Virtual synth and controller as an alternative to a traditional synth

[gregrjones]

I'm in the market for a synth and instead of going with a traditional synth, I'm interested in the possibility of getting a midi controller keyboard (61 to 76 keys weighted) and going with virtual synth software on a laptop or possibly even a tablet.

I would think that one could save a lot of money with such a configuration yet still get a powerful system. I think I have seen the M-Audio Keystation 61es http://www.m-audio.com/products/en_u...ation61es.html running with an MSRP of $200.

I haven't explored the software.

What would those of you 'in the know' recommend for consideration?

Greg

[gmslayton]

I was thinking about a similar setup. I do not know how to play keyboard but want to learn. I am debating on whether to get a cheaper Yamaha keyboard with built in sounds and speakers or to get a 61 key midi controller. I have an Axiom 25 midi controller and it plays well and sounds great to me. I just do not know if a midi controller would be good to learn keyboard/piano on.

I would be interested in knowing if you went that route and how it is working and if a midi controller would be a good learning/practicing tool.