No Name
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Hey No Name - congrats & well done. Thanks for letting us know. Many new members start a what-should-I-buy thread, disappear during the fray. Hope you stick around KC!
I am a long time forum user
Okay, which begs the question.... ?
I intend to stick around. I love music and I love talking about music. People around me just think I am nuts. I need an outlet somewhere
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How about a Kronos LS?
With mod wheels, youre pretty much limited to Yamaha and Kurzweil. I prefer them too, but as AnotherScott helpfully pointed out when I was searching for another board, most keyboards will let you assign an expression pedal to the mod wheel function, so if its a joystick then it doesnt matter.
All Kronos I can find is in the $4000+ range. Is the LS something special?
The Kronos LS is an 88-key Kronos but with a semi-weighted action (piano shaped though) rather than a hammer action weighted one. Used would be your best bet.
Sounds beautiful.
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Hey No Name - congrats & well done. Thanks for letting us know. Many new members start a what-should-I-buy thread, disappear during the fray. Hope you stick around KC!
I am a long time forum user; it sucks when people start a post which never comes to a resolution.
After you've had it awhile post back here your thoughts on it.I would love to do a mini review.
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Where are you based?
Canada
It's sounding more like what you need really is a Kronos. Here in the US, a used Kronos X (possibly Kronos 2)can be had (61 key, possible 73 key) for a little over $2000. Look on Reverb, EbayWould love one. With Reverb/Ebay I get nailed on the delivery.
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I've seen the Kronos 73-key used for $2000. Some are a bit more, but there is always room for negotiation with used instruments.
Owning a Korg Kronos would be a dream come true. I am a huge Jordan Rudess fan. While I want to carve my path in terms of my sound, I would love to have access to the same equipment. I have been hunting around for Korg Kronos for probably about 2-months now without finding anything in my immediate price range. I have put the dream on hold to get something a little more for the here-and-now, and I will save for the Kronos over time.
Upcoming Novation Summit would be perfect (if you can wait till Sept.) 16 voices, analog filters and VCA, two LFOs, aftertouch, arpeggiator, FM, subtractive and wavetable synthesis. 61 keys on a quality keybed. Knobs for everything.....what not to like about this one??? Oh, and it's $1995. Right up the OP's alley, methinks.
The Novation Summit looks absolutely terrific, but I am not a patient person, I get too excited about music gear. I cannot see myself making it to September without purchasing something else short-term.
Novation SummitShe's a beauty.
Could not agree more. Synth boner.
Lots of good suggestions here.
If the OP hadn't mentioned being interested in various musical genres I wouldn't have brought up the Forte. If you want to try adding symphonic elements to your Progressive Metal, or want to try film scoring, or would like a world-class Grand Piano sample the Forte will get you there. You also can't beat Kurzweil's flexibility and power with assigning its ample sliders and pedals to control the software instruments you've already got.
If you just want powerful analog/virtual analog with plenty of knobs the Novation Summit is a strong contender.
The only Kurzweils I can find locally are $4000+. They look great, and I have heard amazing reviews about Kurzweil products, but for now, the Kurzweil products are in the dream pile.
When I read the following, If you want to try adding symphonic elements to your Progressive Metal, I smiled because this is exactly what I am trying to do.
good question... I wasn't assuming this is necessarily for live performance. If it is, I'd be less inclined to look at the patchable Moogs on the basis of having no recallable presets.
Might be performed live, havent got to that point yet. I am buying tools to expand my options. Other band members cover Moogs. They are Moog mad, which is great for the band, but I am looking for a synth to elevate my sound.
Either way, it sounds like he's committed to (or at least comfortable with) computer for most of his sounds, so the focus would really seem to be on what it is a real synth can do better than a VST can.
...also all well handled by VSTs. Hence my focus on (mostly) analog and knobs, the non-VST strengths even for VST folk.
100%. I am looking for a tactile feel of knobs and sliders. You nailed what I am after.
It would if it were available. Anyone know when this ships?
