Please help me decide a hardware synthesizer

[Uncle E]

Fantom EX would probably be perfect in terms of capabilities, while Juno-X might be an acceptable compromise if you put high value in an inspiring interface.

[rACatkvr]

If you are looking at a workstation synth then perhaps you might consider adding the Kurzweil to your list.

[LoveEnigma18]

Fantom EX would probably be perfect in terms of capabilities, while Juno-X might be an acceptable compromise if you put high value in an inspiring interface.

Yeah, good way to put it. While I love JUNO-X's interface for its immediacy and inspiring interface, I am wondering if it would become a bit limiting in the long run, and the tiny display won't help or complement it. So, between these Roland options, I'd rather buy Fantom EX even though it is on the expensive side for me.

I will give one last thought on Kronos 3, but Fantom EX looks perfect to me in all aspects of what I am looking for. Just hoping it would be available with one of the dealers.

[LoveEnigma18]

If you are looking at a workstation synth then perhaps you might consider adding the Kurzweil to your list.

Unfortunately, Kurzweil workstation synths are not available from any of the dealers in my country. Looks like they don't sell well in this part of the world.

[HAL76]

If you make your selection based on options or parameters, you will quickly fall victim to the manufacturers' marketing promises.

Even if a synth has everything you want, it is by no means guaranteed that it will appeal to you sonically or in terms of usability—or that it will align with your goals. Just think about the presets, for instance.

And when I take into account your stylistic intentions (and your username here), I actually already know that you are likely to be disappointed by newer models.

I think you may be right. I am trying to find something that appeals sonically and usability, but there's always going to be a trade-off. Budget is an important consideration (< $2000), as I don't want to go too overboard and then not like/use what I buy in the long run.

Any news about your descision?

[LoveEnigma18]

If you make your selection based on options or parameters, you will quickly fall victim to the manufacturers' marketing promises.

Even if a synth has everything you want, it is by no means guaranteed that it will appeal to you sonically or in terms of usability—or that it will align with your goals. Just think about the presets, for instance.

And when I take into account your stylistic intentions (and your username here), I actually already know that you are likely to be disappointed by newer models.

I think you may be right. I am trying to find something that appeals sonically and usability, but there's always going to be a trade-off. Budget is an important consideration (< $2000), as I don't want to go too overboard and then not like/use what I buy in the long run.

Any news about your descision?

Thanks for following up. I haven't bought anything yet. I have been deciding between Fantom EX and Montage M of late with a bit more affinity for the former. [Yes, I increased my budget.]

A few main reasons I am thinking about Montage M are ready availability locally, better aftertouch keybed, and if I were to get a 88 key keyboard, Montage M8x has polyphonic aftertouch and its price is less than Fantom 7 EX currently where I am.

On the flip side, Montage M keyboards have a fan inside. I am not sure if that's a concern, but I guess it is important to consider.

I am not a pianist and not a great keyboard player, but I have played weighted keys a few times in the past, which I loved. Aside from the weight and size, I am not sure if there will be any challenges with an 88 key keyboard, because I will be majorly playing non-piano sounds.

[EnGee]

I am not a pianist and not a great keyboard player, but I have played weighted keys a few times in the past, which I loved. Aside from the weight and size, I am not sure if there will be any challenges with an 88 key keyboard, because I will be majorly playing non-piano sounds.

I would go for the 61 keys. However, if you have in mind, you will be interested in learning piano one day, then of course go for the 88 keys.

I think you will be happy with either one (personally, I would choose the Montage because I can focus on just two great synths without bothering about plugins or expansions). Both has a nice audio interface, so it makes sense for the workstation to be the central unit of your studio (main midi Keyboard, controller and audio interface).

P.S.
Here in NZ, they are the same prices (from dealers).