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Have you noticed how electronic musical instruments have become as common in living rooms as a comfy sofa? From compact synths that fit like a paperback to roll-up pianos you can tuck into a backpack, the market in the UK has exploded with options for beginners, hobbyists, and professional musicians alike. Whether you want to explore beats on a grid controller, practice scales quietly with headphones, or gig with a full-sized stage keyboard, there’s a store that fits your style and budget. In this guide I’ll walk you through key retailers like Menkind, popular products such as the Red5 roll up piano, and other trusted UK shops so you can buy with confidence.
Let’s make this simple: an electronic musical instrument generates, processes, or controls sound using electronic circuits and digital technology. That includes keyboards, digital pianos, synthesizers, drum machines, MIDI controllers, and even novelty items like roll-up pianos. Think of them as musical tools that speak the language of electricity and code instead of strings and hammers. They’re versatile, portable, and often more affordable than acoustic alternatives.
Menkind has a reputation for fun, gift-focused tech and gadgets, and that extends into the music world. While not a specialist music store, Menkind stocks approachable electronic instruments that appeal to casual players and gift buyers — think compact keyboards, colorful controllers, and the occasional novelty piano. If you want something that’s more about instant fun than studio-grade fidelity, Menkind is a handy place to browse. The store’s selection often includes brands aimed at beginners and children, which makes it perfect for first-time buyers or someone hunting a quirky present.
The Red5 roll up piano is a great example of the kind of portable, playful product that shows up at retailers like Menkind. It’s a flexible silicone keyboard that can be rolled into a tube for easy storage — sort of like a yoga mat for musicians. These roll-up pianos are prized for portability: they usually pack down to a few inches across and weigh just a couple of pounds, so you can slip one into a backpack or suitcase. They’re handy for practicing on the go, teaching basics, or giving kids a tactile, low-cost way to experiment with melody and rhythm.
Roll-up pianos are brilliant in certain situations and less ideal in others. On the plus side, they’re light, compact, and usually very affordable — many models are under mid-range keyboard prices. They often include built-in speakers and headphone jacks, so you don’t need extra gear. On the downside, their key action is generally non-weighted and lacks the tactile nuance of a proper piano. For a beginner who needs to learn dynamics and touch, a full-size weighted keyboard will be a better teacher. Think of a roll-up piano as training wheels: great for learning the road, but you’ll switch to a sturdier bike as you progress.
If you want more specialist choices, the UK is home to several stores that focus on musical instruments and pro audio gear. These shops offer wider ranges, better after-sales support, and demo options so you can try before you buy. Below are some of the most reliable names to know when shopping for electronic musical instruments in the UK.
Gear4Music is a heavyweight in the UK for musical instruments, from beginner keyboards to advanced synths and stage pianos. The site often has competitive prices, frequent deals, and a huge catalogue that covers 25-key compact controllers up to 61-key and 88-key instruments. For context, a 25-key MIDI controller typically measures about 18 inches long, while a full 88-key stage piano can stretch to about 48 inches. Gear4Music also stocks accessories, so you can grab a stand or sustain pedal in the same order.
Andertons and PMT have built loyal followings among musicians for their knowledgeable staff and hands-on demo environments. While they’re famous for guitars and pro audio, both also sell keyboards, synths, and MIDI gear. If you want to try a synth patch, feel a weighted hammer action, or compare two stage pianos side-by-side, these shops are often a great bet. They frequently carry mid-range and high-end models, and their staff can help match features to your needs.
For quick buys and budget-friendly options, don’t overlook general retailers such as Argos, Amazon UK, and John Lewis. These stores stock everything from entry-level keyboards to roll-up pianos and bundle packs. Argos and John Lewis offer easy in-store collection for same-day pick-up in some locations, which is convenient if you want to test item size in person before heading home. Amazon’s marketplace also gives access to many third-party sellers — just remember to check seller ratings and read reviews carefully.
Choosing the right instrument feels a bit like picking a car: what's important depends on how you plan to use it. Are you composing in a tiny flat, gigging on stage, or teaching kids at home? Here are the key factors to weigh before you click buy.
