Keyboard Workstation

[Brahmb]

I apologize in advance for the lengthy post, but I want to be specific.

I currently own the Motif ES8. Since I’ve had it for 15 years, I’m in the market for something that is going to be as durable playing out. I plan to continue using my Motif in the Studio, but it has become finicky with recording in the Pattern mode. It will cross voices and mix sections occasionally.

For now, I mainly use the ES for sequencing in the Pattern mode. I find it is a quick way to create rehearsal tracks for my choruses. However, I need a new Keyboard because it has to be moved around at school. Additionally, I will be retiring in a couple of years and will want to dive more deeply into the studio arranging/composing waters. I have Studio One 3 Professional as a DAW, and I’m starting to learn about VSTs.

So...this is what I’m asking: MODX or Montage? Or something altogether different? Roland Fantom?

I want the sequencer similar to the ES Pattern Mode.
I want a feel similar to the ES with weighted keys, or close to a grand piano. I like a stiffer action.
I want to be able to use it in the studio for VSTs, while controlling the different parameters of the instrument within the same setting - ie. a trumpet instrument that shakes and does vibrato, but also straight without too many changes to the settings, or a violin that pizzicatos and tremolos and vibratos all from the same keys, but with just a button touch for the change (if there is such a beast). Sorry for the bad terminology. I’m new to VST.

Additionally, I play out monthly, so it would have to take a bit of a beating...

I’ve read the Montage is sturdier and has exponentially more sounds, but not the sequencing. I have used all 16 tracks on the ES sequencer in the past. I’m not quite as fast inputting into Studio One yet, but I don’t have it set up at school anyway.

Any recommendations?

[edthesoundman]

The MODX is basically a lesser Montage, similar to how the MOX was a lesser Motif XF. If you want to stay in the same range as your Motif ES then you'd be better off with the Montage. The MODX is a beast in its own right, but is made simply to be a more affordable Montage.