Reddit mentions: The best portable keyboards

Wooooo okay! Here's 1-20, and I will give the bonus ones a go in just a few minutes! fear cuts deeper than swords

1.) Something that is grey. How about a knife set?!

2.) Something reminiscent of rain. Cinema Paradiso! The cover of it is two people in the rain :) (Movies wishlist)

3.) Something food related that is unusual. This Manatea infuser is unusual! (Default wishlist)

4.) Something on your list that is for someone other than yourself. Tell me who it's for and why. (Yes, pets count!) I have a pet wishlist and a wishlist for my best friend! This traveling litter box is the perfect combination--it's so I can take my kitty on trips to my best friend's place! (Kitty wishlist)

5.) A book I should read! I am an avid reader, so take your best shot and tell me why I need to read it! Why have just one book when you could have 3000?! This little usb is loaded with over 3000 classic novels. Yes, almost all of these novels are free on Project Gutenberg, but having them all in one spot ready for you to peruse is amazing. You're almost guaranteed to find a book worth reading that you haven't read yet! (Books wishlist)

6.) An item that is less than a dollar, including shipping... that is not jewelry, nail polish, and or hair related! Well, not a physical item, but I have an mp3! (Music wishlist)

7.) Something related to cats. I love cats! (keep this SFW, you know who you are...) Kitty nail caps! I have a sphynx, so I have to clip her nails roughly every week (otherwise when she scratches herself, she cuts herself up D:). Nail caps are a cute and more hassle-free way of dealing with her claws! (Kitty wishlist)

8.) Something that is not useful, but so beautiful you must have it. This one is pretty tough for me, actually--I love purposeful items! However, I already have a cheese grater, so this hedgehog shaped one isn't actually something I NEED--it's just so cool!! (Default wishlist)

9.) A movie everyone should watch at least once in their life. Why? Life is Beautiful. It's a sweet, touching, and heartbreaking story of a Jewish father trying to keep the joy in life in a concentration camp. It's laugh-out-loud funny, and so sad you'll cry. Definitely worth watching. (Movies wishlist)

10.) Something that would be useful when the zombies attack. Explain. Packaged, high-cal foods will be really helpful! You have to keep your energy up while you're on the run, and you need a portable snack! These cookies are sure to give you the extra boost you need to escape the zombies. (Default wishlist)

11.) Something that would have a profound impact on your life and help you to achieve your current goals. Hmmm this is a toss-up for me. I need a laptop for life. I have a little chromebook, but when I need to update my resumes and write cover letters, I need to go to the library to use an actual computer to make sure the formatting is right. A laptop would help with the job hunt and (hopefully) help land me a job! (Expensive things wishlist) My other goal, to become healthier, would be helped by wrist weights to wear during my runs! No, it's not a huge amount of weight, but it will make my runs that much more difficult and help tone my arms! It's a small change with a big impact :) (Default wishlist)

12.) One of those pesky Add-On items. Oh gosh, take your pick. Cat snuggie (kitty wishlist), sriracha (who doesn't love hot sauce?! Under $6 wishlist), a pumice stone (Under $6 wishlist), or a kitty laser toy! (kitty wishlist)

13.) The most expensive thing on your list. Your dream item. Why? A $500 keyboard. I love playing piano, but I'm a young and flighty thing--I fully expect to be moving around a lot for the next 5-10 years, and I can neither afford an actual piano, nor can I imagine transporting one in and out of various apartments. This keyboard will give me the chance to practice and enjoy playing, but it's a much more compact and liveable way of doing so. (Expensive things wishlist)

14.) Something bigger than a bread box. A relatively cheap and yet still nice vacuum cleaner! Nice, easy to use, and practical :) (Expensive things)

15.) Something smaller than a golf ball. A storm trooper USB! Cute and practical! (Default wishlist)

16.) Something that smells wonderful. Lavender chamomile bubble bath! I don't know about you, but few things smell more relaxing to me than lavender and chamomile, so a combo bubble bath just sounds like bliss to me. (Default wishlist)

17.) A (SFW) toy. Here's a whole bag of toys! And less than $10 too! My kitty would have a field day with all those toys :) (Kitty wishlist!)

