Keyboards and Electric Pianos
Used as note input device for real-time sequencing and for playback
- Usually 61 or 88 keys. Full 88 key unit is preferable
- Electric pianos usually have other sounds including organ, harpsichord, strings as well as piano
- Key action/feel not same as real piano, fairly uneven and lightweight
- Large variety available including Yamaha Clavinovas, Roland, Casio, Korg, Kurtzweil etc
Alternative to is use a real piano converted to midi using Gulbransen midi strip (optical sensors) placed under keyboard
Other alternative is Yamaha Disklavier which is a real piano (strings, hammers, dampers etc) with elecro-mechanical control by midi data, capable of recording and playback
Electric piano prices $1500-$5000; Gulbransen midi strip $1000; Disklaviers $2000 - $30,000 (concert grand)