I have been researching and testing midi controllers that I can use at home with myPa900, to give me a better feeling wider range keyboard at home while benefitting from the light weight of the 61 key board to take out with me.

Has anyone any experience with the Roland A88?

I just bought the Roland A88 Controller used for $599.00. I do like the feel and it has a nice feel to it. I also have the Roland Integra 7 which is why I was interested in the A88 controller. They both work together well. If you are looking for a nice controller that also has sound and usb recording, I can highly recommend the Casio PX-5S. It actually has a better keybed. It uses a tri-sensor mechanism that gives you high resolution midi. The A-88 is only two sensors. There is a difference. Don't let the Casio name scare you. The PX-5S is well made and would be a great controller. I only bought the Roland A88 because I had the Integra 7 and I got it for a much reduced price.

Hope this helps.

Good luck in your music making.

Thank you, solomon8, I'll check it out.

I keep hearing and reading good things about that keybed feel and recently found out that the Casio PX 350 uses the same keybed as the PX-5, but is $200 cheaper and has just been reduced by another $100, so have ordered that from Sweetwater to try at home.

I have the 350 and its a great board. But I think the PX 5 is much more versitile as a controller. Thats what is was designed for. The 350 was aimed at being a solo board.

Graham,
I have a few PX-5S keyboards I purchased from NAMM show that can be bought for the same price as the PX-350 if you are interested. This is a far superior product as a pro keyboard and great midi controller.

Thanks, George, that's a great offer, but the 350 is already on its way. I did like the feature of the onboard speakers, so if they are reasonable I'll probably stick with that. If they are terrible, however, I'll be back, thanks!