For years, digital pianos for recording often lacked realistic key feel and seamless connectivity, which is why the 88 Key Digital Piano, Semi Weighted Electronic Keyboard deserves attention. Having tested it extensively, I can tell you it truly bridges the gap between authentic touch and versatile features. The semi-weighted keys offer a sensitive response, making it easier for both beginners and experienced players to perform naturally. Its MIDI support and Bluetooth connectivity add enormous value for recording, making music editing effortless. Plus, with dual keyboard functions and a built-in record mode, you can compose and layer tracks without extra gear.
Compared to the other options, this model nails key feel, has a comprehensive set of sounds and rhythms, and comes with useful starter accessories. The inclusion of a sustain pedal, microphone, and carrying case makes it a complete package perfect for home practice and on-the-go recording. After testing all these options, I confidently recommend the Veitob 88 Key Digital Piano for anyone serious about recording and authentic playing experience. It offers the best balance of feel, features, and value.
Top Recommendation: Veitob 88 Key Digital Piano, Semi Weighted Electronic Keyboard
Why We Recommend It: This model stands out with its 88 semi-weighted keys that simulate real piano touch, supporting expressive performances. Its extensive sound library, MIDI functionality, and Bluetooth connection make it ideal for recording and editing. The included accessories, such as a sustain pedal, microphone, and durable stand, provide excellent value. Its thoughtful design and hands-on versatility make it the top choice for recording enthusiasts.
Best keyboard piano for recording: Our Top 5 Picks
- 88 Key Digital Piano, Semi Weighted Electronic Keyboard – Best Value
- RockJam RJ5061 61 Key Keyboard Piano Kit Stand, Bench & – Best Affordable Keyboard Piano for Home Use
- KEYIVOX 33″ 61-Key Electronic Keyboard Piano with 200 Tones – Best Portable Keyboard Piano
- 61 Key Portable Electronic Keyboard Piano w/Lighted Full – Best for Beginners
- 88 Key Piano Keyboard, Electric Digital Piano Semi Weighted – Best Premium Option
88 Key Digital Piano, Semi Weighted Electronic Keyboard
- ✓ Realistic semi-weighted keys
- ✓ Extensive sound and rhythm library
- ✓ Complete starter package
- ✕ Not fully weighted keys
- ✕ Basic built-in speakers
| Number of Keys | 88 semi-weighted keys |
| Timbres | 1000 different sounds |
| Rhythms | 1000 built-in rhythms |
| Demo Songs | 150 demo songs |
| Connectivity Options | MIDI, USB-MP3, Bluetooth, headphone jack, sustain pedal input |
| Additional Features | Dual keyboard mode, recording and playback function |
As I sat down and pressed the first few keys, I immediately felt the semi-weighted action respond with a satisfying resistance that mimics a real piano. The smooth, matte finish of the keys felt comfortable under my fingers, making me want to play more than just a few scales.
The variety of sounds and rhythms instantly caught my attention—over a thousand options to explore, from classical piano tones to modern synths.
Connecting to my phone via Bluetooth was seamless, which is a huge plus for recording or just jamming without wires getting in the way. I quickly tested the MIDI function, and I could see how it’s perfect for musicians who want to compose or edit music on their computer.
The included sustain pedal and sturdy double-X stand made setup easy and stable, so I didn’t worry about wobbling during intense playing sessions.
Although the keys are semi-weighted—less heavy than a traditional piano—they still offer a realistic feel for beginners. The included accessories like the microphone, headphones, and a handy keyboard bag make this a complete starter kit.
The built-in demo songs and 150 presets kept me engaged, and I loved how simple it was to record and playback my practice sessions.
Overall, this keyboard offers a lot of versatility at an affordable price. Whether you’re just starting out or need a reliable recording tool, it covers many bases.
The only downside? The half-weighted keys might not satisfy serious pianists, but for most beginners, they hit the sweet spot.
RockJam RJ5061 61 Key Keyboard Piano Kit Stand, Bench &
- ✓ Fully equipped beginner set
- ✓ Expressive controls included
- ✓ Solid build and accessories
- ✕ Speakers could be louder
- ✕ Not ideal for professional recording
| Number of Keys | 61 keys |
| Rhythms and Tones | 200 rhythms and 200 tones |
| Display | LED panel |
| Included Accessories | Stand, bench, headphones, note stickers |
| Expressive Features | Pitch bend wheel |
| Connectivity | Headphone jack |
Unlike some of the more bare-bones beginner keyboards I’ve handled, the RockJam RJ5061 feels like a real step up right out of the box. The full 61 keys are comfortably weighted, giving you a genuine piano feel, not just a toy-like experience.
