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