Music production has really changed a lot, especially with all the new technology out there. Workstation keyboards have become an essential part of both home and professional studios. These incredible tools bring everything together, combining synthesizers, sequencers, samplers, and MIDI controllers. They’re a must-have for musicians, producers, and composers.
If you’re just getting started in music production, you’ll quickly realize how important a good workstation keyboard is. Whether you’re writing songs, performing live, or fine-tuning your recordings, having the right keyboard can make a huge difference. That’s why I’ve put together this list of the best workstation keyboards that work for all skill levels, needs, and budgets.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to pick the perfect workstation keyboard by focusing on the stuff that really matters like features, performance, and price. Whether you’re setting up a professional studio, getting ready for live gigs, or building your own home studio, I’ve got some solid recommendations for you. So take a look, see what fits you best, and feel free to share your thoughts or questions in the comments. Let’s find the perfect keyboard to help you create amazing music!
Quick Summary of the Best Keyboard Workstations
- Roland GO 61-key Music Creation Piano Keyboard - Best Beginner Keyboard Workstation
- Yamaha PSRSX700 Keyboard - Best Keyboard Workstation for Advanced Features
- Roland JUNO-DS 76-Key Keyboard - Best Keyboard Workstation Under $1000
- Yamaha PSRSX900 Arranger Workstation - Best Overall
- Korg Kross 2-61 Synthesizer Workstation - Best 61-Key Workstation
- Casio CTX700 61-Key Portable Arranger Keyboard - Best Budget Workstation Keyboard
- Roland JUNO-DS 88-Key Keyboard - Best 88-Key Keyboard Workstation
- AKAI Professional MPK249 - Best Keyboard Workstation for MIDI Control
- Casio WK-6600 Keyboard - Best Affordable Keyboard Workstation
What is a Keyboard Workstation?
A keyboard workstation is like the ultimate all-in-one tool for making music. It combines a synthesizer, sampler, and MIDI controller, giving us artists and producers everything they need to create, edit, and perform music all in one place.
With a workstation keyboard, we can whip up musical masterpieces pretty easily. Just think of all the things we can do with this powerful tool.
Now, let’s break down what a keyboard workstation includes:
- Synthesizer: This lets you create a wide range of sounds by manipulating audio signals. It can mimic real instruments or come up with completely new sounds.
- Sampler: This records and plays back audio samples, so you can incorporate real-world sounds into your music.
- MIDI Controller: This allows you to control other music devices, like software instruments or external hardware.
When you mix these three elements together, a keyboard workstation becomes the ultimate tool for music production. Its versatility opens up endless creative possibilities, making it a must-have for artists, producers, and singer-songwriters.
If you're serious about taking your music to the next level, consider getting a keyboard workstation. It could be a real game-changer for your creative process.
9 Best Workstation Keyboards in 2024
Here’s a list of the best workstation keyboards to help you on your music-making journey.
Roland GO 61-key Music Creation Piano Keyboard
The perfect choice for beginners wanting to explore and create music with ease.
Pros
- Fun Loop Mix function
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Over 500 pro-quality sounds
Cons
- Not for advanced musicians
- Fragile note holder
- Basic foot pedal
The Roland GO 61-key music creation piano keyboard is a fantastic option if you’re just starting out and want to dive into making music without any fuss. With the Loop Mix function, even beginners can quickly put together songs and experiment with different sounds. You’ll have over 500 pro-quality options to play with, so there’s plenty of room for creativity.
Connecting to your smartphone or tablet is a breeze. Just use Bluetooth, and you can jam along with your favorite tracks. Remember, though, that this keyboard is best suited for beginners. If you're a more experienced musician, you might find it a bit limiting.
There are a couple of things to be aware of, though. The note holder isn’t very sturdy, so it needs to be handled with care. Also, the foot pedal that comes with it is pretty basic, but no big deal—we can always get a better one later.
Overall, this keyboard is designed to make your music journey fun and inspiring.
Yamaha PSRSX700 Keyboard
A top pick for advanced musicians who want a versatile and easy-to-use workstation keyboard.
Pros
- Easy-to-use color touch screen
- Joystick controller for diverse pitch and modulation
- Assignable knobs for analog synthesizer adjustment
Cons
- Not beginner-friendly
- Complex features may need time to master
- Expensive for those on a budget
We really like the Yamaha PSRSX700 Synthesizer Arranger Workstation keyboard. We've tried several Yamaha keyboards before, and they always deliver.