18.) Something that would be helpful for going back to school. A lunch box! I always brought my lunch to school, so every year I got a cool new lunch box for that year :) These ones are super cute, and insulated! (Default wishlist)

19.) Something related to your current obsession, whatever that may be. I've had a life-long Disney obsession! (Movies wishlist) My whole bathroom is Mickey themed (default wishlist), and I'm always looking for cool new Disney items to add to my wishlist! I seriously love Disney.

20.) Something that is just so amazing and awe-inspiring that I simply must see it. Explain why it is so grand. You too can own the Sword of Gryffindor! (Expensive things wishlist) Not only do you get to wield the weapon that destroyed three pieces of Voldemort's soul, it's also pretty practical! It's a letter opener that you can proudly display resting in the hands of a lion :) (Expensive things wishlist)

Well, they're both certainly great looking. I think the MT-65 is one of the best looking keyboards ever made, and the MT-70 is no slouch either with its classy two tone scheme.

They're both pretty unique as far as Casiotones go, the MT-70 being covered here. Don't know if the MT-65 has a similar page. They both can sound pretty good, especially with external effects (your guitar pedals would be great for this), as demonstrated here and here. I used to have a Casio MT-100 that I had some fun with. Sounded more like the MT-65, but it was less interesting except for the EQ section.

But...

First off, even in immaculate condition I would personally never pay $50-60 for a Casiotone of any stripe, especially one with some parts missing. I got that MT-100 I mentioned for $4 and that's about how much it was worth. They're toy keyboards, not professional instruments (although many Casiotones have of course been used professionally).

Secondly, if you're trying to buy your first synth to learn synthesis, you're not going to be able to do that on one of those as they have almost no sound editing capabilities and the sounds you do get are very limited.

$50-60 isn't a whole lot of money for a synth but you could still do a lot better than a Casiotone. Here's some options that you might consider:

• Stylophone Gen X-1: At $70 it's just a tad more money than one of those Casiotones, but it's a full-featured pocket synth that sounds really good and will teach you the fundamentals of synthesis as it's totally editable. This is what I would personally recommend for you as it's a complete analog synth that lets you create your own sounds, is very easy to use, has a built-in delay, and is self-contained like the Casios with battery power, a speaker, and a touchstrip ribbon keyboard that you can play with no prior keyboard experience. I kind of want one myself!
  
  
• Casio SA46: At just $39 new ($49 for the slightly larger SA76), this Casio undercuts the price of the Casiotones you've been looking at and is a lot more modern, with 100 sounds to choose from instead of the handful you get in a Casiotone. And, like the Casiotones, a lot of them are nice, usable sounds. There are a few people on here and on the Facebook synth groups that have one and enjoy it. If you really want a small Casio, this would be the one I'd heartily recommend! As with the Stylophone, it's alluring enough that something I kind of want to buy for myself just for fun.
  
• Teenage Engineering Pocket Operators: These tiny calculator-like devices have lots of that lo-fi charm that people love about the Casiotones, but are enormously more flexible and lots of fun to jam on. There are a bunch of different options that all sound great, and they start at $49.
  
  Any of those three options would be a great fit for you in my opinion. However, if you can stretch your budget, there's a whole lot more fun gear you can consider.
  
  
• Akai MPK Mini Play: At $129 it's quite a bit more expensive than a $50 Casiotone, but it's worth all of those dollars as it's totally packed with features. It's a new model of one of the most popular MIDI controllers ever, but this one adds a suite of built-in synth and drum sounds to play on the keys and pads. Another one I really want myself!
  
• Korg Volca Keys: The Korg Volca series is one of the most popular points of entry for people new to synthesizers. They're small, they're fun, and they're packed with features. Any of them would be good for you, but the Keys is my favorite and the simplest for a beginner IMO. If you're more interested in making drum sounds, there's the Volca Beats, or the Volca Sample for sampling. And so on. A Volca Keys or Bass would serve you really well for a first synth. New the Volcas are $150-160, but they very frequently show up used for less than that. Here's a Keys for $115, and they sometimes show up for as low as $80. And that brings me to my final suggestion:
  
• Used synths! There are tons of great synths that you can get for very little money if you snoop around Reverb, eBay, Craigslist, and sometimes even the Facebook Marketplace. Volcas, Meeblip Triodes, Korg Electribes, Arturia Minibrutes, home keyboards with synthesis editing capabilities and many more.
  
