Alternatives for Keystation 61es ?

[ravishan]

Dear friends,
I am new to this site and I hope I will get answers for so many doubts that I have.
1. I am going to start learning the keyboard. Since I wanted to compose and make my own album, I was advised that I should start with Keystation 61es. It seems, this along with Reason 2.5 software and AudioPhile sound card will make a complete home studio.
But, the keyboard is a dummy (just like a data entry device). So, it cannot be played in the church or other places where I cannot take my computer along.
My question now is:
Is there a keyboard that can be used with Reason 2.5 as well as alone (meaning, produce its own sound)?
I hope my question is clear.
Awaiting your early replies .
Ravishan

[ssscientist]

The phenomenon of master (or 'dummy') keyboards is a relatively new one sparked by the increasing interest in the computer as recording center, both for audio and midi.

There are many, many keyboards that do not require a computer to produce sound. Go to a local music shop and the keyboard department there will be able to show you a whole bunch of keyboards at a wide variety of prices and capabilities. As long as they have the ability to transmit midi, any one of them will be compatable with Reason 2.5. If you see something you like in the shop, don't be swayed by a salesman telling you it's a good deal -- take your time and maybe even browse Ebay if you don't mind buying used. I've bought many, many keyboards and related items on Ebay and have yet to have a truly bad experience...

And welcome to the board.

[tedluk]

Ravishan-

It's not exactly true that you couldn't use the Radium in church or other places without a computer. Using a program like Reason is only one way to use a controller keyboard. You could also purchase a sound module such as the Roland XV or JV series or Yamaha Motif rack or a Korg Triton rack or any of many other possibilities. With a MIDI cable connected from the Out of the Radium to the In of the module you're in business!

I don't know if you have access to other music stores than the one you went to. If you do, before buying anything, I would spend a LOT of time there playing different keyboards and asking a lot of questions. There are many possibilities so it's nearly impossible for us to tell you what to get.

Read as much as you can online. Look at reviews. Go to www.kvraudio.com and explore all their information. This requires some expenditure of effort on your part, but it will be well worth it in the end.

Ted