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#380696 - 02/23/03 07:26 AM
What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kaley Willow
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 10240
Loc: PA
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Hi Y'all...on my DREAM list is another piano......I'd love to have beautiful sound..and...a few more bells and whistles
than i currently have... which is a
General Music Pro 1.....
Would love to hear what you have.., what you'd like to have...and why...
Kaley 
http://www.flashfast.com/kids/
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#380697 - 02/23/03 08:06 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Johnny Daubert
Top 100 Poster
Registered: 01/27/01
Posts: 7185
Loc: New Jersey, USA
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Kaley,
I had an Alesis QS8 with many cool sounds and a great feel,(even the feel and sound response can be edited)! Lot of bells and whistles for sure! I gave it to my cowriter's son to use for his young adventures, (and he LOVES IT!).
I still have a Yamaha QS400, (16 track sequencer built in it), which is great for setting up multiple sections, (percussion, or horns, or whatever, then putting them on the main recorder in two track stereo. Works great when still using analog for the main recorder.
It also has MANY instruments/effects! That one though has that organ feel,(but with touch sensitive keys). I like that touch for strings, flowing horns, organ of course, but liked the Alesis real piano feel for piano and percussion instruments. I would get a bit sloppy with the Yamaha at times, as it tends to allow for too-fast of playing moments. Butit works great when needing to put in many notes of the strings, to simiulate real string playing for some runs, (overall a smoother sound).
I always wanted to check out the top of line Kurtzweil, (sp.?), the one around 20 grand. They use that in a lot of films, and for most of the time,,,it's hard to tell the difference from a real orchestra, (depending on the player/composer). There are film music houses that has them in every room, for the different composers. (In LA). Wish I could remember the name of that company,,but I am sure Hans Zimmer is one that uses that keyboard in the film studio I'm thinking of.
See if you have a rich uncle! I know a Uncle Rich, but he's more of an uncle than rich!
John
[This message has been edited by dhsongs (edited 02-23-2003).]
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#380698 - 02/23/03 09:51 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kaley Willow
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 10240
Loc: PA
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Hi John...thanks very much for the reply ......... I'll have to check out the
Pianos/keyboards? you've mentioned.You are a very accomplished..player..and I love to listen...to your songs.....
I really am not a pianist as such and I know it.......but
am...able to...take what's in my mind..
and usually play it...and have
a few outlets for melodies...and SOMEDAY,
I'd love to have a decent piano...to have
the best piano sound...I can get...with what
i'm able to produce.....
Are there some you'd consider.. good for
under 5 or 6 .......the Kurtzwell at 20.grand.
would definitely be a dream at this point.
Best Wishes...
Kaley
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#380699 - 02/23/03 11:05 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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bcbart
Casual Observer
Registered: 02/23/03
Posts: 4
Loc: NIAGARA FALLS
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Hi,
I am new to this board...I play in a couple of bands and work with solo and duet projects...When i am playing my keyboards i use Korg Triton Le and Yamaha cs1x..I use these boards for their great soungs..I play in a 70's funk band called White Chocolate and *0's Band called The Reflex and these give me the best possible sounds for my needs...
\
Brian
_________________________
brian beaudry
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#380700 - 02/25/03 08:16 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kaley Willow
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 10240
Loc: PA
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Brian, thank you very much for giving me your thoughts...I will copy all this information....down.....for when..i go shopping....(HMMM...that's just wishful thinking...for now.....)...but appreciate the suggestions........and information.
kaley
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#380701 - 02/26/03 11:15 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Johnny Daubert
Top 100 Poster
Registered: 01/27/01
Posts: 7185
Loc: New Jersey, USA
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Thank you Kaley for your comments about me.
Near, or top of line models of Roland, Korg, Kawai, Yamaha, and the Kurtzweil models around 5 or 6 thousand, would be great for piano sounds. Also, there are cards out there for use in the CD-roms of those keyboards, for about 1 hundred each, (as I remember them being so a couple of years ago). That way, you could get a card that has a Steinway grand piano to have as your piano sounds!
For real pianos,,,, which you can't get better than, because of the wood and metal plate for true resonance, and of course the feel of a real piano action, (grands especially) try playing these makes at some stores just to check out:
GRANDS of many sizes:
Steinway (hand crafted still)
Boston (sister company of Steinway)
Kawai (one of the better and consistant production pianos
Yamaha (I like less than the Kawai)
Beckstein, (hand crafted for the most part)
Schimmel
Estonian, (hand crafted)
Petrov, (hand crafted)
Baldwin
For the ones under ten grand, you can go with the verticals:
Kawai, Boston, Charles Walter, Petrov, and some Yamahas being good.
