The Korg B2 digital piano is a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the B1, offering a compelling blend of features and affordability for both beginners and experienced players. This review delves into the key improvements, examining the enhanced keyboard action, significantly richer piano sounds, and expanded sonic palette. We'll explore the instrument's versatility, evaluating its diverse range of sounds beyond the traditional piano, including electric pianos, strings, and organs. The Korg B2 also boasts enhanced connectivity, opening up new possibilities for recording and MIDI control.This in-depth analysis will assess the strengths and weaknesses of the B2, considering its improved keyboard feel, the realism of its sounds, and its connectivity options. We'll discuss the implications of its proprietary sustain pedal connector and the lack of layering and splitting capabilities, weighing these limitations against the overall value and performance this digital piano offers within its price range. Ultimately, we aim to determine whether the Korg B2 lives up to its billing as an entry-level powerhouse.
Pros And Cons
- Great action (NW action, feels natural)
- Improved piano sounds (detailed, rich)
- Excellent speakers
- Modern and stylish design
- Variety of tones including good electric pianos (Rhodes, Wurlitzer, Korg M1)
- Includes USB MIDI and audio for easy connection to computers and recording devices
- Good bass response
- Added string sound
- No layering or splitting (except a duet split mode)
- Proprietary sustain pedal connector
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Improved Action and Aesthetics
The Korg B2 boasts a refined keyboard action compared to its predecessor, the B1. While not class-leading, it provides a natural playing experience, slightly heavier than many competitors in its price range. This added weight contributes to a more satisfying feel. The B2 maintains the sleek and modern design of the B1, featuring clean lines and a stylish fabric speaker grill. This aesthetic makes it suitable for various settings, from living rooms to stages.
The keyboard's visual appeal is a significant upgrade. Its slim profile and contemporary design blend well with most home decors. The fabric speaker grill adds a touch of sophistication, and the overall effect is both pleasing and practical.
Enhanced Sound Quality
One of the most significant improvements in the Korg B2 is the enhanced piano sound. It offers a noticeably richer and more detailed sound compared to the B1, boasting depth and nuance that surpasses many competitors. The variety of sounds available is impressive, going beyond the standard piano tones.
The piano sounds are remarkably realistic and detailed, especially considering the price point. The depth and richness are what really sets the B2 apart. The inclusion of diverse instrument sounds, such as electric pianos and strings, adds significant versatility.
Versatile Sound Options and Added Features
The Korg B2 offers a wide range of instrument sounds beyond pianos, including excellent electric pianos like Rhodes and Wurlitzer emulations, as well as a Korg M1 sound. These sounds are full and rich, with impressive bass response. While some sounds like the harpsichord are less impressive, the overall selection is more than sufficient for most users.
Beyond the electric pianos, the B2 includes other instrument sounds such as organ and strings. These additions greatly expand the instrument's versatility, adding depth to its sonic capabilities. The updated string sound is a welcome addition compared to the B1’s noticeable omission of such a feature.
Connectivity and Limitations
The Korg B2's most significant upgrade is the inclusion of USB MIDI and audio connectivity. This allows for seamless integration with computers, tablets, and smartphones for recording and MIDI data exchange. The ability to send and receive audio signals directly via USB is particularly noteworthy.
Despite the USB enhancement, the Korg B2 still retains the proprietary sustain pedal connector, which limits flexibility and can prove frustrating. The lack of layering and splitting functionalities is also a drawback. However, the USB audio capabilities partially mitigate the absence of onboard layering and splitting by allowing for external processing.
Conclusion: Who Should Buy the Korg B2?
The Korg B2 is an excellent entry-level digital piano, but also offers compelling features for more experienced players. Its strengths lie in its improved piano sounds, natural keyboard action, and enhanced connectivity. The lack of layering and splitting and the proprietary pedal connector are downsides, but the USB audio capabilities offer a workaround.
The Korg B2 is a significant improvement over its predecessor, especially with the addition of USB audio and MIDI. It's suitable for beginners and those seeking a versatile instrument for performance and recording. While some limitations remain, the overall quality and features make it a strong contender in its price range.