Morning all.
I'm currently looking to upgrade my studio controller keyboard from a 61 key Novation Remote SL61 to an 88 key model. The Novation is really nice, but I'm using a lot of sample libraries with keyswitches and having to shift octaves is both annoying and disorientates me. I've mapped the keyswitches to the drumpads and some of the buttons, but not all libraries use the same keyswitches.
Anyway, I'm not *too* bothered about bells and whistles like faders as I have them covered on other units, and I'm not sure whether to go semi-weighted or fully-weighted/graded. I've only ever used semi-weighted, but I feel that weighted may afford better control over velocity.
What are y'all using?
Comments
I found one of these ludicrously cheap (£120) because sellers won't ship because they're too much hassle to pack and they weigh a ton. It's got 4 MIDI zones, and extra Ins/Outs for studio setup cleverness.
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Oberheim-Viscount-MC2000-digital-piano-88-key-midi-controller
Downside - it's a fair bit deeper than the modern 88-key controllers.
Alternatively, there is the Nektar Impact LX88. https://www.soundonsound.com/reviews/nektar-impact-lx88
Sadly, so far, there is no Nektar Panorama *P8*.
That Oberheim looks a beast - in a good way! They've been absent from my searches so will keep my eye out.
I've looked at the Nektar LX88+ but it doesn't have aftertouch which is such a shame because it looks great otherwise. I do think I'd prefer weighted too.
I've been considering the NI Komplete Kontrol S88 as I also own the Komplete Ultimate suite, but I think there may be a Mk2 on the horizon. It's also very expensive compared to more modest controllers.
I'll do a bit of research about the A88...
Personally I use 2 boards, one 88 note weighted for piano/ep tones and things than need expression like pads and strings then a semi weighted (which I prefer over a synth action) with after touch for things that need a fast action like organs and synth leads and stabs
£50 (!) and it has aftertouch.