Need helping selecting 49 key midi controller

[soureel]

To those of you who are keyboard players playing live gigs, I need help choosing a midi controller. I recently purchased a Nektar gx49 from Sweetwater. The board was very reasonably priced. It seems well built, and fits nicely in my setup. I really like the minimalist layout of the controls. BUT, the spring action of the keys is pretty strong. I had hoped for a keybed that would provide a light touch suitable for synth and organ leads. Even though it's not a weighted keyboard, it takes at least as much force to depress the keys as my Casio PX digital piano. I'm wondering if I should send it back to Sweetwater and get something else. Hate to pay return shipping and restocking fee, but I don't want to end up with something that I don't enjoy playing.

There are other 49 key midi controllers out there. Almost bought the M-Audio Keystation....It's really a gamble buying something sight unseen, but living i a rural area far from a large music store, I don't have many options.

To sum up, I'm looking for a 49 key midi controller for live gigging with a compact layout, minimal controls needed, and a light touch. I would like to stay under $150 (US) if possible.

Thoughts?

 

[3dc]

At 150 bucks there is nothing much better than your Nektar GX49. Better keybeds are usually above 200 bucks. At this price range you will find midi keyboards like Roland A-500 PRO with aftertouch and proper synth action keys.
If in your position I would save some money and stick with your Nektar GX49 for now at least until I could afford a proper midi keyboard upgrade. I know this is not ideal for playing but then again it can't be that bad either. I would also check what is recommended by your DAW to get the best possible workflow integration.

 

[soureel]

Any idea if the Roland A49 has the same keybed? That's more in my price range.

 

[anotherscott]

I'd look at the Samson Graphite 49, it's got a really nice synth action.