What's Keytar, Keyboard Guitar, Shoulder Synthesizer? Review of Popular Keytars Shoulder Keyboard TypesYou get Keytar models that come with or without a built-in Synth engine (we will see videos below).Most Keytars come without Synth engines so they have to be used as a midi controller. It needs to be hooked up to another keyboard or a sound module to play the sounds. For example, you can connect your Roland AX-1 controller keytar to a Korg 05R/W sound Module which can output its sounds from a Laney AH50 Amplifier. Keytars with built-in Synth engine are also available nowadays. These can be a bit heavier and bulky, but can generate sounds on its own. You can even use it as a midi controller. For example, the Roland AX-SYNTH Keytar can generate sound on its own. Roland AX-SYNTH Keytar (Shoulder Keyboard) Demo Roland AX-1 Controller Keytar Keytars on Zzounds Keyboard Guitars on Amazon  Keyboard Guitars - IntroThe word "keytar" is coined from the fusion of the word "keyboard" and "guitar". Most keytars nowadays have their own built-in synthesizers, while others only work as controller which you can plug to another external synthesizer.A keytar, also known as 'keyboard guitar' or 'shoulder synthesizer' is a keyboard which either comes without or with a built-in synthesizer, fairly light in weight, and slightly looks like a guitar shape wise, and even comes with a supporting shoulder strap. Basically, it is a 'portable keyboard' which allows the musician to move more freely and unrestricted compared to the traditional keyboard, having to stand in just one static position. Just like a classical keyboard, the instrument has a musical keyboard to play musical notes. On the neck of it, instead of frets on a guitar, a keytar has controls for portamento, vibrato, sustain and pitch to the musical notes. Gaining PopularityIf you observe most bands, you will notice that the singers and the musicians who play the guitar usually take center-stage.However, the keytar is gaining popularity again, due to current popular artists like Lady Gaga using it in her concerts, and even for popular videogame, Rock Band 3, where players are able to buy a real keytar and actually play the notes which appear on the screen. Keytar - Popular BrandsOne of the top producers of the instrument is Roland Keytar, especially their AX-Synth series. The Roland Keytar production has been massive due to demands, and they have come out with various newbie friendly keytars as opposed to their ranges of complicated ones commonly used by professional musicians. The Roland Keytar is known for its superb sound and advanced features.Another popular choice is the series from Yamaha, especially their SHS, and KX Keytars. Yamaha Keytar has been producing keytars for a while now, and it's advanced MIDI features are a hit with musicians, as well as its quality and realism of sound. A keytar, a keyboard guitar, or a shoulder synthesizer, whatever people are calling it now is a true artistic instrument. Keytars on Zzounds Keyboard Guitars on Amazon Back to Home page from Keytar, Keyboard Guitar, Shoulder Synthesizer New! CommentsHave your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below. |