Complete Ballades, Impromptus and Sonatas [Paperback] Review

This is a great book. I have used it on numerous occasions and can give no more than an absolute satisfactory report. Often, publishers write incorrect fingering and/or dynamics, and this book appears to have notsubdued to that level. The publishers obviously knew what Chopin wanted anddelivered just that instead of placing marks they thought were appropriate.

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Product Description:
Edited by Chopin's student and teaching assistant Carl Mikuli, this edition includes highly authoritative versions of these favorite pieces: Ballades-No. 1 in G Minor, Op. 23; No. 2 in F Major, Op. 38; No. 3 in A-flat Major, Op. 47; No. 4 in F Minor, Op. 52 Impromptus-No. 1 in A-flat Major, Op. 29; No. 2 in F-sharp Major, Op. 36; No. 3 in G-flat Major, Op. 51; No. 4 in C-sharp Minor, Op. 66 (Fantaisie-Impromptu) Sonatas-No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 4; No. 2 in B-flat Minor, Op. 35; No. 3 in B Minor, Op. 58 New compilation of scores originally published by G. Schirmer, New York, 1894-1895.


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The Complete Elegies, The Six Sonatinas: and Other Original Works for Solo Piano [Paperback] Review

The book has a good selection of Busoni works, the editing, if any, is moderate and in good taste. Original Busoni fingering is included. The only downside is the paper quality, which is thin, but then it is balanced by the excellent price. I would recommend it highly for practice/learning, but use a higher quality score to take to competitions or juries.

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Product Description:
Great virtuoso's best, most important solo piano works: the seven Elegies; the six Sonatinas; the enormous and complex Contrapuntal Fantasy; the Fantasy after J. S. Bach; the Indian Diary (four piano studies on American Indian motifs); and the six Pieces, Op. 33b. Authoritative Breitkopf & Härtel editions.


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My Memories of You: Sixteen Selected Songs by the Pianist Wladyslaw Szpilman (BH Voice) [Paperback] Review

I became a fan of Wladyslaw Szpilman after viewing (and viewing and viewing) the movie of his ordeal, "The Pianist".

I feel very honoured to be able to own his work, and play his work.If you love music with a classical and 1940's vibe I would highly suggest the purchase of this music.

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Product Description:
Wladyslaw Szpilman's memoirs and Roman Polanski's oscar-winning film have made THE PIANIST renowned all over the world. However not many people outside Poland know that as well as writing classical concert works, Szpilman also wrote about 500 songs.
These songs have been popular in Poland for decades. Now at last, Szpilman's extraordinary talent as a song-writer reaches an international audience, thanks to the new CD Wendy Lands sings the Music of The Pianist Wladyslaw Szpilman, produced in the USA by a team of first-rate American musicians. Internationally noted authors have provided sensitive new English lyrics which perfectly suit Szpilman's blend of jazz, country and cabaret styles.
Most of the songs on this disc are now published in print as part of Boosey & Hawkes/Bote & Bock's new series of Szpilman's works. The album My memories of you - Sixteen selected songs by THE PIANIST Wladyslaw Szpilman is now available enabling singers everywhere to perform these hauntingly beautiful timeless ballads. The songs are in the original keys with Szpilman's own piano accompaniments and guitar chords.

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Elegance Keyboard Review

If you're looking for a deal, look elsewhere.I just began taking a piano class about a month ago, and I was looking for a keyboard to practice with.I ordered this expecting decent quality, but this keyboard couldn't sound any worse.It's not worth the price at all.My roommate bought a Yamaha that's easily worth the $110.I don't know if other reviewers got a better quality product, but this is definitely NOT in the same league as a Yamaha (as another reviewer says).If you're considering buying a keyboard that you're going to use for more than a week or a month, buy something else.I wouldn't buy this for my little brother.I've never taken a music class in my life and even I could tell the sound was off.If you do decide to buy this, you're taking a pretty big risk of being disappointed.

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Product Description:
This 61 keys keyboard is perfect for beginners and students or anyone who doesnt havespace for a grand piano. It comes with advanced features like Rising/Descending tone function, Single and fingered chord/ auto-base-chord/syn. Also includes features such as Vibrato, sustain, fill in, base effect. The LED digital displays relate number. Includes external speaker, AC Power, Double channel output. Large Scale Integration. Stand sold separately. Specifications: 935 x 355 x 125 mm; Tone Area: C2 - C7; Output Power: 4 W.

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Musician's Gear Adjustable Piano Bench Frame (Piano Black) Review

Great bench, however, this is the frame only.Do not make the mistake I made.I assumed that when you buy a piano bench, you get a usable product.You must order the seat with this!