It's really easy to use, especially with its color touchscreen. You can jump to different features and settings quickly, so no more digging through complicated menus. The joystick controller is pretty cool, too. It offers more control over pitch and modulation, which is great for playing around with different music styles.
For us musicians, the assignable real-time control knobs are a big plus because we can tweak the sound like we would with an analog synthesizer. It also comes with a 16-track song recorder and player, so you can easily create full arrangements or play back your songs. The automatic accompaniment styles are also a nice touch, giving you a “backing band” to enhance your performances.
However, it might not be the best choice for beginners. It's packed with features that can be overwhelming at first. Also, it’s quite pricey, but if you're serious about music production, it's worth the investment.
Overall, the Yamaha PSRSX700 Synthesizer Arranger Workstation keyboard is perfect for advanced musicians and producers who want a versatile and user-friendly keyboard. Just keep in mind that sometimes you have to pay a bit more for high-quality equipment that fits your needs.
Roland JUNO-DS 76-Key Keyboard
Get this keyboard for an impressive mix of pro sounds, portability, and user-friendly functions.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Pro-quality, versatile sounds
- Supports WAV samples and wave expansions
Cons
- No onboard speakers
- Truncated keys may be challenging
- Not beginner-friendly
The Roland JUNO-DS 76-Key Lightweight Synth-Action Keyboard is a musician's dream, especially if you’re always on the go. It’s super portable, weighing in at just 15.25 pounds, making it easy to take with you wherever you need to play.
If you want quick access to a wide range of essential sounds, this keyboard has you covered. Whether you’re after acoustic and electric pianos, organs, or synths, it’s got everything you need for live performances. Plus, its WAV sample-import capability and wave expansion slot mean your creativity will know no bounds. samples and expand your sound library, your creative options are wide open.
But that’s not all. The JUNO-DS makes it easy to tweak your sound on the fly with hands-on knobs and sliders. The mic input, complete with reverb, vocoder, and auto pitch effects, is a game-changer for vocal performances. Plus, it comes with tone manager and librarian software to help you easily edit and manage your sounds.
A word of caution, though. This keyboard doesn’t have onboard speakers, so you'll need an amp! Also, the slightly shortened keys might take a bit of getting used to. And if you're a beginner, this may not be the easiest keyboard to start with.
Still, the Roland JUNO-DS 76-Key Keyboard is a solid pick for those looking for a mix of professional sounds, portability, and easy-to-use features.
Yamaha PSRSX900 Arranger Workstation
A top choice for aspiring musicians, offering versatility, impressive features, and exceptional sound quality.
Pros
- Intuitive color touch screen
- Unique joystick controller
- Real-time control knobs
Cons
- A bit complex for beginners
- Expensive
- Heavy at 35.1 pounds
The Yamaha PSRSX900 is loaded with features that make it a fantastic tool for creating, performing, and producing amazing music.
The color touch screen makes navigation a breeze. You can quickly access and adjust a wide array of settings to perfect your sound. The joystick controller is a really cool feature too, adding a hands-on element that allows for some amazing pitch and modulation variations.
But what we love the most are the assignable real-time control knobs. They make you feel like you're using an analog synthesizer. Plus, the chord looper and style reset functions make it even more enjoyable to experiment with and play live.
Now, there are a few things to keep in mind. The Yamaha PSRSX900 can be a bit overwhelming if you’re just starting out. It’s also on the expensive side, and at over 35 pounds, it’s not the most portable option.
All in all, the Yamaha PSRSX900 offers the perfect mix of quality, versatility, and performance. We really think this workstation keyboard could take your music to the next level and bring your creativity to new heights.
Korg Kross 2-61 Synthesizer Workstation
You'll love this keyboard for its versatility and realistic sounds in a neat, compact design.
Pros
- EDS-i Sound Engine for great quality
- Step and MIDI sequencers
- Mic/Line inputs available
Cons
- Slightly awkward programming interface
- No in-built speakers
- Learning curve for beginners
Korg continues to impress us with the Kross 2-61, a 61-key synthesizer workstation. As artists ourselves, we appreciate the EDS-i Sound Engine. It packs a punch, delivering a diverse set of high-quality tones and effects.
