This review is from: 61-Note Portable KeyboardThe PSR-E413 is Yamaha's next addition to their portable keyboard line. It was designed with the new musician in mind, and includes numerous learning tools (the Yamaha Education Suite being the most prominently featured) and "cheater" features (Yamaha Performance Assistance Technology let's you hit the wrong key and still sound correct). Unlike many other beginner level keyboards, however, the PSR-E413 has numerous features that will allow new musicians to grow into semi-professionals without having to buy a new instrument - 504 voices (instruments the keyboard can sound like), 100 arpeggio types, 165 preset styles, 30 preset songs, a pitch-bending wheel, and 5 song/6 track recording. Other common features such as "touch sense" (the keys can sound louder or softer depending on how hard they are pressed), a USB port, sustaining pedal port, and a headphone/output port are also present.What all of that boils down to is simply this: the E413 is fun to play and sounds great. The price is generally within the acceptable realm for beginners, and the features make it something even those at a semi-professional level would like to play (though, in all honesty, most professionals are going to want a less portable 76+ key unit). After going to numerous music stores and online sources, this model ended up being the best fit for my budget and needs - I highly recommend it.I have two complaints with the PSR-E413 as packaged. The first is that the music stand (which easily slides into two slots on the top-back of the unit) is made of cheap plastic, and looks like it will break easily. The second is that a number of additional items are needed to fully enjoy this instrument. The first thing you'll need is a plug-in power adapter (I was shocked that the keyboard didn't come with one) unless you want to spend hundreds of dollars on batteries. Next, you'll probably want a keyboard stand (a decent folding one costs anywhere from $20 - $60). An AB-type USB cable is necessary to connect the instrument to your computer and fully realize its potential. After that, a dust cover and case might also interest you. Finally, headphones and a foot switch/pedal should be considered, especially if you like being creative and don't live alone. Yamaha offers a few of these items in a special set called the Survival Kit B (it includes the power adapter, foot switch, headphones, and an extended warranty), but I don't recommend it, as the headphones and pedal it contains are of inferior quality.Note: This model replaced the PSR-E403 as of May 2008. The two are extremely similar, with the E413 containing a few upgrades (165 vs. 155 styles; 100 arpeggio functions vs 50; etc..). The feel and most of the features of the two, however, are almost the same....
This review is from: 61-Note Portable KeyboardAnything else in this price range is just a toy. The PSR-E413 is an actual musical instrument that can be used for educational and performance purposes. I won't go through all the features since you can just as easily read them online. If you want to take advantage of this keyboard's ability then I would suggest you get a set of innexpensive studio monitors (e.g. M-Audio), a sustain pedal and a good keyboard stand (e.g. Ultimate Support). If you hook the PSR-E413 up to your computer you can open up a whole new world of possibilities. There are so many sites on the Internet with free style files (SFF) that you can download and with a bit of tweaking load on your PSR-E413. Also a good MIDI sequencer application like Cubase LE/Essentials can add a great deal of capability. The only two dislikes I have about this keyboard is the LCD screen and lack of AC adapter. I would have paid and additional $100 just to get a higher quality LCD screen and an AC adapter included. All in all, don't waste your money on the toy keyboards. Get yourself a musical instrument you can enjoy and the PSR-E413 is a good starting point....
This review is from: 61-Note Portable KeyboardIt does not come with an AC adapter.I know that's probably been mentioned every time but nevertheless it has to be mentioned. I'm just learning so I can't tell you anything except it has a warm sound. I wanted something a little more than a toy and it fits in my little office area. I can't stand the manual and I usually read them this one I avoid. I have no previous music experience so that might be why. I got myself "How to play Keyboards" by Roger Evans which is just over 100 pages so not too intimidating and now I know how to read a little music too. I know you can hook it to the computer via usb but I just wanted to record quick samples of my progress. I don't know how this thing is wired but I had to hook it to the line in on my stereo then send it back out of the earphone jack (not line out) to the computer to lose the hum and record with success. It might have something to do with grounding but at least for me its solved.Things to consider when or if purchasing- AC adapter- 1/4" adapter if you are using portable headphones.- keyboard stand- separate instruction book- keyboard cover...
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