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Product Description:
Adjustable height from 19" to 23". Precision constructed of hardwood and beautifully finished. Matches the exclusive seat available in velvet velour or leather.

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Yamaha YPT-300AD Full-Size 61-Key Touch-Sensitive Keyboard Review

This is the best keyboard with 61 keys.I should know because I tested practically all of them.Also, all the stores the specialize in music instruments carry Yamaha keyboards. No other.That was a pretty good sign to me when I went to the music stores here in Maryland and saw nothing but Yamaha.This keyboard has the best piano sound out of Casio, Sharper Image and Radio Shack.Radio Shack would come in second.It has more voices then the others.Don't be turned off by it not having a power adapter because that seems to be the industry standard.Casio and Radio Shack also charge more for you to buy a power adapter.Definitely buy this one ahead of Casio. If you're turned off by the price, then get a radio shack one.You won't lose much quality with the sound.

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Product Description:
An affordable 61-key portable keyboard that also doubles as a personal music teacher, the YPT-300AD has it all: 482 instrument voices, 106 accompaniment styles, General MIDI compatibility, and such bonus functions as Yamaha's Education Suite 5 and Portable Grand. The combined features are great for beginners, but also come in handy for music hobbyists who value reliability and versatility in a portable keyboard.
New players will particularly delight in the Yamaha Education Suite (Y.E.S.), which features 102 built-in songs separated into left- and right-hand parts for easier lesson planning. Y.E.S. also offers three keyboard lessons for each hand, including Listen & Learn, which breaks down the melody or rhythm of a selected song; Timing mode, which lets you play the melody or chord by pressing any key with the correct timing; and Waiting mode; which stops the playback of the song until you find the correct note. Finally, Y.E.S. monitors your practice progress, gives you feedback, and teaches you how to play chords by referencing its sizable chord dictionary.
The YPT-300AD offers a number of non-lesson features as well. Yamaha digitally sampled its world-renowned grand pianos and transferred the rich, full tones to the YPT-300AD, so you can enjoy the warmth and clarity of a grand piano sound with the push of a single button. Other General MIDI-compatible voices include trumpets, violins, drums, guitars, bass, drum kits, and even a choir. All told, players can access as man as 482 General MIDI voices, putting a virtual orchestra at your fingertips.
The auto-accompaniment feature is another favorite. Select from the 106 accompaniment styles, and the keyboard will create a backup band to follow you throughout the song. Best of all, you have complete freedom to match different styles. Want to find out how Mozart would sound as a disco star? Go for it. The voices and accompaniment styles are diverse and interesting thanks to the 32-note polyphony, which ensures that the keyboard can play back 32 different parts or sounds at once (including 16-part multi-timbre)--enough for even the most demanding piece.
Playback versatility is always a concern with entry-level portable keyboards, but the YPT-300AD excels in this area as well thanks to its touch-sensitive keys and digital signal processing (DSP) options. The touch-sensitive keys add passion to your playing by responding to the pressure from your fingers. A heavier touch creates a louder response, while a lighter touch gives a softer tone. As a result, your keyboard will respond like an acoustic piano--the more expressive the playing, the more passionate the tune. The DSP, meanwhile, helps simulate the experience of playing in a variety of locales, from a small room to a large concert hall (Carnegie Hall, anyone?). The DSP modes include nine reverb effects and four chorus effects.
And even though music is its milieu, the YPT-300AD also offers a sound effects kit, with such options as laughter, applause, and screams. Almost 50 effects are at your command, making you a de facto sound effects technician. And thanks to the five-song memory and easy-to-use two-track recorder, you can wear the engineer's hat as well.
Finally, the Yamaha YPT-300AD lets you take advantage of the Internet on a whole new level. The unit includes built-in Flash ROM capability and MIDI in/out connections for synching up with your PC. Once Internet enabled, you can pick and choose songs to download into the Flash ROM memory, then learn to play them via the Yamaha Education Suite. And there's no scrolling through menus or fussing with confusing interfaces. Simply press the PC button and you're on your way.
Additional features include a large backlit LCD display that shows the musical staff and chords as you play, genuine ported stereo speakers with separate amplifiers, a built-in metronome, a sustain pedal jack, and headphone output for private practice. The YPT-300AD measures 37.25 by 5.06 by 14.62 inches (W x H x D) and is backed by a one-year warranty on parts and 90-day warranty on labor.
What's in the Box
YPT-300AD keyboard, AC adapter, music rest, user's manual.

