At 7/12/09 11:10 PM, heartless1298 wrote:
I need a lot of help/advice here.
I'm looking to buy a very nice midi keyboard, probably with the most keys possible.
If someone/some people could provide a list of the number of keys available on midi keyboards today, as well as some nice brands, prices, and what other accessories I will need to connect them to a computer.
I'm doing this for a friend, and I'm not quite sure about what the computer's stats are, but I'm almost positive all computer have USB ports, so I'll just add that in there.
I'll be buying a new soundcard, videocard, some firewire ports, new RAM, and all sorts of other things for it, and I'm all good with those, although I could use some suggestions on some nice soundcards as well.
Thanks in advice for any help I may receive, and if you can think of any other advice I may need, please don't hesitate to add that in.
-HLS
I have used a Yamaha P-80 for the last ten years or so. It finally died on me not too long ago, but for nearly ten years of use I think its durability spoke for itself. Especially all the traveling and wear and tear I put it through.
I've played on a lot of electric pianos and synthesizers, and I would have to say the P-80 is my favorite model of all time. Sadly they don't make it anymore. But they continued the series, and the newer models are even better. Unless you are like me and simply adored the p-80 model above everything else.
The P series all come with midi ports so you can hook it up to whatever you need. And if you are wanting to play live with just the piano, you should know what the sounds/samples on board are very pleasant sounding.
The true beauty of this line though is the weighted hammer action of the keys. I've never felt better action when playing an electric piano than on my P-80. I have actually played on a P-155, and it feels wonderful as well. And I definitely recommend that bad boy for anyone who wants a professional quality electric piano.
The P-155 has midi in/out ports, as well as aux outs as well. (1/4" jacks) It also has a USB capability to transfer music stored inside the piano to whatever you want. And it is a full sized piano, which is required for me. But I don't know how important that really is for you.
A word of advice though. Don't just take everyone's word here that a certain piano is the best. You, or whoever needs a piano needs to go play on it before buying it. I know a lot of people who love the P series by Yamaha. But I also know people who hate anything that isn't Casio, or whatever brand they prefer.
Every piano is different, seriously. Electric pianos are more structured when it comes to certain brands and series than real pianos. But even then there is a whole lot of variance between the different brands and series. So go try out some pianos in your local music store. That is the best way to figure out what is best suited for you.
-Gravey-