If he's using VST's and if he is happy with his current controller a Peak or other Desktop synth would work. I agree with Scott, if he's using VST's I would look for a good Analog Synth capable of some ballsy lead sounds. It is Progressive Metal so an in your face sound might be appropriate here.
Max out the ballage for sure. 100%. Absolutely, in your face and starting a fight with your eardrums. ULTRA FAT. You guys are nailing it. I am happy with my current Midi controller, which is an Arturia Keylab 88, but it has hammer action keys. It has strengths and weaknesses. I am hoping to get a new device with a solid, synth feel.
How about a Kronos LS?
With mod wheels, youre pretty much limited to Yamaha and Kurzweil. I prefer them too, but as AnotherScott helpfully pointed out when I was searching for another board, most keyboards will let you assign an expression pedal to the mod wheel function, so if its a joystick then it doesnt matter.
All Kronos I can find is in the $4000+ range. Is the LS something special?
I'm on board with this new Novation synth. Its actually two 8 voice synths in one KB package so you can do splits, layers, a 5 octave KB. No touch screen to BREAK DOWN, it has knobs per function instead of menu diving. Great for live performance. FAT sounds. 3 Osc per voice, an awesome analog filter, 70 Wavetable sounds, and FM. One complete package.
Novation is making high quality synths and has excellent customer service and support. At $1999.00 its a bargain.
Mike T.
Me too but suck at waiting.
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Hi Everyone;
I wanted to thank everyone for their help. No doubt, my choice has benefited from the discussions, and I learned a lot.
I am now a proud owner of an Arturia Keylab 88.
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Krome isn't going to have the various VA synth engines to distinct/modify/control sounds. To my knowledge, it's just a scaled down version with sample based versions of the sounds. Kronos has engines that model the PolySix, MS-20 (complete with virtual patch cords), and a fairly powerful AL-1 VA engine, not to mention the other 6 engines for AP, EP, strings, FM, sampling, and clonewheel.
That said, Kronos may be overkill in that it is a workstation. It's VA engines are powerful, but you may want something scaled down that ONLY does VA without all of the other stuff to confuse you. Lots of good stuff from DSI, Access Virus, Maxibrute, etc
I found a user Korg KROME 61-Key Music Workstation. Would you recommend it?Same issue as what I said about the Roland DS. You care about synth functions, not instrument duplication, so I'd avoid romplers. Not that you can't do synthy things with them, but I think it's better to get a board that's best at exactly what it is you need to do, as opposed to a jack-of-all-trades that's second or third rate at what you most care about.
Similarly, I wouldn't suggest the Forte and Kronos that have been mentioned. While unlike the Juno DS and Krome they at least do have VA synthesis in them, you're compromising on the synth (no dedicated knobiness or true analog) in order to get a whole lot of stuff you don't care about, at least based on your OP. If all you're looking for is VA without a dedicated control surface, you might as well stick with software like the rest of your rig. I mean, I understand Synthoid's perspective of preferring hardware, but in your case, you've already made the decision to mostly use software, so if you're going to be adding hardware, you should probably focus on what hardware does best, i.e. where hardware has clear advantages over the software approach you're already using.
If you want something lower priced than my earlier suggestions, I'd look at Behringer DeepMind 12, Korg Prologue 49, Studiologic Sledge, all under $1k. I stuck with stuff that had at least 49 keys, but if you decide you don't need that (maybe you have another 49+ keyboard you can connect it to if/when needed), then there are also other good low-priced options.
I wouldn't suggest the Forte and Kronos that have been mentioned. While unlike the Juno DS and Krome they at least do have VA synthesis in them, you're compromising on the synth (no dedicated knobiness or true analog) in order to get a whole lot of stuff you don't care aboutI suggested the Kronos because the OP said this:
I mainly play Progressive Metal, but I dabble in a lot of music genres.I'm assuming that means he plays in one or more bands. The Kronos would offer a plethora of sounds and feature options--including the ability to program various riffs and sequences--which come in handy in a live situation. I compose a lot of original music and having a keyboard that "does something" with sounds is extremely valuable.