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Alesis MICRON Analog Modeling Synthesizer Review

I have been looking at analog modelling synthesizers since the illustrious Nord Lead blew the synth industry away. There have been many to follow, but I can honestly say the Alesis Micron gives you the most bang for the buck. There are more features on this little keyboard than I have seen on any other VA synth coming anywhere near the price.

500 patches of sounds (with room for 400 more to program) running the gamut of analog textures (don't believe some reviewers not finding soft and warm patches.. they are definitely there right out of the box) including sub-bass tones, warm strings, punchy basses, sweet analog drums and much more in between. The patches are separated by category (lead, bass, drums, pads, etc) and each category can be punched in on the fly.

You have three oscillators per voice (including variable waveshapes and FM) which gives the synth a really fat sound as well as two low frequency ocsillators for warmth. Doing quick modulation and filtering changes can be done with two programmable slider controls. There is also a pitch bend wheel that lights up when you use it. Programming can be pretty intuitive if you learn the shortcut method that makes the keys buttons to select parameters (essentially 37 extra buttons for editing).

I have compared the Micron with other VA synths like Korg's VA synths (MS2000, MicroKorg, Electribe), the Roland 303, the Novation Bass Station and can honestly tell you the Alesis Micron can go toe to toe against all of them and many times come out ahead in both sound and functionality.

The synth also includes a master dual effects processer and a single drive effects processor per patch (something most VA synths don't even include). Not the greatest effects processing in the world, but far from inferior. Essentially the effects help give your sounds some nice ambience. You also get a 40 band vocoder for vocal effects (more robust then the Korg VA synth vocoders) You are limited to 8-voice polyphony, but the synth is 32-part multitimbral.

The Micron also has a built in step and phrase sequencer that includes over 400 patterns preset with drum parts, synth parts and combinations of both along with room for hundreds of your own. The phrase sequencer is really easy to use with one button record and looping. A third type of sequencer you have is a pretty versatile arpeggiator.

Bottom line is if you are looking for synth that is affordable yet has an expansive set of analog sounds (and by that I mean a digital synth that utilizes analog modelling) this is it. If you are doing electronic dance music this synth is perfect for you. You won't find a better value for the money. Sure there are better products out there (Nord is still the tops in my book), but when it comes down to it the Micron will give you professional sounding analog synth sounds and the ability to make some killer patches.

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Product Description:
Offering a virtually limitless sonic palette, the Alesis MICRON eight-voice analog-modeling synthesizer produces a big sound despite its small size. Whether you use a synth to accompany you on stage or in the studio or you prefer to work with the hundreds of preset Alesis sounds or create your own, the MICRON is a great musical companion.


The MICRON may be small in size, but it produces a big sound (see larger image).

It offers 8 voices, each with 3 oscillators, 2 multimode filters, 3 envelope generators, 2 LFOs, sample and hold, and tracking generator (see larger image).
The MICRON has two multi-mode filters, three envelope generators, and two LFOs: the full spectrum of synthesis components for shaping and creating sonorities and textures. For stage and studio-ready quality, the MICRON has 24-bit audio outputs and inputs via balanced connections.
Each of the MICRON's voices contains two filters, and each filter can be one of the following different types, each with its own character and sonic flavor: Bypass, Low Pass: ob 2-pole, tb 3-pole, mg 4-pole, rp 4-pole, jp 4-pole, al 8-pole; Band Pass: ob 2-pole, al 6-pole, octave dual, band limit; High Pass: ob 2-pole, op 4-pole; three Vocal Formants, four Comb Filters, Phase Warp, Frequency, Resonance, Key Tracking, Envelope Amount, Offset, and Absolute.

Key Features

Analog modeling synth engine
Eight voices, each with three oscillators
Up to eight multi-timbral parts with stereo effects
Two multimode filters, three envelope generators, two LFOs, sample and hold, tracking generator
Dynamic real-time and step sequencers, arpeggiator, and drum machine/rhythm sequencer
Stereo bus effects including reverbs and delays
24-bit 1/4-inch balanced stereo analog outputs and inputs
37-key synth-action keyboard with velocity sensitivity
More than 600 preset sounds

Specifications

Synthesis: analog modeling (subtractive), noise generator, FM
Polyphony: up to 8 voices
Timbrality: up to 8 parts
Oscillators: 3 per voice with continuously variable waveshapes, sync, linear and exponential FM, Ring Mod, routable modulation matrix per voice.
Filters: 2 multi-mode resonating filters per voice with 16 filter types
Modulation: 2 LFOs with multiple wave shapes, sample and hold, tracking generator, freely routable modulation matrix per voice
Effects: 4 drive effects, 1 per part; master effects
Sequencing: step sequencer, arpeggiator, drum machine/rhythm sequencer, and phrase sequencer
Program memory: up to 1,000 programs and multi-timbral setups
Velocity sensitive: Yes
Keyboard: 37-key, synth action
External control: MIDI in/out/thru
Inputs: 2 balanced 1/4-inch TRS, mic
Outputs: 2 balanced 1/4-inch TRS, 1/4-inch TRS headphone
Pedal Inputs: Assignable expression pedal, sustain pedal