  Finally, if after all of this you decide you actually really do want an old Casiotone, please don't get extorted into paying $50 or $60 for one. Check your local thrift shops and you'll likely find one for about as much as I paid for that MT-100 in a Goodwill. They're all pretty similar anyway.
  
  I hope any of this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.

1: That's just a controller. It doesn't have sounds of its own. I would suggest considering something that does have sounds of its own (such as a synthesizer, a piano, or something more like a normal student keyboard like this) so that you aren't tethered to a computer+software any time you want to practice. That said, you can still get by with a controller only and your laptop. Whatever you get, you probably do want Midi so you can use it with your software. (Unless it's a real 88-key piano, which is probably the best for learning IMO). For the "portable keyboards" with midi support, like the one I linked, Yamaha and Casio make some pretty good ones. A little pricier than the one you linked, unfortunately. 32 keys might feel a kind of limiting, but maybe not. You can probably find a 61-key one with MIDI on craigslist pretty cheap. (Yamaha PSR series is pretty good, nice sounds)

2: Learning some music theory is definitely a helpful tool, and that generally means studying an instrument. It's pretty much essential for collaborating with other musicians, since you'll need to speak "the language of music." (Keys, chords, etc.) One thing I've always enjoyed for learning is going to guitar chord sites (like ultimate-guitar.com), looking up some songs I know, and playing the chords on piano. If you don't know how to play a chord, look it up. You'll start noticing patterns (how to play a major chord, minor chord, 7th, maj7, etc). That combined with practicing scales can take you pretty far, and give you some tools to explore when writing songs. /r/musictheory seems to be a good community for resources, too.

3: Piano is so fun. I played other instruments before picking up piano, but learning piano has improved my understanding of other instruments (and theory in general) dramatically. So I think you definitely have the right idea looking at keyboard instruments.

4: If you do get a MIDI controller that doesn't have built-in sounds.. I noticed that the one you linked doesn't have any pitch bend or modulation wheel. I'd consider getting one that does. Pretty handy when working with synths (including the ones in your DAW). Another nice thing to have is pads for banging out drum beats. Much more intuitive than using the keyboard. Neither are essential, but they're fun, and something to consider. M-Audio Axiom series is a good one with both of these features. Oxygen series, too.

5: Interestingly, Keystation 49 II is the same price on Amazon as the Keystation MIni 32 you linked. Out of the two, I would definitely go for the 49. More keys, and real pitch bend+modulation wheels. (The pitch bend buttons on the mini look kind of lame IMO.) Unless the more portable size is just super important to you.

6: If the keyboard you get has traditional (round) MIDI I/O ports but no USB port, then you'll need a MIDI interface for your computer. They're cheap, and you don't need anything fancy. Something like this is fine. You can also get an audio interface that has MIDI built-in. If you go with an audio interface, you should do more research, as a good audio interface (unlike an expensive midi adapter) does make a big difference in the sound that gets recorded. But that's probably farther down the line if right now you're just trying to learn and get better at composition. At that point you'll be looking at good monitor speakers and/or monitor headphones, too.

No hard and fast rules, here. Just a few things to consider.

Just to clarify, you want a keyboard so you can play it without a computer/DAW, move it around 'n stuff? I'm just wondering because this is very similar to the keyboard I have (mine) and I haven't used the keyboard functions in months because there's piano, e-piano, organ, etc. VSTs that sound better than the built-in sounds, plus I can play through headphones or my computer speakers. Downsides are lack of portability, plus it takes a minute to start Reaper and load my piano template.

Don't get me wrong, this is a fine beginner's piano, it'll have some educational tools, drum loops to improvise to, and the sound will be fine, but if you see yourself getting more into production you'll find it limiting eventually. Having some faders/knobs to automate track FX/Volume/etc. is better than doing things one at a time with a mouse. Of course, you could just get a separate midi controller like this or this. Good for controlling multiple things in your DAW in real time, either while playing or editing tracks. My work-around has been to map my pitch-bend wheel and sustain pedal to various things, making the pedal an on/off switch, and varying the level of the FX or whatever with the wheel. Actually, it's possible to set any key on your keyboard to trigger almost anything you want, weather it be FX, sampling, whatever you want. I haven't experimented too much with this. Anyway, my point is that it's a good beginner keyboard, but you may outgrow it in a year or two, and it may slow you down a bit on the production side since you'll be using work-arounds or mouse+keyboard to control everything in the DAW besides what you're playing, and the sustain pedal.