For lesser costs pianos, you can look at the Korean makes as in Young Chang, Samick, and a lot with old American names but not American anymore, such as Chickering and Fisher. BUT, for me, the Korean pianos, unless buying their top of line grands, aren't worth the less money payout. Sticky actions, and bass notes not being that good, and the whole piano going out of tune fast, are a result, in my opinion, of building them too fast, and with wood and it's treatment not being the best for the four season weather changes in parts of the US.
For older, used pianos: Cunningham uprights are great for sound and feel. I have a 1920 big upright, and keeps a tune still, with all original strings/pins and 99% action parts!
Also: Chickering, Mason and Hamlin, Sohmer, Fisher, Kranich and Bach, George Steif, Steinway, Baldwin, and a lot of others were greatly built pianos from an era of true craftmanship and the best parts!
Happy hunting!
John
[This message has been edited by dhsongs (edited 02-26-2003).]
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#380702 - 02/26/03 12:04 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Mike Dunbar
JPF Mentor
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 8201
Loc: Nashville Tennessee
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I have an old Melodipro 61 key portable piano with a Helpfenstill pickup. A friend who tunes and repairs pianos gave it to me for my children to learn on. I plink on it now and then. I've even used it for demos on occasion.
If I had the money, I'd get a Korg Triton and a Bosendorfer grand.
------------------
Mike Dunbar Music
_________________________
Anybody who’s made it will tell you, you can make it. Anyone who hasn’t made it will tell you, you can’t -John Mayer Success is simply a matter of luck. Ask any failure. -Earl Wilson It's only music. -niteshift Mike Dunbar Music
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#380703 - 02/26/03 08:00 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Johnny Daubert
Top 100 Poster
Registered: 01/27/01
Posts: 7185
Loc: New Jersey, USA
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I have played and tuned the Bosendorfer, and I would much prefer many others first. Too heavy and slow of an action for me. The bass is great though. Personal taste of course comes into "play". Most pro artists I have tuned for use a Hamburg Steinway, or the Baldwin SD10. The Bechstein concert grand is also incredible, as is a "Falcone",( maybe the best of the lot). Jazz pros tend to go with the Yamaha. Chic Chorea told me he loved the Hamburg Steinway he used one night that a college had on stage for him, as it was a faster action than the US Steinways.
The thing about the Bosendorfer is that it has a reputation of being a piano that takes a long tome to build one. The costs are up higher because of that time, thus giving the impression that more money paid for them makes that a piano better. Not that it's not a great piano though. BUT, the older ones are better in my opinion than the Kimball owned ones of recent years. A Falcone piano I tuned once, was really incredable! If you ever get a chance,,,,play a concert Falcone, (it's built in New England). Remarkable piano! The play a Bosendorfer. You "may" turn right around and head for the Falcone, or the Hamburg Steinway. ?????
John,
Tuned them all, rebuilt many,,,,wish I could own one!
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#380704 - 02/27/03 10:39 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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ed323
Serious Contributor
Registered: 02/02/03
Posts: 297
Loc: Yuma AZ USA
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Kaley, I'm a big fan of the Alesis QS8.1, 88-key. It has a 'wood key'-style piano feel, decent preset pianos, and a couple of RAM cards (Classical and Jazz, around $100 each) for variety. It is also a great zone-able synth/controller, if live multi-tasking is required. They're replaced by 8.2, but check E-bay for the 8.1, under $700 possibly.
My other keyboard is a Korg Triton 61-key, plastic-key-springy-feel, great sounds, less real estate. Actually inspired two songs just vamping on the 'combi' presets; hear "Climb the Mountain" and "Sweet Science" at the link below. Best to you! EdB
------------------
http://www.mp3.com/40LOVE
[This message has been edited by ed323 (edited 02-27-2003).]
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#380705 - 02/27/03 07:43 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kaley Willow
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 10240
Loc: PA
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hI...jOHN AND thanks for sharing all this information......
I have a studio...real..piano..it's..an old everitt........but I'm really enjoying the digital...probably...because..I now have the computer..next to it...and can finally..
start recording songs....
I did NOT know..about the cards for the piano....John....didn't realize that at all...so that is exciting to me.
i'm going to print out all this info from you guys......
yes..I really do enjoy listening..to a
good pianist....
thanks John,
Kaley
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#380706 - 02/27/03 07:50 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kaley Willow
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 10240
Loc: PA
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Mike and Ed,
thanks for sharing your piano..thoughts too..
I really appreciate knowing what folks..like.., use....and or...don't like.
