James NugentKorg’s B2 Series includes the 88-key B2, B2SP, and B2N digital pianos. The only difference between the B2 and B2SP is that the B2SP comes with a wooden three-pedal stand; otherwise, they are identical.
The B2N offers slightly less for a lower price. In this review, we will focus on the B2 and B2SP and point out the differences in the B2N when relevant.
Our verdict on the Korg B2/B2SP
The B2 and B2SP are fantastic keyboards. Korg always delivers on feel, and the new sound engine delivers remarkable sound at a reasonable price. If you want a reliable beginner keyboard piano, this one won’t let you down in any areas.
Korg B2 availability and price: SweetwaterAmazon Korg B2SP availability and price: SweetwaterAmazonSound quality
Korg is consistently one of the best when it comes to a realistic piano sound. The B2 Series has five stunning grand pianos, two German and three Italian. They cover a wide range of tones suitable for various styles of music, from Classical to Jazz to Pop.
One thing that we always like about Korg keyboards and digital pianos is that they have great electric pianos. Other manufacturers often do as well, but Korg is really consistent in this area. The B2 Series is no exception, and that encourages beginners to explore new sounds properly.
The sounds come from Korg’s Stereo PCM sound engine. All three B2 models have a max polyphony of 120 notes.
Built-in speakers
The built-in speaker system consists of two 3.9″ speakers and two 15 W amplifiers.
In terms of volume, it’s not going to blow the roof off a club, but it’s more than enough for home use, which is where it should be.
As we say with similar instruments, it would do a good enough job for small public performances/recitals.
The B2 Series has a lovely speaker bar design that flows naturally with the layout of the keyboard. We think that looks far better and more modern than you see on some keyboard/digital pianos.
The cheaper B2N has two 9 W amplifiers rather than 15 W.
Keyboard feel
The B2 and B2SP come with Korg’s Natural Weighted Hammer Actions keys.
Quite often, players will prefer the feel of a keyboard from a certain manufacturer over another. Our opinion is that Korg, along with the likes of Yamaha, Roland, and Kawai, never go far wrong in this area.
In comparison with keyboard pianos under $1000, the B2 performs very well. We can think of a few better, but overall, it’s a nice action with enough weight to make you work hard.
That makes it great for learners because it forces them to learn to control their dynamics, which leads to more expressive playing.
The Korg B2N has semi-weighted keys, and that’s the most significant difference. It’s still a great keyboard piano for beginners, but it does lack the realism of the B2 and B2SP.
Features
Here are some of the key features of the Korg B2 Series.
Software bundle
We’re starting with the software bundle because you don’t always get it with this kind of instrument.
You get access to the Korg Module Le Piano, Korg’s Gadget 2 Le DAW, and a three-month trial membership in Skoove.
The two Korg apps give you amazing sounds and the ability to start working on music production. The Skoove trial gives you access to over 300 tutorial songs and educational content.
Built-in effects
Reverb and Chorus effects add character to your sound.
Internal songs
There are 12 internal songs that you can learn and play along with. You’ll likely outgrow them reasonably quickly, but they are great for kids and beginners.
Half-damper support
Half-damber support means pedaling is a bit more realistic. You can control your sustain with more nuance than just on or off.
Jam with your favorite songs
The B2 Series comes with an audio input, so you can play audio from any external source through the built-in speakers. It’s a great way to practice for a band and get used to playing with other instruments.
In use
Whether you go for the B2 or the B2SP with the wooden stand, you’ll get a great digital piano for home use.
As it’s aimed at beginners, the layout is very minimal. You can switch sounds with a single button, which could be annoying if gigging, but it’s fine at home with just 12 sounds.
The Sound button combines with the Piano Play button to become a function selector. There are only five controls in total, rounded up by a power button, volume knob, and Metronome button.
Beginners should know their way around within 10 minutes, and we think it has enough quality to keep more advanced players amused.
Build quality
The B2 Series is in a price range where it just misses out on having a real premium build quality.
They are lightweight keyboards, relatively speaking, and that means there’s a lot of plastic. We aren’t trying to put you off in any way; it’s more about having a realistic view of what this kind of money gets you.
It doesn’t feel like a high-end, premium keyboard piano, but it doesn’t feel bargain bin cheap, either. In other words, you can comfortably move it around the house, and the odd bump won’t do any major harm.
The B2N is around 5 lbs lighter (20.5 lbs) because it doesn’t have weighted keys.
Connectivity
The B2 series comes with an 1/8″ audio input, an 1/8″ headphone jack (audio output), USB Type B, and Korg’s proprietary pedal jack.
We have a few minor complaints here. Firstly, a 1/4″ headphone jack would allow more options as an audio output. Secondly, while Korg’s pedal jack is great for the included pedal (or optional three-pedal unit), it’s not suitable for any standard 1/4″ pedal jack.
Compared to other keyboard/digital pianos
The Korg B2 and B2SP are two modern pianos that come at a reasonable price. Here are a few alternative options to suit a similar budget.
Korg B2/B2SP vs. Alesis Prestige Artist
We were surprised just how much we liked the Prestige Artist. Taking price and quality into account, we’d probably go for the Prestige Artist.
Check out our Alesis Prestige Artist review
Korg B2/B2SP vs. Yamaha P-45
Yamaha’s P-45 is a popular classic and a great no-nonsense keyboard piano. But, we think newer keyboards like the B2 are starting to pass it by.
Check out our Yamaha P-45 review
Korg B2/B2SP vs. Casio CDP-S350
The Casio CDP-S350 is one of the most feature-packed keyboards in this price range.
We prefer the sound quality of the Korg, but if you want lots of sounds, the CDP-S350 has 700.
For more great options, check out our recommendations for the best beginner digital pianos.
Who is the Korg B2/B2SP best suited for?
Piano students and music production beginners.
- World-class sounds.
- High-quality speaker system.
- Lightweight.
- Realistic feel.
- Fantastic software bundle.
- No 1/4″ pedal input.