Oh yeah, 'touch sensitive' means 'velocity sensitive' - the harder you press the louder the note. When you're writing or recording MIDI, each note has a velocity (volume) between 0 and 127. Weighted or semi-weighted keys are a bit easier to press and feel more like a real piano, whereas non-weighted keys are more springy, like they're pushing up a bit when you hold them down. High end keyboards tend to have 'hammer action' which is meant to replicate the trigger/hammer mechanism of real pianos as closely as possible.

In conclusion, I'd say go for a midi only keyboard unless you want the portability to not have to use the computer. Otherwise, a pitch-bend wheel (or two) could be nice to have for some MIDI control for producing, or just for pitch bending synth leads. I wouldn't worry about the built-in keyboard sound too much, since you can get better sounds through your DAW with VSTs (which is why I'm more concerned about how the keys feel to play). Hopefully this makes sense, it's more like advice for myself 18 months ago... questions?

> Is the harmonica an instrument that beginners can learn?

Piano is definitely easy-mode for learning about the foundations of music. Its typically much more expensive however, even small electronic keyboards can cost hundreds (and don't have the best feel when playing either).

However, the certain set of songs the Harmonica was originally designed to play, is going to be the set of beginner songs that you'd practice with a Piano anyway. These are your "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star", "Mary had a Little Lamb", and the like. In fact, a book like America Harmonica Songbook will contain nothing but beginner friendly songs (on Harmonica OR the piano).

However... the Harmonica has a number of advanced techniques. Bending and Overblowing are difficult maneuvers needed to unlock certain notes. (notes that are just... there... on a Piano or other instrument). Chords are also difficult, often requiring tongue-blocking (ie: an octave blowing through holes 1 and 4 while tongue-blocking 2 and 3).

Performing the techniques aren't necessarily hard. But performing them in a musically coherent way? That will take years of training your lips, tongue and throat to do all the techniques. It probably won't take you much longer than a week or two before you can perform an overblow for example, one of the hardest notes to sound. But to play it with a rich tone, accurately, while thinking about chords (and everything else going on in a song) is what takes the years of practice.

Not that any instrument is easy mind you. Playing a set of chords in triplets with your left hand, while playing them in 4/4 common time in your right hand on a piano also takes years of practice. I guess what I'm saying is... music gets hard.

If you want to mess around with 1st position songs (America the Beautiful. Happy Birthday. Mary had a little lamb), the Harmonica is more than acceptable. There's a ton of songs to learn in this simple style.

If you want to pull out a Whammer Jammer? That's gonna take years to learn.

Omg this is so generous of you; and it’s going to be the best Christmas for whoever is blessed.
My son had 2 major surgeries at 3 and a friend made him a blanket. He is almost 9 and still uses that blanket. There is something about blankets that are so special and memorable. That is so awesome about the rain deer and snowman poop will have to try that this year. Thanks for the idea.

My daughter, Ailey Grace’s dream gift is a electric keyboard. She is learning how to read music and preform at school. She is picking it up quickly and keeps asking when she can have one at home to practice. A lot of things come hard to her and she is used to trying her best and it still not being enough. (Her words) (she has an intellectual disability and language disorders) so seeing that sparkle in her eye when she talks about playing the keyboard hurts me to the core that I can’t provide it for her.

I have looked at several articles and this is the cheapest keyboard (that’s not a toy) and what is recommended for beginners, Yamaha’s are also what they use at school so it will be more familiar to her. But she would absolutely love any keyboard.

Yamaha Ypt260 61-Key Portable Keyboard With Power Adapter (Amazon-Exclusive) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077C4WXB8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Xcd0DbN7E5QC8

Thanks again for such an amazing offer and Merry Christmas!