Really Appreciate it...
and Ed, I'll give a listen......
thanks bunches,
Kaley
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#380707 - 03/02/03 06:19 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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jazzer
Casual Observer
Registered: 01/22/03
Posts: 29
Loc: O'Fallon, MO, USA
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What I use I don't own, it belongs to the school where I teach, but I did pick it out - an Ensoniq ZR-76. At the time (1999) I thought it did the most for the money (slightly over 2 grand) - it is a workstation w/ an onboard 16 channel channel sequencer, and a great drum machine full of interesting patterns that can be sent to the sequencer - at the time they were virtually the only ones who had that unique feature. Weighted keys, and I think it plays great. Beware though - Ensoniq is basically out of business, they were bought up by E-mu, which concentrates on sound modules (good ones, from what I hear). The ZR is out of production, if you can find one & you're willing to take a chance on something that you may have trouble getting service on (I am) you should be able to get a lot of keyboard for under 2 grand.
_________________________
baseball - the only real game
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#380708 - 03/03/03 07:17 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Mike Dunbar
JPF Mentor
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 8201
Loc: Nashville Tennessee
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John,
Thanks for the info on the Bosendorfer. I'm really not a keyboard player, I just took the classes I had to in college. But, I played a Bosendorfer once and loved the sound. Also, it was the favorite of Victor Borge.
All the Best,
Mike
------------------
Mike Dunbar Music
_________________________
Anybody who’s made it will tell you, you can make it. Anyone who hasn’t made it will tell you, you can’t -John Mayer Success is simply a matter of luck. Ask any failure. -Earl Wilson It's only music. -niteshift Mike Dunbar Music
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#380709 - 03/03/03 11:33 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Johnny Daubert
Top 100 Poster
Registered: 01/27/01
Posts: 7185
Loc: New Jersey, USA
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Yes! It is a funny piano!
Victor had it given to him, as many artist have that happen, so the company can advertise so and so uses our piano. Yamaha is the number one giver of pianos and that is why so many have grown to know and buy them. Steinway was number one in freebees, but in Steinway's "case", the praise is warranted.
John
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#380710 - 03/03/03 05:32 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kaley Willow
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 10240
Loc: PA
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Hi Jazzer...
did you find some one to repair yours?....
have to check back up and see.........
thanks for the information.....
I'll go back over...hmmm..don't remember where it was.....but will find it...
the post on Mr. Rogers and reply about kids songs......
I did go into a music store over the weekend....but only had a few minutes...to spend time looking....but really want to take my time before i make an investment like this....and I have to wait a bit before i do...it anyways....but...will take all this information with me...when I do.
thanks so very much...y'all...
Kaley for Andy Armadillo at
http://www.flashfast.com/kids/
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#380711 - 04/04/03 10:52 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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reversestatic
Casual Observer
Registered: 01/20/03
Posts: 37
Loc: San Diego, CA
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Reading you post I am wondering if anyone has heard of a keyboard called a Loretta. That's what freQ plays in the band W!CK. I have never heard of it...
Thanks
------------------
Brian
Assistant Manager
Cleo Entertainment Management Inc.
http://www.thebandwick.com
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#380712 - 05/04/03 04:28 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kevin Crossley
Casual Observer
Registered: 05/04/03
Posts: 2
Loc: Coatesville, RD3, Albany, New ...
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Hello to Kaley, and John et al,
I started tuning pianos when playing up at Mammoth Mountain in California in 1974 and since then have tuned pretty much all the familiar pianos around including Hamburg Steinways, Bosendorfer, Baldwin, Boston Bechstein and Bluthner, Kawai, Yamaha etc. Your Everett was an extremely popular piano. My comment regarding almost any piano you might consider is that the action can be regulated specifically for your particular taste. Most new Steinways (Bosendorfers etc) need to be played evenly across their entire range for at least a couple of years before they become "playable" . Most new pianos are quite difficult to play, and I'm talking Liszt, Beethoven and Chopin, not Rock and Roll. Bosendorfer pianos are no different from any other in that they can be voiced to be brighter than ex-factory. They are so beautifully made instruments that each be set up for the individual artist. I tuned for Oscar Peterson for his Piano Parties recorded at the BBC in the late 70's and also for Stevie who owns an Imperial grand and a couple of the 7 footers, (all with the flip-up cover for the extra bass notes). Stevie has three very different pianos, none of which you could say were slow or dark sounding. The voicing makes all the difference in these pianos. One would never "harden" the hammers to make them bright because there are other pianos which give a much brighter tone. Stevie has a spare action which has been hardened almost sacriligiously. Most pianos in LA studios have had their hammers hardened at some point to satisfy recording engineers who wanted the piano to have more punch, but finding the right piano for home use would be a preferred way to get that result.
