A-500S versus KeyRig49
I might be getting an inexpensive keyboard for Christmas. I need to be extremely cost-conscious. That means accepting less than ideal.
What I'm looking for:
1. Most important, the best key action I can get with Mod and Pitch Bend. Controller knobs, sliders, pads, less important to me at this point.
2. I don't want to throw my money away on something that will break or not work in year or two. Of course, my cost constraints may force to do so.
I had been looking at the M-Audio KeyRig49 as the best cheap option at $99, but Guitar Center is running a 20% off any single item $199 or more this weekend, so I am expanding my possibilities to the $199 price point since I'd only actually be spending $160. I figure it may well be worth spending $60 more if I can get a significant upgrade.
Options as I see them now:
KeyRig49 $99, does anyone who's used one think this is just a waste of money? I can check the action at GC.
M-Audio Oxygen 49, won't reach GC's discount level, but if the key action and quality is superior to the KeyRig it's an option. I can also check the action at GC.
Cakewalk A-500S $199, unfortunately I can't find it anywhere local to demo it. Two questions here:
First, I'm wondering if the key action is significantly better than the KeyRig49.
Second, I'm curious how people find the unique Mod/Pitch Bend control.
I've also found the Korg microKey 49, but apparently it isn't actually available yet, so again I can't demo it myself.
I'd appreciate any input. I've done a lot of research, so at this point I'm just asking for opinions from users or others who've been down this road recently. Of course, I'll consider input from anyone who wants to offer their opinion.
post edited by john6448 - 2010/11/11 14:39:15