SERP

A sustain pedal transforms your playing experience by extending note sustain on electric pianos and synthesizers, capturing the essence of classic piano sounds. Our roundup compares the most reliable sustain pedals available today, helping you find the right one for your musical needs.

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Reviews

Stagg SUSPED 5 Keyboard Sustain Pedal

Stagg's SUSPED 5 pedal combines durable black metal construction with a practical 6-foot cable featuring both open and closed polarity settings. The anti-slip rubber coating on the footplate and base provides stability during performances, while its professional-grade build quality earned top marks from gigging keyboard players who recommend it highly.

Roland DP-2 Sustain Pedal

The Roland DP-2 Damper Pedal adds essential foot control to your Roland keyboard rig, with a reliable momentary switch that doubles as a tap-tempo controller for BOSS delay pedals. Its compact black plastic design packs durable functionality into a space-saving package, featuring a secure rubber base that prevents slippage on smooth surfaces. The extra-long 3-meter cable lets you position the pedal anywhere in your setup, making it a practical upgrade for both home studios and live performances.

Piano Sustain Pedal

This sustain pedal brings concert-quality sound control to your practice session with its durable alloy construction and precise 1/4-inch plug connection. The stability is impressive thanks to the anti-slip pad and the right-angle cable design that keeps the pedal exactly where you need it. Whether you're playing digital piano or electronic organ, the simple but effective polarity switch makes it a versatile addition to any keyboard setup.

US Sustain Pedal with Polarity Switch

This sustain pedal delivers realistic piano-like sustain with precise half-pedal control, featuring a durable chrome design with 63-inch cable and polarity switch for versatile keyboard compatibility. The slip-resistant base provides secure footing while the compact size fits easily under digital pianos.

Fzone Compact Sustain Pedal

This compact sustain pedal lives up to its all-metal construction with a reassuringly solid feel underfoot. The rubber-coated base does an awesome job of staying put on both hard floors and carpets, giving your foot solid feedback when you press down. The polarity switch makes it super-compatible with pretty much any keyboard, synth, or digital piano you've got plugged in.

Donner Sustain Pedal

This sturdy sustain pedal brings acoustic-like expression to electronic keyboards and digital pianos, with a classic chrome design that's both stylish and practical. The quality construction features a solid metal pedal and thick plastic housing that requires firm pressure to depress, matching the feel of an acoustic piano. At 63 inches long, the cable gives you plenty of flexibility to place the pedal where you need it while keeping the connection secure with a 1/4" jack input. The rubberized cover and slip-resistant bottom grip ensure the pedal stays firmly in place during intense playing sessions.

H&A Keyboard Sustain Pedal

This sustain pedal transforms any keyboard into a rich acoustic piano, with the same resonance and sustain. The 6-foot cable and polarity switch make it compatible with most electronic keyboards and digital pianos. The rubber base grips firmly during performance, while the chrome finish adds a stylish touch.

Performance Plus Electronic Sustain Pedal

This simple yet effective pedal lets you hold notes and chords on your Yamaha or Casio keyboard, just like on a real piano. The adjustable polarity switch means it works with most electronic keyboards, and the 6-foot cable make it easy to use while sitting down. The non-slip feet keep it steady during your solo.

M-Audio SP-1 Sustain Pedal

The M-Audio SP-1 delivers robust performance with its heavy-metal construction and reliable spring action. At just the right height for comfortable footwork, the pedal features durable rubber bases that prevent slippage on smooth floors. The compact design houses a sturdy metal switch and includes a polarity toggle for compatibility with various keyboard setups.

Roland DP-10 Damper Pedal

Elevate your digital piano playing with this robust damper pedal that mirrors the feel of an acoustic piano. The metal construction and premium plastic shell provide lasting durability, while the non-slip rubber base keeps it firmly in place on any surface. The extra-long cable and half-damper compatibility make it perfect for both home practice and performance setups.

Proline Professional Sustain Pedal

The Proline Professional Sustain Pedal brings realistic piano feel to your keyboard setup with its heavy-duty construction and silent operation. The switchable polarity feature and stable-grip rubber sole ensure compatibility with most keyboards while preventing unwanted movement on hard floors.

Koldot Sustain Pedal

This sustain pedal features a robust construction of ABS plastic and metal, engineered for lasting performance with anti-rust and anti-corrosion protection. Its space-saving design includes a polarity switch that ensures compatibility with all electronic keyboards, while the non-slip rubber mat delivers consistent response for both practice and performance. At just 381 grams, the compact pedal won't add unnecessary weight to your keyboard stand.

M-Audio SP-2 Universal Sustain Pedal

This versatile sustain pedal brings the feel of an acoustic piano to electronic keyboards, with weighted action and natural spring response. The rubber-coated chrome footboard provides durable pedal pressure, while the 6-foot cable and polarity switch ensure compatibility with all keyboard brands.

Casio SP3R Sustain Pedal

At just the right size for travel or compact performance spaces, the Casio SP3R sustain pedal offers realistic keyboard control with its foot-activated sustain feature. Compatible with a wide range of Casio digital pianos and keyboards, including the popular WK-220 model, this affordable pedal adds professional touch sensitivity to your playing while remaining surprisingly durable for its price point.