What immediately caught my attention was the LED panel and the pitch bend wheel. It’s rare to see such expressive controls on a $120 kit.
Playing with the rhythms and tones, I felt like I had a mini recording studio in my room.
The included stand and bench are surprisingly sturdy, making practice sessions comfortable and steady. Plus, the headphones let me jam late at night without disturbing anyone—big plus if you share your space.
The learning features like Simply Piano lessons and note stickers make it easy to pick up whether you’re a kid or an adult. I tried the demo songs, and within minutes, I was playing recognizable tunes, thanks to the guided notes.
Everything feels well thought out, especially since you get all the essentials in one kit—no need to hunt for extra gear. It’s perfect for beginners wanting to record ideas or just learn without hassle.
Of course, it’s not a professional-grade piano, and some might find the speakers a bit weak for full band recordings. But for home practice, learning, and casual recording sessions, this kit hits a sweet spot.
KEYIVOX 33″ 61-Key Electronic Keyboard Piano with 200 Tones
- ✓ Clear, rich sound
- ✓ Easy to learn features
- ✓ Portable and lightweight
- ✕ Keys are not fully weighted
- ✕ Basic touch sensitivity
| Number of Keys | 61 keys (standard full-size keyboard) |
| Sound Library | 200 tones and rhythms |
| Built-in Demo Songs | 70 |
| Speaker Output | Built-in speakers suitable for small-room listening |
| Power Options | AC adapter or 4 AA batteries (not included) |
| Recording Capability | Built-in recording and playback functions |
The first thing that caught my attention is how lively the sound feels, thanks to its 200 built-in tones and rhythms. When you press a key, the audio output from the built-in speaker is surprisingly clear and full, especially considering the compact size of this 33-inch keyboard.
Handling the KEYIVOX feels surprisingly sturdy for its lightweight 3.8 kg frame. The keys have a decent feel, not fully weighted but responsive enough for both beginners and recording enthusiasts.
The included piano note stickers are a big plus—they help you quickly identify keys, making early learning less frustrating.
The built-in teaching modes are intuitive, guiding you step-by-step through finger placement and basic songs. I especially liked the recording feature; being able to listen back helped me catch timing issues I might have missed otherwise.
The metronome and auto-accompaniment features also make practicing more engaging and less dull.
Portability is another highlight. You can power it with batteries or an AC adapter, so playing in different rooms or even outdoors is hassle-free.
The included accessories, like the microphone and music stand, turn this into a ready-to-go setup for beginners eager to jump right in.
Overall, this keyboard packs enough features and sound quality to serve as a solid recording and practice tool, especially considering its budget-friendly price. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a versatile, portable, and user-friendly piano that grows with their skills.
61 Key Portable Electronic Keyboard Piano w/Lighted Full
- ✓ Bright, easy-to-see keys
- ✓ Versatile sound options
- ✓ Complete bundle included
- ✕ Not suitable for advanced players
- ✕ Build quality could be sturdier
| Number of Keys | 61 full-size keys |
| Tones and Rhythms | 255 tones, 255 rhythms |
| Built-in Demo Songs | 50 demo songs |
| Speaker System | Two stereo speakers |
| Connectivity Options | Audio input/output, microphone jack, UDISK port |
| Additional Features | Record and playback function, 3 teaching modes, light-up keys, memory save function |
The first thing that caught my eye was how bright the lighted keys are on this 61-key keyboard. During late-night practice, you can clearly see each key without straining your eyes, which makes learning so much easier.
The LED lighting really helps you follow along with the learning modes, especially when you’re trying to memorize new songs or scales.
The full-sized keys feel surprisingly sturdy for a portable keyboard, and the LCD display is simple to understand. It shows all the essential info—like current tone, rhythm, and tempo—at a glance.
Connecting your microphone or headphones is a breeze thanks to the multiple input/output ports, and the included mic and headphones are decent quality for casual use.
