1. Sound production:
• Acoustic piano: The sound of an acoustic piano is produced by hammers that strike metal strings, causing them to vibrate. The strings are stretched over a soundboard, which amplifies and sustains the sound.
• Electric keyboard: Electric keyboards use electronic components to generate sound. This allows for a wider variety of sounds, samples, and effects, making it possible to create different instrumental and electronic sounds.
2. Functionality and features:
• Acoustic piano: Acoustic pianos are traditional instruments that don't have additional features like MIDI connectivity, built-in speakers, headphone ports, or USB connections.
• Electric keyboard: Electric keyboards often come with various features such as MIDI connectivity for connecting to computers or DAWs, built-in speakers, headphone jacks, and USB connections for easy recording and integration with digital music production systems.
3. Portability:
• Acoustic piano: Acoustic pianos are large, heavy instruments that are not easily portable. They require specific environmental conditions (temperature and humidity) to function properly.
• Electric keyboard: Electric keyboards are much more portable than acoustic pianos, making them ideal for musicians on the move or for use in live performances, small spaces, and compact studios.
4. Versatility and sound options:
• Acoustic piano: Acoustic pianos are known for their warm, rich, natural sound that is unique to their mechanical construction. They are widely considered the standard instrument for classical and traditional genres.
• Electric keyboards: Electric keyboards offer a wide range of sound options, including sounds of real instruments, synthesizers, organs, electronic effects, and more, making them versatile instruments suitable for a broader variety of musical genres.
5. Action:
• Acoustic piano: Acoustic pianos have weighted keys, which provide resistance and a feel that is similar to playing a traditional piano.
• Electric keyboards: While some high-end electric keyboards have weighted or semi-weighted keys for a more piano-like feel, many have lighter, non-weighted keys, which may feel different to a pianist accustomed to an acoustic piano.
In summary, electric keyboards are electronic instruments with a variety of sound options, features, and portability, while acoustic pianos are traditional instruments known for their classic, natural sound and feel. The choice between an electric keyboard and a piano depends on individual musical preferences, requirements, budget, and style of playing.