Keyboard for ear training and theory study ?

[ProbablyTooLoud]

Good point... though I also worry about the opposite - if I get something too piano-like I'd be too tempted to actually learn to play properly (e.g. with weighted keys, sustain pedal etc.) and go down that rabbit-hole instead of just using it as a theory tool

Sounds like an attentional issue unrelated to which instrument or method you use for ear training. You'll have to overcome that no matter which direction you go.

 

[oomo]

Sounds like an attentional issue unrelated to which instrument or method you use for ear training. You'll have to overcome that no matter which direction you go.

It was a bit of a tongue-in-cheek comment, I think I'll be ok either way, I'm pretty disciplined when it comes to practicing/focusing.

I could go for something much more minimal (e.g. a cheap electronic keyboard), but figured that I might as well go for something that's a bit more fun or has more scope to use for things in future.

 

[ProbablyTooLoud]

It was a bit of a tongue-in-cheek comment, I think I'll be ok either way, I'm pretty disciplined when it comes to practicing/focusing.

I could go for something much more minimal (e.g. a cheap electronic keyboard), but figured that I might as well go for something that's a bit more fun or has more scope to use for things in future.

There's your answer then.
Although I'd propose learning piano would benefit you more in the long run than playing with synth sounds.

 

[Mark Ambler]

Good point... though I also worry about the opposite - if I get something too piano-like I'd be too tempted to actually learn to play properly (e.g. with weighted keys, sustain pedal etc.) and go down that rabbit-hole instead of just using it as a theory tool

Would that be so bad? At college, if Piano wasn't your first instrument, it was your second, no way of getting out of Piano! Piano is such a great compositional instrument, you will find it rewarding.

Any piano skills will be beneficial, guaranteed!

 

[BrotherMister]

Just to add more weight to the yes camp. Yes!

The piano really helps you visualise the western music system and see how things are related. Remember theory is theory, the piano is the easier way to bring theory to life because you can visualise it and you can hear it.

As an ear training tool it’s one of the best things! Apps are basically passive ear training but get on the piano and start singing all of this stuff and your ears are going to take a huge step up