For me a good MIDI keyboard has evenly spaced keys with some resistance. Also, the MIDI must be able to pick up velocity levels. I personally love keyboards that have 61+ keys but they can be pricey. Heres one I just recommended in another thread that's perfect.
https://www.amazon.com/Casio-CTK2400-61-Portable-Keyboard/dp/B00JZEW3KC

Depending on your price range, you could also get a really nice Yamaha. Yamaha keyboards with weighted keys are incredible to play on. I have an old PSR E313 and I love it and while they keys are unweighted, the keys pick up velocity well and are evenly spaced. Some people dislike the plastic keys though.

All about personal preference! If you have a music store nearby you should check out some of the keyboards and get a feel for what you like.

Hope this helped! Happy hunting!

my boyfriend has been really into music (mostly hip hop/rap) since he was a kid and has recently expressed an interest in the producing side of things. he’s mentioned a couple of times that he’d like a keyboard or synthesizer, so i thought i’d get him one for Christmas this year.

i should emphasize that he’s never played an instrument before; i’m sure he doesn’t know how to read notes or anything. i played the piano for about 10 years growing up so i at least can help him out with some of the basics, but what i don’t know anything about is keyboards or synthesizers.

i just want to get him a solid option for beginners. i don’t want to spend too much money (hopefully $150 or less?) in case he tries it and isn’t into it. i don’t know if a keyboard or a synthesizer would be a better fit for him and his interests. below are a few options i pulled from amazon, but again, i don’t know anything about any of this so if you have suggestions please let me know! i really really appreciate all your help in advance, i’ll send gold to a few of those who reply later this evening :)

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Hi

I got $700CAN maximum to buy a Synth/Keyboard

Tommorow I'll go to the music store to try some and decide if I want to got for Hammer Key, Semi Weighted or non weighted key

I'm upgrading from an PSR-172(61key) and a M-Audio mini 32
I'd love to have the full range but I feel like 61 key might be egnuff for what I do

I love using it as a midi controller through some vst on ableton as I compose music, but I must admit I just been completly blown away by some KingKorg video on youtube not long ago and those kind of synth look great!

I want a pitch wheel, 61Keys + and the ability to sit in front and switch sound quickly would be a +

Right now I only found https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00SHCDMRQ/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A3DWYIK6Y9EEQB&psc=1

Thanks Much

It seems like Casio WK500 would be something to get: it allows for creation of custom accompaniment, has a built-in sampler and a PA system (line - in), SD card slot and MIDI. I didn't get much time to play with it, but I am considering buying it for myself for quick drafts. It costs around $300.

As for the software - Energy XT 2.5 is a nice simple sequencer, and Ableton Live has an interface which explains where to click to do various things (but it might be an overkill).

In any case, you can get a free VST host and some free synths (my favourite being Superwave P8, MinimogueVA,Polyvoks station) - find all of them on KVR Audio Forums (in case you don't know, VST is a standard for virtual instruments, aka a way to get amazing sounds out of the computer).

You will also need a good audio interface for low latency (othewise the synths will be unplayable). You need one with ASIO support; use this google query to find one (Behringer ones are cheap and decent for a start).

I bought my sister this keyboard, although I got it at a discounted price. The reason I got her this keyboard is because it is a student edition, meaning that it has a digital display which shows which keys you hit and the notes associated with each key. It only has 61 keys, but that's all you'll need to start off with. This keyboard also features what the description calls "touch sensitive keys". That means that if you hit a key softly, it plays softly, and if you hit the key hard it plays the note loud.

There are other models and brands similar to this keyboard, but the main things you want in a keyboard include:

• Full sized keys: some keyboards, and especially a lot of midi keyboards, have small keys. Make sure the keys are full scale.
  
• Touch-Sensitive or Weighted Keys: This emulates a piano, where it makes the volume softer or louder depending on how hard you hit the key. Without this feature, you could get used to banging on the keyboard or playing too softly. It's good to get in the habit of controlling your volume.
  
• Sustain Pedal: You may could do without it to begin with, but sooner or later you won't want your music to sound choppy, but instead flow smoothly and continuously when desired.
  
  These are the main features you'll want in a keyboard. The goal, for buying a keyboard, is to get used to playing keyboard instruments until you can afford to buy a piano or electronic piano.
  
