songs right away, with drums and backing tracks, an arranger keyboard is usually easier. If you’re more interested in sound design, basses, leads and pads, starting with a synth (especially a digital one packed with presets) can be more inspiring.

How many keys do I need to study piano?

For proper piano technique, 88 weighted keys are ideal. For a flexible live setup or if space is tight, 61 or 73/76 keys can still work well, especially with a good stage piano or quality controller.

Is it worth buying a used keyboard or synth on Muviber?

Yes. Buying used often lets you access higher-end gear at a more accessible price. Always check:

• overall condition (keys, knobs, chassis);
• clear photos;
• a detailed description;
• seller reputation when available.

Compare several listings in keyboards and synths to understand the typical price range.

What’s the difference between analog and digital synths?

An analog synth uses analog circuitry and tends to sound more “alive” and characterful, but may have fewer voices and memories. A digital or virtual analog synth gives you more features, presets and effects, often at a lower price. The right choice depends on your style, budget and how deep you want to go into sound design.