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Clavia Nord Electro 2 61-Key Stage Piano/Organ Review

For the gigging keyboardist, the Electro 61 falls somewhere between a Godsend and a no-brainer.It's hard to avoid hyperbole when discussing this instrument, but anyone who has toted a Hammond rig and a Wurlie and a controller and peripherals and every other blasted thing will get my drift.For 29 years, I've been condemned to driving a cargo van full of vintage keys which weren't designed to leave the living room in the first place.I've herniated myself in the process, and was almost killed in a rear-end collision that flipped my 'B' upside down.I have made every effort to 'scale down' -- Korg CX3, Micro B, Roland VK7, Oberheim, Hammond XM3, and oddball stuff.All of the aforementioned fell woefully short of Hammond heaven, and of course, didn't offer any EP features or anything else.

The buzz about the Nord was intriguing, so I checked one out at a local store.Typically, the young, cooler-than-thou clerk could barely get the thing to power up, and I was pretty much left to navigate on my own.But five minutes on the Electro made me a believer (of COURSE I ordered one online -- any dope on the floor of a music store who can't get a keyboard that produces five sounds to work doesn't get his commission from me).

Here goes (note -- run this guy stereo, even if ya have to buy a little PA to do so): the Hammond end of things is simply exquisite.I did a little EQ stuff (the Electro features EQ and presence knobs on the dashboard.What a concept!You know, you can actually tweak your sound during performance...), rolled back the key click, and entered my own registrations.Fat, juicy, and soulful.Big, even in the high harmonics.Not a trace of cheese.Outlandish chorus.Completely persuasive percussion.The best Leslie ever, and I don't mean 'pretty good.'It sounds like the real deal.I personally don't have an issue with the 'draw-buttons' and I like controlling the Leslie speed via footswitch.The last thing I want is another broken bakelite switch hanging pitifully on my 'board.

Rhodes: ya want Richard Tee?Yassah."Just the Way You Are?" (you'll actually want to play the old warhorse) -- roger roger.Steely Dan ala Victor Feldman and/or "Nightfly" stuff?Yes jones.Through the Electro, younger players might actually discover what a Rhodes really sounds like.Twenty years of screaching over-cranked synth knockoffs did the Rhodes sound no favors.

Wurlie: intitially, I couldn't find one quite 'mean' enough, but five minutes with 'presence' did the trick.Early Ray, in a big way.A little tremolo and it's Mussel Sholes central.Just like my 200.Plays like it too.Light, but CONFIDENT feeling.

Clavs: good grief.Perfect.

CP80:Back in the day, I wanted one desperately.But, of course, like every thing else back in the day, I coudn't afford one.Now I OWN one.I LOVE it.Newbies probably won't 'get' the CP80, but us old timers will have our fun.

Piano: contrary to most opinions, I think the piano is very good.I don't like it as well as my Kurweil 1200 Pro I, but it's entirely usable.I re-EQed it, rolling off some of the not-so-pleasant highs.Prior to a gig recently, I played some standards using the piano sound.I was testing the waters to see if the relatively short keyboard and on-board piano would work for jobbing.Absolutely.It won't cut stride, but an Evans-esque approach is A-OK.

Conclusion: the Electro 61 is hands-down the most impressive and exciting 'keyboard' I've ever owned, and I have had a ton of stuff.Unlike a synth, it is designed for the player to make music on it.In that sense, it is a bonafide musical instrument.

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Product Description:
The Nord Electro 2 is the next big step in the development of the Nord Electro series of stage keyboards. Among the features of the Electro 2 you'll find the new Mega Clavinet sound which offers all the filter and pick-up variations of the original Clavinet D6! This means that you'll be able to access no less than 60 + 4 different Clavinet D6 sounds in the Electro 2!Thanks to the remade piano sample playback engine, the polyphony for the piano sounds is now greatly enhanced. The new piano sample playback engine also made it possible for Nord to digitally model the sounds you get when you release keys on a piano instrument. For example, the Clavinet and the Wurlitzer have very characteristic key release sounds. In Nord Electro 2 this is very faithfully modeled. The new sample playback engine also allows for playback of stereo pianos. In the new factory sound library Clavia has included a great new Acoustic Grand piano - in stereo. The Electro 2 also features great new vintage-style effects in the Effects section. Nord has also beefed up the Overdrive distortion to sound more like an overdriven tube amplifier.Nord Electro 2 fully supports USB download of Nord Electro piano samples. Now you will be able to download new piano instrument samples using Nord's specially developed Electro Tool sample dump program for Mac and PC! Additional piano sounds are available on the CD-R that comes with the Nord Electro 2 and also for download at www.clavia.se - free of charge! More...