My bad, I got excited. I found an ad for a Krome which I mistaked for the Kronos. I don't think Kronos often come down to my budget even used
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I'd recommend a used 73-key Korg Kronos. More user-friendly than many keyboards of this type.
You'll have much more fun with it versus a basic synth... at least in my opinion. I prefer hardware over software.
I found a user Korg KROME 61-Key Music Workstation. Would you recommend it?
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Hi Everyone;
I am hunting for a new synth.
I mainly play Progressive Metal, but I dabble in a lot of music genres.
I have a budget of $2000 for this project. I am hoping for semi-weighted (not hammer action), prefer polyphonic and a mod/pitch wheels.
I currently have Reason 10, Analog Lab, Grand Piano Model D and Piano V software, also covered for piano, this is purely a synth, and I do not need instrument reproduction but ok if that is a feature.
Question: Does having 88 keys truly matter for synths? Additionally, what would be considered optimal?
Hunting around on my local music stores website, I am potentially looking at:
Moog Grandmother;
Yamaha MODX7 (price seems too good);
Roland Juno-DS 88;
Dave Smith Prophet Rev2 (looks amazing);
Korg Prologue 8 (will 49 keys feel limiting?);
Nord Lead A1 (I guess I do not need my kidney).
What would you do with your $2000?
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Good Morning!
Birthday celebrations are in progress, and I am flush with cash. I am ready to commit to something and get it done. A summary looks like the majority of people are recommending the following:
Komplete Kontrol S88, if I want to waste my money; ( votes: -2 )
Casio PX5, if I also want a decent piano as a stand-alone; ( votes: 3 )
Arturia Key Lab 88, if I want something with the options of the Komplete Kontrol S88 with less cost; ( votes: 2 )
Studiologic SL88, if I like the feel of the Komplete Kontrol S88 with less cost; ( votes: 4 )
Physis, if I am willing to donate an organ. ( votes: 3 )
Cast your votes as I am going to try and buy it tonight.
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If your intended destination is a Kronos (or similar), get the least-expensive, great-feeling 88 key digital piano you can find and drive Reason 10 while you save.
At present, I'm a fan of the Casio PX-S1000 and a USB cable. I'm using it right now to drive Scarbee in Kontact Player. The Casio's $599 most places. And there are less-expensive options out there, I'm sure.
If you start going down the path of buying more software, there's great options out there.
But every $ spent is one $ less saved for your top-tier workstation.
The reasoning behind getting the MIDI controller is that my end goal is changing every other day.
I went from wanting a popularized 80s keyboard synth, to learning that 80s synths can cost a lot and be in questionable condition, to looking at alternatives, to reading about Jordan Rudesss love for the Korg Kronos, to trying the Kronos, to trying to find one used and, finally, to just opening up the search to any top-shelf system I can get my hands on to get me started.
I am not even sure my future synth will have a USB interface. I am trying as many synths as I can and when the excitement level pushes me to make the purchase, then I will.
Just to clarify a couple of things...
The new Casios will be $800 CDN and $1,000 CDN.
The Studiologic SL88 I was posting about was the Studio, not the Grand. I paid $670 CDN and close enough in quality for its lower price while you're saving for a workstation.
The LX88+ is not a weighted board (semi weighted but not diving board), hence the price but lots of control, 88 keys for splits etc. I haven't played one but it can't be much different than a Nord SW keybed and that was "close enough for now" for me.
The Studio Logic SL88 and Arturis Keylab 88 are on my short list.
The Casio PX-S3000 comes very close to your requirements (i.e., its just missing the mod wheel). I bought one last week and have been using it as a midi controller. Action is very nice its fun to play!
I am going with a friend who a large music store in the city to try out the Casio as well as a few others.
Both of these points have been touched on in one way or another throughout the thread, but I'll bring them full circle in case it wasn't clear.
1) The Kronos will work with any Class Compliant USB MIDI device, so you don't necessarily need DIN MIDI to use with the Kronos.
2) My preference (and that of many others) is to use the Kronos 61 unweighted keys for synth/organ stuff, and use an external Weighted controller to play the Kronos pianos/EP's, etc.