I note that you mentioned Kurzweil, and I happen to have the older 2500XS model. I have been exploring the Kurzweil particularly since I have switched from Mac to PC and wanted to experiment a little with the workstation aspect of the Kurzweil. Although I have added 2 Megs or RAM and have the Orchestral ROM and the Piano ROM with an internal 4 Gig hard drive and an external CD drive, the KB3 and KDFX modifications. I still find that there is a memory problem as far as using the instrument to perform songs (sequences)live. As a stand alone instrument though with the Grand piano sounds, using heaps of RAM, the instrument is unsurpassed. Even using a pickup like the Helpinstill on a grand piano, just being able to crank up the level on a Kurzweil and cut crisply through ANY guitar backing is a benefit fairly recent for keyboard players. I have also miked pianos for most of the keyboard players of the last several years and miking a real piano does have severe limitations when the sound levels get high onstage. I also have had a lot of experience with the Fairlight CMI, (which I think may have been the instrument John alluded to in his reference to Jan Hammer, as I was the sales manager in Los Angeles when Hammer got his Fairlight CMI) Sonically the Fairlight was streets ahead when it first came out in 1979 and Stevie bought one for his Secret Life of Plants Tour. However other keyboards quickly came along and surpassed Fairlight which steadfastly refused to augment their "sound" because it was a pure sampled keyboard, that is, ALL the sounds were samples. Getting back to the Kurzweil, it will play nearly everybody's sounds and because of Young Chang's desire to bring out new instruments a top of the line Kurzweil should be nearer the $3,000 mark now. When you are ready I can put you in touch with a product specialist from Kurzweil who will point you in the right direction for a "killer" deal as he puts it. Unfortunately the Hamburg Steinway will set you back nearly $60,000 for a "B" (6'10") and closer to $100k for the "D" I also have great contacts for used Hamburg Steinways in the States.
Anyway to cut a long story short (too late) I would hold out for a Kurzweil, they are not a simpleton's instrument by any means and will provide you with enough meat for many years to come. I have owned mine for nearly 4 years now and still have much to learn. I'm using the KDFX effects to supplement my outboard effects for mixing, something I would not have contemplated with any other instrument! There is one feature of Kurzweil which could be a deal breaker though and that is its weight. It is extremely heavy, and even with the wheeled airline case it is almost impossible for one person to lift it! That also impacts adversely on any keyboard stand system, because you have to have a stand which doesn't give when striking keys heavily at either end!
The comments about Ensoniq are valid especially regarding the servicability of them. They were great keyboards in the 90's but regretably have been discontinued apparently. Keith Emerson swears by Korg so any of their instruments have that going for them.
You might be able to locate a Yamaha Electric Grand either CP70B or CP80 which enjoyed a short period of fame until the digital ones came out!
Best of luck,
Kevin
http://www.aimcmc.com/crossley.html
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#380713 - 05/04/03 06:41 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Brian Austin Whitney
Bard of the Boards
Registered: 04/20/01
Posts: 16289
Loc: Indianapolis, IN USA
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Kevin,
Thanks for all your feedback. The problem I have with Kurzweil is that their synth engine is so dated. It's years and years behind everyone else after being years ahead... Dan Fisher, one of the best known Kurzweil programmers, used to work for me and I remember his frustration with them even 5 years ago... and I haven't seen much dramatic improvement since then. Or have I missed something?
Brian
_________________________
Brian Austin Whitney Founder Just Plain Folks jpfolkspro@aol.com Skype: Brian Austin Whitney "Don't sit around and wait for success to come to you... it doesn't know the way." -Brian Austin Whitney 
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#380714 - 05/05/03 05:01 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kaley Willow
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 10240
Loc: PA
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Hi Kevin....
Thanks so much Everyone for all the information...
and Kevin, Wow.....a lot to digest
......I will come back and reread all this..... I went to the city..
(NOT NEW YORK)..but the closest city of any size...near here...and They let me go from Piano to Piano and play........Only got to a couple of them.......so far... but the next time I go...I will start taking notes....
of the two I played which were there Roland Series....so far..i like the way my General Music Pro 1 feels..and sounds..(compared to JUST those two)......but...they've welcomed me back..(YEAH RIGHT...they smell $ coming)...and have said they'd match internet prices....and don't seem to mind my ENDLESS questions..  ......
whatever I end up getting down the line..
has got to feel like a piano to my fingers..
as I have two keyboards....I've picked up
(older but middle of the range...casios with bells and whistles..but they just don't feel like the Everitt..or the digital Pro 1)...
I'm just so literally thrilled to have it hooked into the computer now......My husband purchased...Cool Edit for me...and a small mixer....the learning curve for me...is very steep.....but...i'm tinkering and learning.
thanks everyone.......
very much......
