Several months ago I purchased a Yamaha Digital CLP-120 Clavinova. I searched around and played on many. And I agree, it is a highly personal choice. I have a regular accoustic piano, but needed one to practice on at times I couldn't disturb anyone, so I wasn't looking for one that necessarily was the closest I could get to the real thing....just one to practice with when not able to use my real one.
I think it depends on what you want/need. Remember you can always upgrade/ trade-in later as well.
How much $$$ do you want/can you spend.
Have you already taken "some" piano, by that I mean, you know it is already something you will enjoy and stick with.
Many of these digital pianos come with alot of extra's you may or may not want/need.
Do you need to be able to record yourself?
Do you need something that sounds like a piano or do you want something that can sound like a bunch of instument voices.
Some have 2 pedals, some have 3.
I guess what I mean is, I would evaluate what type of piano would fit your needs now and somewhat into the future and then go from there. If this is somewhat of a "trial" basis, I certainly wouldn't splurge. If piano is something you feel you may become very serious about, you would probably end up investing in a real one anyway later on. Mine was around $1288.00 USD, but that was on sale. They usually sell for around 1800.00 in this area. There were several cheaper, and many more expensive. I am very happy with mine, and have had no difficulties whatsoever. One thing I really enjoy, besides being able to record and playback, is that you can record and practice hands seperately. You can also record pieces onto a computer file.
It does not have alot of voices...but all I wanted was piano..it does have several others. You can adjust the keys as far as the touch, light, medium, hard....many have this, but actually it is not changing the touch at all, only the volume. You have to push down hard to get the same volume out as when you have it on light touch. It kinda fools you into thinking the action of the keys change! I like having the built in metranome....but again I don't do anything really special with mine....just practice.
I have a friend from work who purchased a much smaller keyboard, seperate stand, etc. She only wants to learn the basics, and play for fun, learn chords etc. What she purchased is great for her.
I would definately evaluate your needs/cost and compare as many as possible. Definately sit down, read the instruction manual, make sure it is something you feel comfortable with, and as was already suggested, if possible take someone with you that already knows something about keyboards/piano.
Good luck and I know you'll have fun. Never say you won't be an expert because your 24! You're never too old to learn, if it's really what you want to do!
Enjoy!
S
Topic: Plan to buy a new digital piano, low budget