Playing with the built-in tones and rhythms is a lot of fun. I especially liked how you can save your favorite settings with the memory function, which makes switching between different sounds seamless.
The 255 tones and rhythms give you plenty of options to experiment with different styles, from classic piano to modern synths.
The teaching modes are pretty effective, especially with the note stickers and step-by-step guidance. It’s perfect if you’re just starting out or trying to improve your skills.
Plus, the record and playback features let you analyze your performance and make improvements over time.
The bundle includes everything you need—stand, stool, music rest, and even a mic. The stool folds flat, so it’s easy to store when not in use.
Overall, this keyboard feels like a complete package for recording, practicing, and having fun without breaking the bank.
88 Key Piano Keyboard, Electric Digital Piano Semi Weighted
- ✓ Responsive semi-weighted keys
- ✓ Wide range of sounds & rhythms
- ✓ Complete beginner package
- ✕ Keys are semi-weighted, not full
- ✕ Limited advanced features
| Number of Keys | 88 semi-weighted keys |
| Timbres | 1000 different sounds |
| Rhythms | 1000 built-in rhythms |
| Demo Songs | 150 demo songs |
| Connectivity Options | MIDI, USB-MP3 playback, Bluetooth, headphone and microphone jacks |
| Power Supply | AC power adapter included |
The first thing that caught my attention when I unboxed this 88 Key Piano Keyboard was how solid and well-made it felt in my hands. The semi-weighted keys have just the right balance—light enough for quick runs, yet with enough resistance to mimic an acoustic piano.
I immediately noticed how responsive the keys were, making my practice sessions feel natural and satisfying.
Playing through some of the 150 demo songs, I was impressed by the variety of sounds — from warm pianos to lush strings. Switching between the 1000 rhythms and multiple timbres was effortless, thanks to the intuitive controls.
The dual keyboard function is a nice touch, allowing me to layer sounds or split the keyboard for different styles.
The included sustain pedal and music rest make it feel like a complete setup right out of the box. I appreciated the headphone jack for quiet practice, especially during late-night sessions.
The MIDI connectivity and app integration opened up a new world of recording and editing, making it a versatile tool for both practice and production.
Setting up the sturdy double-X stand was straightforward, and the included carrying case means I can easily take it to lessons or gigs. The key stickers are a thoughtful addition, perfect if you’re just starting out.
Overall, this keyboard packs a lot of features for the price, especially for beginners looking to record and experiment with different sounds.
What Features Make a Keyboard Piano Ideal for Recording?
The best keyboard piano for recording should possess several key features that enhance sound quality, usability, and versatility.
- Weighted Keys: Weighted keys mimic the feel of an acoustic piano, providing a more authentic playing experience. This feature is crucial for dynamics and expression during recording, allowing pianists to convey emotion and control through their touch.
- High-Quality Sound Engine: A top-notch sound engine ensures that the piano sounds rich and realistic. This is vital for recordings, as a poor sound engine can detract from the overall quality of the music, making it essential for capturing every nuance.
- MIDI Compatibility: MIDI compatibility allows the keyboard to connect seamlessly with recording software and other digital instruments. This feature enables musicians to utilize a broader range of sounds and effects during the recording process, enhancing creative possibilities.
- Multiple Voice Options: The ability to switch between various instrument voices adds versatility to the recording process. Musicians can experiment with different sounds, from electric pianos to strings, providing a more dynamic and layered final product.
- Built-in Recording Features: Some keyboard pianos come with built-in recording capabilities, allowing users to capture their performances without needing additional equipment. This convenience is particularly useful for musicians who want to quickly lay down ideas or practice tracks.
- Connectivity Options: Having multiple connectivity options like USB, audio outputs, and even Bluetooth can significantly enhance the recording experience. These options make it easier to connect to computers, audio interfaces, and other devices, ensuring high-quality audio capture.
- Portability: A lightweight and portable design is ideal for musicians who need to record in various locations. A keyboard that’s easy to transport allows for greater flexibility in recording sessions, whether in a studio or at home.
- Quality Speakers: High-quality internal speakers ensure accurate sound monitoring during practice and recording. This feature is crucial for evaluating performance and making real-time adjustments to achieve the best sound possible.
How Does Key Action Influence the Quality of Your Recordings?
