MIDI controllers, digital pianos, arranger keyboards, and synthesizer keyboards are all types of electronic keyboards that are used in different ways and for different purposes.
MIDI Controller
A MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) controller is a device that sends MIDI data to a computer or other digital device in order to control software synthesizers, virtual instruments, or other MIDI-compatible hardware. MIDI controllers typically do not produce sound on their own and require an external device to produce sound. If you are a producer, composer, or performer who wants to control software synthesizers, virtual instruments, or other MIDI-compatible hardware, you will likely need a MIDI controller. MIDI controllers allow you to play, record, and control the sound of other devices or software in real-time.
Digital Piano
A digital piano is an electronic piano that aims to recreate the experience of playing an acoustic piano. They often have weighted keys, hammer-action keys, or other features to simulate the feel of playing a traditional piano. They can also produce sound through built-in speakers or through outputs to connect to an external sound system. If you are a beginner, student, or professional pianist who wants a portable, affordable, or convenient alternative to an acoustic piano, you will likely need a digital piano. Digital pianos offer a realistic playing experience and often include features like weighted keys and sound samples of real pianos.
Arranger
An arranger keyboard is an electronic keyboard that includes features such as built-in rhythm accompaniments, sound effects, and the ability to arrange and compose music on the fly. They are often used by performers or hobbyists who want to create a full-band sound without having to bring along multiple instruments or a backing track. If you are a performer who wants a one-man-band setup, or if you are a hobbyist who wants to quickly create and arrange music, you will likely need an arranger keyboard. Arranger keyboards typically have built-in accompaniments, sound effects, and the ability to quickly switch between different styles of music.
Synthesizer
A synthesizer keyboard is an electronic keyboard that generates sound using analog or digital synthesis techniques. Synthesizers can create a wide range of sounds and are often used by producers and musicians for creating music in a variety of genres, from electronic to rock to jazz. Some synthesizers also include features such as arpeggiators, drum machines, and built-in effects. If you are a producer, composer, or performer who wants to create new and unique sounds, you will likely need a synthesizer keyboard. Synthesizers allow you to generate a wide range of sounds using analog or digital synthesis techniques and often include features like arpeggiators, drum machines, and built-in effects.
In conclusion, MIDI controllers, digital pianos, arranger keyboards, and synthesizer keyboards are all types of electronic keyboards that are used for different purposes and by different types of musicians and users. MIDI controllers allow you to control software synthesizers, virtual instruments, or other MIDI-compatible hardware, while digital pianos aim to provide a realistic playing experience similar to that of an acoustic piano. Arranger keyboards offer the ability to create and arrange music quickly and easily, and synthesizer keyboards allow for the creation of unique and versatile sounds through analog or digital synthesis techniques. Each type of keyboard offers different features, sounds, and playing experiences, and the type of keyboard you choose will depend on your specific musical goals and the type of music you want to create.