Finding the perfect sustain pedal can significantly enhance your keyboard playing experience. This comprehensive guide reviews ten of the best sustain pedals available in 2020, catering to various budgets and needs. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding musician, choosing the right pedal can dramatically impact your performance, offering nuanced control and expression. We've carefully considered factors like build quality, responsiveness, compatibility, and additional features to provide you with a detailed analysis of each model.This review delves into the pros and cons of each pedal, highlighting user experiences and potential drawbacks. From budget-friendly options to high-end models boasting advanced features like half-damper compatibility and extended cables, we’ve got you covered. Our aim is to equip you with the information necessary to make an informed decision, ensuring you find the ideal sustain pedal to complement your keyboard and elevate your musical journey. Read on to discover which pedal best suits your playing style and requirements.
Pros And Cons
- Sleek minimalist design
- Sensitive to light pressure
- Straightforward setup
- Understated matte finish
- Weighs less than 2 pounds
- Compatible with electronic keyboards with 1/4 inch jack
- Quiet operation
- Good for live performances and studio recording
- Highly responsive release
- Comfortable size
- Doesn't come with instructions
- Sturdy weighted base
- Consistently reliable effect
- Works with all keyboards, synthesizers, and digital pianos
- Good spring lever
- Nearly 12 inches long
- Appropriate for beginners
- Responsive to light pressure
- Suitable for young musicians
- Works with Yamaha keyboards and drum machines
- 200-day warranty
- Printed logo looks ugly
Read more: 5 Best Piano Pedals for Your Digital Piano
Matenda RFP P1L: A Budget-Friendly Option
The Matenda RFP P1L offers a compelling entry-level option for those seeking an affordable sustain pedal. Its one-year warranty provides peace of mind, and the simulated acoustic piano feel is a nice touch for enhancing the playing experience. The switchable polarity ensures compatibility with a wide range of keyboards. However, reports of peeling rubber pads are a concern.
The right-angled plug and wide base contribute to stability. Despite its budget-friendly price, the RFP P1L provides decent performance for beginners or casual players. Consider the reported issues with the rubber pads before purchasing.
Ann Tobel ATB Double O 5: Durability and Reliability
The Ann Tobel ATB Double O 5 boasts a robust build quality, constructed from durable plastic and corrosion-resistant metal. This makes it suitable for both practice and energetic performances. The 30-day money-back guarantee and one-year warranty offer added protection.
While its construction is praised for its durability, users have reported a slight squeaking noise. This might be a minor inconvenience for some, but it's something to be aware of.
HQRP Piano Style Sustain Pedal: Responsive and Suitable for Beginners
The HQRP piano-style sustain pedal is highly responsive to light pressure, making it ideal for young musicians. Its compatibility is limited primarily to Yamaha keyboards. Although not universally compatible, its responsiveness is a key selling point.
The 200-day warranty offers a reasonable timeframe for assessing its quality. However, the aesthetic of the printed logo is criticized by some users.
On Stage KSP 100: A Standard and Reliable Choice
The On Stage KSP 100 provides a solid, standard sustain pedal experience for digital keyboards. Its classic curved design and compatibility with major keyboard brands make it a versatile option. The polarity switch enhances its adaptability.
Used by professionals, this pedal offers durability and reliability. The inclusion of a protective cover is a plus; however, some users may find the screw adjustments troublesome.
Yamaha FC4A: Quiet Operation for Studio and Live Use
The Yamaha FC4A offers near-silent operation, making it a suitable choice for quiet environments like recording studios or smaller live venues. Its quarter-inch jack ensures wide compatibility with electronic keyboards.
The highly responsive release and comfortable size are positive features. However, the lack of instructions might be frustrating for some users.
Nektar NP2: Sturdy and Reliable for Various Keyboards
The Nektar NP2 features a sturdy, weighted base for enhanced stability, appreciated by many players. It offers consistent performance across keyboards, synthesizers, and digital pianos. The long lever length provides comfortable control.
Its reliable performance and durable build make it a good option for beginners and experienced musicians alike. The lever's good spring action contributes to a satisfying playing experience.
M-Audio SP2 Universal: Minimizes Noise and Offers Half-Pedal Sensitivity
The M-Audio SP2 Universal boasts wide compatibility with electronic keyboards and features a clever design to minimize tapping noise. This makes it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. The included one-year warranty adds assurance.
Its half-pedal sensitivity is a notable feature. The 6-foot cable provides convenient reach. Overall, it’s a well-rounded sustain pedal for its price point.
Roland DP-10 Real Feel: Long Cable and Magnetic Phone Holder
The Roland DP-10 Real Feel stands out with its exceptionally long cable (over 2 meters), accommodating musicians using multiple stacked keyboards. Additional features like a magnetic phone holder and auxiliary cable add versatility.
Half-damper compatibility is a valuable feature for nuanced control. The rubber base minimizes shifting. The unique features make this a strong contender for those needing additional functionality.
Donner DK1: Anti-Slip Design and Solid Warranty
The Donner DK1 features rubber caps on its base to prevent slippage during enthusiastic playing. The six-month warranty provides adequate time to assess its durability and performance. Its wide compatibility is a significant benefit.
The consistent response makes it a dependable choice. While the warranty is shorter than some competitors, it provides sufficient time to evaluate the pedal's quality.
Casio SP-20 Upgraded: Sleek Design and Light Pressure Sensitivity
The Casio SP-20 Upgraded stands out with its sleek and minimalist design. Its exceptional sensitivity to light pressure allows for subtle expression and nuanced control. The straightforward setup process is a welcome convenience.
Weighing under 2 pounds, it's lightweight and portable. The understated matte finish adds to its sophisticated aesthetic. Its responsive design makes it a valuable asset for musicians seeking precise control.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Sustain Pedal
The best sustain pedal depends on individual needs and preferences. Budget-conscious players might consider the Matenda RFP P1L, while those prioritizing durability might opt for the Ann Tobel ATB Double O 5. Musicians seeking quiet operation should look at the Yamaha FC4A.
For superior half-pedal sensitivity, the M-Audio SP2 Universal and the Roland DP-10 Real Feel are strong contenders. The Nektar NP2 and Casio SP-20 Upgraded provide excellent value and performance. Ultimately, reading detailed user reviews is crucial before making a final decision.