Steve,
If the KMA's keys were created full sized, it would simply be a Korg Pa50SD, so what would be the point?

The tiny keys aren't about saving cost, but to support the selling point of the keyboard: a light and small as possible "all in one" arranger workstation to offer the greatest portability possible, yet still delivering pro level sound quality. For those able to adapt to the smaller key size comes the reward of far greater ease in taking the keyboard on the road, including airplanes and other places where accomodation space is limited.

My interest in the microARRANGER has always been for its small size and ability to grab and go with it just about anywhere under one arm, and the rest of my gear in the other, much like a guitarist, horn player, and other members in a band are so easily able to do when they show up for a gig. My dream of finally being able, as a keyboard entertainer, to do the same has finally arrived.

That said, though I found the micro sized keys, even initially, playable, I'm the first to admit, that it takes at least some degree of practice to fully adapt and play it to sound at a professionally proficient level. Keyboard instrument key size and feel (weight and action) have varied greatly over the years: from clavichord, harpsichord, clavinet, accordions of different sizes, to pipe organs and Bosendorfer pianos. Keyboardists thru the years have learned to adapt to playing each. The key is to approach each of them as individually different instruments in their own right, as each requires a uniquely different playing technique. Of course no one can MASTER any of these overnight, but if you're open to learning, you will reap big rewards. In the case of the KMA, its being able to so much easier take it anywhere and not be restricted by its size or weight.

One thing I've found at least for me in becoming increasingly more proficient playing the smaller micro keys is spending a few minutes practice time before actually performing, to consciously focus on and watch my fingers playing the keyboard to grow accustom to how far I close/spread my fingers to play on octave, ffith,ninth, tenth, and other intervals and chords. You then can more quickly develop an inner sense of how far your hand and fingers close or open when playing on the microARRANGER vs accordion, standard synth keys, vs a full sized hammer weighted action GRAND piano. It's of course equally important to spend time playing your other keyboards too, to keep your chops up with them as well.

Enjoy whatever keyboard(s) you play.

Scott