Best Workstation Keyboards 2024

With so many ways to ideate, write, arrange, compose, and record music, the workstation keyboard is hard to beat. Its workflow balances the scope of computer-based productions without distractions and the range of multi-artist projects without the cumbersome logistics and coordination. Still, with as much as workstation keyboards have to offer, more is sometimes better. The total number of features, patches, effects, or anything else only matters when you can utilize them to implement your sonic vision. Whatever that might be will surely make or break your decision, as obvious as that sounds, requiring a holistic evaluation of features in their own right and in the broader context of their use.

This inevitably begs the question: What will you be using a workstation to compose? Whether you’re playing solo or in sessions, arranging for bands and orchestras, or composing for film, TV, or video games, the best workstation keyboards will be a mix of sonic versatility, arrangement flexibility, and personal workflow preferences. From the classic to the contemporary, we’ve curated a robust array of options to help you find your next compositional workhorse.

Note: At Sweetwater, we know there's no such thing as 'best' when it comes to music gear. Every player and artist has unique tastes, which is what makes selecting gear so fun! The items on this list feature some of our favorite products from top manufacturers to help you start your buying journey! Explore these recommendations and dive into Sweetwater's massive collection of gear on our online store. For personalized picks and expert advice, please contact our knowledgeable Sweetwater Sales Engineers at (800) 222-4700!

Best Workstation Keyboards: Our PicksKurzweil PC4 88-key Synthesizer WorkstationRoland FANTOM-08 Music Workstation KeyboardYamaha MODX8+ 88 GHS-weighted Key SynthesizerKurzweil K2700 88-key Synthesizer WorkstationKorg Nautilus 88 88-key Synthesizer Workstation

Want to learn how to buy the keyboard workstation for you? Check out our buying advice below.

Keyboard Workstation Buying Advice

Best Workstation Keyboards: Our Picks

Kurzweil PC4 88-key Synthesizer Workstation

Industry-leading sonics meet modern musical needs

Variable Architecture Synthesis Technology — Kurzweil’s VAST system that undergirds the sonic prowess of its 88-key PC4 workstation isn’t fancy-sounding techno-jargon. It’s a hallmark of Kurzweil’s distinctive engineering that dates back to their earliest groundbreaking synths, and it pulls no punches with the PC4. Its 6-operator FM engine accompanies FlashPlay technology and an immense DSP to deliver unmatched playback for serious songwriters and studio performers. While its more than 1,000 diverse presets and aftertouch-equipped, velocity-sensitive keybed would be enough to impress, the PC4’s flexibility sets it apart: 36 programmable controls to tailor the incredible swath of sound design tools to your workflow. Its connectivity options include CC pedal inputs, switch pedals, a dedicated ribbon connector, and more. These allow for extensive writing and recording that will get incredible mileage out of its 256-voice polyphony.

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ProductKurzweil PC4Number of Keys88Type of KeysFully Weighted Hammer ActionVelocity SensitiveYesPolyphony256PresetsMore than 1,000 Factory ProgramsPros• 88-note, fully weighted hammer-action, velocity-sensitive keys and aftertouch • Extensive native VAST editing capabilities • 6-operator FM engine with the ability to import original ’80s and ’90s FM SysEx filesConsThis product does not include performance pads for finger drumming; upgrade to the K2700 for a 4 x 4 pad matrix

Roland FANTOM-08 Music Workstation Keyboard

A high-powered workstation 20 years in the making

More than two decades of refining its high-caliber workstations culminates in the Roland FANTOM-08, building on its great history of iconic synths and sound design technology. The FANTOM’s boundless sonics include state-of-the-art Behavior Modeling Chips, ZEN-Core, SuperNATURAL Acoustic, and VTW Organ engines — with built-in room to expand further. Numerous onboard effects supplement your sound with brilliant texturizing tools while its 16-part, 88-key, velocity-sensitive keybed gives you plenty of room to explore. Roland expands your rhythmic reach by adding a 16-pad, 4 x 4 matrix to easily ideate across its more than 90 drum kits. A detailed interface includes fully assignable parameters and a vivid, full-color touchscreen display, allowing deep editing to hone your tones. Extensive connectivity options let you easily integrate the FANTOM-08 into your stage or studio arrangement, with multiple pedal inputs and modulation controls adding even more expressivity to your performance.

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ProductRoland FANTOM-08Number of Keys88Type of KeysPHA-4 Weighted Hammer Action, Escapement and Ivory FeelVelocity SensitiveYesPolyphony256, 16-part MultitimbralPresetsMore than 3,500 Tones, More than 90 Drum KitsPros• Fluid workflow (no confusing modes, technical limitations, or sonic compromises) • Expandable ZEN-Core sound engine that delivers authentic acoustic and electronic instruments • Updated TR-REC sequencer inspired by classic Roland drum machinesConsFew to speak of at this price point

Yamaha MODX8+ 88 GHS-weighted Key Synthesizer

Adaptable playback with cutting-edge design

Yamaha’s robust product lineup includes iconic acoustic pianos, vaunted FM synthesizers, and some cool motorcycles. Their innovative engineering is on full display with their MODX8+ GHS-weighted key synthesizer. Its diverse sonic palette includes 128-note polyphony of both the AWM2 and FM-X engines, available simultaneously for a whopping 256-note total polyphony. From amazing FM synthesis to vintage-style sonics via Virtual Circuitry Modeling, the MODX8+ is brimming with character. Extensive composition controls include 4-part Seamless Sound Switching and real-time control of sidechain dynamics and rhythm sequencing, with Live Set functionality ready to accommodate any performance. Robust connectivity includes USB and MIDI options, A/D input processing for external audio, and deep integration with computer and iOS devices. With GHS-weighted action and 1-3/4GB of onboard flash memory, you can easily personalize your play to suit any stage or studio setup.