  I would suggest googling something like "Beginner's Guide to Buying Keyboards". There should be some comparisons online for which are the most economical, and which provide the best bang for your buck. I'm not the right person to ask about electronic learning and plugging your keyboard into your computer. I'm a traditionalist, and have never really even messed with all of that.

1.) Something that is grey.

2.) Something reminiscent of rain. (It sprinkles all over you!)

3.) I've heard these are delicious

4.) For my best friend because birthdays! Also he loves superheroes!

5.) You must read this because I mean... V for Vendetta. The movie was fantastic, this will blow you away


6.) Well, it can be... ;)


7.) I am the crazy cat lady, so...

8.) I mean... It's beautiful


9.) Not the actual movie
But seriously, everyone needs to see this movie. It changed my life, really. I mean, it changes how you perceive things. Even your littlest actions. Not to mention, fantastic movie score... 10/10 would recommend.

10.) May not be real, but it still shoots...


11.) Definitely this or this but they're wicked expensive. The lens would absolutely change my photography career so much because photography is a lot more about equipment than people like to admit. The Macbook would help me with my photo editing, music mixing, and even my coding and programming. These things would open up so many possibilities for me...

12.) Ugh, stupid add-on... I just want to cure my chapped lips! :(

13.) This is the most expensive and I'd love it for photography... The MacBook, my second dream item, is only $100 less...

14.) Definitely bigger than a bread box...

15.) Earring are small.

16.) This smells glorious


17.) Because neurology <3

18.) This would be extremely helpful!

19.) I CAN'T STOP. I also may or may not have already finished the second volume...

20.) THIS COMIC OMFG but seriously, it is one of the best comics ever (according to statistics)


Thank you for the contest! :) <3


EDIT: Bonuses

1. I'm sorry, this is hilarious.
   
   
2. Hm, this sounds good!
   
   fear cuts deeper than swords.... muahahahahaa!

Dad told me I need some new hobbies besides vidya gaming (which I'd agree with).

I've always been interested in playing an instrument. Piano seems like it would fit me the most; since I'd think it'd be a safest bet (I have Dyspraxia so some shit is harder for me and I'm pretty darn good at typing.)

I was looking at this and I thought it looked good for an entry level one. https://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-PSRE253-Portable-Keyboard-Headphones/dp/B00UN8O5VO/ref=lp_11970001_1_6?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1484369321&sr=1-6&th=1

I have 70$ atm, and am trying to get the rest of the 50$ atm. Any other options? I looked online and people aren't fond of Casio and I'm not really interested in MIDI ones that I have to connect to my PC.

Thanks guys ^_^

I use an Alesis Coda Pro as my main controller. It doesn't have the knobs and buttons of a regular midi controller, but it has hammer action keys that feel great, and are very close to a real piano. It has Midi out, along with midi over USB, and Aux input. It also sounds pretty good on its own with some different electric piano and organ sounds built in. The speakers are good enough to play to a room of people without an amp.

This one is $138.04 used but good condition on amazon lights up and is midi compliant http://smile.amazon.com/Casio-LK165-Lighted-Keyboard-Headphones/dp/B005N4N2GW/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1405829989&sr=8-7&keywords=piano+

This one has a usb port but I'm not sure if it works the same way as midi...http://smile.amazon.com/Yamaha-YPT-240-Premium-Keyboard-Headphones/dp/B00F07YC4S/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1405829989&sr=8-4&keywords=piano+keyboard

If you can deal without the midi and specialty connections and functions (like me. I just stick my laptop on my keyboard and follow with youtube tutorials of songs) there are some good ones on there for under $100 that will work for a general player. This is the one I have and it works like a gem http://smile.amazon.com/Huntington-KB61-Portable-Electronic-Keyboard/dp/B005JK63K2/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1405829989&sr=8-8&keywords=piano+keyboard. Basic but lots of sounds and good portability.

I'm willing to help pitch in a little if your ending price for the one you want is a little over $100.

Thanks for the reassuring response!

I've narrowed it down to two keyboards:

Yamaha E-363

Casio CTK 3500

Which one do you think I should purchase? The price diff. is not an issue. E363 seems better as it has more touch sensitivity levels, but I'm curious if it has some hidden downsides.