Ashthorpe Sustain Pedal

This well-regarded electronic keyboard sustain pedal makes a substantial improvement for digital pianists by providing strong note sustaining similar to acoustic instruments. The simple, effective design fits easily under most keyboards, while the polarity switch gives you better control over sustained notes. At just over 10 inches long, it's a practical addition that enhances your playing experience without taking up much space.

Casio WU-BT10 Bluetooth Audio/MIDI Adapter

This clever adapter bridges the gap between vintage Casiotone keyboards and modern music production, letting you stream audio from smartphones while sending MIDI data to other digital devices. The included sustain pedal adds that vital touch of realism to your playing, while the compact design keeps things simple and hassle-free. With its combination of technical prowess and practicality, the WU-BT10 has become the go-to solution for Casiotone enthusiasts looking to breathe new life into their favorite keyboards.

M-Audio SP-2 Sustain Pedal

The M-Audio SP-2 sustain pedal brings realistic piano feel to digital keyboards with its weighted mechanism and rubber-coated design. Compatible with all electronic keyboards, it offers precise half-pedal control through its switchable damper system. The heavy-duty construction, proven through thousands of user reviews, ensures reliable performance whether you're practicing at home or performing live.

Proline Standard Metal Sustain Pedal

This Proline sustain pedal delivers a heavy-duty, stable performance with its metal construction and rubber-soled base. The switchable polarity feature makes it compatible with most keyboards, and the momentary switching ensures accurate note sustention. The 6-foot cable provides ample length for desktop or stage setup.

RockJam Universal Sustain Pedal

Designed for versatility, this sustain pedal works with any keyboard brand thanks to its polarity switch feature. Its sturdy build combines a stainless steel pedal with a chrome-finished sustain mechanism that mimics the feel of a piano. The 6.35 mm jack connection is compatible with all manufacturers, making it a practical addition to any electronic keyboard setup.

Alesis ASP-2 Universal Piano-Style Sustain Pedal

The Alesis ASP-2 brings the weight and feel of an acoustic piano's sustain pedal to your electronic keyboard, thanks to its well-engineered rubber base that prevents movement during intense playing sessions. This trusty pedal works with any keyboard, featuring a polarity switch that ensures compatibility with your instrument. At 6 feet long, the sturdy cable provides generous length for both sitting and standing play, while the included cover protects the pedal when it's not in use.

Korg DS1H Piano Half Damper Sustain Pedal

The Korg DS1H adds a nuanced touch to your playing, offering more control than basic on-off sustain. Its sturdy metal construction feels reassuring underfoot, while the half-damper feature lets you ghost notes and shape your sound with greater precision. Whether you're recording delicate piano parts or adding nuance to your keyboard compositions, this pedal raises your playing to the next level.

Joyo JSP-10 Piano Keyboard Sustain Pedal

This compact sustain pedal measures just 1.5 meters in cable length, with a robust 6.35mm jack connection that's compatible with most keyboards and digital pianos. The battery-free pedal features a polarity switch and comes in sleek black, making it a practical addition to any home music setup.

Yamaha FC5 Sustain Pedal

The FC5 functions perfectly as a sustain pedal for electronic keyboards, replicating the behavior of an acoustic piano's sustain mechanism. At just 7 inches long and weighing more than its plastic competitors, it offers solid, reliable triggering with minimal wear and tear. The metal construction and rubber feet provide excellent stability during performance, though some users may want the option to change polarity for compatibility with different instruments.

Casio Piano Style Sustain Pedal

The Casio SP20 sustain pedal breathes new life into any keyboard performance with its weighted feel and realistic touch. At just the right size for quick setup, it installs easily with most Casio keyboards while keeping your practice space tidy. Whether you're a beginner learning basic chords or a seasoned player exploring advanced techniques, this pedal delivers the professional touch you'd expect from a piano-quality accessory.

M-Audio SP-1 Sustain Pedal

This solid metal sustain pedal, weighing in at a pound, features durable rubber coatings for both the top and bottom that provide exceptional grip on various surfaces. The 152cm cable terminates in a robust 6.35mm jack, while the built-in polarity switch ensures compatibility with a wide range of electronic instruments. From rock-solid performance in the studio to reliable sustain during live gigs, this pedal has earned high praise from musicians who appreciate its robust construction and practical design.

Gator GFW-KEYSUSTAIN Piano Sustain Pedal

Boasting a solid metal construction with a generous 6-foot cable length, the Gator Piano Sustain Pedal delivers authentic tension feel through its traditional-style tension design. The ergonomic rubber feet prevent slippage during intense performances, while the polarity switch and 1/4" input jack ensure hassle-free compatibility with any keyboard. The non-slip, removable cover protects the pedal and maintains a secure grip, even with various footwear.

