yongspeak

Since a few people have been asking about which keyboard they should get, I might as well post about it!

Qn 1: What are my options?

Depends on what you intend to use it for. If it’s just for practice (as a piano replacement, to play in the wee hours of the night without incurring the wrath of your neighbours), get a fuss-free KB with basic functions.

A weighted one (see Yamaha P-95 or Kurzweil SP2X) will set you back at slightly under $1k.

A non-weighted one like the Yamaha PSR-E323 is amazing for it’s price of around $350. Though it’s 61-key, the sounds are pretty decent and will be good enough for you to practice improvisation.

If you’d like something that has some basic synthesizer/sampler functions, the Korg M50 is a good one to start with. It’s like a stripped-down version of the Korg M3 we use on HOGC main stage.

Moving up, you can get the Yamaha Motif XS or Roland Fantom. It’s pro-grade, but expensive.

Personally, I have my eyes set on the Nord Stage EX. The sounds of a Nord are FABULOUS, and build quality is excellent, which explains its high price tag.

Qn 2: Should I buy a cheap one, or something that can last me for the long term?

Most keyboards today have more functions than we’ll ever need.

If you are just aiming to improve your skills, get a basic keyboard first, until you reach the level where you can be particular about the type of sounds that you are looking for.

At that stage, you might prefer to get stuff like analog synths, sound modules, or even go digital (play sounds from your computer). So hold up till you know what you really want.

Also, isn’t kinda ironic to invest for the long term if technology keeps improving at a rapid pace?

Qn 3: How should I go about buying one?

Budget.

Read reviews (keyboard central, harmony central - take it with a pinch of salt, anyone can post on forums, including manufacturers).

Watch product videos.

Watch out for product cycles (if a new product has not been launched for a while, you probably want to wait a while).

Wait for year-end discounts (usually quite substantial!)

Go to soft.com.sg to see if you’d prefer a second-hand model.

GO WITH A FRIEND, PREFERABLY A MUZO. Always helps to have a second opinion.

Most importantly, pray and only make a decision after you feel the peace of God!

Have fun choosing!