Hey Phil.

The PC-88 is a better sounding keyboard in my opinion, but the key actions and contacts wear easily on them and there has been many, many issues with them breaking down and frequently needing to be serviced. I suggest if you want a quality sounding piano and a sturdy piece of gear, then look at the Kurz SP-88. The Alesis QS8.1 is a good synth, I just personally never liked their sound. Its all in opinion.