Imagine having an Akai MPC module with synth and arranger capabilities, you really can't ask for more : )

Yes, I would deffinitely buy an arranger rack unit. Though I would prefer a surface unit like Ketron (http://www.ketronus.com/midjay.htm).

Remember the Yamaha EX5r?...

I found one on ebay http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=38091&item=7305119791&rd=1 its an older model, and not an arranger. But it has Motif sounds i think, sequencer and a sampler.

Phil

What about something like the QY100 with better arranger controls that actually was easy to control live.

Aaahh, but with the proper midi controller, you will have control surfaces that can be used to send control messages to the Rack Arranger and thus mimic the surface controls of the All-in-one keyboard.

Take a look at this controller: http://www.m-audio.com/products/en_us/KeystationPro88-main.html

Won't this do?

Al

Also, some Rack Arrangers have control surfaces that would normally appear on the keyboard. You simply mount the rack unit ON TOP of the keyboard controller, and your controls are at your fingertips; albeit your left hand fingertips!!

The M-Audio controller is fantastic, decent feel, by far the lightest hammer action ive felt. But i like it better than most other hammer action boards. But talk about heavy... eek, over 45 pounds! Plus a 25 pound rack... that gets pretty brutal for heavy gigging! The buttons and knobs feel nice, and the construction is sturdy. Tons of great reviews. And the price isnt that out rageous. It would be my prime choice for a one place only controller.

Phil

[This message has been edited by Pennywizz6 (edited 03-09-2005).]

Sure it would work... LOTS of controllers would work... but I wouldn't want a rack-only arranger because personally I don't want to haul a rack around just for that purpose. All I'm saying is that an arranger model that could be BOTH rack-mounted or used as a table-top unit would be the ideal solution. Isn't that Bohm rack arranger also a table-top model? It looks like it from the picture. That's why I think a "Yamaha QY-3000", based on the QY-series but with the modern PSR3000/Tyros sounds, would be very cool. The QY-series is overdue for a new model anyway. Add the capability to use some optional rack ears for those who want them and there you go...

I'll bet I could design a "QY-3000" in Photoshop pretty easily.

Ok, I understand you now. The Bohm is a table top model. I've never looked at the Qy series. I'm going to research it some and see.

Tyros in a box would be ideal for me.

Penny,
The EX5R was an AWSOME rack synth. I don't know why Yamaha cheesed out on the Motif rack by dropping the sequencer and a few other things. The EX5R was basically the EX-5 synth without the keybed, but still with all the internal features. I think they should add the sequencer to the Motif rack along with all the goodies in the sampling area

Oh yeah Phil, what's the status on that Roland Fantom? Did the guy ever deliver it to you?

Squeak

[This message has been edited by squeak_D (edited 03-09-2005).]