There
are so many keyboards and digital pianos on the market
today. How does one make a selection? Here are a few
tips to help you choose one that meets your needs.
1. How
much can you afford?
With
such a wealth of keyboards available, a working person
shouldn't have a problem finding one that fits their
budget. Low priced keyboards are all over. But this
doesn't mean that you should settle for anything.
As the old adage goes, you usually get what you pay
for. Usually the more money you invest, the greater
the returns.
2. Do
you need weighted action or synth action.
Weighted
action means that the keyboard comes with heavy (weighted)
keys and feels like an acoustic piano. You need some
muscle to play such keyboards. If you're a trained
pianist or you want to develop your piano skills a
weighted keyboard would be better suited.
Synth
action would mean lighter keys. You can usually play
faster and easier with a synth action keyboard. Are
you gonna be playing synthy and techno stuff? Then
synth action is what you need.
3. How
many keys do you need?
You
have a choice between 88, 76, 61, 49, 37, 25 keys,
and even less. Your choice should be based on your
needs and circumstances. For instance, players doing
stuff that requires a small range, like samples, only
need a few keys. 76 keys are usually best for quality
synth action. But if you're into stuff like sound
development you can't afford to work with anything
short of 88 keys.
4. Do
you need an onboard sequencer?
You
need to avoid duplication. If you're already sequencing
on your computer you don't want to pay for a keyboard
that comes with a sequencer. You may never use it.
An onboard sequencer is more important when you're
working without a computer.
5. Consider
whether you need a workstation.
Workstations
perform so many functions. These include everything
from sequencing, to sampling, to effects, and mixing.
Again you should avoid duplication. If you're already
doing all that on your computer, you probably don't
need to pay extra for a workstation. Don't buy features
that you already have. But a workstation is an incredible
and necessary tool when a computer is not in the mix.
6. Importance
of velocity and aftertouch features.
Ensure
that your keyboard comes with velocity and aftertouch
features. Velocity refers to how the sound responds
to the amount of pressure applied to the keys (how
quickly keys are pushed down). While aftertouch deals
with the control data that is generated by pressing
down the keys after they have reached and are resting
on the keybed.
7. Will
you be gigging or not.
If you'll
be carrying your keyboard from gig to gig, durability
should be an important consideration. What material
is used? A hard case should come in handy for protection.
The weight of your keyboard is also part of the picture;
unless you don't mind the hassles of carrying a heavy
keyboard or digital piano from one gig to another.
You
should be able to find a keyboard easily online. You
can order one that suits your needs today. Some of
the best music keyboard and digital piano prices can
be found on the Internet. You even get free shipping
to your door.
Mantius
Cazaubon offers a guide to help you choose a musical
keyboard that meets your needs on his site www.Yamaha-Keyboard-Guide.com
Visit Yamaha Keyboard Guide.com for Yamaha and other
music keyboard reviews.
(Source:
Goarticle.com)
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