From eslawson@comcast.net Mon Jan 13 21:04:21 2003
Subject:RE: Clone Keyboards vs. The Palm Glissando...

Robert,

Here is my opinion on the robustness of the various clone keyboards. Your
mileage may vary.

#1 - The best is the Hammond XK-2. I used one for a year and a half and
beat the living crap out of that keyboard and it never flinched. It is
every bit as robust as a tonewheel Hammond keyboard. True waterfall,
squared-off keys.

#2 - The Nord Electro is a close second. The action is very similar to the
XK2 but has more play at the bottom of the action rather than being as
stiff. The Electro is such a light instrument that this keyboard cannot be
pummeled quite as viciously. But it can take the abuse and feels great.
True waterfall, squared-off keys.

#3 - I would rate the Roland VK-7 around here, as it does have a very sturdy
keyboard, but it is not a waterfall action. It is regular synth style.

#4 - Korg CX-3. This is an almost featherweight action. Very light and
fast. Some users have complained of broken weights in the keys, so I
question the long-term robustness. I used one for 9 months and did not like
the action nearly as much as the XK2 or Electro. I had to modify my playing
technique to adjust to this action. Also, the v1.0 software had an annoying
double-bounce glitch that would cause the entire tone to slapback like a
delay after percussive playing. v1.0 has semi-waterfall keys with a little
lip. v2.0 has true waterfall keys.

#5 and up - Starting to get into gray area for me, as I have not played
every single one. I have not played the new VK-8...it is true waterfall and
users say it is good. It might bump into #3 if it is that good. The older
Hammond XB2 had a pretty bad action. Very light synth-style keys that broke
easily. I don't know about the Oberheim organs.

Regards,
Eric
CloneWheel Support Group Moderator
-----Original Message-----
From: Robert Cooper [mailto:rdcooper@rogers.com]
Sent: Monday, January 13, 2003 11:48 PM
To: CloneWheel@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [CWSG] Clone Keyboards vs. The Palm Glissando...

Hello all... this is my first post to the list, and I must admit, it's
great
to find this source of knowledge (and opinion). By way of introduction, my
"setup" is a Rhodes VK-1000, plain and raw. I know I need lots of help,
but
that's partly why I'm here. :-)

My first question is with respect to the various clones and their keyboard
actions/ruggedness. How many of these clones can actually be played *like
the real thing*? Do any of the new waterfall keyboards truly allow a nice
smooth palm gliss like a B? I'm interested in hearing the experiences of
the
list in general. Have you had to modify your playing style because of the
plastic keys on (most of) the clones?

Also, are there any other VK-1000 owners on the list, or have you all
upgraded? ;-)

Thanks in advance,
Rob

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