Replacing My PC361

[J Graul]

My 10-year old PC361 is starting to show signs of age. Last year I had lock-up problems. Turns out it just needed a good cleaning on the inside. Now some of the top row controller buttons aren't working when pushed, notably the fast/slow rotary button. That's easy enough to bypass by assigning a pedal to that function. But I'm beginning to think it's the beginning of more buttons not functioning.

 

Anyway I think it's time to start looking for a replacement. It's my top keyboard that complements my Yamaha CP4. It's my all-purpose axe. My dilemma is whether to look at a replacement all-purpose board or midi controller with laptop based system. Either way it would be purchasing all new stuff.

 

Just looking for thoughts on what you would do.

[aellison62]

Well, if there was a Kurzweil Forte 61 key, it would be a no brainer IMO, but sadly, not yet. What is your budget? A compliment top board to a CP4 should be able to handle Hammond clone responsibility, synth duty, and brass/string/orchestral type just to get most/all bases covered right? I would assume the CP4 is covering the AP and EPs. Maybe a Kronos 2 61 key?

[hazerkeys]

in the middle of replacing my PC1x with the SP6 .. so far so good, not sure if an option for you ?

[CEB]

Depends on how you like to work.

 

Kurz PC3-K6 or Kronos 2-61.

[J Graul]

I'm more looking for a direction (software vs hardware sounds) rather than figuring out which keyboard. If I go hardware I'll look at the Forte 7, PCxK, PCxA, Kronos, etc. I'd even venture to look at some less expensive options for sure. If I go the software route I'd look at a Mac with Mainstage, then figure out which controller.

 

So yeah, the PC361 covers everything organ, synth, strings, horns, etc, while the CP4 is mostly AP, EP, and some clavs.

 

 

[Delaware Dave]

Or just get the buttons fixed.... I'm not hearing keyboard failure (not powering up, shuts down/reboots in the middle of songs). I'd spend a few bucks to get the troubling button replaced. You might get 5 more years out of the keyboard and by then the next golden replacement might be available...

[CEB]

If I personally went software I would still be using my Kronos ... because the quality controller market with the exception of the Physis is dead. I think the Novation SL MK2 - 61 feels good but only 8 sliders available for drawbar emulation.

 

Some of the best available controllers available are Kronos and Kurzweil workstations.

[ElmerJFudd]

FA-07 or VR-730 are nice pair for CP4.

 

Wish theyd do a synth action Forte 61 or 73/76.

The Kurz Artis7 would be good too, but I dont know if you want something significantly different from the PC361.

[Doerfler]

I'm more looking for a direction (software vs hardware sounds) rather than figuring out which keyboard.

 

you will get as many opinions as replies on this. There is no correct answer, just 2 different paths to follow, and both get to the same destination. See my sig. Best to you.