Kaley
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#380715 - 05/10/03 03:40 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Tom Tracy
Top 100 Poster
Registered: 09/06/02
Posts: 2558
Loc: Lumberport,WV, USA
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I still use my pumpkin-orange logo(prototype) ENSONIQ TS-10, which I received back when I worked for them, and it still works flawlessly. This was a pre-production one that was hand-assembled as one of the first, since I had to write the musician's manual. Being one of the first, I also got to beta test, as well as create sounds for their (new-at-the-time) flagship model. What a COOL job that was, but nonetheless, it's still a major workhorse in my arsenal.
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#380716 - 05/10/03 04:00 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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joro
Serious Contributor
Registered: 07/21/01
Posts: 967
Loc: Massachusetts,USA
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I have a Yamaha DGX 202
I really don't know how to play it that well but, it comes in handy for recording strings and whistles and such as pad tracks...
I bought it because it was inexpensive and I just couldn't see spending a ton of money on an instrument I could not play that well........not yet anyways...
Dream keys for me would be a full size Motif...
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#380717 - 05/10/03 04:07 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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joro
Serious Contributor
Registered: 07/21/01
Posts: 967
Loc: Massachusetts,USA
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almost forgot...the why?
The Motif is easily interfacable with digital PC recording....it has a great Sampler .....nice onboard sounds too...especially the strings...
Later,
Joe
[This message has been edited by joro (edited 05-10-2003).]
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#380718 - 05/12/03 08:53 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kaley Willow
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 10240
Loc: PA
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Hi Tom and Joe.....
thanks MUCH for sharing........
you guys......and the information
take care.......
Kaley
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#380719 - 05/13/03 03:08 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Brian Austin Whitney
Bard of the Boards
Registered: 04/20/01
Posts: 16289
Loc: Indianapolis, IN USA
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Tom,
I still miss all my Ensoniq gear that got zapped by lightning.. (ironically, none of our other 20+ keyboards were affected.. but all the ensoniq gear was toast...sigh). There still hasn't been a sequencer as simple and intuitive to use as that old ESQ-1 8 track sequencer that made writing 8 parts so friggin simple and was so easy to put up to 30 different parts together for a song... nothing since that has allowed me to be remotely as productive.. sometimes the simplest tools really are the best..
Brian
_________________________
Brian Austin Whitney Founder Just Plain Folks jpfolkspro@aol.com Skype: Brian Austin Whitney "Don't sit around and wait for success to come to you... it doesn't know the way." -Brian Austin Whitney
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#380720 - 05/16/03 11:54 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Graham Henderson
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 05/01/01
Posts: 13618
Loc: Esperance. West Australia
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Reading the "what I use" list makes confesing t this a bit embaressing but that never stopped me before.
I use a casio CTK-631 and while I know it isn't the greatest, it does what i want to do. Even more, as I have actually finished up as the keyboard player on two of my songs when they were recorded commercially. Now that is something I never dreamed I would see.
Sounds leave a lot to be desired but I have found Casio's Jazz Guitar tone gives me a sound i wish i could get out of a piano.
Graham
------------------
http://www.soundclick.com/bands/2/grahamhendersonmusic.htm
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#380721 - 05/17/03 07:30 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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bonny
Casual Observer
Registered: 05/17/03
Posts: 2
Loc: canyon country, ca, usa
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Ok, well I'm embarassed..... I still have my old, old babies (3 Keys 1 module)
Korg - SG-1D Sampling Grand Which I wouldn't give up for the world. Bought in 1986 for the full size keys, weights and piano sound.
Ensoniq - EPS 16 and Kawai K4 and K4r. I had traded my Kawai for another keyboard but rushed back because it didn't fit my music.
When I go shopping now, there are way too many choices - plus there always seems to be "jerk" sales guys that think women musicians are stupid. I get mad and end up not buying anything!!!!
Would love a new keyboard...can't make up my mind... My music is New Age, Blues, some light Jazz, with basic classical also.
Any ideas would be fantastic..
Also, where in N Los Angeles can I go for a good shopping experience?
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#380722 - 05/17/03 12:43 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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aLCHEMY Music
Casual Observer
Registered: 05/17/03
Posts: 8
Loc: Nashville, TN & Boston, MA US...
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Greetings!
Whilst still living in Nashville, I had the honour of acquiring a Kawai MP9000 digital piano -- an 88 weighted key (the keys being made out of real wood, by the by) and the sounds are SO real and breath-taking. I'm very fussy when it comes to sound quality and this beautiful instrument has won me over! (Ask Mike Dunbar, as he got to see it and tinkle on it! ) It's an absolute gem and it will last forever.
I should add that they've replaced the MP9000 with the MP9500 which has got more features on it. Again, the sounds are stunning and it's very straightforward and user-friendly -- not so difficult as the Korg keyboards, and much better sounding as well.
