lightweight 76-88 note keyboard for strings

[Fixed Error]

Hey there,

We need a good quality 76-88 note keyboard for an upcoming tour. It will be for triggering mainly strings and pads. Apart from playability, we really need this to be light, which suggests a MIDI controller keyboard but most of these seem rather plasticky in feel. So far im looking at the STudiologic TMK-88 as its weighs in at only 14lbs and ive heard good reports about Fatar. Any other recommendations? We already have a Roland RD300 and Yamaha KX88 in the studio - both of which are great but too heavy. Also most keyboard controllers seem to be oriented more towards piano action than strings in respect to their velocity responses. Im no keyboard player (just sorting out the backline!) so what are peoples thoughts?

Cheers,
James

[scifizydeco]

M-audio 88sx? It weighs ~17lbs and has a semi-weighted action. MIDI implementation is not exactly full featured but whaddya want for 400bucks. I haven't played one so I don't know if it's 'plasticky' or not.

[C00kie]

so what are peoples thoughts?

1) I wonder weather a medium-sized (6 octaves) keyboard won't do the job for occasional pads and strings. Only piano parts need the full 88 keys.
2) Never mind the weight, that's what roadies are for Lesser weight also means less stable on a stand.
3) Not being a proper piano guy, you'll probably get used to the plastic feel...

[Fixed Error]

Weight is the big issue here. I wont actually be the guy playing the keyboard - im on the laptop but also have to sort out what we need. The strings are probably the main instrument in the show (think classical) and are very expressive, covering a lot of octaves. Basically ive been told it HAS to be light (also I will be the one lugging it around!):-o , primarily to cut costs on excess were gonna have to pay for flying it around. So TMK-88, M-Audio 88sx. Any more?

Regards,
James