Topic: Cheaper than Studiologic SL88 Grand but with similar/better feel?

Hi I’m trying to find a MIDI keyboard with “most” realistic piano feel. i haven’t tried the Studiologic SL88 GRAND but it seems like a good choice. I was wondering if there is something cheaper that feels like a piano, maybe even better than the SL88?

All I need is a MIDI keyboard or DP that feels like a good real piano, nothing else needed, even wheels or joysticks.

Thanks in advance.

Last edited by jsnleo (26-08-2019 12:06)

Re: Cheaper than Studiologic SL88 Grand but with similar/better feel?

jsnleo wrote:

Hi I’m trying to find a MIDI keyboard with “most” realistic piano feel. i haven’t tried the Studiologic SL88 GRAND but it seems like a good choice. I was wondering if there is something cheaper that feels like a piano, maybe even better than the SL88?

All I need is a MIDI keyboard or DP that feels like a good real piano, nothing else needed, even wheels or joysticks.

Thanks in advance.

M Audio 88 Hammer maybe. I played it for a bit and thought it was okay-ish.

Re: Cheaper than Studiologic SL88 Grand but with similar/better feel?

Why not also try an entry level Casio Digital piano with USB for MIDI. The basic built in sample instrument sounds are passable if your computer is temporarily out of action too.

Re: Cheaper than Studiologic SL88 Grand but with similar/better feel?

The majority of controller manufacturers use Fatar keybeds, so finding what you are looking for is really more about comparing price points based on the keybed. I have an SL88 Grand, (which I love) and it uses the TP40 wood keybed. It is the heaviest and most expensive of the Fatar line. I don't think you can find any new controller for less than what you would pay for an SL 88 Grand.

I think the most common 88 key Fatar keybed is the TP100, which is what is in the SL 88 studio (which is half the price). and also in Native Instruments and Arturia's 88 key controllers. It's obviously a lighter feel, and nice, but definitely not IMO on the same level as the  SL 88 Grand.

One option you might consider if you are set on the wood keybed, but don't want to pay the new price is looking for an older Studio Logic model that used the wood keybed. Prior to getting the SL Grand, I had a Numa Nero controller that used an older version of the TP40. You can pick those up on eBay for $400-$500. I don't think they are really supported anymore in terms of software, but they are quite simple and mine worked fine for a couple of years.

Re: Cheaper than Studiologic SL88 Grand but with similar/better feel?

A used Studiologic SL-990 PRO .. 
Has the Fatar TP40 GH ..

Last edited by Clavierspieler (28-08-2019 10:06)

Re: Cheaper than Studiologic SL88 Grand but with similar/better feel?

Maybe try Casio PX-5S or PX-560...

Hard work and guts!

Re: Cheaper than Studiologic SL88 Grand but with similar/better feel?

EvilDragon wrote:

Maybe try Casio PX-5S or PX-560...

Agreed

Pianoteq 8, most pianos, Studiologic 73 Piano, Casio Px-560M, PX-S 3000, PX-S 1100, PX-S 7000, Mac i27 and MacBook Pro M3, SS Logic SSL 2