This keyboard is a playground for creativity. It comes with step and MIDI sequencers, offering endless creative possibilities. We also found the mic/line inputs quite useful for vocalists and those looking to connect external audio devices.
However, we must mention that the interface for programming is a tad awkward. Don't worry, though—you'll get the hang of it with a bit of practice. Also, there's no integrated speaker system, so connecting external audio is a must. For beginners, there's definitely a learning curve to really tap into everything this keyboard can do.
Still, we believe the Korg Kross 2-61 is a solid choice because of its incredible sound range and flexible features.
Casio CTX700 61-Key Portable Arranger Keyboard
This Casio CTX700 is perfect for beginners and pros needing a portable, budget-friendly option.
Pros
- Budget-friendly choice
- High sound quality
- Portable design
Cons
- Only 61 keys
- Touch sensitivity could improve
- Limited advanced features
If you're looking for a reliable keyboard that won’t break the bank, the Casio CTX700 is worth checking out. It’s a 61-key portable keyboard that’s perfect for those just starting out or working with a tight budget. It has great sound quality that'll grab the attention of keyboardists at any skill level.
The AiX Sound Source Technology that powers the CTX700 provides rich, expressive sounds. The keyboard's step-up lesson system, 100 arpeggiators, and 195 rhythms make it a fun tool for learning or experimenting with music. The 6-track recorder is also useful for capturing your creativity.
While the CTX700 has many great features, it does have limitations. With only 61 keys, it can be tough to play more complex songs. The touch sensitivity isn’t always spot on, and if you’re more advanced, you might find it a bit basic. But even with these drawbacks, we think the Casio CTX700 is a solid, affordable option for anyone needing a compact, high-quality keyboard.
Roland JUNO-DS 88-Key Keyboard
Grab this Roland keyboard for quality pro sounds and a lightweight, weighted-action feel.
Pros
- Gig-ready with pro sounds
- Battery-powered operation
- Free sound waveforms from Roland's Axial website
Cons
- Slightly truncated keys
- No built-in speakers
- Released in 2005, might feel outdated
The Roland JUNO-DS 88-Key Keyboard is a great option for anyone looking for a gig-ready, lightweight keyboard that's perfect for aspiring artists and producers.
The weighted-action keys give it the feel of a high-quality instrument, but it’s still surprisingly light. The JUNO-DS comes loaded with pro sounds, including all the sounds from the popular JUNO-Di plus newly updated pianos, organs, and other stage essentials.
One of the coolest features is the wave expansion slot, which lets you download new sound waveforms from Roland's Axial website for free. However, the keys are slightly shorter than full-sized keys, which might take some getting used to. Also, keep in mind that this keyboard doesn’t have built-in speakers, so you’ll need an amp to hear your music.
Despite being released in 2005, the Roland JUNO-DS still holds up as an excellent workstation keyboard. It's a versatile and reliable choice for musicians looking to level up their gear. Give it a try and see the difference it makes in your music journey.
AKAI Professional MPK249
Get the AKAI Professional MPK249 for a versatile, feature-packed workstation keyboard experience.
Pros
- 49 semi-weighted, high-response keys
- 16 RGB MPC-style pads with 4 banks
- USB-powered, easy plug-and-play
Cons
- No power adapter included
- Limited on-board screen display
- One customer mentioned a broken key
We recently gave the AKAI Professional MPK249 a thorough test to see if it lives up to the hype as a complete workstation keyboard controller. Right off the bat, its 49 semi-weighted keys offer that perfect blend of a natural feel and responsiveness. It's great for musicians who need a serious keyboard for playing intricate parts.
The 16 RGB MPC-style pads stand out for us, especially for beat makers. With 4 banks, you can have up to 64 total pads just waiting to trigger samples, loops, and more. We also love the customizable interface, making it super easy to control virtual instruments, effect plugins, and DAWs.
Overall, the AKAI Professional MPK249 is an excellent pick for musicians and producers in need of a versatile workstation keyboard. With its seamless integration, impressive features, and high-quality build, we definitely recommend it to any aspiring musician out there.
Casio WK-6600 Keyboard
The Casio WK-6600 is an affordable and versatile keyboard worth considering.
