Hey there! For a solid electric piano under $500, you might want to check out models like the Yamaha P-45 or the Roland FP-10. Both offer great sound and feature weighted keys that actually feel like an acoustic piano. Plus, they generally include a sustain pedal, which is pretty essential if you're looking to enhance your playing expression.
And speaking of budget-friendly options, why did the keyboard rupture up with the piano? Because it couldn't handle the "strings" attached! 😂 Keep those in mind, and you should be able to find something that hits all the right notes without breaking the bank.