Key count affects playability. A 25-key controller (around 18 inches long) is ultra-portable and great for simple melodies and controlling software. A 49-key board (roughly 38 inches) is a good middle ground for studio work. A 61-key keyboard (about 48 inches) gives more range without taking up too much space, and an 88-key instrument replicates the full piano range for serious pianists. If you plan to play classical piano music, aim for 88 keys; for modern production and synth work, 49 to 61 keys are usually sufficient.
Weighted keys mimic an acoustic piano’s resistance and are preferred by pianists; semi-weighted or synth-action keys are lighter and faster, favored by synth players. Velocity sensitivity — the ability to detect how hard you press — matters for expressive playing. If you’re unsure, try both actions in person: weighted feels like pressing down on a strong door, while synth-action is more like a light press on a smartphone screen.
If portability is key, measure the instrument before buying. A compact controller can be less than 2 feet long and weigh 3 to 6 pounds, while a full-size stage keyboard can be 4 feet across and weigh 20 to 40 pounds or more. Don’t forget to account for the weight of stands, pedals, and cases — a heavy-duty road case can add several pounds. If you travel often, think in terms of inches and pounds and aim for gear that fits your car trunk or carry capacity comfortably.
Sound quality isn’t just about raw power; it’s about sample depth, speaker quality, and effects. Onboard speakers in smaller keyboards are convenient, but serious players often prefer connecting via stereo line outputs or USB MIDI to an audio interface. Look for features like polyphony (how many notes it can play at once), layering/splitting, built-in effects, and connectivity options such as MIDI DIN, USB, and pedal inputs. If you work with music software, compatibility with your DAW and included software bundles are pluses.
What should you expect to pay? Prices vary widely depending on brand, build quality, and features. Entry-level roll-up pianos and toy keyboards can sit under the mid-price bracket, often costing less than many beginner keyboards. Basic beginner keyboards and MIDI controllers commonly range from modest prices up to a few hundred pounds. Mid-range synths and stage keyboards typically fall between a few hundred to around one thousand pounds, while professional stage pianos and flagship synths can cost well over that. The key is to match price to needs: a casual learner doesn’t need a pro stage piano, and a touring pro wants durability and sound quality.
When comparing retailers like Menkind, Gear4Music, Andertons, or Argos, it helps to check a few things beyond sticker price. Look at bundle contents (does the keyboard include a stand or sustain pedal?), warranty length, and customer reviews. Consider delivery speed and return options if you need to swap an item after trying it at home. Some stores offer demo rooms or in-store tryouts — if that’s important, prioritise shops with physical locations.
Accessories can transform your playing experience. A sturdy X-frame or Z-frame stand keeps your keyboard stable, while a sustain pedal adds sonic realism for piano pieces. Good-quality headphones let you practice without disturbing others; for live work, invest in a DI box and robust cables. For synth producers, a small audio interface and monitor speakers can drastically improve sound quality when recording.
Because roll-up pianos prioritize portability, a few accessories make them more usable: a slim folding stand raises the keyboard to a playable height, a carrying case protects silicone keys, and a compact power bank or USB adapter can extend playtime when you’re away from a wall outlet. Quality headphones help compensate for tinny built-in speakers, giving clearer sound for practice sessions.
Shopping online is convenient but requires care. Check seller ratings, read recent reviews, and look for clear return and warranty information. When buying from marketplaces, confirm whether the seller is UK-based or shipping from abroad — shipping and customs can add unexpected time and cost. Use secure payment methods and keep records of your purchase. If a deal looks too good to be true, trust your instincts and verify authenticity before committing.
Buying electronic musical instruments in the UK is an exciting journey — whether you’re grabbing a playful Red5 roll up piano from a general retailer like Menkind or investing in a pro synth from Gear4Music or Andertons. Know your priorities: portability, key action, connectivity, and budget. Try before you buy when possible, compare bundles and warranties across stores, and pick accessories that’ll help you practice and perform comfortably. With so many options available, you can find gear that fits your lifestyle, whether that’s a tiny studio, a commuter’s backpack, or a full-stage rig.
| Electronic Musical Instruments | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Varilight Urban 1g Plate Brushed Bronze Standard Plate | £ 9,31 |
