From bruce@ashbysolutions.com Mon Dec 26 08:53:54 2005
Subject:Re: mini-midi controller?

Hi Joe,

>Bruce, How do you like the 88 Keystation Pro? The price is
>unbelievable, but how does it play and sound? I wonder how it would
>compare to my Roland RD-170.

It's a completely different animal from the RD-170:

- First off, it's a master controller, with no sounds of its own. They do have a new product that is basically a KS88 with piano sounds, for about $100 (US street) more. However, it has less knobs and switches.

- Secondly, the keybed feels nothing like a concert grand piano. It is quite playable as a piano (IMHO); however, if you are expecting a lower-cost alternative to the Yamaha P90, you'll likely be disappointed. The best analogy I can come up with for the action is a pre-CBS Fender Rhodes, with its slightly soft attack, and rubber-like bounce on the release. If you've ever played an old Rhodes, you'll know exactly what I mean.

- The real shining point of the KS88 is the marriage of a piano-like action to a terrific collection of knobs (24), sliders (9), switches (22), and external inputs (1 expression + 2 sustain pedals). The KS88 can do everything that the U-33e can do and more. Each knob/slider/switch/input can have its own MIDI function, on its own MIDI channel. Some of the controls -- sustain pedals, Mod Wheel, etc. -- can have a separate function for each zone. ex: The Mod Wheel can provide modulation on Zone 1, reverb on Zone 2, Leslie speed control on Zone 3, and nothing at all on Zone 4 -- all at the same time.

- Programming it is a little quirky, but the display is large and easy to read.

Regards,

-BW

--
Bruce Wahler
Design Consultant
Ashby Solutions™ http://consult.ashbysolutions.com
978.386.7389 voice/fax
bruce@ashbysolutions.com

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