Korg Forums

[Multaan]

Hi Everyone,

I'm seeking information on some keyboard models that I should check out to replace my current gigging keys.

I currently use an old Casio MZ-2000, which is much loved and reasonably versatile, but time consuming and limited for arranging rhythms. The final straw came from the keys refusing to accept an external MIDI clock.

My styles are clean blues, rock and ambient lounge music.

Features I am looking for are:
* Layering/Splitting for 4 Instruments, with support for up to 16 more via MIDI.
* Close to realistic instrument sounds, particularly for guitar (acoustic or electric) and sax.
* A decent range of drum beats for improv on the fly.
* Support for SD cards (as opposed to old floppy disks)
* Support for an external MIDI clock.

Additional features I would like but aren't necessary:
* Phrase recording/Playback or Sampling (So I can craft a sound on my external synth, yet still leave it free for other tasks).
* Any form of vocal harmonisation.

I am not rich, so while I can drool over superb flagship models I probably can't afford them. So I am quite willing to compromise on features if necessary.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions.
Cheers,
-Multaan.

[johnxyz]

[karmathanever]

Hi Multaan

Sent you a PM

Pete
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PA4X-76, Karma, WaveDrum GE, Fantom 8 EX
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[SanderXpander]

Maybe a second hand slightly older Yamaha Tyros or Korg PA3X?

[Multaan]

Thanks for replying everyone.
Sorry I'm so slow getting back to you as my band got hectic approaching our first gig.

I checked out some of suggested keyboards. The Yamaha's were well outside of my budget for even 2nd hand, as was the PA3X (though it was fun to play on).

There are no Kurzweils around my location to try, so I can't comment on those.

For now I have picked up a Korg PA600 cheap. The sound quality is brilliant, but the features aren't as rich as in the Casio. So it probably won't be a long term solution.

At least it's not breaking my shoulder to lug it around, hey?

I will continue hunting,

Cheers,
-Multaan

Fun note: Going from a full button controlled keyboard to a touchscreen is a learning curve. Feels so slow and cumbersome by comparison. Thankfully it's not usually needed mid performance yet.

[SanderXpander]

Going back from touchscreen to buttons is much worse, imho. I think the PA series is pretty serious, which features are you missing from your Casio?