My favourite brands for realistic piano sounds are Kawai and Yamaha.
(You've obviously had some wonderful responses to your queries herein, so all this should have your head spinning by now!  )
GOOD LUCK!!!
------------------
aLCHEMY ...for Love of Music
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#380723 - 05/17/03 11:13 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kaley Willow
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 10240
Loc: PA
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Hi Graham....
shouldn't be embarassed...I mostly shop yard sales...for almost everything in my house..that I can......(allows me to stay home...most of the time...and write songs..
and we get by )...but anyways...I have my
digital piano....and course...I'm DREAMING
of one..like others have........but I just looked at the keyboard I picked up last summer...and that's a ctk? 611........and gotta question for you.......the only thing i don't really like about it...is all the notes are chopped off.....where I have..a petal.....for the piano..and can sustain them...since I picked it up for $60...
it had no....information with it....is there something on yours...that you hit...to make
it sustain.....as I need to take it
and use...it for a few Church related things in the next few weekends...and I'd sure like to know how to make the notes sustain....
anythoughts there?......
thanks for the comeback......
Kaley
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#380724 - 05/17/03 11:35 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kaley Willow
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 10240
Loc: PA
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Bonny, Thank you very much for replying...
wow...so many of you 'all...have a nice selection of...keyboards and pianos....
Thanks for sharing.!!!.....hmmmm..well
only once have I been to L.A....and that
was 3 hours in the airport...so..can't help you out there.......but surely someone will be able to make suggestions.....!!!!
Best Wishes,
Kaley
http://www.soundclick.com/willownwind
http://www.soundclick.com/bands/9/kaleywillowmusic.htm
http://www.flashfast.com/kids/
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#380725 - 05/17/03 11:49 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kaley Willow
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 10240
Loc: PA
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Juliet,
thanks very much!!...
(Whilst still living in Nashville, I had the honour of acquiring a Kawai MP9000 digital piano -- an 88 weighted key (the keys being made out of real wood, by the by) and the sounds are SO real and breath-taking. I'm very fussy when it comes to sound quality and this beautiful instrument has won me over! (Ask Mike Dunbar, as he got to see it and tinkle on it! ) It's an absolute gem and it will last forever.)....
that sounds wonderful......mine is 88 weighted keys...but...some of the extra sounds...are not realistic...will try this next time I go to the City...(if they have one....)....It does sound beautiful....
can't really help you out on your mixer
question...Juliet...did just get a small
behringer?(spelling)...but as of yet do not have everything I need to get it hooked up..as I'm really just learning how to
do simple recording.....
best wishes..and thanks.....
Kaley ..
http://www.soundclick.com/willownwind
http://www.soundclick.com/bands/9/kaleywillowmusic.htm
http://www.flashfast.com/kids/
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#380726 - 05/19/03 05:25 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Graham Henderson
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 05/01/01
Posts: 13618
Loc: Esperance. West Australia
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Yes kaley. Can get a pedal to do that. It is a user choise as far as function goes and has sustain on it. I use mine as a stop start remote when I am singing over one I have recorded on the keyboard. sits below the mike and I do the count in and step on the pedal and hope I don't stomp it during the foot tapping thing as I sing.
Can't find a part number on it but ya shop should be able to tell ya.
I also think you can download a manual for any casio from theur site, same as you can from Yamaha.
Haven't used thensustain much but know it works.
Graham
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http://www.soundclick.com/bands/2/grahamhendersonmusic.htm
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#380727 - 05/19/03 05:42 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kaley Willow
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 10240
Loc: PA
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Thanks...Graham...
I picked up a pedal at Radio Shack...for 10.00 today.......and they told me i could return it if it didn't work......BUT it does..work......so...was happy bout that.
and thanks on the info...on manuals....I definitely will check that out...as there's lots of interesting bells/whistles that aren't on my piano...
thanks...
Kaley
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#380728 - 05/20/03 03:37 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Graham Henderson
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 05/01/01
Posts: 13618
Loc: Esperance. West Australia
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Glad I could help Kaley being as youare a yard sale fool tto, you may want to keep your eye out for a karaoke box too. I bought one off a little single parent lady who was short of a quid one time thinking it would colect dust but found I could hook the key board to it then on to the puter and use its mixer and reverb to get a bit more mix rwix backing and vox when singing my stuff rough like I do.
and now I get a backing tape from a collab I can use the udjustable tape speed to get the music to the right key as a lot of tape decks vary a bit. Often a a tone away. Use my Boss guitar tuner in front of the speaker and watch the notes coming out an adjust accordingly. Mine cost me 100 Australian dolars. about 50 your money.
and of course you can tape your backings too and then sing along and tape that too while getting the kinks out without loading the putre up with takes. Sing a whole tape full and then pick the best one, and record that to the puter.
