Thanks for the replies.
Digital piano seems the way to go. I'd prefer a standalone model that didn't require a PC. Initially, I wouldn't be looking to mix or add external effects, but instead learn to play piano; likely in the classical music style.
I talked to a friend of mine that is involved in music today and he recommended a site called "Sweet Water Music" (
Welcome to Sweetwater.com | Call Us @ 800 222 4700).
Their digital piano listings are as follows:
Digital Pianos | Sweetwater.com
As I browse these listings, it seems the going rate is $500 or so, and that's admittedly more than I was intending to spend.
One of the questions that I have right now is: I noticed some of the cheaper keyboards listed have 76 keys as opposed to the standard 88. Would you consider 88 keys to be a requirement? I suspect the range is limited with 76 keys and am wondering if I should even consider a model without 88 keys.
I'm going to say that a console piano is not an option due to my living situation. We actually used to have a piano that I didn't use, and now when I'm wanting to learn it's long gone.
I'm not opposed to spending money, but I'm reluctant to spend a lot on the basis that I really am not sure how long I'll be interested in wanting to learn and play. Ideally I stick with it and play often, but in life the only thing I find myself doing on a regular basis is going to the gym and lifting weights. My other hobbies and interests tend to come and go and thus I'm reluctant to spend heavily on any one of them. But with that said, I think there are a lot worse ways to spend one's time than investing it in music.