Choosing a Electronic Keyboard


    I am asked quite often what to purchase for a keyboard.
Since each user has a different set of needs, this has
become a very difficult question to answer. Choosing an
Electronic Keyboard is very similar to purchasing a car
today. There are a variety of designs and styles to choose
from in all price ranges. But some generalization can be
developed from the products available today.There are two
product lines for keyboards.  The Electronic Keyboard is a
consumer line that may or may not have midi.  They usually
have preset sounds that can not be changed.  They also have
auto drum and chord accompaniments.  The  professional line
always has midi and allows for sound design.  If drums
sounds are included, then their patterns must be determined
by the user.  A range of keyboard designs  using various
technologies are available under the professional line.  The
most popular designs are samplers and synthesizers. Samplers
allow for the recorded examples of acoustical sounds and
instruments. In technical terms this is called digitized
sounds. Synthesizers create the sound using electronic
devices called oscillators. It is possible to combine the
two designs in a Hybrid keyboard allowing for the advantages
of both to be available to the user. Finally, while there is
a market for both consumer and professional keyboards, the
development of aftermarket support is usually with the
professional products. By careful shopping, especially in
terms of discontinued product lines, it is possible to get a
professional model at quiet a savings.
     Certain concerns about all keyboards should be taken
into account before purchasing. The following technical
features are considered a must by the writer.

Electronic Considerations:


          Midi: a digital communication language allowing
                for connection to a computer or another
                keyboard
 Multi-Timbral: allows for several different instrumental
                voices to be played at the same time from
                a single keyboard
    Polyphonic: at least 8 pitches should be able to played
                at the same time

Keyboard Concerns:


     Full Size: choose full size keys, unless space is a
                problem
      5 Octave: range is necessary for all types of music
                except the beginner level
      Velocity: Sensitivity to how fast each key is pressed

Options Strongly Recommended:


     Sequencer: allows for the recording of Midi data
     (on board)
3.5 Disk Drive: allows for the storage of data from keyboard
     (on board)
    Aftertouch: sensitivity to how hard key is pressed


Sound Considerations


     The amount and quality of sounds available to the user
should be an important concern, but keep in mind that with
midi any keyboard can be expanded an improve by purchasing
additional sound modules.