Top 10 accessories for keyboard: Augment your setup

Keyboards are a pretty self-contained instrument. But if you want to expand what you can do with it there are quite a few types of accessories for keyboard that help you do so. From utility items like stands and benches to things that add more expression to your playing like foot pedals, these are some of the best.

Best accessory for keyboardists overall: On-Stage KPK6500 Keyboard Stand and Bench Pack

A comfortable and reliable stand and bench are essential accessories for keyboard. This set is a great value for the money, and both items are built around sturdy X-bracing that’s ready for the road. 

The KS7190 keyboard stand is built from durable 1” square tubing and supports up to 90 pounds. A bullet-nose pull knob makes setup easy and efficient, and the adjustable arm sleeves accommodate almost any size of keyboard. Comfort is key for playing well and staying healthy, and the five different height settings let you find the perfect level for you.

Speaking of comfort, since keyboardists do a lot of sitting, a good bench is a necessity. The KT7800 bench has a 2” vinyl cushion and non-slip rubber pads to keep it securely in place. Six height positions offer options, and like the stand it folds for easy transport.

Best keyboard seat: Yamaha PKBB1 

Comfort, convenience, and style intersect with this keyboard bench from Yamaha, one of the premier names in the instrument. An extra wide, soft-padded seat offers plenty of room, and the height is adjustable between 18.5” and 20.5”.

A solid base supports body weight, and the plush, ultra-thick padding adds an additional level of comfort for extended playing sessions.

Best hardshell case for keyboardists: Gator TSA ATA Molded Keyboard Case 76 Key

The size of your keyboard will determine the right case to buy, but when it comes to internal and external security features, no one does it better than Gator. This lightweight and rugged case is perfect to protect your instrument no matter where the music takes you. 

It’s made of molded polyethylene and sports two TSA-approved locking latches that reduce headaches and hassle if you’re flying. The interior uses a wedge and blog design with a level of customization. An ergo-grip handle is comfortable and the case distributes weight well.

Gator offers four sizes that fit most common-size keyboards, and all sizes come with wheels except the 49-key version. Regardless of the size of the case, they support up to 130 pounds of internal weight.

Best gig bag for keyboardists: Road Runner RR4K Blvd II

If you don’t need the elevated level of security a case provides but still need a safe and efficient way to transport your keyboard, a gig bag is the next best option. This padded gig bag is made of a weather-resistant dobby/quilted covering to keep your keyboard safe no matter what climate it has to endure. 

The 20 millimeter interior foam fading ensures safety along with two interior Velcro straps. A wide external pocket and two side pockets provide ample storage space no matter what type of keyboard accessories you need to bring with you. 

It comes in 49, 61, 76, and 88-key variations.

Best keyboard amp: Roland KC-80

If you’re not going direct, an amp is the best way to amplify your sound. This 3-channel model from Roland is compact, but pumps out plenty of volume. What’s more, it’s also a portable PA! 

Fifty watts of power pumps through a 10” woofer and individual tweeter. Roland redesigned the power section, amp and supply. Operation is more stable, the low end is richer, and it’s got a wider sonic range overall. 

There is an XLR input for vocals or micing an instrument, and a stereo auxiliary input lets you feed external audio. It also includes a ¼” line input. Rotary controls adjust channel and headphone levels, and there is a two-band EQ over the low and high ranges. 

Best sustain pedal for keyboardists: Yamaha FC4A 

To get the most out of your instrument, a good sustain footswitch pedal is a must-have keyboard accessory. This normally-closed model from keyboard kings Yamaha has the action and feel of an acoustic piano foot pedal. 

An anti-slip base keeps it in place, and the ¼” connector with six feet of length lets you use it with digital pianos, keyboard arrangers, synthesizers, even drum machines and tone stations! 

It’s quiet too, so it won’t distract from your playing. It is designed to work with Yamaha, Roland, and Kawai instruments, but should work fine as long as there is the proper input on whatever you plug it in to.

Best expression pedal for keyboardists: Hammond EXP-100F

Foot pedals for keyboards go beyond the standard sustain pedal. An expression pedal provides a more nuanced level of real-time control, and Hammond is a premier manufacturer. 

The EXP-100F offers noiseless operation, and the durable metal chassis means it can withstand a lot. It’s more than just an expression pedal too. A programmable kick switch can be assigned to control different function parameters, which adds utility and versatility. 

It’s only got one real downside – it only works with Hammond instruments in the XK and XE product lines.

Best DI for keyboardists: Radial ProD2

How many times have you shown up to a gig assuming the front of house would have a DI? While that’s normally the case, having a reliable stereo DI is an invaluable tool for keyboard players and Radial makes the best.

The ProD2 is a full-range passive stereo design with stellar build quality to withstand the abuse that comes with the territory. A custom isolation transformer passes signal without any saturation or distortion and eliminates hum and ground loops that cause noise.

A -15dB pad is there in case it’s needed, and a no-slip rubber bottom pad provides mechanical isolation and electrical insulation. 

Best second tier add-on for keyboardists: Quik-Lok QLX-3

It’s common for keyboardists to use two boards, and if you already use a Quik-Lok stand, the QLX-3 is a great add-on accessory. It’s built out of a sturdy, nonslip, and lightweight aluminum alloy with a locking collar to keep whatever is placed on it safe and secure.

There are five height positions, four tilt positions at 90, 80, 70, and 60 degrees, and the front-to-back tier depth is 17.3”. 

Best small-medium dust cover for keyboardists: Road Runner Small Dust Cover 

Dust is one of the worst enemies for electronics, so to keep your keyboard or digital piano free of it a dust cover is no brainer. This small cover handles 15 and 37 key models and it’s made of a stretch-to-fit Spandex/poly material blend. A drawstring cord tightens to fit, and it’s got the reliable Roadrunner quality.

Best large dust cover for keyboardists: Roland Large Stretch Keyboard Dust Cover

If you have a full range of octaves on your keyboard you need a large dust cover. This large option from Roland fits to form and ensures no dust or debris gets into your instrument when it’s not in use.

FAQ

Why should I consider accessories for my digital piano or keyboard?

While a digital piano or keyboard can function on its own, accessories significantly enhance the playing experience. From comfort and ergonomics to sound quality and performance, the right add-ons like stands, pedals, and benches help you get the most out of your instrument.

Do I really need a sustain pedal, and which type is best?

Not technically, but a sustain pedal is essential for expressive playing. Especially for piano-style music. It allows notes to ring out after you lift your fingers. The best type is a full-sized, piano-style pedal with half-damper functionality if your keyboard supports it. This better mimics the feel and response of an acoustic piano.

What kind of accessories can improve live performances with a keyboard?

For gigging musicians, accessories like expression pedals, portable stands, keyboard cases, and foot controllers make a big difference. A reliable gig bag or hard case protects your instrument in transit, and expression pedals or MIDI controllers expand your dynamic and expressive control on stage.