xbsynth

I think that name brand keyboards are overrated - also expensive and way more than I need - I just need a setup to where I can have maybe 20-30 sounds that I have hand picked and the ability to add more whenever it is necessary.

I'm thinking this would require a midi setup but I need advice on:

Should I buy a laptop and run sounds through that or a sound module?

What laptop/sound module did you recommend?

Is there anything wrong (or something better) than an m audio midi keyboard?

Is there a way for me to just download the sounds I want (sine pad, square pad, saw pad, rhodes, etc) without downloading f'ing 3000 sounds from a refill?

Thanks

darkhorse91

If you have a computer, I would definitely just get a $99 M-Audio Midi keyboard and then go to town downloading soft synths. There are thousands that you can even download for free. Some are better than others. Here are some sites to check out:

vst4free(dot)com
kvraudio(dot)com

Zack

Computer, Simple Midi-keyboard (make sure it's not TOO simple, some don't even have pressure sensitive keys or aftertouch, which you'll NEED. Ok, want.) and some soft synths, and you're in business.

I would play around with simple free synths for a few months before picking out a more competitive (read: expensive) one. When you do, if you plan to get really into sound design, The Audjoo Helix is an undersung wonder that I'm currently in love with.

It's got four oscillators, and some amazingly cool and innovative wave-shaping tools, plus pretty extensive routing, all the normal stuff, etc. I think it's about $150. Used to be free...

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