Hello from Massachusetts, USA!
New member/first post. This looks like one of the best forums I've seen, on any subject! Looking forward to participating.
I have an _old_ Kurzweil PC88mx that I'm looking to put out to pasture and upgrade to a new digital piano. I was wondering if anybody could impart some wisdom about replacements to consider.
After searching the forum and elsewhere and reading similar topics, I think I'm leaning toward a Kawai (ES7 or CN24/34?). I'm purely amateur, i.e. no gigs, so portability not important. I play a mix of jazz, popular and classical. My priorities (based on the experience with PC88mx and a prior Roland) are:
- Expressive keyboard action. I had problems with the PC88mx transitioning between loud and soft. The older Roland was even harder play expressively.
- Good piano sounds, although I don't have much complaint about the PC88mx.
- Ease of use for a casual player. I barely scratched the surface of the PC88mx features, because they required too much time and effort to learn. I'd love to do more advanced things if they are accessible.
- A non-stage configuration, e.g. pedals that don't shift around and a keyboard cover would be nice. I do have external speakers (Alesis Monitor One) and an amplifier, so built-in speakers are not a requirement.
- An ability to do other MIDI things with it, e.g. Band in a Box, Garage Band, or other PC or iPad MIDI software. I'm sure it's possible with all DPs, but it would be great if it was reasonably easy. Do built-in General MIDI voices help?
- Moderate cost (as far below $3000 as possible?). I do intend to keep it for a long time, so I'm willing to stretch if it buys some important quality.
I'm somewhat biased against Kurzweil and Roland based on my past experience, but my mind is basically open.
Enough for now. I hope I've given enough info without overloading your circuits.
Thanks!