This might be the world's best “toy keyboard”. It punches far above its weight for something of its size and cost. It is easy to overlook a few compromises when everything else is so good:
• The keybed is unbelievably good. I have never used a synth-action keyboard that I like more than this one! It is easy to play and very dynamic. It feels better than keyboards found on many far more expensive products, including full-size keyboards with larger keys.
• Its small size and battery power makes it easy to grab and play, no matter where you are or what you are doing. It easily fits in a backpack or sits on your lap. It is irresistible!
• Almost uniquely for such a small and cheap keyboard, it has USB MIDI. You are not limited to the built-in sounds.
• Excellent battery life. It can also be powered by USB.
• It has a really fun set of built-in performance features that foster creativity. Everything is very immediate and direct, and has a dedicated button. You will spend a lot of time playing around with different “arpeggios”, “motion effects”, and the phrase recorder, all of which can be layered together. It is hard not to stumble onto interesting ideas. All of this works with the MIDI output too!
• When inspiration strikes, you can record a short musical idea into the phrase recorder while on battery power. You can then connect to your computer later and capture the MIDI into your DAW or MIDI sequencer.
• The built-in sounds are quite pleasing and have a good variety covering most musical needs.
Compromises:
• The audio output is only in mono, it has limited dynamic range, and there is quite a high noise floor which does not vary with the volume level. So while you *can* record things from it if the mood strikes, you would be better off using the USB MIDI to control an external synth. If you are using sensitive earphones, you may need to use an inline volume control cable (note: Thomann does not seem to sell these unfortunately) to reduce the noise level.
• There are no wheels or knobs of any kind. The “motion effects” feature does allow playing some built-in pre-recorded automation patterns however (filter sweeps, pitch bends, etc).
• There is no sustain pedal input, only a sustain button.
