when looking for keyboard what do you look for?

[bball_1523]

I was wondering what type of features you look for that are important to you as a keyboard player when purchasing a keyboard?

I am going to be purchasing an 88 key weighted keyboard mostly for midi with pc programs, but I wanted to get an idea of what most keyboard players look for in a keyboard before making a purchase.

What do you think I would want in order to be satisfied with a keyboard for a long period? I really want to have a good action 88 key keyboard to use with Reason. I want to compose prog-metal songs.

What do you guys think?

[Atterion]

Sounds ands synthesis architecture, Mechanical action, Ergonomics, Level of realtime control, and expandibility (only a real consideration if I am spending a TON of money). Not always in that order, but that is what I primarily look for.

If you are looking for just a good controller for Reason, check out CME's UF-8. If you want something you can play out with, without a computer, go for either a Korg Triton or Yamaha MOTIF. Of course you could always get the UF-8, and a couple of rack units (both the Triton and MOTIF are available as rack units). Roland now makes the V-Synth XT, which is a rack-mount/table-top unit, which would be perfect to mate up with the UF-8.

[bball_1523]

Originally Posted by Atterion

Sounds ands synthesis architecture, Mechanical action, Ergonomics, Level of realtime control, and expandibility (only a real consideration if I am spending a TON of money). Not always in that order, but that is what I primarily look for.

If you are looking for just a good controller for Reason, check out CME's UF-8. If you want something you can play out with, without a computer, go for either a Korg Triton or Yamaha MOTIF. Of course you could always get the UF-8, and a couple of rack units (both the Triton and MOTIF are available as rack units). Roland now makes the V-Synth XT, which is a rack-mount/table-top unit, which would be perfect to mate up with the UF-8.

I've read some horrible reviews on the CME controller, saying it's action is like the m-audio keystation, which I do not like by the way.

I was thinking about getting one of the lower end yamaha's such as the s08 or s80. I played with the s08 and enjoyed the feel, I just don't want to dish out $1000 for it, so ebay is my only resort.

[altitude909]

The UF8 is fully weighted, so the action should be considerably different than the keystation, try to find one to try. General consensus on this list is they are pretty good. I cant stand Maudios action either, even for a semi weighted, too much sproing

But as far as synths go, I only look at sounds. Action has no bearing for me and I rarely actually play on the synths keyboard since I use a master controller. I usually go for racks for the same reason.

[bball_1523]

have you tried any yahama s80's or s08's?