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Yamaha DVDMOTIFXS Motif XS Series DVD Review

I would recommend this DVD if you just bought the MOTIF XS without owning or playing the older model (ES).

It is arguable that everything in this DVD is in the manual.Technically, that it is true.However, this DVD approaches the concept from another prospective and sometimes it helps to look at the concept from different angles. I think both DVD and the manual compliment one another.

After you watch this DVD, you should visit motifator.comThere you will find more documents for advance usages as well as the forum.Yamaha personnel also frequent in the forum and are extremely helpful.

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Product Description:
The official Motif XS DVD runs at approximately 3 1/2 hours and takes you on a complete tour of the features, functionality, and just plain fun at your disposal with this 2007-released Motif XS workstation. The Motif XS is surprisingly different from its predecessors and this DVD reflects its considerably enhanced performance-orientated capability.When looking at the main Voice, Performance, Pattern & Song areas, in addition to the key button pushes and navigation the DVD demonstrates how each mode can be used ' and customized ' live. Using controllers, playing the multiple arpeggios, making use of the offsets, Play FX, and more are all covered in detail.Effects are Big News on the Motif XS and the DVD spends more than 35 minutes looking at what you've got and how to apply them in all the major modes.It's easy to overlook the (optional) sampling capability on an instrument as inherently 'big' as this but with sample memory safely installed, the delights of sample-based voice libraries, replacing drum voices in customized drum kits, recording guitar and more await. The DVD spends a good 40 minutes on these exciting possibilities.Motif XS's sequencer is powerful and, for many people, will cover all their recording needs. But this is not an either/or situation with computer-based DAWs. The DVD's final scene looks at how to hook up the bundled Cubase AI, along with how to transfer control (and indeed files) back and forth between the two worlds of 'computer' and 'musical instrument.'Written and presented by Yamaha Corporation of America's Athan Billias - one of the Motif series' prime shakers and movers since Day One - you could not be in better hands when it comes to discovering the world of the Motif XS.

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Quik-Lok BX-14 Padded Keyboard Bench Review

It's really hard to tell the quality and size of the benches seen online from a simple picture and the numbers quoted (occasionally)in profiles.That being said, this is the second bench I've bought online, the first being proportioned for Golem from LOTR.

This bench is a high quality product.It has a very thick pad for comfort and has an adjustable range set for an averaged sized person which provides for proper posture when playing a standard sized keyboard or piano.Other products may be a little cheaper...but they're also undersized to save on material costs....and they make you play the piano in a very uncomfortable position.Spend a little extra and buy a bench like this, so you'll enjoy your time playing!

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Product Description:
The Quik-Loc BX-14 Padded Keyboard Bench has a thick, large, and comfortable 24" x 12" vinyl cushion with steel plate reinforcement. Constructed of 30 x 30mm steel tubing with computer-controlled welding for consistent strength. 5 height positions adjust between 18.2-25.1". 250 lb. capacity.

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Yamaha CP50 88 Key STAGE PIANO, Black Review

great action, similar to the motif xs. If this keyboard has only one sound, I would wish for the YAMAHA S6 piano, but it did not include the s6. Disappointed. The CP5 with wooden keys has even much better action and might have the s6 sound.

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Product Description:
Yamaha's CP50 electronic piano takes the core sounds and technology of the CP1, while it's flexibility and portability make it perfect for the working pro on the go. The CP50 adds a wide range of sounds to the CP1. Clavs, organs, strings and more make the Yamaha CP50 perfect for church, school, and live situations where everything needs to be performed on one keyboard. The Yamaha stage piano features not only Virtual Circuit Modeling effects, but also many effects taken from Yamaha's Motif XS line of Synthesizers. The CP50 piano has a graded hammer action and a lightweight, portable keyboard design.

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Yamaha PSR-E413 61-Key Digital Keyboard Review

The PSR-E413 is Yamaha's next addition to their portable keyboard line. It was designed with the new musician in mind, and includes numerous learning tools (the Yamaha Education Suite being the most prominently featured) and "cheater" features (Yamaha Performance Assistance Technology let's you hit the wrong key and still sound correct). Unlike many other beginner level keyboards, however, the PSR-E413 has numerous features that will allow new musicians to grow into semi-professionals without having to buy a new instrument - 504 voices (instruments the keyboard can sound like), 100 arpeggio types, 165 preset styles, 30 preset songs, a pitch-bending wheel, and 5 song/6 track recording. Other common features such as "touch sense" (the keys can sound louder or softer depending on how hard they are pressed), a USB port, sustaining pedal port, and a headphone/output port are also present.

