... first impressions say "It's a keeper," and here's why:
The PROS
Feels great (I know-subjective) Similar action to the PA900, and such. Much more solid, and responsive than the Casio/PSR lower end stuff.
Very attractive (also subjective)
Joystick
Great sounds, and styles - better than average speakers
Quick on/off selection of all kb parts, and most style groups
(dedicated on/off for percussion group, which I LOVE - who plays congas in big band swing charts???????)
** THREE upper KB sounds, one lower
Clean stereo audio in (I need this for iPad, and mic processor (TC Perform VK)
Plays MP3/SMF/WAV files from USB
Can be battery powered with 8 AAs
Simple, uncluttered layout
Super lightweight
*** UNDER $400, and Powers up in TEN seconds!
The CONS
**Take these with a grain of salt, because of the price-point**
Here's the biggest downer, for me:
You can't rewrite, or save styles, so each time you call up a new pattern, all the accompaniment parts turn on by default. You can save Set Lists (registrations) with your choices, but the tempo lock will not keep a steady tempo if you change from location to location. I frequently use the same sound set (piano/bass or Rhodes/bass) and change rhythm patterns during a song ... unless you prewrite a "set List" with the desired tempos, when you change patterns, the tempo will go to the default of the style. This KB is aimed at the casual user, with basic needs, and intended to use with auto accmpt, so it's no small wonder that my "wish list" is not filled. Still ... it's very impressive for the $$, and I'm most likely going to keep it.
Here are some "lesser" worries that I don't love, but can live with:
The shift button is required for tempo and individual volume selection - awkward
(it's also located over the left hand, which makes one handed operation difficult for RH items, like tempo, and transpose)
Wall wart power supply (I understand why, but it's not my fav)
MIDI over USB only, no 5 pin DIN jack - small inconvenience
I'm not listing any more "cons" because at this price, I don't believe they will be a factor for many users, myself included. I bought this as a quick in/out piece for quiet jobs that require minimal setup, low volume, and low energy. No clubs, or dances.
If I didn't already have more than a few TC harmonizers laying around, my choice might have included higher priced kbs that had mic inputs, but since I already owned a few, my choice was influenced by that fact. If you plan to sing along with this kb, add the cost of your vocal processor to the mix for a more fair comparison.
In summary - I think I'm going to like this piece for it's intended use.
(Fingers crossed)
OK, Donny ... post your barrage of links, and tell me what I really think.
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