Pros
- 76-key portable arranger
- 700 sounds and 210 rhythms
- Onboard speakers and data dial
Cons
- Not the most robust build
- Some tones may feel limiting for advanced players
- Initial learning curve
We recently tried the Casio WK-6600 Portable Arranger Keyboard, and honestly, it's a solid pick for composers on a budget. It comes with 76 keys and 700 sounds, which is perfect for those who need variety in their music creation. The built-in speakers are handy for practicing or just jamming out, and the data entry dial makes it super easy to flip through and choose different effects.
For a keyboard in this price range, the Casio WK-6600 has quite a few impressive features. There's a bit of a learning curve when you first start using this keyboard. But you'll get the hang of it pretty fast, especially with all the editing tools and effects it has. It's perfect for aspiring musicians, songwriters, and producers. We're pretty sure the Casio WK-6600 will be a big help in your music journey.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Workstation Keyboard
Number of Keys
Think about how many keys you really need. Keyboards range from 25 to 88 keys, and for most beginners, 61 keys are usually enough.
Type of Synthesis
Decide on the type of synthesis that suits your style—AWM, FM, or analog. Each one offers its own unique sound, so take some time to explore and find what works best for you.
User Interface
A good user interface can make a big difference. Touchscreen displays make navigation easier, and an intuitive layout helps with composing, editing, and sampling your music.
Keybed Action
The feel of the keys matters. Weighted keys mimic the feel of an acoustic piano, while semi-weighted keys are lighter and smoother. Try both to see which one feels right for you.
Sound Quality and Variety
Look for a workstation with a wide range of sound options. This gives you more creative freedom to craft the perfect melody.
RAM/ROM
More RAM means more room for sampling and storing sounds. Check if the workstation allows for memory expansions to add even more content.
Knobs and Controllers
Having knobs and controllers you can easily adjust in real-time is key. They let you fine-tune your music as you play, which is essential for live performances and studio work.
Audio And Sequencing
Sequencing tools help you arrange your music, so look for a workstation with solid audio editing features.
Effects
Effects can really enhance your sound. High-end synthesizers usually offer a wide variety of options to play with.
Sound Layering
Layering sounds adds depth to your music. Choose a workstation that excels in this area for more complex and rich compositions.
Budget
And of course, think about your budget. There are great options out there for every price range, whether you’re looking for something budget-friendly or top-of-the-line.
Advanced Features to Look For
When you’re searching for the best workstation keyboards, paying attention to the advanced features can really make a difference. Let’s talk about two key things to look out for: connectivity options and MIDI compatibility.
In today’s music scene, connectivity is a big deal. You’ll want a keyboard that easily connects to all your other gear. Look for features like MIDI, USB, and audio inputs and outputs. These make it super easy to record and play along with other devices without any hassle.
MIDI compatibility is another important feature to consider. It lets you sync your keyboard with software, drum machines, and other instruments, giving you more control and creative freedom in your music-making process.
So, as you check out workstation keyboards, keep these advanced features in mind because they can really enhance your overall experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an arranger keyboard?
An arranger keyboard helps you create full tracks quickly. It has built-in sounds, rhythms, and effects. With arranger keyboards, you can explore various creative arrangements easily.
Are keyboard workstations worth it?
Yes, they’re worth it for many musicians. Keyboard workstations offer versatility and convenience. They can handle recording, editing, and producing music all in one package. You’ll save time and space in your studio.
Should I get a keyboard or synthesizer?
It depends on your needs. If you need realistic instrument sounds, go for a keyboard. If you want to create unique electronic sounds, a synthesizer is your best bet. Both have their merits, so consider your personal preferences.
How do workstation keyboards integrate with Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs)?
Workstation keyboards usually have MIDI capabilities. This means you can connect them to your computer and control your DAW. With this setup, you can record, edit, and produce music using your workstation keyboard and DAW together.
Are there workstation keyboards suitable for specific music genres?
Definitely. Some workstation keyboards cater to specific genres, like hip-hop, EDM, or jazz. Research and try out various options to find one that fits your style.
How do workstation keyboards compare to modular synthesizers?
Workstation keyboards are all-in-one solutions, while modular synthesizers require individual modules. Modular synths offer deep customization but can be complex and expensive. Workstation keyboards provide a more streamlined and accessible option.