What all of that boils down to is simply this: the E413 is fun to play and sounds great. The price is generally within the acceptable realm for beginners, and the features make it something even those at a semi-professional level would like to play (though, in all honesty, most professionals are going to want a less portable 76+ key unit). After going to numerous music stores and online sources, this model ended up being the best fit for my budget and needs - I highly recommend it.

I have two complaints with the PSR-E413 as packaged. The first is that the music stand (which easily slides into two slots on the top-back of the unit) is made of cheap plastic, and looks like it will break easily. The second is that a number of additional items are needed to fully enjoy this instrument. The first thing you'll need is a plug-in power adapter (I was shocked that the keyboard didn't come with one) unless you want to spend hundreds of dollars on batteries. Next, you'll probably want a keyboard stand (a decent folding one costs anywhere from $20 - $60). An AB-type USB cable is necessary to connect the instrument to your computer and fully realize its potential. After that, a dust cover and case might also interest you. Finally, headphones and a foot switch/pedal should be considered, especially if you like being creative and don't live alone. Yamaha offers a few of these items in a special set called the Survival Kit B (it includes the power adapter, foot switch, headphones, and an extended warranty), but I don't recommend it, as the headphones and pedal it contains are of inferior quality.

Note: This model replaced the PSR-E403 as of May 2008. The two are extremely similar, with the E413 containing a few upgrades (165 vs. 155 styles; 100 arpeggio functions vs 50; etc..). The feel and most of the features of the two, however, are almost the same.

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Product Description:
The Yamaha PSRE413 61 Key Digital Keyboard expands the capabilities of one of Yamaha's most popular PSR lines. The PSRE413 includes features for every playing level such as the Yamaha portable grand and Yamaha education suite. An on-board arpeggiator includes 100 different patterns along with 20 different arpeggio voices. A full set of real-time controls gives you easy access to all of the capabilities of the PSRE413. A USB port is also included so you can download songs for learning from the internet. If you want to write your own songs, the PSRE413 also features a 6-track sequencer so you can layer your own tracks.

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Yamaha L85 Wood Digital Piano Stand Review

I didn't buy this, just want to warn you guys that it might be the Pedal only based on feature description, item weight and price. If that's true, they should change the product name and the picture.

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Product Description:
Includes Yamaha 3 Pedal Unit for P85/P85S.

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Casio 61-Key Portable Keyboard with Stand - Black (CTK720STAD) Review

Now, it's been ages since I have had a keybaord or piano around the house. I wanted to get myself back into the swing of things again so I thought I would low-ball it on the price and just get something to get the creative juices flowing again. Well, you get what you paid for.

The CTK-720 arrived today perfectly fine (sans a few nasty dings in the box, the unit was unscathed). I set it up, hooked it up to my own speaker system to make sure it would have the chance to produce a nice clean sound. Boy, not even my speakers could help it.

Beyond the fact that this is definitely a "Beginners" keyboard in the way that just about any instrument other than "piano" sounds like a midi file circa 1980s there is an odd issue. As a 5-octave keyboard you would want to be able to move around, but there's something odd in the mid octaves on the CTK-720.

Bear in mind, before this I had owned Korgs and Rolands, 88 weighted piano key styles. So I may be a bit spoiled. But for the first time in my life I have heard an electronic keyboard that actually needs to be tuned. The mid-range octaves on the CTK-270 produce a warble when the key is first pressed. Much like a piano that has the cord ever so slightly out of tune.

Unfortunately, my tuning key does little to help me with am electronic keyboard. It's a shame, if it weren't for the dodgy "tones" and the mysterious out-of-tune mid-range keys it would have been a nice keyboard to start out on all over again.

I will give it two stars just because it's still functional. I may just be a bit too discerning at this point.

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Product Description:
Portable, MIDI Interface, Volume Control Slider. It has 61 keys and has 242 tones with a 100 demo songs

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Casio LK110 Electronic Keyboard Key Lighting / Midi Review

This exact Casio LK 110 can be purchased new for $69.00 at Guitar Center, Musician's Friend---just to name a few.

