Hey,
I'm greatly suggesting you the Roland SH-201
Why?
For it's price it's one of the best synthesizers (and in usage of home keyboards there is)
I have one and it works excellent.
Check out these awesome features
# Great-sounding analog-modeling synth (It's really true
)
# Ultra-EZ front panel is logically designed to teach the basics of synthesis
# External input for manipulating external audio from CD/MP3 players, etc.
# Built-in delay, reverb, and overdrive effects
# Arpeggiator adds instant rhythmic motion to sounds# USB port for audio/MIDI connection to computer# VSTi Editor software included for computer integration (AU compatible from Version 1.10)# Invisible infrared D Beam controller
# Short recorder onboard to capture and loop your performance and knob tweeking
This is really awesome !
Check out the Namm Show review about it
As for in dealers who sell it, I'm from Belgium Europe and you're from Texas,
But I know from American Production friends this site cuts nice prices
LINK:
http://www.music123.com/Roland-SH-201-Synthesizer-701861-i1154189.Music123I can really strongly recommend Roland Sh-201 to you, over the Microkorg.
It about a 100 dollar - 150 dollars more pricy but you really feel like playing a synth with it.
It has very big compatibility to your DAW and other midi instruments and audio instruments.
It also has 2 epic nice way of oscillating and the built-in Arpeggiator give a new dimension to playing keyboard
There are few things I can't make with this synth.
Hope I helped you on this one !
PM me if you got more questions on anything