Piano Forum

Piano Board => Instruments => Topic started by: indespair on April 29, 2013, 11:30:48 AM

Title: M-Audio Keystation 61 vs. ProKeys Sono 61
Post by: indespair on April 29, 2013, 11:30:48 AM
Hello. I am in need of a portable MIDI controller/keyboard for jams. Now, I have a limited budget so I have to choose between the M-Audio Keystation 61es(https://www.m-audio.com/products/en_us/Keystation61es.html) and the M-Audio ProKeys Sono61(https://www.maudio.co.uk/products/en_gb/ProKeysSono61.html). The thing is the Keystation is brand new and costs 18000BDT(US$ 231) while the Sono 61 is second hand and costs 20000BDT(US$ 257). I will be using either in conjunction with a PC. I need help deciding which one to buy. I am in favour of the Sono61 for its extra features but the fact that it is second hand is bothering me. Besides it would also be helpful if I could know the exact current market prices of both. Thanks in advance. Better yet, if you have other suggestions for keyboards within the range US$100-250, it would be very helpful. I would also like to point out that I wish to play organ and Rhodes with the keyboard mostly with a bit of occasional grand.
Title: Re: M-Audio Keystation 61 vs. ProKeys Sono 61
Post by: hfmadopter on April 30, 2013, 10:00:44 AM
There isn't much difference in cost and the Workstation is new, probably with a warranty. If the only difference between the two units is the 7 instrument sounds then I don't see that as a deal breaker. You can get your instrument sounds through MIDI using an auxiliary Program. You're probably going to be working through a mixer anyway.

Otherwise both have semi weighted keys, a notch up from just a spring loaded keyboard but not true piano action either. Possibly fine for what you want to do with it though.

All that said and I know it's out of your budget but M-Audio makes a full 88 key workstation with great feeling keys, often on sale for around $700 US. If I needed just a controller like that , then that would be the one I would buy personally. It's just a great feeling full size board.