What Kind Of Midi Keyboard Do I Need?, Newbie needs assistance Options

[bowlingj]

I have recently learned how to use Finale notation software, and would like to try it out at home. Problem is, I learned on a PC, and none of the hardware issues that were discussed in class pertained to me and my beloved Mac.

Here's what I have: a Power Mac G3 (All-in-one) with 233mhz processor, 32 Mgs of ram and 4 gigs on the hard drive. I will have to upgrade the RAM to at least 64 and the OS to X just to run the Finale stuff.

But according to everything I've read, I will need a MIDI keyboard with sound capability (not just a "controller" keyboard). Is this correct? If so, can anyone steer me in the right direction, make and model-wise?

I have been through this forum and have found some info about this, but none that addresses this particular concern. I would be grateful for any help any of you can give me. Thanks!

John

[K-note]

"Here's what I have: a Power Mac G3 (All-in-one) with 233mhz processor, 32 Mgs of ram and 4 gigs on the hard drive. I will have to upgrade the RAM to at least 64 and the OS to X just to run the Finale stuff.

But according to everything I've read, I will need a MIDI keyboard with sound capability (not just a "controller" keyboard). Is this correct? If so, can anyone steer me in the right direction, make and model-wise?"

Finale will work just fine on sys. 9.x. You do not need a synth if you will be happy with Quicktime Musical Instruments and do not need to play on a keyboard. Full instructions are included in Finale "Help". (Just always remember to activate "Use internal speaker". If you want to use a KB controler, the Fatar Studio 37 is inexpensive. But if you do go that route you will also need a MIDI interface. The MIDIMAN is also inexpensive but is a USB device. So if you don't have a USB port you'll need a card that will probably run you another $50. All 100 or so GM sounds (the're really not bad) come free with Quicktime and I believe come packaged with Finale. If not, the're a quick down load from QT.