Good MIDI keyboard for beginner?

[dighn]

I've been wanting to learn some kind of musical instrument (for fun), and I figured why not get a MIDI keyboard. I already have a MIDI interface (from an EMU 0404) and some relevant software.

Basically I want to play it like a piano. I know it's more hassle than a real piano but I don't think the technical side will be a problem. What would be a good keyboard to get? Anything I should look into like number of keys, velocity sensitivity etc? I'll look for some instructional material too. I don't want to spend too much $ on this right now.

Thanks

 

[dighn]

*only bump to this thread*

 

[hiromizu]

What's your budget? A solid midi controller with weighted keys and some software is all you need. You could probably get away with less than $1k.

 

[dighn]

I'm not sure as I'm kind of clueless in this area. Looking around I was hoping to spend less than $500. But if paying more will get me something a lot better I could consider it.

 

[CptObvious]

I think the Casio Privias are the best bang for the buck. I have a PX-200 that I got for around $400. It has MIDI, USB and SD but mainly I use the onboard piano (sometimes too much hassle to hook up to a software synth). Best of all, it has the best piano action I've seen for under a grand. The Yamahas and Rolands I tried were a little too 'mushy'.

 

[hiromizu]

Come to think of it, I had an 88 key Studiologic Pro series years ago that I bought for around $500 new.

 

[nova2]

http://reviews.harmony-central...iews/Keyboard+And+MIDI

also consider:
Casio PX-400R (~40lbs)
yamaha kx88 (really really tough and long lasting, ~62lbs)

 

[KillerCharlie]

Don't worry about the MIDI aspect. First focus on finding a good, solid digital piano. Most digitial pianos can be used as a MIDI controller. Casio definitely has the best bang for the buck under $600.

As far as learning, the best way to learn (by a longshot) is by taking lessons. If you don't want lessons, I'm not sure what a good place to start would be.

 

[dighn]

thanks for the suggestions guys. Sounds like a Casio Privia is the way to go for now. If I really get into it, I could always upgrade.

I realize that taking lessons is probably the most effective way to learn an instrument. I don't know if I can commit myself to a rigid training schedule and I usually prefer to learn things by myself. I could try taking lessons to supplement.

 

[Lithium381]

if you've already got MIDI hardware and some software, get a $100 unit from radio shack, just make sure it has touch response.... it won't matter if it sounds like shit, cause you can patch it with the software..... but you'll be able to learn the basics, and if you don't get into it, it's only $100!

 

[TerryMathews]

What about that Creative Labs Prodikeys? It's a PC104 keyboard with a midi keyboard attached to the bottom. I think it's currently $50, it was on clearance for $20 labor day.

 

[nova2]

no way ;-)
if you got the money, it is worth it for a good weighted keyboard like the casio privia series.

and if you ever get into the software side of things, i highly recommend the synthology Ivory VST piano. Its German Piano is great.

now, as for learning to play
you could try teaching yourself (it is what i have done & plenty good enough for me so far)

but if you do that, i recommend you get some good piano videos where you can watch the hands playing of course.

Ravel - Gaspard de la Nuit - 3 : Scarbo (Perlemuter)
http://youtube.com/watch?v=sMRrcSEVzgI&fmt=18