Graham
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http://www.soundclick.com/bands/2/grahamhendersonmusic.htm
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#380729 - 05/21/03 11:46 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kaley Willow
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 10240
Loc: PA
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Someday....I will have to try that....Graham...as I must have been reading your mind.....and DID pick one up at a yard sale..a while back...never looked like it had been used...
an older style.... but in great condition...
and looks like it's fairly nice....I got it for 15.00...something similar runs about 100 at radio shack...so..think it was a good deal......
will have to try that out....following..
your directions...(uh...i might have to holler...for help)......
best wishes......
Kaley .
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#380730 - 05/23/03 06:30 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Graham Henderson
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 05/01/01
Posts: 13618
Loc: Esperance. West Australia
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If it has auxilary i and out at the back kaley it will work.
Tip. If youget a hum run the keyboard on batteries while recording. it will be the invreter humming. Unplug it from the keyboard.
If it is an Optimus. I have a manual I can scan pages out of.
Graham
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http://www.soundclick.com/bands/2/grahamhendersonmusic.htm
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#380731 - 05/28/03 11:55 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kaley Willow
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 10240
Loc: PA
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Hi Graham...thanks....hmmm let me look at it.....(sorry this has taken while to get back......i'm still playing catch up..and will continue to over the next 2 weeks...
end of school.....stuff...and I got 24 hours to figure out how i can be in two places at the same time tomorrow evening..).... ..
hmm..Optimus...?..don't say that...just says.....Radio Stack Karaoke... let me see if thing..came with information....
hmm... what did i do with that box?...
hmmm...Ise will return......
Thanks Graham....
kk
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#380732 - 05/31/03 04:30 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Graham Henderson
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 05/01/01
Posts: 13618
Loc: Esperance. West Australia
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They are all very similar Kaley, so I am sure wwe will be able to figure yours out too.
Regards.
Graham
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http://www.soundclick.com/bands/2/grahamhendersonmusic.htm
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#380733 - 06/21/03 07:51 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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united anointed music
Casual Observer
Registered: 06/21/03
Posts: 1
Loc: interlachen florida usa
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You might want to try A korg p80
------------------
united anointed revival music
_________________________
united anointed revival music
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#380734 - 06/21/03 01:58 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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fanito
Serious Contributor
Registered: 08/29/02
Posts: 448
Loc: Washington, DC
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right now? an out of tune upright cuz it's in my apt lobby... but oh how i miss my baby back in ny... oh and i'm all about garage sales - that's where i found my cello. hmmmm i miss that too  thanks goodness for guitars ciao, flo
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http://floanito.tripod.com
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#380735 - 06/25/03 04:36 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kaley Willow
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 10240
Loc: PA
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Hi...Graham, United and Flo..
i apologize for letting this..thread go unanswered....I really appreciate all of you taking the time......to...post replies...and
what you really enjoy....using.....
When I was at Pineyfest...and shortly after......I got to play...on..a Roland..
a Kurtzweil (whoops i think i spelled that..wrong...)....a Korg...and..
a beautiful Yamaha at a friends home...
uh...I liked them all for different reasons........
hmmmm.. enjoy hearing what you use...
and ..Flo?..i have one of them...needs tuned......in my living room....
best wishes....and thanks.
Kaley .
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#380736 - 06/26/03 08:38 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Paul Radelat
Serious Contributor
Registered: 05/05/03
Posts: 145
Loc: New York, New York
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I'm using a Yamaha EX5, and I love the sounds and the touch... I has a very realistic piano, and other realistic acoustic sounds, as well as good synth sounds if that what you want for the occassion... It's been replaced by the Motif...
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http://www.mp3.com/paulradelat
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#380737 - 07/27/03 02:21 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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7
Casual Observer
Registered: 07/27/03
Posts: 18
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Here's a short list of my top favourite keyboards I have now.
Roland D-50: I like this one mostly for the action. The sounds are good, but it's a very expressive keyboard used as a controller. The keys bounce back quick so it is usefull for percussive lines or slow strings. The aftertouch is controllable as well. I bought this keyboard new when they first came out and except for one key starting to act up it's help up well.
Kurzweil PC-88: Very nice controller. I needed something that acted and sounded like a real piano and this one worked the best out of all I tested. It's quite solid and has stood the abuse I've given it.
1969 upright Steinway: It's a nice piano with semi-quiet action. I don't know if I'd use it for studio work, but it's a great player.
------------------
The Tic Tok Men
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#380738 - 08/11/03 03:54 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Jeff Van Devender
Serious Contributor
Registered: 04/24/03
Posts: 1243
Loc: Colorado
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Great discussion!