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Product Description:
The LK-110 is a perfect starter-keyboard for any player at any age. The key lighting feature helps players develop timing and accuracy, highlighting areas of concern so you can direct your practice for more efficient learning. With 100 songs, an interactive lesson function and a wide variety of tones and rhythms, you will be able to play a host of different musical styles and time signatures in no time

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Williams Overture 88 Key Digital Piano Review

I'm certainly not a professional, however, I do know what a piano is supposed to sound like, and I know the difference between a Harpsichord, Organ, and a Harmonica: 'nuff said.

First of all I would like to say that the Williams Digital Piano is by far the best instrument I have ever owned, next to my toy, an old Casio keyboard that I owned for quite some time, I was happy to finally sell that off in a garage sale.When I went hunting for another piano, I took my Sony headphones and headed off to various stores with digital pianos. This one by far sounded the closest to a real upright piano (Well, the Yamaha was closer, but another 1K more expensive...), and it had the features and look I was wanting.

Pros ---
1.The weighted digital piano keys mimic perfectly the hammer-action of a real piano, and the sound is equally amazing.As I said I tested it out in headphones, and even at home in total silence the headphones are clear as anything and sound perfect.The built-in speakers that are attached to the piano work equally as well.I 'tested' it note-for-note, unplugging my headphones and listening to the built-in speakers, and I can safely say that I don't hear a difference at all.No "fuzzy-sounds", no buzzing, no humming, etc.Sounds nice.

2.After listening to several Harpsichord songs, I played a few notes on the piano to compare.So far I can't tell the difference between the notes played in the song and the ones I played on the piano.

3.Same with the Organ and string setting, both sound equally realistic and about as close to an acoustic piano as I'm going to get without spending thousands of dollars.

4.I actually bought this piano online, yes, from Musicians Friend.No, I am not an employee there, nor have I ever heard of it.I did call them up to see how exactly it was going to be mailed.I mean, sure it is less than 1K for the digital piano, but I wanted to make sure it wasn't going to end up in several pieces on my doorstep.I have to say the piano box arrived in no less than perfect condition.Go with Musicians Friend if you are going to buy this!Cons ---
1.Okay, so again I'm new at this.So, of COURSE I played the Play-Along songs while I waited for my real books to arrive.One of the irks I have is that when you use the digital piano to listen to the play-along songs, be forewarned that it is MUCH louder than when you are playing the piano normally.Also, if you are trying to play along, you have to compensate the volume by turning it down to hear the song correctly, but I also had a hard time hearing what I was playing on the piano!

2.Same thing goes with the metronome.It is MUCH louder than the 'volume' of the piano.If I had to change something, it would be how loud the Metronome sounds as compared to the piano.The volume, when recording songs and playing them back, however, is at the 'same volume' as the piano.Don't know if it is just my piano or what, but listening to the Play-Along songs and using the metronome is quite annoying.

3.I'm a computer programmer.I bought this piano because it came with a USB cable, anddd I thought I could use my computer knowledge to retrieve the songs off of the Williams Digital Piano.Not-so-much.There is no way to get the recorded songs off of the piano, the only thing the USB cable does is transmit the MIDI messages to a computer if you have the correct software installed.For me, kinda pointless.

Well, I think that about sums it up.Oh yeah, well, I don't think that this is a "Con" per-se, however: this piano comes disassembled.Which means that you have to assemble it.Fine, but the problem lies:this piano does not have instructions included to tell you how to assemble the piano.I, personally, was able to assemble is promptly.However, at first it was irksome laying out all the pieces and figuring out what goes where.

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Product Description:
Williams Overture 88 Key Digital Piano

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Casio PX-110 Privia Digital Piano Review

As a kid I learned how to play on a real piano for 8 years.I bought this keyboard three months ago wanting to play more and have been very satisfied so far.

Pros:
1. The tri-element ZPI casio menions makes the keys pressure sensitive so that when you play softly or loud it will sound that way.
2. Metronome comes in handy
3. Easy-to-use record button lets you playback what you just played during practice
4. Comes with a practice pianobook with 59 pieces including 3-4 of the more popular Chopin, Schubert, Schumannn, Bach, Mozart, Debussy, Beethoven pieces and some lighter ones like The Entertainer.
5. Overall great sound for this price range

Cons:
1. Having previously played mostly on a grand piano, the keys here don't feel completely weighted, but it isn't difficult to adjust.
2. 10 tones (2 grand pianos, 2 electric pianos, 1 harpsichord, 1 vibraphone, 1 pipe organ, 1 percussion organ, 1 strings/violin, 1 acoustic bass) may be limited amount for some

