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https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/PSRE363--yamaha-psr-e363-61-key-portable-arranger

Any thoughts, pro or con from people who've used it? Any other recommendations for something very budget friendly at near this price-range, though I could do without all the bells and whistles on this one as long as there is midi out via usb. My main need is just the ability to noodle out a melody or lead line into BIAB or DAW. I'd rather have a pitch wheel than tons of preset rhythms, for example.



BIAB 2021 Audiophile. Windows 10 64bit. Songwriter, lyricist, composer(?) loving all styles. Some pre-BIAB music from Farfetched Tangmo Band's first CD. https://alonetone.com/tangmo/playlists/close-to-the-ground
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If I read you right I think you are looking for a MIDI keyboard controller. That is a keyboard with no sounds that you connect to your computer via USB. You use the sounds on your computer and/or you hardware synths and you record the notes on BiaB or a DAW.

There are a number of options in your price range and here are a few:


88 keyboard

61 keyboard with sliders, knobs and pad

49 keyboard with sliders, knobs and pads

61 keyboard

Personally I would pick out one with sliders, knobs and pads. You will have complete MIDI control over your tracks using them.

I hope this helps and good luck.


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Thanks, Mario! You read me right.


BIAB 2021 Audiophile. Windows 10 64bit. Songwriter, lyricist, composer(?) loving all styles. Some pre-BIAB music from Farfetched Tangmo Band's first CD. https://alonetone.com/tangmo/playlists/close-to-the-ground
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Originally Posted By: MarioD
If I read you right I think you are looking for a MIDI keyboard controller. That is a keyboard with no sounds that you connect to your computer via USB. You use the sounds on your computer and/or you hardware synths and you record the notes on BiaB or a DAW. I hope this helps and good luck.


Wow....

That M-Audio Keystation 88 sure looks like one looooong dude in that image. smile

OP....if the above perception by MarioD is correct?
After My 25 year old Roland JV30 died about a year ago I picked up this one.
It has no internal sounds....just a controller just to trigger my midi modules.
Being Proteus FX/Roland MBD-1/Roland MVS-1.

This one was quite cost effective, works without issue with my M-Audio Midisport 4x4.
Obviously, no weighted keys on these cost effective controllers.

https://www.amazon.com/Monoprice-606607-...sr=8-2-fkmrnull

Let us know what you decided on....inquiring minds want to know.

Hope that helps....carry on.

Last edited by chulaivet1966; 05/04/19 07:50 AM.
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I have this keyboard, to be honest what Mario said about the sliders etc is a plus.

Although I like the fact that the keyboard has sounds, and it works great in GM mode for the midi styles in BIAB as an external module.

Just depends what your preferences are.


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I have a behringer UMX490 which does everything you need. The keyboard doesn't have weighted keys but the velocity curve is programmable so you can get the different midi note velocities by how hard you strike the key which is about all you need.

I think its discontinued but you might find one on ebay but there are lots of controllers in the same price bracket. there are two on the uk ebay site at the moment for around £60

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Tangmo Offline OP
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Thanks all. You've steered me into the right direction. It helps to know what things are actually called. Not sure yet which to choose or how to get it, but it's never easy with these things here.


BIAB 2021 Audiophile. Windows 10 64bit. Songwriter, lyricist, composer(?) loving all styles. Some pre-BIAB music from Farfetched Tangmo Band's first CD. https://alonetone.com/tangmo/playlists/close-to-the-ground
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The main thing about a keyboard, just like a guitar, pick one that has functions and features you like and need.


I bought my old Yamaha DX27s from the keyboard player in our band when she quit the band. I'd rather have something different but I needed a keyboard at the time and the price was right.

As long as it has MIDI out, you can use any keyboard. My preference now would be to have a weighted or semi-weighted keyboard for a more real piano feel when playing. Both of the keyboards I have, neither one is weighted. One that my mom had and gave me.... a Radio Shack something or other, does have touch sensitive keys. The midi recorder in the DAW should be able to pick up and read that data so your playing has expression after it's been recorded rather than being stuck at 127 or whatever....

Today's keyboards have so many features and really great prices.... have fun shopping.


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Nice! Thanks for the recommendation, fellas!

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Mario is right! I just bought a Yamaha MX-61. It seems to be working out well however it may not fit you budget.

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