Casio SP-20 Piano Style Sustain Pedal

The Casio SP-20 adds realistic piano-like sustain to any keyboard through its 170cm cord and durable black housing. User reviews consistently praise its stability, noting the robust rubber base that prevents sliding on wood floors. The simple pedal offers responsive control similar to acoustic piano dams, helping players develop proper technique.

Proline Universal Piano Sustain Pedal

This sustain pedal combines durability and reliability for both home practice and live performance. The wide chassis with rubber bottom prevents tipping, while its Polarity Switch compatibility covers nearly every keyboard brand. Users appreciate its silent operation and dependable service—most find it worthy of five-star reviews despite minor drawbacks like occasional squeaking with heavy use.

Proline PSS10 Universal Sustain Pedal

Rugged metal construction with non-slip rubber base provides stable performance for both home and studio use. The heavy-duty polarity switch offers compatibility with a wide range of keyboards, including Yamaha, Roland, and KORG models. While some users report lasting reliability, others experience issues with actuation and longevity. The six-foot cable plugs directly into the instrument's 1/4" sustain jack, eliminating the need for additional adapters.

Alesis ASP-2 Universal Sustain Pedal

The Alesis ASP-2 adds authentic piano-like sustain to any keyboard with a sustain input, featuring a rubber-bottomed pedal that prevents sliding on most surfaces. The 1.8-meter cable and polarity switch ensure compatibility with virtually any digital piano or keyboard controller, while its durable design matches its compact footprint.

M-Audio SP-2 Universal Sustain Pedal

This sustain pedal brings the feel of an acoustic piano to electronic keyboards with its professional-grade construction and authentic half-pedal capabilities. The slip-resistant base keeps it firmly in place during intense playing sessions, while the compact design fits easily under any keyboard.

Buyer's Guide

A sustain pedal is an essential accessory for electric pianos and digital keyboards, extending the sustain function beyond the instrument's built-in capabilities. Understanding the key features and considerations can help you select the right pedal for your musical needs.

Basic Functionality

A sustain pedal maintains the sound of a note by keeping the signal active, even when the key is released. This feature is particularly useful for building chords and sustaining melody lines in various musical styles.

Connection and Compatibility

Electric pianos and keyboards typically use a standard 1/4" jack for sustain pedals. Ensure the pedal's output matches your instrument's input requirements to achieve proper connection and signal transfer.

Activation Options

Most pedals offer standard pressed-action sustain, but advanced models may include options like momentary (activates with press and releases when foot is lifted) or long-press functionality. Consider how you prefer to engage sustain based on your playing style.

Additional Features

Some pedals feature light indicators to show active sustain, headphone outputs for silent practice, or multiple pedal inputs for connection with other effects. Evaluate these features based on your practice and performance needs.

FAQ

What is a sustain pedal?

A sustain pedal prolongs the resonance of notes on a piano's soundboard, allowing pianists to maintain chords and harmonies beyond the moment the keys are released. It's particularly valuable for classical and contemporary repertoire where sustained tones enhance musical expression.

Essentially, the pedal keeps the dampers from touching the strings, sustaining the sound much like pressing the keys would. This feature is not available on digital pianos without a sustain pedal, making it a crucial component for realistic performance.

What materials are sustain pedals made from?

Modern sustain pedals are typically made from metal, often aluminum or steel, for durability and longevity. The pedal mechanism might include plastic or rubber components for the footpad. Premium models feature wood housings or metal construction with polished finishes.

Entry-level pedals use basic plastic housings, while professional models incorporate heavier metal construction. The pedal mechanism usually consists of a metal plate and a spring-loaded return mechanism, with plastic or rubber contacts for activation.

How long should a sustain pedal last?

With regular use, a high-quality sustain pedal should last between 5 to 10 years when maintained properly. Factors affecting longevity include usage frequency, pedal quality, and upkeep.

Entry-level pedals might last 3-5 years, while premium models can maintain optimal performance for 10 years or more. Regular cleaning and inspection can extend the life of your pedal and ensure reliable operation.

What should I consider when choosing a sustain pedal?

Key factors include pedal weight, materials, depth, and whether it's for upright or grand piano. Consider the brand's reputation and availability of replacement parts, as these can affect long-term value.

For upright pianos, choose a pedal with a weight similar to the ones you're replacing. Grand piano pedals usually have a deeper depression and different mounting requirements. Consider the pedal's aesthetic match with your piano's finish and style.

How do I install a sustain pedal?

Most upright pianos use standard pedal mounting holes, requiring only basic tools like a screwdriver and possibly a drill for expansion. Grand pianos need specialized mounting hardware and may require professional installation.

Installation typically involves removing the piano's lid or front panel, aligning the pedal with the mounting holes, and securing it with included screws. Always refer to your piano's manual and consider professional help for grand pianos.

How much space do I need for a sustain pedal?

Upright pianos require about 3-4 inches of additional space under the pedal board for installation. Grand pianos need more clearance, typically 6-8 inches, especially around the pedal mechanism.

The pedal should sit flush with the pedal board when not depressed. For grand pianos, ensure adequate space for the pedal's movement, particularly when the sustain pedal is depressed.