3) The internal combi setup of the Kronos is such that the MIDI controller only needs to transmit on one zone and everything is done in the Kronos, so the Controller doesn't need a lot of functionality.
4) Finally, don't limit yourself to controllers. You could pick up a used workstation or stage piano with a good action at a good price and then you have some internal sounds as a backup if needed.
A lot of valid points. Thank you for the above information. Leaves me with even more to think about when coming to potential setups.
Requirements:PB/Mod Wheels = yes
Expression pedal = nice to have
Sustain pedal = yes
Knobs/buttons and sliders = no
USB connectivity = yes
You also made reference to also getting a Kronos, Montage 8. or RD2000. Any of those also function as perfectly capable controllers for a VST system. So if you're going to get something like that anyway, I'm not sure why you need to buy a controller at all.
If a Kronos or any other top-shelf workstation fell into my lap at a price point I can afford today I would grab it in a heartbeat. Originally, I wanted a recognizable keyboard driven synth from the 80s and realized it is not something I am just going to grab immediately. I am after the MIDI as I can afford it today and I am not sure whether I will land on the workstation or 80s synth. I am hunting for anything that takes my interest.
If your intended destination is a Kronos (or similar), get the least-expensive, great-feeling 88 key digital piano you can find and drive Reason 10 while you save.As usual, sound advice from Tim (and also from Dan in his post.)
I agree with getting a digital piano with a decent feeling keyboard. It gives you back up for soft-synth failure scenario. This combined with a 61-note synth action Kronos will cover a LOT of bases. You had asked about whether you get the weighted (88 note) Kronos or not. I have no experience with it but will point out the following:
a) the Kronos 88 is relatively heavy and unwieldy (53 lbs, 56 inches long before you add the case). Many of the acceptable low end digital pianos are way more portable (25-30 pounds).
b) I have no experience with the RH3 weighted action but there is a definite contingent of people who do not like it.
c) On the other hand, the Kronos-61 is moderate weight (31 lbs) and the unweighted synth action is generally considered to be among the better ones out there.
So if it were me, I would go low-end DP + Kronos-61 when you can afford it.
I am happy to carry a heavy synth; I am starting to put on weight due to alcohol consumption paired lack of activity with avoiding the cold over the winter. If I love the workstation, I will make it work for the love of it. If I were touring, then totally would agree but this keyboard will be mostly stationary else I feel sorry for the band who felt I was their best option as keyboardist.
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So let's talk a bit about the S88 and Native Instruments as a company.
First the S88...I assume you are talking about the MK2? If this is going to be your main controller, I would suggest not getting the MK1. It's a fine keyboard, but not having real pitch bend and mod wheels will become a real issue unless you absolutely don't use them.
The S88 has a Fatar action I believe...others here will be able to tell you about the various versions of those, but I have found the one in the S88mk2 to be excellent. As a MIDI controller, especially with Reason, it's fine, since Reason can take care of the master controller functions...get really familiar with Combinators and how to create them. The other features, like the lights on the keys and the dual displays, are much less useful within Reason itself. They work great with NI's Kontrol software, and the keyboard will be bundled with the cut down Select version, but there are very few other apps that utilize them.
That software, Komplete Select 12, can be upgraded to the full, ultimate, or collector version, but keep in mind, if you ever sell the keyboard, you either need to pay the difference to keep the software you purchased as an upgrade, or you need to transfer it to a new NI keyboard. This is because the software and keyboard are considered a single entity, which is good and bad. There is a relatively recent post that shows the hoops i had to go through because of this. But all of the instruments work great within Reason as long as your computer can handle it. It's a great solutions, and it's exactly what I use (although i have an S61 mk2).
As a company, NI has a very robust and stable platform to maintain your licenses, get updates, etc. Their tech support is a little slow but extremely thorough. They tend to not make exceptions, though, so make sure your ducks are in a row before you call upon them.
