The Alesis Recital Pro is one of the most popular entry-level digital pianos on the market, aimed at beginners and students who want a full 88-key instrument without spending a fortune. Featuring fully weighted keys, 12 built-in voices, learning modes, and built-in speakers, it’s designed to provide an all-in-one solution for practice and lessons. But does it offer enough quality and realism compared to more established brands like Yamaha and Roland? Let’s find out.
88 fully weighted, hammer-action keys
12 built-in voices (piano, electric piano, organ, synth, strings, bass)
Polyphony: 128 notes
Polyphony: 120 notes
Built-in 20W speaker system (10 W x 2)
Lesson mode, split mode, and layering
USB-MIDI and 1/4” stereo outputs
Includes sustain pedal and power supply
The Recital Pro has a straightforward, no-frills design. Made mostly of plastic, it’s lightweight and easy to carry, but doesn’t feel as premium as pricier competitors. The control panel is simple, with dedicated buttons for voices and functions, making it easy for beginners to navigate. While it’s not built to be a long-term professional instrument, it’s sturdy enough for home use and lessons.
The 88-key hammer-action keyboard is impressive for this price range. While the action is not as refined or responsive as Yamaha’s GHS or Roland’s PHA-4, it still provides a realistic feel for beginners learning proper finger strength and dynamics. The keys are slightly lighter and more plastic-feeling than higher-end models, but for an entry-level instrument, they’re solid.
With 12 built-in voices, the Recital Pro covers the essentials: acoustic pianos, electric pianos, organs, synths, and strings. The acoustic piano sounds are decent for practice, though less detailed than Yamaha or Roland equivalents. The 20W speaker system is surprisingly powerful for its size, filling a room easily. While not suitable for professional recording, it’s more than capable for home use and practice.
The Recital Pro includes useful connectivity options, such as USB-MIDI for computer integration, 1/4” stereo outputs for amplifiers, and a headphone jack for silent practice. Lesson mode allows teachers and students to use the keyboard side by side, splitting it into two equal ranges. A metronome and layering/split functions add extra flexibility for practice.
At just 11.8 kg, the Recital Pro is lightweight and portable, making it easy to move between home, school, and lessons. It can also run on batteries (6 x D-cell), which is a big plus for portability, though most users will stick with the included power supply.
At around £280–£320, the Alesis Recital Pro is one of the most affordable weighted 88-key digital pianos available. While it doesn’t match the refinement of Yamaha or Roland models, it offers fantastic value for beginners and students who need a full-size piano without breaking the bank.
Yes, with weighted keys, lesson mode, and simple controls, it’s a great starter piano for students.
It’s possible for small gigs, thanks to its lightweight build and outputs, but its sound engine is limited compared to stage pianos.
Yes – though it’s a basic footswitch-style pedal. For a more realistic piano feel, you can upgrade to a proper sustain pedal.
If you’re a beginner looking for a budget-friendly digital piano with weighted keys, the Alesis Recital Pro is a solid choice. It won’t rival the sound or key action of more expensive models, but for its price, it offers excellent features, portability, and value. A great entry point into the world of digital pianos.
Looking for a budget-friendly 88-key digital piano with weighted keys?
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