I'm also hearing the Casio CTX-700 has superior sound systems, but I'm trying to get too complicated here.

Would love to hear from you.

I think I would just play however is the most fun. I don't really need to impress anyone. Basically I want to have fun and improve my dexterity.

One more question, what's a good starter keyboard? I randomly googled something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Roland-61-Key-GO-Education-GO-61PC/dp/B06ZYZMD8Q

I got money to spare so I don't really mind the price, unless it's over 2k or something. That's a bit too steep for an instrument I have no experience in.

I got mine as a hand-me-down. It's a Stagg, and I like it.

While I'm sure there are better ones, even cheapies are nice.

Some day I want this bad boy: the Andes sounds like a recorder in melodica format, but it's $200!

I bought one of these for a friend's kid, and I thought it sounded about as nice as any.

I have not yet had the opportunity to try several at one time at a store, I imagine if you could, you'd start to hear some small differences, but probably not as big as the difference between different types of harmonica.

Okay great. In that case I definitely recommend this Yamaha keyboard. It's the current version of the model I had when I was in college.

It's great for the uses you described, plus it'll cover just about anything you could possibly come across as a jazz trumpet undergrad: it can be used as a midi keyboard, headphone jack for personal practice in your dorm, and it can even be used for performing (in a pinch). Amazon has it for $180.

I highly suggest the one I picked up: 61-Key Yamaha keyboard with stand and headphones. It's not inexpensive, currently being $171.33 but it's definitely a good, solid, fantastic-sounding musical instrument. Lots of bells and whistles but you don't need them to feel like you're really sitting at a good keyboard.

I picked it up for my birthday in February and I haven't regretted it in the least. Normally I get buyer's remorse for anything over $50. Heh.

http://www.amazon.com/Casio-WK-500-Personal-Keyboard-Connection/dp/B001FSJC2S

I have a used one of these...it's terribly improbable but if you happen to be in the houston area I would be happy to work with you. It has been sitting unused for a while as I haven't really been motivated to play it.

As far as finding one with weighted keys that's not too expensive will probably be tough as it's usually only the higher end ones that do. What is too expensive for you. Found what looks like a good one but it's about 400. Maybe watch for one on craigslist or something?

http://www.amazon.com/Casio-CDP-100-88-Note-Weighted-Digital/dp/B000GAP3J2

TL;DR: Is the Alesis Coda Pro 88-Key a good keyboard for a beginner?

Does anyone have hands-on experience with this keyboard? (Alesis Coda Pro 88) I'm a beginner and am just starting to get into basic theory (major and minor chords & scales) and am looking into a good keyboard for practise and composition. I like that it has hammer action keys for an authentic feel and also has a MIDI output and 1/8" headphone jack for digital production.

I'm planning on practising my ass off for now until the end of Summer and then applying for lessons in the fall and I've heard that - especially for beginners - I should be looking for a full 88 key piano to practise on to avoid any bad habits I might develop on a 61 key board.

Any suggestion is fine and price isn't the main deciding factor either. I have an old Yamaha digital synthesizer to learn the basics on while I save up for the real thing, but I'd like to have a game plan set for the future so I can make room in my budget.

Thanks in advance!

I expect you will be fine for that purpose with a ~$100 keyboard. Probably many would work, but I have used the ctk 3500 and it was quite adequate for that kind of thing. The main hazard is owning an instrument like this seems to predispose the user to upgraditis. The fact you never see used ones offered at much of a discount, to me suggests selling one might be easy.

Nah. If you going down the try first route, you are better off with full size keyboards with velocity sensitive keys.

Something like this. Its more expensive than the casio mini keyboard, but honestly, that feels and looks like a toddler plaything.

https://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-PSRE-343-61-Key-Portable-Keyboard/dp/B00CGDJFPA/ref=sr_1_1?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1468758565&sr=1-1&keywords=psr+e343

This might be up your alley in that case, or, if you want to spend a little more money, this one give you some extra keys to play with.

This is just some Yamaha stuff I found cause I'm a huge fan of their stuff. Nothing from them has failed me yet! I'm sure if you poke around some more you can find something. Amazon search engine is your friend.