I'm happy to answer any other questions you may have about it. i don't know if its your best option, but it's not a BAD option. Oh, and it doesn't come with a power supply. It can use USB for power, but I bought a 12 dollar supply just in case.
I am talking about the MKII. The MIDI Controller would be my main controller. I am confused with the relationship between the Komplete software and the S88 Midi Controller. If I understand you correctly, the S88 comes with software with the version of Select, and you can upgrade the software to Ultimate, but if you sell the MIDI Controller you are also selling the Select version which you would then need to buy to retain ownership?
I dont know, but ispend more money on software then hardware..And i never see a dime back, where selling unused hardware brings back much of the cost..
Like komplete ultimate, every 2 years a few 100 dollars for an update..
Software solutions are only cheap when you use hacked software
And that does not fit my book..
Where it comes to software, i moved to the ipad, there is enough great synths to keep me busy for years, at acceptable prices... but in general i stick to hardware.. mostly bought used..
The best 88 key controller?
I would say used : kronos, montage, modx, fa08..
all make great controllers and come with great onboard sounds
I dont mind paying for software IF the software is worth it. $300 over 2-years is the cost of $6.25/month. I can imagine it becoming annoying but do you also have the option of just not upgrading? Regarding the iPad, can you describe your setup?, I assume you are using an iPad where-as I am using a PC. Also, the Kronos, Montage etc. Are you suggesting I skip the purchase of a MIDI controller and instead use the workstations as a MIDI controller?, Can you make the Kronos into a USB MIDI controller and use it with Reason 10?
So much good content, so many questions.
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Hi Everyone;
Thanks for all the replies.
Top shelf, high end 88 key controllers? The market is about dead because of the power of computers and flagship workstations. There is only one real controller available and that is the Physis.
I apologize as the original post blends a conversation regarding top shelf synths like the Kronos and then the question about a decent 88-key midi controller.
Yikes, the Physis 88-key is in the $3000, which is double the budget.
For what it's worth I think the Arturis Key Lab 88 is pretty cool for the money and you get some neat software.
The Arturis Key Lab 88 looks great, and I will read some reviews. How would you rate the brands between Arturis vs Native Instruments?
1. Do you have a budget?2. Do you have any specific requirements? I'm thinking controller features: PB/mod wheels, expression pedals, knobs/buttons/sliders...
I reckon the Casio PX5 makes a pretty cool 88-key controller, as it's got a relatively nice action, it's light and it's fairly well equipped for controllers.
Cheers, Mike.
I do have a budget, and it is $1500 CAD.
Requirements:
PB/Mod Wheels = yes
Expression pedal = nice to have
Sustain pedal = yes
Knobs/buttons and sliders = no
USB connectivity = yes
The Casio PX5 looks decent and I will check out reviews.
Thank you.
Five years ago I was looking into an 88 key MIDI controller to take to gigs. Having been spoiled by my Kurzweil MIDIBoard, I was disappointed enough that I just bought a 2nd MIDIBoard used. No one makes a top shelf high end 88 key MIDI controller anymore.
I just looked up the Kurzweil MIDIBoard and looks amazing. I think I would personally need something that supports USB connectivity as I am not connecting via a MIDI connector as my audio interface does not support the MIDI connector. Thanks for sharing.
While I agree that top shelf 88 key controllers don't exist. There are some that are perfectly serviceable depending on your needs and what keyboards feel acceptable to you. If the OP could be more specific about features. The Arturia KeyLab88 that CEB noted has a decent amount of controls, sliders etc and comes with their Analog Lab software. If feel is more important than physical controls their is the Studio Logic with the TP40 wood action. The NI controller you mentioned doesn't have a lot of physical controls. The Nectar 88+ is semi-weighted but has more physical controls and a template mapped to Reason.
The Arturia Keylab88 does seem pretty decent. I checked out reviews on the Studio Logic SL88 Grand and looks decent. I found the Nektar Impact 88+, which looks like it would do the job. If you had an option between the three which would you pick and why?
I was going to recommend a decent controller well under budget but then started thinking if the OP is saving up for a Kronos or a Montage, anything in the range of his/her budget of $1500 CDN would be just throwing good money after bad. But hey, that's what we do here!
