LF: Keyboard / Piano Alternative for Use with Garageband

[alfiesy]

My niece wants to learn how to play the piano. Her parents find buying a piano too expensive. (Cheapest I found from Yamaha Music Store so far was a China-made Yupangco branded piano that cost Php 120,000).

For Christmas this year, I thought of buying her a keyboard that can be used with Garageband and a Mac (which she already has). Any recommendations that will not break the bank?

Thanks in advance.

[travism]

Check JB Music for some M Audio keyboards to use with Garageband. If you have friends in HK or Singapore, try and look for Novation stuff. You can check out the M Audio stuff on JB Music's website for prices too!

[greta87]

you need a midi controller that has weighted & velocity sensitive keys that can simulate a real piano feel. w/ a sustain pedal & a stand. something like the M-Audio 88ES.

however, if the parents are really serious about her learning how to play the piano, get the real thing. acoustic pianos age really well & can easily last a lifetime. there's the annual handog sale ongoing now at yamaha, best time to get the piano.