Top-10 Keyboard Arranger
Loved in the USA

The Yamaha GENOS2 is a 76-key keyboard production station that stands out for its impressive features tailored towards both beginners and experienced musicians. One of its key strengths is the wide variety of Accompaniment Styles, which can effectively act as a backing band to enhance your performances. This feature, along with the Voice & Style Expansion Packs, allows users to personalize their music and explore a range of global sounds, making it suitable for a diverse audience looking to experiment with different music styles.

Sound quality is another highlight, particularly with the Ambient Drums that offer adjustable mic settings for a more professional recording experience. The Super Articulation 2 (SA2) Voices provide a realistic touch, enabling expressive play with nuanced performances on instruments like flutes and guitars.

In terms of connectivity, the GENOS2 excels with its combo XLR/quarter-inch input jack and optional 48V phantom power, making it easy to connect microphones or instruments without additional concerns about power, which is great for live performances or studio settings. The 76-key layout might feel limited for some advanced players who prefer a full 88-key experience, particularly for classical or extensive compositions. Additionally, while the digital display and interface are user-friendly, there may still be a learning curve for those who are new to keyboard production stations. The Yamaha GENOS2 is ideal for musicians looking for a versatile and feature-rich keyboard-arranger that can cater to a variety of playing styles and performance needs, though it may not satisfy everyone’s preference for key range.

The Yamaha PSR-SX920 is a flagship keyboard arranger designed for professional musicians who want an immersive performance experience. With 61 keys, it provides ample range for playing melodies and chords, making it suitable for various musical styles. The sound quality is impressive, featuring Super Articulation 2 Voices that offer realistic expressions, enriching your music with nuances, perfect for those who enjoy adding depth and emotion to their performances.

One of the standout features is the accompaniment styles that act like a backing band, allowing you to control chord changes seamlessly. This capability is ideal for solo performers who wish to create a full-band feel in their songs. The joystick controller and customizable real-time control knobs add versatility, enabling users to manipulate pitch and modulation easily, which is a plus for those looking to experiment with their sound.

The PSR-SX920 may not be the best choice for beginners. It targets a professional skill level, which means it might have a steeper learning curve for those new to keyboard playing. Additionally, while it offers a robust set of features, its weight (34.1 pounds) might be cumbersome for musicians needing a more portable solution. In terms of connectivity, the USB options are useful for integrating with other devices, but it lacks some advanced networking capabilities that some users might expect from a high-end model. The user interface is generally easy to navigate but could overwhelm those unfamiliar with complex arrangements and settings.

The Yamaha PSR-SX720 Arranger Workstation Keyboard is a feature-packed instrument designed for professional musicians. With 61 keys, it offers considerable versatility for various music styles. The sound quality is impressive, especially with the Super Articulation (SA) Voices that produce natural instrument sounds like guitar string scratches and saxophone slides, making your performances feel more authentic. The accompaniment styles feature lets you add a professional-sounding backing band, enhancing your solo performances and giving you full control over chord changes and arrangements.

The joystick controller simplifies pitch and modulation control, adding to the ease of use. Additionally, the customizable control knobs and Chord Looper feature allow for real-time adjustments and seamless looping of chord progressions, giving you the freedom to focus on soloing or two-handed playing without worrying about chord changes. Connectivity options include Bluetooth, providing modern and convenient ways to integrate with other devices. However, the keyboard might feel heavy at 34 pounds, making it less portable for some users.

The user interface, while rich in features, may require a learning curve for those not familiar with advanced keyboards. Despite these minor drawbacks, the PSR-SX720 is a powerful tool for professionals looking to enhance their performances with sophisticated features and high-quality sound.