Loog, a renowned company known for producing high-quality starter instruments for kids, has introduced a new addition to their lineup – the Loog Piano. While still compact in size, this instrument offers features that cater to both novice players and experienced musicians.
One of the distinctive selling points of the Loog Piano is its visually appealing design. The three-octave keyboard is nestled between solid wood sides, and the top is adorned with vibrant red “sonically transparent fabric” that adds a touch of elegance. The company prides itself on the instrument’s “musician-grade sound and design.” The design is undoubtedly impressive, but what about the sound quality? The built-in stereo speakers allow for playing without headphones, and Loog claims that the keys have dynamics, enabling users to play from soft to loud. Moreover, this keyboard incorporates velocity-sensitive keys, making it one of the first instruments of its size and price range to offer this feature. To get a glimpse of its capabilities, you can watch a demo video showcasing the piano’s performance without any post effects.
Loog emphasizes that the instrument combines sampled and modeled sounds, aiming to replicate the attack, decay, and nuances between notes found in an actual piano. The combination of the built-in speakers and velocity engine further enhances the piano’s ability to mimic an analog instrument. However, it is important to note that the Loog Piano is a digital piano, so transitioning to a traditional piano in the future may require a slight adjustment period.
Portability is another notable feature of the Loog Piano, as it is powered by batteries and weighs around five pounds. With approximately three hours of playtime per charge through the built-in USB-C port, users can enjoy playing on the go. Furthermore, while the speakers are a significant attraction, the instrument also allows for private playing by connecting headphones.
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It’s worth mentioning what the Loog Piano doesn’t offer. Unlike many other keyboards on the market, it does not come with hundreds of preset sounds or built-in effects. Instead, Loog’s focus is solely on delivering an exceptional piano sound. The company believes that by dedicating the instrument’s full capacity to the piano sound, they can ensure its authenticity and quality.
Despite its minimalistic approach, the Loog Piano does incorporate one notable tech-forward feature. It integrates with a proprietary app designed to assist in learning the piano. This app provides lessons and game-like exercises to make the learning process engaging and enjoyable. Additionally, the instrument is compatible with other learning software. As an added bonus, the Loog Piano comes with a set of traditional flashcards, offering a low-tech method of teaching chords and scales.
Rather than opting for a traditional retail launch, Loog took to Kickstarter to generate support for the new instrument. Currently, the project has exceeded its initial goal by a factor of 30, indicating strong demand. Consequently, the company plans to begin shipping units in April. Early adopters can take advantage of a discounted price of $250, which is 20 percent off the eventual retail price.
In conclusion, the Loog Piano combines a visually appealing design with musician-grade sound and features that cater to both beginners and experienced musicians. With its portable nature, battery-powered operation, and integration with a dedicated app for learning, it offers a well-rounded experience for those interested in exploring the piano. By emphasizing the instrument’s piano sound and foregoing superfluous features, Loog has created a product that prioritizes quality and user experience.
