| The new roll up piano proves the IT saying that | | | | to your computer. Once you're hooked up, you |
| computers double in speed and get half as large | | | | can run keyboard sequencing programs, learning |
| with every 1.5 years. Flash memory and minute | | | | software, and digital recording programs. These |
| chips have reduced digital audio players to the size | | | | applications are the heart of digital music |
| of a greeting card, with Merry Christmas and | | | | synthesis. While it is possible to find a cheaper roll |
| Happy Birthday singing off the shelves at the local | | | | up piano with fewer features, you will regret that |
| grocery store. That same technology has brought | | | | decision almost immediately. Even though the main |
| about this incredible new device. | | | | lure of a roll up keyboard is the portability, if the |
| A roll up piano is a flat rubber keyboard with | | | | keys don't work or you have limited options, you |
| sensors behind the keys that react to your touch. | | | | won't have as much fun. |
| It rolls up to fit easily in a backpack, which is the | | | | After you find a few models fitting your budget |
| main convenience it offers. While the keys do | | | | and MIDI requirements, you need to check the |
| play, there is no controllable after-touch or sustain | | | | voices. You can find tone samples online with the |
| available in a roll up piano, but there are some | | | | reviews. Choose a keyboard that has realistic |
| pretty nice features, especially for the money. | | | | tones. Fewer good tones are better than too |
| The first thing you want to research is the | | | | many bad tones. You probably want good electric |
| dependability of the unit itself. Check some online | | | | piano, grand piano, rotary organ, and synthesizer |
| retailers for prices and reviews. Make sure folks | | | | tones. A better selection includes bass guitar, |
| say the keyboard can withstand regular, daily play. | | | | flute, strings, and horns. Usually these units are |
| If you plan to roll it up and carry it around | | | | monophonic, meaning you cannot play chords. You |
| frequently, the roll up piano has to endure the | | | | can only play one note at a time. |
| punishment. An on-board a/c adapter jack is | | | | While there are inexpensive models with only a |
| handy for conserving battery life. | | | | three octave range for learners, the more |
| As far as the keyboard itself, buy a model with | | | | professional models are meant to serve well. You'll |
| 61 keys. A smaller keyboard won't satisfy you | | | | find the best deals online, where you'll also find |
| when you're performing or composing. Make sure | | | | enough product reviews and voice samples to |
| the keyboard has MIDI capabilities, including play | | | | make a good decision. A roll up keyboard is handy |
| and storage. The nicer roll up piano models have a | | | | item for quick inspiration or a fireside jam. Let the |
| MIDI line going in and out for connecting directly | | | | good times roll up. |