So if the OP is into spending $1500 on a Komplete Kontrol S88, my take on it is that if you're going to use any VI's other than NKS, virtually the identical keybed can be found on a Studiologic SL88 Studio for half that price, or an Arturia Keylab 88 at about $1K. Minimal (or opaque) controls on the former, many assignables on the latter.
If I were saving to buy a high-end workstation such as a Montage or Kronos however, I'd seriously consider a used controller which no doubt are available from CL or local Pawn; or better yet, rent one from a local company such as Long & McQuade.
Just my 1.7¢ CDN.
I am happy to spend less; I was just under the belief I wouldnt be able to find a quality 88-key MIDI controller for less than $1000. For reference, the Native Instruments S88 MIDI controller has the cost of $1349.00 CAD, and for comparison, the Studiologic SL88 is $1199.99 CAD.
I'd also consider going for good feel (my old Studiologic has tp40 and I like it, they still make something comparable) and then get a separate unit with all the controls. Needing both in one unit considerably narrows options. (Obviously for live use the separate unit wouldn't work I guess)
I can understand the logic. Thank you.
Surprised you want weighted action. For synths many people prefer semi-weighted or 'synth action', which is completely unweighted.
For most folks, weighted action pairs well with acoustic and electric pianos. IME, most people want 2 boards if they can- a weighted action for pianos, semi-weighted for organ and synth.
There are a number of 88 note semi-weighted boards out there, none of them are controllers AFAIK. 73/76 note boards give you yet more options.
I dont think my experience with synths is great enough for me to weigh in on the weighted vs not weighted. I am told the slow release of a weighted key prevents the attack from being fast, which you would want for a synth. I assume the synth I would buy would have semi-weighted by design, which raises the question. Does the Korg Kronos act as the piano or does the MIDI controller paired with the software act as the piano?
I am willing to change my plan. What would you suggest?
Perhaps an LX88+ as mentioned earlier... and can be had new for about $500 CDN.
$500 is a very fair price. How would you compare the Nektar LX88+ against the Arturia keylab88 or Studio Logic SL88?
How about a Privia S-1000? And you can still save up for a Kronos 61. That way you can use the Casio for piano duties as either a controller for your piano/eps vsts or to control the Kronos pianos. It also comes handy if you have a gig that requires only some bread&butter sounds.
I have contemplated this with the Roland FP-10, and people recommended the same setup but replaced the FP-10 with the Casio Privia S-1000. Something to strongly think about thank you.
Come to think of it, the Numa Compact 2x for $700 is semi-weighted, 88 keys, has a built-in audio interface and MIDI ports, as well as built-in sounds.
The Casio PX-S1000/3000 doesn't have MIDI jacks, which you need for direct 1 cable control of other boards/modules. It only has MIDI thru USB.
The Numa Compact 2x does have a great price. Seems a little too good to be true but maybe I am getting lost in the pricing models of various companies.
Best idea yet.
Thank you.
I currently use a NUMA Compact2x as a controller:
- Nice Keybed
- Mappable MIDI controls appear to be limited to the drawbars.
- Internal speakers are next to worthless.
- Internal sounds require a lot of tweaking to be usable.
- Most of the effects have a very small usable range.
- No ability to access the 1GB sample memory.
- Audio interface is WASAPI rather than ASIO.
Ah this paints a little more of a clear picture. Would you recommend the controller? I wouldnt use the built-in speakers. I send everything through a powered, loudspeaker.
You could get a lightweight slim 88 with decent action and use software for further needs.
I use a Physis K4 and it is top shelf, but somebody will surely say it isnt.
If you want to cover many parts without worrying about keystrokes, etc. this is the controller.
Its better than software and a single performance can automate up to 32 parts per song.
Just depends how much automation you need.
Im covering at least 4 parts per song, so theres really no better option for me.
Action is fine.
Im not concerned with weighted etc. semi weighted works just as well.
If I were playing love songs and sought seductive dynamics, maybe.
