I've done the research: How's my Decision?

[DForm]

I've been producing hip hop tracks for a few years now using purely samplers, and now (thanks to a new job) I'm thinking of a keyboard. I've done the research, and physically tested a lot of the units at local stores and this is what I've decided.

1. Fatar SL 1100 Midi Controller
2. Kurzweil K2000R (used)
3. Roland JV 1010

I would only be able to buy the Kurzweil & the fatar at first due to money issues. Or would I be better off buying the controller and the roland first?

Main Question 1: Would this setup allow for a good amount of versatility & expandibility in the long run? I don't want to be spending a lot of money replacing things.

Question 2: What's a good price on Kurzweil & the roland? I've seen them used for $500 & $400, is this high or average?

What are some other good controllers, or controller options?

Any other recomendations would be helpful, or advice in general.

Thanks

 

[HomeRec]

First, on the controller, have you looked at the Fatar SL-990? It lacks zones and a few extra features, but it will save you a couple hundred dollars. I don't own one, but I've heard good things about it.

I really haven't looked into sample players, so I can't give you any advice on the K2000R.

The JV-1010 widely regarded as a good buy. Problems I've heard other users mention are low output and non-intuitive display, but the sounds have gotten positive reviews (though I didn't particularly care for them), and the price can't be beat.

You shouldn't have to pay more than $400 for the JV-1010. As for the SL-1100 and K2000R, I'm not sure. Musician's Friend has the SL-1100 on sale for $700, and there is an Ebay auction with a "Buy it Now" of $500. The only place I could find a K2000R was an Ebay auction with a "Buy it Now" of just under $800.

As far as what to buy first, it sounds like it would depend on how important having a sample player is to you. If you only get the K2000R, however, there is very limited polyphony (24 voice), as opposed to 64 on the jv-1010.