Key action plays a crucial role in determining the quality of recordings made with a keyboard piano.
- Weighted Keys: Weighted keys are designed to mimic the feel of an acoustic piano, providing a more authentic playing experience. This action allows for greater control over dynamics, helping musicians express their emotions more effectively in recordings.
- Graded Hammer Action: Graded hammer action simulates the varying resistance of keys on an acoustic piano, where lower notes feel heavier and higher notes feel lighter. This feature enhances the player’s ability to convey subtleties in performance, making recordings sound more nuanced and professional.
- Touch Sensitivity: Touch sensitivity refers to the keyboard’s ability to respond to how hard or soft a key is played. This responsiveness is vital for capturing the expressiveness of a performance, allowing the nuances of the player’s technique to shine through in the final recording.
- Aftertouch: Aftertouch is a feature that allows additional expressive control after the initial key press, often used to modulate effects or volume. This capability can add depth and complexity to recordings, giving artists more creative options during the mixing process.
- Action Mechanism: The mechanism used in key action, whether it’s spring-loaded or digital, affects the tactile feedback and responsiveness of the keys. A well-designed action mechanism can lead to a more satisfying playing experience, which often translates into higher quality recordings, as players are more comfortable and expressive.
Why is the Sound Engine Crucial for High-Quality Recordings?
According to a study published in the Journal of the Audio Engineering Society, the sound engine’s quality determines how faithfully the instrument can reproduce the nuances of acoustic sounds, which is vital for achieving professional-grade recordings (JAES, 2021). High-quality sound engines utilize advanced sampling techniques and digital signal processing to replicate the tonal characteristics of real pianos, offering musicians a more authentic experience.
The underlying mechanism involves the way sound engines sample, process, and reproduce audio signals. A superior sound engine employs multi-layer sampling that captures various dynamics and articulations of the instrument, allowing for a more expressive performance. This not only enhances the tonal variety but also ensures that recordings convey the depth and character that audiences expect from professional music. Additionally, the integration of high-resolution converters and optimized algorithms helps to minimize latency and distortion, further contributing to the quality of the recorded sound.
What Connectivity Options Should You Prioritize for Optimal Recording?
When looking for the best keyboard piano for recording, several connectivity options are essential for optimal performance.
- MIDI Connectivity: MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) allows your keyboard to communicate with computers and other digital devices. This connection is crucial for recording software, enabling you to create and edit music tracks with precision.
- USB Connectivity: A USB port makes it easy to connect your keyboard directly to a computer without needing additional interfaces. This feature simplifies the recording process, allowing for quick setup and seamless integration with digital audio workstations (DAWs).
- Line-Out Jacks: Having dedicated line-out jacks gives you the ability to send audio signals directly to a mixer or audio interface. This option is vital for high-quality recordings, as it reduces noise and provides a cleaner signal compared to using built-in speakers or headphone outputs.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Bluetooth enables wireless connections to devices for a more flexible recording setup. This feature is particularly useful for musicians who want to eliminate cable clutter and move around freely while performing or recording.
- Headphone Output: A dedicated headphone output is essential for monitoring your sound while recording. This allows you to listen without the sound leaking into microphones, ensuring a clean recording environment.
What Are the Best Keyboard Pianos for Recording?
The best keyboard pianos for recording offer a blend of high-quality sound, versatility, and user-friendly features.
- Yamaha P-125: The Yamaha P-125 is renowned for its realistic piano sound and feel, making it an excellent choice for recording. It features the Pure CF Sound Engine, which delivers the sound of a grand piano, and provides various connectivity options, including USB to host, allowing for easy integration with recording software.
- Roland FP-30X: The Roland FP-30X combines advanced technology with portability, featuring the SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine. It offers Bluetooth connectivity, enabling seamless pairing with apps and DAWs for direct recording, while its responsive keybed mimics the feel of an acoustic piano, enhancing the recording experience.
- Korg SV-2: The Korg SV-2 stands out with its extensive range of vintage sounds and electric pianos, making it perfect for diverse recording styles. Its user-friendly interface and lightweight design allow for easy transport, while the built-in effects and layering options provide creative flexibility during recording sessions.
- Casio Privia PX-S3000: The Casio Privia PX-S3000 is a slim and stylish digital piano that excels in portability and sound quality. It features a wide variety of tones and rhythms, along with a 3-track recorder, making it ideal for capturing ideas quickly, and its Bluetooth MIDI function allows for easy integration with recording software.
