Keyboard workstations are among the most powerful tools available for creating music. They are just as ideal for composers scoring classical music as they are for producers laying down beats and singer/keyboardists looking to gig with an automated backing band. Some people choose keyboard workstations to get away from using computers, although the current generation of keyboard workstations has inherited much of the technology used in personal computers. The flash media found in MP3 players, for example, makes recording in keyboard workstations more reliable and data exportation faster. Because of the widespread use of USB, many keyboard workstations now also interface directly with computer-based DAW software, adding flexibility to the workstation and hands-on control to the DAW, so you get the best of both worlds.

The simplest way to think of a keyboard workstation is as a self-contained studio built around a keybed. Depending on your needs, you can choose from one of the flagship models that include audio recording in addition to sampling and MIDI sequencing, or from one of the derivative models that contain a subset of the flagship's elements at a lower cost. On the following pages, we have ordered each line of workstation in descending order, with the flagship model listed first. Every manufacturer has particular strengths and most have several models to choose from. Sorting out the features and functions of available keyboard workstations can be a challenge, but don't worry. Just give Sweetwater a call, and talk to one of our friendly and knowledgeable Sales Engineers. We'll help you find the right keyboard workstation for you.

What Is a Keyboard Workstation? A keyboard workstation is more than a synthesizer or digital piano. It offers a range of music-making functions to serve as a complete production device. Different models may vary, but most keyboard workstations include the following: Sound engine This is the "synthesizer" part of the workstation. Most instruments utilize some form of sample playback design with supporting architecture so you can edit the onboard sounds or create entirely new ones. A few workstations, such as Korg's OASYS, provide a number of different sound engines in one unit, each with unique timbral characteristics. Effects Applying effects to a MIDI or audio track can turn an ordinary sound into something special. All keyboard workstations include onboard effects processors. Some feature effects that can be applied to individual tracks (insert effects) as well as to the total mix (master effects). In addition, workstations that include audio recording capability usually provide important sound shaping tools such as EQ and dynamics processing. Drum machine All keyboard workstations include drum sounds as part of their presets, but many go farther to make creating beats easier. The Roland Fantom-X series includes velocity-sensitive pads and a grid-style pattern editor to provide an authentic drum-machine environment. Sequencer/recorder One of the most important elements that defines a keyboard workstation is the presence of an onboard MIDI sequencer. It's what allows you to record, edit, and play back your songs without having to shift back and forth between the instrument and a computer. Most workstations, including the value-priced Yamaha MO Series, feature 16-track MIDI recording with a capacity of up to 200,000 notes. Audio (sampling) This is one area in which available features are related to price. The high-end OASYS provides 16-track audio recording. The Alesis Fusion Series includes 8-track audio recording, as does the Roland Fantom-X Series, while the lower-priced Korg TR Series offers sampling as an optional upgrade.  The Yamaha MO Series does not offer sampling. The Extras Depending on the model, keyboard workstations offer even more to make composing and recording your music easier. Some include built-in CD burners so you can literally complete your session with a disc. Others include phantom-powered mic preamps to facilitate recording voices and acoustic instruments. For live performance, workstations provide real-time controllers for bending and shaping sounds.