Need a Keyboard/synthesizer

[Josh K]

Hi Guys i have a little home studio with pro tools and a digi 002 rack.
For my projects i really need a keyboard to lay down some strings and piano parts plus any other little textures i can find.

I dont know if i need midi capability or not but maybe i should get it just in case.
Does anyone see any dramas with getting a usb keyboard with pro tools?

Can anyone suggest any good model keyboards/synths/midi controllers around the $600 Australian mark?
Thats about $300 US guys.

thanks

[mindnoise]

Check out waldorf microQ (lite) this thing is one of the best synth for the buck.
Or a waldorf Pulse but it´s only monophonic.

also check out Matrix 6/1000. don´t let yourself be fooled by the looks or the age!
They have ANALOG FILTERS, rich modultion abilities and killer sound.
But you need extra solftware to utilize the Matrix 1000 since it was only planned
as expander for the Matrix 6, so it has no knobs at all.
A old demoe of Sounddiver should suffice however.

only thing is the both come only as rack versions for the flavor of price you want.
they usually go for $300 to $400.
calvia Nordlead/2 are also very unique synths but a big question of taste. You like it, or hate it.
there is also a little monster called Darkstar/XP is goes for apprx. $200 new.
All have midi.

As a midi controller most people are happy with an M-Audio Oxygene.
Good back for th buck.
if you want a ROM player I guess you might go for one of the EMUs. BUt i gues they are more expensive.

there are some good reviews on http://www.soundonsound.co.uk

best

[spicyitaliano]

I've had a blast with my Korg MicroKorg. Plenty of classic sounds, ans some new ones. It even has a cool vocoder built in! Lots of fun. Check it out. $300 on the money. (US, that is )