Taking recommendations on a good 88 key keyboard to gig with. I need it for a band, something similar to a pep band at a college basketball game, we've put together for Christmas concerts at local malls and senior centers. Also, I'd like to put together an '80s band and maybe do some praise and worship stuff with it.

I know more about stage pianos and the synths I've used were either racks or the 61 note versions. I need good strings, decent electric pianos, workable B3 sounds, arpeggiator, and other quality sounds. I've found the so-called dance stuff to work well for '80s stuff. I don't mind something a little older, but I don't want something too old because I want it for studio use as well. I think a Korg N1 might be a little old, but a Triton might work. Interested in hearing thoughts on those and similar boards.

If I were to go new right now, the MOX 8 is near the top of the list. I'd look at an M3 if I could find one. I don't really know what Roland or the other makers have. I'd love a Motif, but that's a bit out of the budget. Consider the MOX 8 at the top of the budget. However, I'd love to hear alternative suggestions.

Thanks!

MOX8 is a nice board.

Korg Krome would be a little cheaper, and in many ways, is similar to the M3 you mention.

Kurzweil SP4-8 is a bit cheaper again, but has no arpeggiator and is also a bit heavier. Also, some of its best sounds aren't stock, and it may seem a bit complicated to acquire and load them. The forthcoming SPS5-8 addresses that, but I don't know what its price will be.

Mox 8 or Korg Krome ..... there really isn't any other serious alternative.

I said M3. I meant M50. But they all seem to be gone. My retailer guy I've dealt with wasn't real encouraging about that board, and he's a Korg guy.

M50 was replaced by the Krome and reports have been encouraging indeed.

Krome does appear to be something special in the sub-$2000 market, and the weighted 88 model is nice and light at around 30 pounds too. Just released so not everywhere yet (including my area).

Definitely don't buy anything until you get a chance to audition one.

Found an MO8. Since I've had an MO6 (and sold it last week), I'll be a little familiar with it. Not all the features of the Mox but less than half the price!

Thanks for the input!