Yamaha DGX-203 vs. Casio WK-3200

[daddyclaus]

Shopping for a keyboard (up to $300). The DGX-203 and WK-3200 are the two models I'm looking at. Want a 76-key model.

 

I like the concept behind the Yamaha Education Suite. I can't find any evidence of a similar teacher/helper capability with the Casio. I'm leaning toward the Yamaha for just that reason. The Casio seems to have more features/flexibility, and I've always had good luck with other Casio (non-music) products...lots for features and good quality for the $$.

 

This will be strictly for home use and getting the kids interested in music.

 

Thoughts and opinions please?

[LithoJazzoSphere]

A quick bit of history about the models to clarify things: The old line was the WK-3000 and WK-3500, which has been upgraded to the WK-3200 and WK-3700. The only differences between the two models in each set is a modulation wheel, audio outputs, and a floppy drive.

 

I have the WK-3500, which I use for small settings where it doesn't make any sense to use a larger rig. The main benefit to me was that there are some basic synthesis functions available, so you can tweak the sounds, unlike any other portable keyboard. But for children learning to play, if you really like the Yamaha Education Suite, that's probably what you should get.

[midinut]

I've got a DGX and love it! I use it to play out with and it gives me decent "meat & potatoes" sounds. I tried the Casios before my purchase and I just liked the Yamaha better. I can't help you much with regard to the Y.E.S. since I've never really explored that feature (I probably need to though ... if you heard me play!). As Litho mentioned above, the Casio has a mod wheel and the ability to edit which mine does not. Two more quick points. I have the 88-note version. I learned on organ years ago and it does not bother me that the keys aren't "weighted". If it were me and you're leaning toward the Yamaha, you might wanna spring for the extra keys ($500 or so). Second, I also use it at home hooked up to my PC for sequencing and VST instruments and such. It does a good job but it sure would be nice to have a mod wheel and knobs and buttons. I may end up with a dedicated controller before it's all said and done and move the DGX into the living room for writing and practicing. Hope this helped a little. Whichever you decide, play them both and whichever inspires you the most should be what you buy.

[SilverDragonSoun]

The WK series, both the old and new have some basic synth features and lots of sounds. Unfortunateky most of the sounds are pretty bad. The DGX series has useable sounds that sound much better on recordings in my experiences.