I know you'd hate this, but...

[Haunting Synthesis]

I'm looking for a controller in the $200-250 range. I'd prefer 49/61 keys, but it doesn't have to have many knobs or controls; just a decent, durable set of semi-weighted keys with a pitch wheel. The Korg K61 looks like just the thing I'd want. I also liked the CMEs but I've heard of QC issues regarding their controllers. BTW I hate the M-Audio controllers.

[Haunting Synthesis]

Anyone?

[egw]

I've heard pretty good things about the Novation keyboards.

[Mohoyoho]

This is a bit more money, but I love my Akai MPK49 controller.

[EdisonRex]

I have a hard time recommending a "good, weighted keyboard" midi controller for $200-300. I don't think there's much in that class that works well.

My advice is to go find some you think you can play, and weigh the merits of each. Less knobs means more emphasis on mechanical features (the keyboard). A real weighted keyboard controller is god damned heavy, so be sure you aren't just looking for a spring loaded one.

[Sadi]

I just bought a Behringer UMX61. It's a 61 key midi controller keyboard that works brilliantly as a plug and play device via USB port. Not sure how much it would cost you in your country, but in New Zealand, where I live, it cost me around $299. This is a fair price for 61 keys, 49 key UMX keyboards usually go for around $199.

I love this keyboard, it has an amazing velocity response and I can use it as an external midi device for both recording and live performance with any of my music creation programs. This keyboard also came with a free version of Ableton Live and over 50 free software synths on disk. I've found Behringer products to be really great audio gear and at a reasonable price. Some folks may or may not agree with me on their quality but I've found it plays with zero latency when hooked up to my pc. Haven't yet tried my keyboard out on a laptop computer but I'll be giving that a go soon, as I'd prefer a laptop in a live situation. Can you imagine carrying around a bulky home pc and setting up for live performance with it?!?! Lmao! It can be done, but I'm looking at the laptop alternative for the future. Behringer provides customer support online also and if you buy a new piece of audio equipment from them, you can register for your warranty online using your products' serial number.

Good luck! Shopping for a keyboard is an exciting and scary experience. Take your time, look at as many keyboards as you like, and if you have any questions or need help making a decision, talk to as many folks who already own keyboards as you can. They can advise you of what they think the best and cheapest board is for your money.

[The Orphanator]

So what keyboard did you end up getting?

Oh, and why do you hate m-audio's keyboards? I'm thinking of getting either the Oxygen 49 or 61 or the Axiom 49 or 61.