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Product Description:
CASIO PX110CS PRIVIA 88 KEY DIGITAL PIANO ZPI TRI-ELEMENT SOUND SOURCE;32-NOTE POLYPHONY; 88 REAL WEIGHTED HAMMER ACTION KEYS; 11 TONES, 20 RHYTHMS, 60 BUILT-IN TUNES,;8 DIGITAL EFFECTS, BRILLANCE, DSP and ACOUSTIC RESONANCE SYSTEM; LAYER and SPLIT, 1 SONG 2-TRACK 10,000 NOTE MEMORY;MIDI IN/OUT, BASS REFLEC SPEAKERS, DUAL HEADPHONE CONNECTIONS FOR TEACHER/STUDENT USE

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Williams Symphony Console Digital Piano Review

I purchased the Williams Symphany Console Digital Piano for my own playing as well as for teaching. I wanted something economical that had the look and feel of a real piano. While the instrument was fine for teaching beginning to intermediate students, I found it was a horrible choice for my own playing. I had to press some of the keys very hard to get a sound out and then it was very loud, so it was impossible to achieve the delicate balance necessary for some of the classical pieces I was trying to play. I don't know what "4-level touch sensitivity" means, but it doesn't even come close to a real piano. Finally, after owning the instrument only 3-4 years, some of the keys are permanently stuck in the depressed position, so now I cannot play it at all! I am so sorry I bought this instrument. What a complete and utter waste of money!

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Product Description:
The attractively crafted Symphony Console Digital Piano from Williams has a keycover, pedalboard, back panel, music stand, and sustain, sostenuto, and soft pedals along with a genuine hammer-action 88-note keyboard. The keys have 4 levels of touch sensitivity to get the feel exactly right for your style of play and comfort. Other premium features include 32-note polyphony, 138 voices, 10 drum/percussion kits, 3-track/4-song sequencer, and split and dual modes. Transpose feature shifts the pitch of the keyboard up or down in one-semitone intervals up to a maximum of 24 semitones. You also get reverb and chorus effects, a metronome, 10 demo songs, 100 auto-accompaniment styles, 16-character LCD display, 2 x 20W stereo speakers, MIDI I/O, stereo line out, stereo line in, 2 stereo headphone outputs, microphone input, USB port, and 50 practice songs with accompaniment and melody parts plus a songbook to guide you. Dark woodgrain finish.Note: based on the lighting in the room, the woodgrain finish of this piano can range from being perceived as nearly black to an almost brown coloration.

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YAMAHA 61 KEY PORTABLE KEYBOARD W/AC ADAP *NIC* Review

I bought this keyboard to replace an older one, with 3/4 size keys. My main reason was simply that I wanted one with full-sized keys, but I got far more than just that.Its Grand Piano voice is full, rich and authentic in its sound.Most of the other voices are also remarkably realistic-sounding. It's fun to have a variety of voices, to reduce the monotony that can result from the repetition that practice requires.It came with an instructional DVD that was very helpful- take the time to watch it.

The speakers give ample sound even at lower volumes. The keyboard never sounds tinny. You can buy a more expensive keyboard and get more features (though this one has more than I need), but unless you are spending 4 times as much, it won't sound superior.You can also add headphones or a sustain pedal, if you want.

There are only 2 drawbacks for me.Firstly, the LCD screen would be easier to use if it were backlit.Secondly, on a 61-key board, the middle-C is off center. (This is true with any 61-key board. The simple solution is just to move your chair over a bit.)
Despite these minor complaints, I love it.It's great to have music in my home again.

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Product Description:
YAMAHA YPT200AD 61-KEY PORTABLE KEYBOARD WITH PORTABLE GRAND FUNCTION

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Blue Man Group Keyboard Review

I own 3 of these keyboards and they are the greatest electronic musical instruments I have ever come across. There are preprogrammed tunes to play with. You just wave your hands over the tubes and different instruments chime in. You can also control the tempo and volume by waving your hands over the tubes...almost like an orchestra conductor. There's a hookup for your ipod or mp3 player that you can play the music through this instrument and the speakers are great. You can use the keyboard to play tunes that you know and change the instruments from piano to trumpet,drum, organ, guitar, tuba,etc.WooHoo! I love them and so do my grandkids.

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Product Description:
Inspired by the ever-popular Blue Man group, this tabletop electronic keyboard provides the perfect introduction to music making. New technology interfaces give it an edge on other keyboards of its kind, and keeps beginners excited about music.
The Blue Man keyboard features savvy styling, unique play patterns and engaging musical interactions. Furthermore, it's MP3-compatible, meaning you can play music on top of your favorite MP3 tracks. Keyboard plays pre-recorded songs, and lets you record and play back your own musical masterpieces. Requires 4 "AA" batteries (included). Measures 11.5"L x 25.75"W x 7.75"H.



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