This is a Casio CTK-3500. I would strongly recommend it for beginner piano players. I think I payed about $140 for it with the foot pedal.

(edit): Here's a link to the keyboard. If you do end up getting a keyboard of some type, I highly recommend one with weighted keys. Worth the extra 20 or 30 dollar difference.

Is this a good keyboard for a beginner. Is it a good keyboard for its price?

Piano is the best thing for learning theory because the entire chromatic scale is laid out in a straight line for you... for travelling what about one of those roll-up keyboards

Lol, this is cheaper. And If you don't have a piano, probably a better purchase...
https://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-Lightweight-Portable-Keyboard-separately/dp/B01CFOABFW/ref=sr_1_8?keywords=Roland+go&qid=1574856030&sr=8-8

https://www.musiciansfriend.com/keyboards-midi/casio-sa-76-keyboard?src=3soswxxa
Is this a good keyboard for someone who is a complete beginner, and is just wanting to know if they actually are interested before making a huge purchase?

Or this one

https://www.amazon.com/Casio-CTK-2550-Portable-Keyboard-Integration/dp/B074VGGRWX?ref_=ast_sto_dp&th=1&psc=1

I have the Casio SA76. It's a pretty cool little travel practice board. 44 keys, a lot of different sounds, and it's $50. Battery or ac power.
https://www.amazon.com/Casio-SA76-mini-Sized-Tones/dp/B00416WHV4

Thanks for all of the advice and feedback. I do have another question. I was thinking about going with this keyboard: http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-YPT-240-Premium-Keyboard-Headphones/dp/B00F07YC4S

That is around the price range I'd like for something starting out. Is this a good way to go or not?

Ah yeah I was, I tried not staring directly at the image for too long, I didn't want to revive them and have them come through my screen. My question still stands though here is a nice keyboard on amazon for 25$(Used) http://www.amazon.com/Huntington-KB61-Portable-Electronic-Keyboard/dp/B005JK63K2/ref=sr_1_19?ie=UTF8&qid=1372620971&sr=8-19&keywords=keyboard

I've found one pretty cheap, if you're interested

Definitely not the Privia. Look at it brand new.

The YPG-535 is a good deal actually.

The P120 is old and discontinued.

Get yourself a keyboard haha

Edit:

https://www.amazon.com/HONEY-JOY-Electronic-Keyboard-Rechargeable/dp/B07FCG3NQW/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_sspa?keywords=roll+up+piano&qid=1568219818&s=gateway&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExWlJFME5EVlVOUEI0JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwOTIzNDE5MkVMWjBOV0hBVFhBUCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMjg5NzU1MzJWQU5TS0I3NlRDVSZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX3Bob25lX3NlYXJjaF9hdGYmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl

Yamaha makes some decently priced ones you can find on Amazon. I would recommend looking around on Craigslist though and just seeing what you can find. You don't need anything fancy to learn/play around. Maybe look at lessons in your area too if you want to learn the traditional way.

With a price that low, I would go with Yamaha NP-12. Pretty decent for the money.

at the time i purchased it, it was $140. there is a newer model now for same price:

http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-YPT-240-Premium-Keyboard-Headphones/dp/B00F07YC4S/ref=dp_ob_title_ce

The Casio WK-500 is a decent starter for the price:
http://www.casio.com/products/Musical_Instruments/Workstation/WK-500/

About $250 street:
http://www.provantage.com/casio-wk500~7CASS1M5.htm
http://www.amazon.com/Casio-WK500-Personal-Keyboard-Connection/dp/B001FSJC2S

https://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-Lightweight-Portable-Keyboard-separately/dp/B01CFOABFW/ref=mp_s_a_1_15?keywords=yamaha+keyboard&qid=1564035499&s=gateway&sr=8-15

Zoom MS-70CDR + Casio SA76 + Cheetos + Root beer + hosa 1/4" - 1/8" cable= $186 plus shipping and handling. Basically an M-1 but with cheetos and rootbeer.

What do you guys think of these two:
Yamaha DGX640C
Yamaha YPG535

I bought a Yamaha NP12 for my 6 month deployment. It isn't great, actually it is pretty awful compared to my Roland, but it works for a small period of time.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CFOABFW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1