what keyboard should I get

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0hz

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Scenario
Got an MP-7 with a few roms which is hooked up to a technics PSR901 digital piano, no problem except the piano is not portable.
So I need to think about a decent keyboard. Question is which one, should I go for an EMU full monty job (I could plug my ROMS into it which might be handy) or do I only need a midi controller type keyboard, if so which are the best ones.

All the music is currently written on the MP-7 and technics piano, we don't use software.

Whatever keyboard we get it really needs to be dual purpose i.e probably for future live gigs as well as writing with.

Budget, as usually forget the top of the range think more mid range.

cheers

0hz
 
The nice thing about controllers is that they don't really become obsolete. My 18-year-old KX-88 REALLY needs an overhaul, but when/if it's repaired, it'll be every bit as good as anything you can buy now.

There's an enticing cheepo 88-key controller out now - StudioLogic, I think? Selling for $299 at American Musical Supply. Only 13 lbs (6 kg). NO idea if it's good - it claims semi-weighted keys. I have a Kurz SP-88 like that, kinda like it. It's got some piano/org sounds, and weighs 33 lbs (15 kg) - but it has a VERY squirrelly pitch bend / mod setup, using ribbons instead of wheels. Think I paid $599 for it.

With a controller, you'll really want the right feel - so you have to decide if you want weighted, semi-weighted, or synth-action keys. The best FEELING weighted keyboard out there (IMVHO) is the Alesis 8.1 - haven't tried its replacement, the 8.2. But IT has tons of sounds, and additional sound loading capabilities. Costs about $900. Also a rep for not being particularly roadworthy, and it's heavier - 65 lbs (30 kg), maybe?

Can't say much about the EMUs - never used one.

Daf
 
Thanks dafduc.

Actually its my son who plays I bankroll him as hes at college and is just almost 17 years old. His style is electronic trip hop, drum & bass and a bit of dance, he has just started writing hip hop beats and formed a new band with a couple of his MC-ing mates.

The question I guess revolves around do we go for a midi controller and start using soft synths or go for say an emu synth which we could use his existing ROMS in. I am thinking of future live performances and thought that a synth keyboard would be better than a computer setup using midi controllers and soft synths.

My local dealer has offers on a novastation K4 but also recomended the evolution midi controller.

From what has been said my lad would need to try a few to see how they feel.
 
Well, he's already got the emu sounds accesible through the mp7, and IMO those emu keyboards aren't that great.
If he's doing electronic, a virtual analog synth is a must! Check out the nord lead 2 & 3, the korg ms2000, roland jp8000, some of the novations are cool. Or the virus indigo 2 is supercool too. Another benefit of using a VA as a controller is all those knobs give alot more control than a regular "controller".
Buy off ebay. You'll get a much better selection than your local store and you'll save hundreds of dollars.

My highest reccomendations go to the lead3, ms2000 and the virus indigo2. Unless you want to spring for something like a waldorf Q+... (kind of expensive...)
But those 3 can be had on ebay for anywhere between $400-$1200, and you'd be the coolest fucking dad anywhere!
 
Pretty cool! I checked out most of the electronica songs. Pretty impressive for a 17yr old, but there is a definite "trend" in the sound pallette that could use some expansion. Get him one of the va synths I mentioned and he'll reach a new level. Great use of little gear though!
 
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