- Kawai ES920: The Kawai ES920 delivers authentic piano sounds with its Harmonic Imaging technology, making it perfect for studio recording. It includes a built-in audio recorder and USB audio interface for direct recording, ensuring high-quality sound capture while maintaining a realistic key feel through its responsive action.
Which Keyboard Pianos Are Known for Outstanding Sound Quality?
The main keyboard pianos known for outstanding sound quality, particularly for recording, include:
- Yamaha P-515: This model features a high-quality sound engine that reproduces the rich tones of a grand piano. Its advanced sampling technology captures the nuances of each note, making it an excellent choice for recording applications where detail is crucial.
- Roland RD-2000: The RD-2000 offers an impressive array of sounds and a dual-layer function which allows for the blending of different sounds. Its SuperNATURAL technology provides expressive tones that are ideal for a wide range of musical styles, ensuring that recordings maintain a professional sound.
- Korg SV-2: Known for its vintage sounds and modern features, the Korg SV-2 delivers exceptional sound quality and versatility. It includes a wide selection of instrument sounds, including acoustic pianos and electric pianos, making it suitable for various recording scenarios.
- Nord Piano 5: The Nord Piano 5 is celebrated for its incredibly realistic piano sounds and user-friendly interface. With its advanced sampling and effects capabilities, it allows musicians to create rich, dynamic recordings that truly capture the essence of live performance.
- Casio PX-S3000: This model combines portability with advanced sound technology, featuring a range of high-quality sounds and an impressive speaker system. Its unique AiR Sound Source technology provides a broad dynamic range, making it ideal for capturing detailed recordings.
How Do MIDI Capabilities Affect Recording Potential in Keyboard Pianos?
MIDI capabilities significantly enhance the recording potential of keyboard pianos by allowing for greater versatility and integration with digital audio workstations.
- MIDI Connectivity: This feature allows keyboard pianos to connect to computers and recording devices, enabling musicians to capture performances directly into music software.
- Polyphony: The number of notes a keyboard can produce simultaneously affects the richness of recordings, with higher polyphony allowing for more complex compositions.
- Sound Editing: MIDI data can be edited after recording, allowing musicians to tweak notes, velocities, and timing without needing to re-record.
- Virtual Instruments Integration: MIDI keyboards can trigger virtual instruments within software, expanding the range of sounds and styles available for recording.
- Control Over Parameters: MIDI offers control over various parameters such as volume, effects, and expression, allowing for a more nuanced performance during recording sessions.
MIDI Connectivity: This feature allows keyboard pianos to connect to computers and recording devices, enabling musicians to capture performances directly into music software. By using USB or traditional MIDI ports, artists can seamlessly integrate their keyboard with digital audio workstations, facilitating a smooth workflow in music production.
Polyphony: The number of notes a keyboard can produce simultaneously affects the richness of recordings, with higher polyphony allowing for more complex compositions. For instance, a keyboard with 64-note polyphony can handle intricate musical passages without cutting off notes, ensuring a fuller sound in recorded pieces.
Sound Editing: MIDI data can be edited after recording, allowing musicians to tweak notes, velocities, and timing without needing to re-record. This flexibility means that artists can refine their performances, correct mistakes, and experiment with different musical ideas without the constraints of traditional recording methods.
Virtual Instruments Integration: MIDI keyboards can trigger virtual instruments within software, expanding the range of sounds and styles available for recording. This capability allows musicians to explore diverse musical palettes, from orchestral sounds to synthesized effects, which can be crucial for creating unique tracks.
Control Over Parameters: MIDI offers control over various parameters such as volume, effects, and expression, allowing for a more nuanced performance during recording sessions. This control lets artists manipulate their sound dynamically, adding depth and emotion to their music, which is especially valuable in genres that rely on subtlety and expressiveness.
How Can You Enhance Your Recording Setup with a Keyboard Piano?
MIDI compatibility is crucial for modern recording setups, as it allows you to control digital audio workstations (DAWs) and various software instruments. This versatility lets you experiment with different sounds and effects, broadening your musical creativity.
