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  • MIDI Controller Keyboard preferences
2014/10/14 13:54:14
LanceJ
I have been using a Roland A-80 88 key MIDI controller since the 80's.  It has a great feel but not handy anymore compared with how well new controllers integrate with VSTs and DAWs.  The A-80 only has standard MIDI IN/OUT/THRU.  No USB or Firewire.
 
I use all soft synths/instruments and need to spring for a new controller.  I really have to main demands.
 
1) 88 keys
2) Feels and plays like a real piano - or as near as possible.
 
The need for onboard sounds is not required or really even desired.
 
I have tried the M-Audio Keystation 88.  It was lacking the feel I am after.
 
What is everyone using?
 
Regards,
Lance
2014/10/14 14:21:08
John
Am I understanding you right? All you are really after is an A 80 with USB? 
 
I had a M-Audio Keystation Pro 88 that I liked but it bit the dust. I now have a Alesis Q88. Both have USB but I prefer using MIDI out going to a MIDI port. 
 
My point is not to abandon your Roland instead get a good MIDI port. Get one that will more than one instrument to be hooked up. 
 
 
2014/10/14 17:39:41
LanceJ
Not just an A-80 with a USB.  The keyboard weights a ton and it has a large profile.  Plus it has some velocity issues occasionally. 
 
I have played the sh*t out of it for close to 30 years.  Best product I have ever purchased hands down.  It will be like saying goodbye to an old friend.  Almost all of my music was written on that keyboard.
Hell, I am starting to get emotional and having second thoughts!  :)
 
I did just go play a Roland stage piano that has the same keyboard action as the Roland A-88.  Very nice feel.
 
Lance
2014/10/14 20:21:50
johnnyV
My Roland PC 180 was almost 30 years old and was starting to loose velocity on some keys so I replaced it with the Roland A 49 which is more or less the same darn thing but with some nice modern features. It has both USB and MIDI but the USB is preferred as it also is the power. 
Any how, go to the Roland web site and you'll see what you want . I tried all the major brands in a music store and unless they were big $$$ they all felt like cheap toys. The Roland still has a great feel to it for me. 
Weighted keyboard controllers are always going to weigh more. 
 
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