Recommend amplification for Keys

[Frunobulax]

Looking for general recommendation on an amplification system to use for my keys setup. Sometimes I don't play where there's a house PA, and right now I'm suffering with a low-end stage amp. I only need 3 outputs but I see easily needing a couple of more in the future. Perhaps all I need is a higher end keyboard amp and a small mixer, but any suggestions are appreciated. I would rather not spend more than $1500.

For reference, I'm currently using a VK8 and Kurzweil K2000. I'm also using a Motion Sound Pro3Tm in addition to the stage amp. I envision using more outs from the Kurzweil, and adding a rackmount

Thanks for any help!

[abarnett]

I used to use an old powered mixer for my many keyboards. I find that the Korg amps with a lot of Inputs are nice, but they get muddy when you go for multiple items at high volumes.
I would check out the soundcraft GigRac 1000ST. If you can spend $1500, you could get a very nice setup. I would recommend getting a stereo unit and two 15" Pa speakers with horns. Maybe a small powered sub from the monitor mix.

[neal79]

Many of the keyboard players that I work with will use a JBL Eon in place of a keyboard amp and a mixer if they need the extra inputs. This is just stage volume but these can also cover a crowd too. Everyone I have seen with this setup loves it.

[abarnett]

Oh yeah! I've seen people use the Eons before. They sound good. Its strange, but small-medium PA equipment seems to be a better bet for keyboards than any "Keyboard" amps. I personally use Ampeg combos, but that's just because it's what I have. I wonder if JBL knows they've been making keyboard combo amps.

If you want to get really fancy, buy a rackmount line mixer, power amp, and some nice speakers. Rane used to make a nice 6 channel line mixer that I always see used for $50-$100.

[neal79]

I'm telling you keyboard players who have tried it swear by the Eons. They are a good sounding speaker and have some volume to them. The way I look at it a keyboard amp should be clean anyways so they pretty much are PA speakers with some effects and a little mixer built in.

[smopo24]

Originally Posted by neal79

I'm telling you keyboard players who have tried it swear by the Eons. They are a good sounding speaker and have some volume to them. The way I look at it a keyboard amp should be clean anyways so they pretty much are PA speakers with some effects and a little mixer built in.

I agree with neal79; keyboard amps are super clean. People usually use them as small P.A.'s because they are easier to move, cheaper, and have lower wattage. Even the Roland Jazz Chorus wouldn't be a bad keyboard amp; it's one of the cleanest amps I've ever heard.