Which keyboard is the best for using with Simply Piano?

The Casio Privia PX-S1100 is the most capable Simply Piano keyboard in this price range. It supports Bluetooth MIDI via the included WU-BT10 adapter, making wireless connection to the app seamless. Its 88 weighted keys give a realistic playing experience. The Yamaha P-145 is the most reliable wired option via USB if you prefer a cable connection.

Does Simply Piano need a MIDI connection, or does it listen through the microphone?

Simply Piano uses the iPad or iPhone microphone to detect which notes you are playing — no MIDI connection is technically required. However, a MIDI connection (USB or Bluetooth) is strongly recommended: it is faster, more accurate, eliminates ambient noise interference, and enables features like backing tracks that pause if you play incorrectly.

Can I use an unweighted keyboard with Simply Piano?

Yes — Simply Piano will work with any keyboard that produces audible notes or sends a MIDI signal. An unweighted keyboard like the Casiotone CT-S1 is a functional and affordable starting point. The limitation is not the app; it's the technique you develop. Unweighted keys do not build proper finger strength or dynamic control, so upgrading to a weighted keyboard is advisable once you commit to learning.

Is Bluetooth MIDI or wired USB more reliable for Simply Piano?

Wired USB is more reliable — zero latency, no pairing issues, and no battery drain. Bluetooth MIDI introduces a small but perceptible delay (typically 5–20ms) and occasional dropout issues depending on device proximity and interference. For most learners, Bluetooth MIDI works fine. Advanced students working on timing precision should prefer a direct USB connection.

Why does Simply Piano keep flagging right notes as wrong?

Almost always one of three causes: (1) microphone-mode interference — if your iPad is using its microphone instead of MIDI, ambient noise (TV, fan, traffic) makes the app misread notes. Switch to MIDI input in Simply Piano settings. (2) Velocity sensitivity off — some keyboards have velocity-sensitivity settings that, if misconfigured, send notes at uniform volume that confuse the app's detection. Check your keyboard's manual for "Touch Sensitivity" or similar. (3) Wrong octave — the app expects the correct octave for the lesson; if your keyboard has been transposed, even the correct note registers as wrong. Reset transposition to 0. With MIDI input and default keyboard settings, false-flag errors should be rare.

Does Simply Piano work with Android tablets and phones?

Yes — Simply Piano is available on Android and works similarly to the iOS version. Bluetooth MIDI keyboards (PX-S1100 with adapter) connect through Android's native Bluetooth MIDI service. Wired USB connections require a USB OTG adapter ($5–10) appropriate for your Android device's port (USB-C or older micro-USB). Functionality is essentially identical to the iPad experience. The Yamaha P-145 and Casio CDP-S160 work over USB on both platforms; the Casio PX-S1100 works over both Bluetooth and USB.