Little Tikes PopTunes Big Rocker Keyboard Review

My daughter, now 19 months, loves all things musical. Drums, tambourines, etc. You name it! When her grandfather wanted to get her a musical toy on a recent trip to Target, we looked at everything.

The PopTunes Big Rocker Keyboard won.

In the box, it doesn't look like anything special - althougth marked for ages 3+ according to their website, the keyboard was put in the same section as the kids for 0-18 months. Their error? Probably.

However, I could not be happier with this purchase!

What it Is

In short, it's a small keyboard with select keys and five songs to select. Songs include:

- "ABC" by The Jackson 5
- "Love Shack" by The B-52's
- "Hot Hot Hot" by Buster Poindexter
- "Allstar" by Smashmouth
- "Wide Open Spaces" by the Dixie Chicks

Lights flash to the beat, whether the child plays songs that are pre-programed or goes freestyle. Unlike other keyboards in the same area, the key changes to meet each song's key. In other words - if your child wants to add in a little "harmony" to a pre-programed song, you're not going to hear contant clashing notes!

Our Impression

 It doesn't look like anything special, but it is truly hours of entertainment for our 18 month old and her 3 year old brother. She lays on her stomach, playing music and listening while watching the lights flash. Usually her brother will dance wildly, which makes for a very interesting evening.

I like it because there's an easy-off switch (it's big!) and uses only 3 AA batteries. Also, it's not the same annoying songs attached to every toddler toy. Plus it's tough. Rugged. In other words - it can survive being thrown down the stairs. The best part: there's a nice little off button where you can immediately end the current pre-programmed song.

It isn't perfect though...

It can get annoying. I'll admit that I'm a bit biased to musical toys though. They annoy the heck out of me. Quickly. However, this keyboard seems to prolong the annoyance. Generally by the time I get REALLY annoyed is the time when the kids lose interest.

Closing Thoughts

As a toy, this is just fun. If you're looking for a musical instrument, you're going to love it. If you're looking for just a gift, save the parents a little sanity and move to something quieter!