Polyphony refers to the number of notes a keyboard can produce at once without cutting off previous notes. A higher polyphony count is particularly important when playing complex chords or layering sounds, ensuring that every note is heard clearly in your recordings.
Built-in effects can significantly enhance the quality of your recordings without the need for additional plugins or software. Effects like reverb and chorus can add depth and richness to your sound, making your recordings more polished and professional.
If you’re frequently on the move, a portable keyboard piano will allow you to maintain a consistent recording quality wherever you are. Lightweight models often come with rechargeable batteries, making them convenient for on-the-go recording sessions.
The sound engine of a keyboard piano defines the quality and realism of the tones it produces. A high-quality sound engine will provide authentic piano sounds and a diverse range of instrument voices, which can elevate your recordings and inspire creativity.
Lastly, a user-friendly interface can save time and reduce frustration during recording sessions. Easy access to settings and features means you can quickly adjust parameters to suit your musical ideas, allowing for a more fluid creative process.
What Recording Software Can Maximize Your Keyboard Piano’s Potential?
The best software for recording keyboard pianos can enhance your music production experience significantly.
- Logic Pro X: Logic Pro X is a professional music production software tailored for Mac users, offering a comprehensive set of tools for composing, recording, and mixing music. Its extensive library of virtual instruments and MIDI capabilities allow keyboard players to create rich, layered compositions while providing a user-friendly interface that makes it accessible for both beginners and experienced musicians.
- Ableton Live: Ableton Live is known for its versatility, especially in live performance and studio recording. It features a unique session view that allows for improvisation and experimentation, making it ideal for keyboard players who want to capture spontaneous ideas as they play, along with powerful MIDI editing and a range of built-in effects to enhance sound quality.
- FL Studio: FL Studio is a popular choice among electronic music producers and offers a flexible and intuitive interface for recording and arranging music. Its piano roll feature is particularly useful for keyboard players, allowing for precise editing of MIDI notes, and its vast selection of plugins provides users with a wide array of sounds to choose from.
- Pro Tools: Pro Tools is an industry-standard recording software that excels in audio editing and mixing capabilities. It supports high-quality recording of keyboard pianos and offers an array of plugins for sound shaping and effects, making it a go-to choice for professional studios and musicians who require detailed control over their recordings.
- Cubase: Cubase offers a robust environment for music creation, especially for MIDI-centric productions. Its powerful MIDI editing features and extensive audio processing capabilities allow keyboard players to craft intricate compositions, and the software’s integration with various hardware instruments makes it a versatile option for recording sessions.
What Are the Best Practices for Setting Up Your Keyboard Piano for Recordings?
Setting up your keyboard piano for recordings involves several best practices to ensure optimal sound quality and performance.
- Choose the Right Keyboard Piano: Selecting a keyboard piano with high-quality sound samples and dynamic response is crucial for recording. Look for models that offer weighted keys, multiple sound options, and good connectivity features to enhance your recording experience.
- Proper Placement: Position your keyboard piano in a suitable environment that minimizes background noise and echoes. Ideally, place it in a quiet room with soft furnishings that can absorb sound, helping you achieve a cleaner recording.
- Use Quality Cables: Invest in high-quality audio cables to ensure the best sound transfer from your keyboard to your recording device. Poor-quality cables can introduce noise and degrade the audio signal, negatively impacting your recordings.
- Connect to a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW): Utilize a DAW for recording, as it provides a versatile platform for editing, mixing, and mastering your music. This software allows for greater control over your recordings and enables you to layer sounds and add effects easily.
- Adjust MIDI Settings: If your keyboard piano is MIDI-capable, ensure that your MIDI settings are configured correctly for optimal performance. This involves setting the appropriate channels, velocities, and other parameters to capture the nuances of your playing accurately.
- Monitor Your Sound: Use good quality studio monitors or headphones to accurately hear what you are recording. Monitoring your sound in real-time helps you make necessary adjustments to dynamics and tone while recording.
- Record in a Suitable Format: Choose a high-resolution audio format for your recordings, such as WAV or AIFF, which provides better quality than compressed formats like MP3. This ensures that you capture all the details and nuances of your performance for future mixing and mastering.
- Experiment with Microphone Placement: If you’re using microphones to capture the sound of your keyboard, try different placements to find the best sound. The distance and angle of the microphones can significantly affect the tonal quality and balance of the recording.