But I played so many recitals as a kid, you walk in and play.
Leave your complaints in the box on the door.
No warm ups, just do it.
So I could even play shitty Oberheim OBX spring loaded keys and get the job done.
When looking up the Physis K4-EX 88-key, I found a company that has the sales price of $1930.00 down from $4825.00. Sounds suspicious to me but it is a major instrument, online seller. I do not use a lot of automation outside of recording, which is managed by Cubase. I am probably misunderstanding what you mean by automation. The device seems wonderful.
- Nice Keybed
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Hi Everyone,
I plan to own an 88-key midi controller which will control software tools like Reason 10 (used for the synths) and Cubase (used for recording) and on top of the above an 88-key top-shelf synth. Right now, I have a table which is only one tier meaning everything is on the same level with the computer keyboard sitting close to the edge of the desk and the MIDI controller sitting between the computer keyboard and computer monitor. I chose this setup to shorten my travel path between interacting with short-cuts on the computer keyboard and playing on the MIDI controller. It sounds great until you constantly hit keyboard shortcuts with your forearms as you play.
I decided I am going to buy a keyboard stand but plan for the future rather than worry about the dinky MIDI controller I have now. I have been looking at the Hercules Z-style 2-tier stand. Looks super solid in my opinion and the angle of the top tier brings the keyboards closer together which I believe I will enjoy over two parallel tiers.
Thoughts?, probably cant go wrong here but I wanted opinions.
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Hi Everyone,
My Uncle used to play in a rock band until he rocked too hard and had to step out and take care of himself. He disappeared, and during this hiatus, I was the temporary caretaker for all the high-end synths he had. Eventually, his problem would grow above him, and sure enough, he came to take back the synths to sell for money to keep going. I loved the synths but wasnt ever in a financial situation to get my hands on something nice.
Fast-forward 10 years to today. I am currently saving for a top-shelf synth, examples Korg Kronos, Yamaha Montage 8, Roland RD-2000 etc. In the meantime, while I put the funds together I am using Reason 10 (have been a Reason user since version 6). My friends and I who jam together wanted to mix up the traditional band a little, and I decided to try and jam using a Midi controller and Reason 10. Results are ok the major let down is Midi controller I currently own. I own a Samson Graphite 49, which is an ok midi controller, but the keys, although weighted, still feel plastic and it has only 49-keys.
The jam sessions were enough of an experience to sell my friends on synths, and they all went out and purchased various synths, mostly the brand Moog, and now I need to up my game a little.
I have been researching high-end Midi controllers, and I was watching a review on Native Instruments S88. I went to my local music shop which has one on display but unfortunately wasnt powered or plugged into anything. The feel is great, and in the review, it appears the reviewer was able to simulate actual synths like the Juno-8, which just blew my mind. I have no experience with NI as a hardware company, and I wanted to reach out to the community to get feedback or perhaps even a recommendation on other products.
Budget: $1500 CAD
What synth should I get, open and broad discussion.
in The Keyboard Corner
Posted
All sensible comments.
The budget is slightly flexible as it doesnt represent my entire life savings but more of boundaries to what I am willing to spend. If someone sends me a convincing recommendation for USD 2000, I will stretch the budget. I would agree that it doesnt rhyme, but there is a strong reason. I want to try something new. I have synths now be-it VST, and I am happy with everything for experimentation but as others noted the goal is to figure out how can I build upon the foundation I have already built (long way of saying I am new). The list, specifically, was to generate a conversation and see how people break down the selection of synths I have heard of and have an opportunity to try in a store. The goal is to narrow down the selection of synths to a reasonable size that I will try, and we are reaching that goal, in my opinion. I am getting excited. I learned a lot from this post, appreciate all the help and look forward to future comments from people.
P.s. Noticed you are from Toronto, and I wanted to let you know that I run a charity for Canadians who are burden with the responsibility of caring for a Korg Kronos. Many Canadians buy these large synths without thinking about the responsibilities, and my new Charity looks to provide homes, well my home, for unwanted synths.