As far as keyboards go... I've seen the mini ones.... and in the same price range it's possible to get a more full sized (61 keys) version.  Of course, to get weighted keys and touch sensitivity the cost increases.  Both of my keyboards are non weighted, one is touch sensitive, but for the things I do with them.... mostly string fills and bass, either work well.
 
I've seen brand new ones selling in music stores for under $100.... I saw one as low as $69 for 61 keys. Being somewhat of a piano player (7 years of lessons as a kid) I do prefer the larger number of notes even if I'm only doing a simple bass part.

wow, great prices! I think I'd like to move up to a full size keyboard at some point but need more space!

That price was at a Guitar Center..... of course Walmart and Radio Shack also sell keyboards....and midi is midi... same from a cheap keyboard as a $3500 work station with all the bells and whistles.

didn't even think of looking at Walmart, will have to go see what they have locally!

flyHI
didn't even think of looking at Walmart, will have to go see what they have locally!

walmart & radio shack sell those "boom boxes of keyboards".... the ones with drums and all sorts of gimicks built in... but they tend to be on the lower range for price. As long as they have a minimum of 61 keys and midi out they should work just fine.
 
Another place to grab a super price is saturday morning yard sales..... you can often get something there for pennies on the dollar to buying new. I picked up an interesting guitar with a case for $20 at one just up the street many years back. I turned right around and sold it to another musician who saw it and really liked it and made a few dollars on it. It was an OK guitar but he really wanted and needed something to play.....
 
BTW: tomorrow is........ Saturday. Check the want ads tonight for yard sales close by and get there early

thanks, Guitarhacker, I will do that! and, also browse through both Walmart and RS this weekend!