Help a noobie on getting the correct synth!

GP830 · Post by **GP830** » Sun Jun 15, 2014 10:58 pm

Hello! First time poster!

I am a lifelong rhythm guitarist and songwriter who finally has a space to have more equipment. I am also recently attempting to further my understanding arranging, theory, and composition. I would like to continue to develop abilities to arrange on instruments other than guitar, bass, vocals, and piano.

I'm a fairly good piano player, and I have a decent stage piano, so piano sounds aren't a huge deal, but mainly I'm looking for a good quality keyboard that has realistic acoustic sounds like flutes, horns, strings, etc. Good pianos, and organs are a bonus but the priority is definitely the other sounds. This board would be used to record home demos, as well as replicating horns, flutes, and strings in live baroque-pop-folk-rock setting as well.

So do I want an arranger, a workstation, a synth? I've read hundreds of reviews and attempted a ton of research but since I don't understand the technical jargon and specs--I'm still unsure as what would be the best option for me!

49 keys is enough, but I'm open to more if it means a better board. Portability is also huge. A nice feeling key bed is also a plus.

I don't need need many features aside from a nice feel, decent usability, and of course realistic (or as close as I can get) sounds.

I would be looking for something used, and my budget would be under $500. So far I've looked at the Microstation, the x-50, the Roland Juno-Di, the Yamaha MX-49, and the Taktile 49. New boards are fine if they are within the budget.

Could someone who knows their stuff help point me in the correct direction?

Thanks!

Bertotti · Post by **Bertotti** » Mon Jun 16, 2014 3:41 am

Well, I am a newb also, and my first synth was a Kronos. I just have a question for you to consider. Considering the sounds you want have you thought about soft synths and a controller? After learning more since i have gotten the Kronos I can say I would have probably been satisfied with just soft syhtns Like omnisphere and Native Instruments stuff. I love my SlMk2 49 key controller and it works great with Logic Pro X. Probably a capably priced way to go with a lot more options then going for dedicated arranger or workstation or synth and if you still wanted arranger functions you could add Band in a Box. Just a thought.

Bald Eagle · Post by **Bald Eagle** » Mon Jun 16, 2014 11:53 am

You should probably go with a workstation class keyboard. An arranger will have auto accompaniment features that you probably don't need so why pay for them? An Arranger will have very good acoustic sounds.

A "synthesizer" in this context is probably an analog modeled (VA) synth so it won't have good acoustic sounds if any at all.

In your price range you could get a new Yamaha MX49 or for a little more a Korg Kross 61 or a Yamaha MX 61. I have also seen used M50's for under $500. One problem with the Taktile is I don't think you can program your own sounds so that could be somewhat limiting.

Joe Gerardi · Post by **Joe Gerardi** » Mon Jun 16, 2014 12:56 pm

If your stage piano has MIDI, I would suggest a Yamaha Motif-Rack. The original can be had for about 300-350 US, and in terms of acoustic instruments, the Yammie pretty much as the market cornered. You'll get a lot of bang for your buck, and it doesn't throw another keyboard into the mix.

..Joe

GP830 · Post by **GP830** » Fri Jun 20, 2014 10:51 pm

I ended up finding a like-new MX49 on Craigslist for $375. Pretty great deal. Thanks for the info everyone!

Synthoid · Post by **Synthoid** » Sat Jun 21, 2014 1:47 pm

Enjoy your new keyboard. Excellent!