Here's what I've been using:
Oberheim Eclipse (88) keys with Alesis S4 Plus synthesizer module patched through a Roland KC300 Keyboard amp.
I just got a compliment tonight on the great sound coming from the Alesis. I love the Roland, too.
Oberheim pros: Comes in it's own road case (therefore, quite durable) & a fairly nice separate adjustable strings patch and the Hammond Organ patch sounds quite convincing as well.
Oberheim cons: 80 lbs! My upper back has not taken kindly to it the last 3 years. Thankfully, I have found a nice handcart for it & I now don't leave home w/out it!
Home piano: 1938 Baldwin Howard Baby Grand I bought (stole - $300) from a church 5 years ago. I am getting a new set of keytops installed this next month. I can't wait! It really plays rather nice for my home. Great finish (aside from the slight flowerpot watermark on the lid). 
Jeff
------------------
"Don't forget to dance." The Kinks
javamusik.com
[This message has been edited by JavaMusiK (edited 08-11-2003).]
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#380739 - 08/13/03 05:11 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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cozmicslop
Serious Contributor
Registered: 05/30/03
Posts: 555
Loc: San Antonio, TX USA
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I'm with Brian on the Ensoniq SQ-1. My old band mate had one and for 8 tracks it did an amazing job. Unfortunately he didn't have the manual and it's not like he would have read it if he had (what a hacker). Even though I don't play keyboards, I wanted something like it and found a Roland xp-80 in excellent shape w/flight case at a pawnshop. The little lady played bad cop so viciously that I ended up with a great deal, almost half the price they were being sold on e-bay case included).
What I like about it? 16 tracks, double the SQ-1. Modify and store patches ( Can't afford expansion boards yet) touch sensitive. Mostly, as a beginning writer that wrote on acoustic or bass it took my writing to a whole new level. It opened my ears up to melodies I would never have discovered on guitar. Plus it's one rugged piece of gear. I used it in this past weeks JPF Chicago Showcase. It was the first show I ever did with it. It was a solid backup band to replace band members that couldn't make the show.
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#380740 - 08/16/03 07:35 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kaley Willow
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 10240
Loc: PA
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Hi Paul.... I've tried some of the Yamaha's
out at our local...music store... and there are some very nice ones... I fell in love
with a Kawai....a few weeks..ago.....just seemed to feel just right .......but I have awhile...before..I'll be getting another one..and have lots of time..to keep tryin
others....
thanks..for chiming in...
best wishes..
Kaley
http://www.soundclick.com/willownwind
http://www.soundclick.com/bands/9/kaleywillowmusic.htm
http://www.flashfast.com/kids/
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#380743 - 08/16/03 07:56 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kaley Willow
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 10240
Loc: PA
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Hi Cosmic...
smart shopping.... and thanks..for sharing!!!!....... I've picked up a couple
of keyboards, myself, ...one rather nice one..for
$60...at a yardsale....and one for $18...
and about a month ago....a gal had a full
sized Roland...( can't remember the model)..
at a sale....but i thought the price..was
a bit stiffer than...what i was seeing on ebay....and that "particular" model...didn't
sound as real...to my ears...as what i'm currently playing on......
Good luck to you.....keep playing...
Kaley
http://www.soundclick.com/willownwind
http://www.soundclick.com/bands/9/kaleywillowmusic.htm
http://www.flashfast.com/kids/
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#380744 - 09/03/03 10:25 PM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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David Davenport
Casual Observer
Registered: 07/22/03
Posts: 37
Loc: Bloomington, IL, USA
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Gotta jump in, here. I have played keys for years, and when it comes to realistic action and tone in a PIANO voice in an electronic keyboard, I have settled on a ROLAND A90EX. I bought this at Woodwind Brasswind in South Bend, IN, where they have an incredible room with all sorts of keyboards lined up, ready for comparison. I was not even looking at an A90 when I went in that room, but that's what I came out with. I don't see them around and wonder if they're even available anymore.
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#380745 - 01/11/04 08:22 AM
Re: What types of pianos and keyboards do you use and why?
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Kaley Willow
Top 10 Poster
Registered: 04/13/01
Posts: 10240
Loc: PA
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Hi David...
I apologize for missing this post....
and I see...that there is now a new one started....hoping folks...will be able to get information from both.
I've tried several Rolands out...as my local
Music Store in Williamsport carries
that line.....
I'm not sure I've tried that model....but will keep my eye out for it.
I have tried a Kawai...that I really loved the feel and sound of... It's in my price range.... and am thinking seriously about
purchasing it....
best wishes...
Kaley
http://www.soundclick.com/bands/9/kaleywillow.htm
http://www.flashfast.com/kids/
http://www.soundclick.com/bands/4/willownwind.htm
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