midi keyboard wanted - suggestion?

[twilsbach]

great thread guys...One question after doing some digging myself, some of the cheap models ($200 range) claim "semi-weighted" keys. What does that mean?Is that even worth an upgrade from a super-cheap Yamaha (like speakers built in cheesy on-board sounds etc.) Or is it advisable to just hold out a little longer and spend $600+ on a nicer one?

[sgs4u]

Brian, I've been wishing on the same build. You're such a trend-setter! I'm confused tho. If you turn to your left to play the keyboard, wouldn't that mean your right ear is now closer to the speakers? and have yous guys tried the Edirol or Fatar?Quote:Ah, great to know Mazz. I've been eyeing that keyboard ever since I built the studio... I think it'll be just the ticket. I want to build a custom desk and have the ability to slide that keyboard out from under the desk while I'm composing, and then push it back under far enough that it doesn't whack my knees while I'm mixing. As it is now, my controller is to my left, so when I'm playing the speakers only get my left ear. One of these days...

[gitarrero]

hey guys,thanks for all the suggestions!to clear it a little bit:* I don't need more than probably 61 or 71 keys* it should be weighted (at least the feeling), but it doesn't need to have a hammer-mechanic* controllers: I only need modwheel, pitch and maybe the possibility to connect a breath controller (I saw once a breath controller in action in a workshop - it was fascinating how easy & realistic the player palyed violins).I defenitly don't need other knobs, sliders, onboard sounds, etc.is there a keyboard out there that fit my needs and isn't an overkill for me?thanks!martin

[trentoliphant]

Great thread, I am looking to upgrade my controller soon as well.I currently have an m-audio 88 key controller - the lower end one without all of the knobs and sliders. It was the cheapest model with 88 keys and weighted keys and it has been OK, but especially for any piano tracks I just don't get a good feel. (I'm a pianist by training).I will have to try out the UF80 - it looks good. I like that it has aftertouch. Most of the weighted and semi-weighted I have looked at don't.Trent

[mazz]

Martin,ONe of the other reasons I bought the CME was it was the only keyboard out there with a breath controller input! CME used to be distributed by Yamaha and so I think that's why they have the input in the first place.Otherwise you'll have to get this box: http://www.midisolutions.com/prodbth.htm and a breath controller.CME makes smaller keyboards, stick, steve and I are piano players and we like our big 88s!! But they do make a 73 and 61 semi-weighted.BTW: Semi weighted, from what I've seen, means piano style keys (as opposed to synth style) but the keys are lighter and the action is lighter so it's a cross between a piano and a synth. Go to your local music store and you'll probably see some digital pianos (weighted) and some MIDI controllers (usually semi-weighted). If the 88 key controllers are light (less than 30 pounds) then chances are the action is semi-weighted. The CME UF80 weights around 70 pounds.Cheers,MazzPS: I've found the sliders to be useful for adding expression (CC11) while playing. All the sliders can be programmed and the keyboard also has a sequencer remote function so for a smaller studio, you get some nice goodies without taking up any more space than the keyboard already does.

[stick]

Yeah, I know I use all 88 keys in every song I play. It's required, as a piano player.

[mazz]

They wouldn't have put them all there if they weren't meant to be used, right?

[stick]

Exactly.

[gitarrero]

thanks guys, excellent advice!

[mewman]

Hey Gitarerro, I've got a Roland A-80 as my main controller in my studio, but that is 88 keys and takes up a lot of room. The thing is, the action is great and it's a joy to play. I think you might be able to find what you are looking for from Fatar. I have a Studio 610, which is 61 keys but organ action. I remember when I was shopping for the smaller keyboard that Fatar had a great selection of stuff with semi weighted keys. It's been a few years since I visited their site, but my keyboard has been through a lot and has held up just fine.Michael