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ProductYamaha MODX8+Number of Keys88Type of KeysGHS Weighted, Graded Hammer ActionVelocity SensitiveYesPolyphony128-note Stereo AWM2, 128-note FM-X, 16-part MultitimbralPresets2,227Pros• Expressive, GHS, variably weighted keys that are heavier in the low notes and lighter in the high notes, mimicking acoustic piano play • Super Knob that simultaneously controls multiple parameters for highly expressive sound interaction • Envelope Follower that allows internal or external audio to be used as a synth parameter control sourceConsThis product has fewer physical controls than the Yamaha Montage 8 (including ribbon controller) and has less available user memory

Kurzweil K2700 88-key Synthesizer Workstation

Vast ranges of sonorous synthesis

Picking up on the threads of the PC4, the Kurzweil K2700 expands its range to feature a fully realized production workstation on par with any DAW-based arrangement. Its fully weighted, 88-note keybed grants access to more than 1,500 presets that include ’70s electric pianos, acoustic grands, searing synths, lush orchestras, and more. Sounds are deeply customizable via the VAST architecture, offering 32 layers per program for endless sonic sculpting. Its powerful DSP handles everything from virtual analog synths to award-winning effects and premiere resonance modeling. Its 6-operator FM engine can handle SysEx files to augment the iconic FM experience. The 4 x 4 pad matrix allows for straightforward rhythmic ideation, fully utilizing its 256-voice polyphony. Its detailed interface is fully assignable, with extensive connectivity for CC and switch pedals, alongside MIDI and USB options. FlashPlay tech means zero load times on sounds, with pitch and mod wheel controls accompanied by a ribbon controller for endless expressivity.

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ProductKurzweil K2700Number of Keys88Type of KeysFully Weighted, Hammer-weighted ActionVelocity SensitiveYesPolyphony256PresetsMore than 1,500 Factory PresetsPros• 4-1/2GB of factory sample content plus 3-1/2GB of user storage • 16-track sequencer with dedicated front-panel transport buttons • FlashPlay technology with zero load timeConsIt does not include onboard sampling capabilities; check out the Yamaha Montage 8 and Korg Nautilus flagship workstations for sampling

Korg Nautilus 88 88-key Synthesizer Workstation

Unprecedented customization, nine engines of output

In no uncertain terms, the Korg Nautilus 88 is a titan of workstation magic, outfitted with a 9-engine armature of powerful modeling for organs, acoustic pianos, electric pianos, and numerous forms of synthesis, including analog, modeling, waveshaping VPM, PCM, and more. Its RH-3 keybed offers maximum expressive control, aided by the dynamics knob to dial in sensitivity for nuanced playing. More than 2,500 presets span a massive range of sounds — each of which can be fine-tuned to meet your sonic needs. Moreover, studio-quality onboard effects extend the range of each patch, with upwards of 14 simultaneous effects and 32 simultaneous EQs. Assignable real-time knobs give you six options for precision performance control, while a 16-track MIDI sequencer keeps the groove going. Couple that with a 16-track audio recorder and a flexible I/O suite, and you’ve got a full production workstation to rival and exceed any DAW.  

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ProductKorg NautilusNumber of Keys88Type of KeysWeighted Hammer ActionVelocity SensitiveYesPolyphony140 Notes (PCM), 180 Notes (PolysixEX), 52 Notes (VPM), 40–80 Notes (Analog Modeling)Presets2,560 Memory Programs, 264 Memory Drum Kits, 128 Set Lists (128 Slots per Set)Pros• 9 onboard sound engines from KRONOS with expansions for PCM and piano engines • TouchView interface and control panel with customizable mode buttons • Korg’s Dynamic Polyphony Allocation to ensure all your notes are voicedConsIts joystick controller is tactile and expressive, but some players may prefer traditional pitch and mod wheels; check out the Yamaha Montage 8

Keyboard Workstation Buying Advice

Keyboard workstations add performance and sonic versatility to any studio or live rig. This Sweetwater Buying Guide includes information that can help you choose a keyboard for your needs. Since there’s so much to consider when purchasing a keyboard workstation, don’t hesitate to call a Sweetwater Sales Engineer at (800) 222-4700 if you need assistance.

What Is a Keyboard Workstation?Types of SynthesisCombination SoundsSequencing and Audio RecordingEffects ProcessingWhat Is an Arranger Keyboard?What to Look for in a Keyboard WorkstationThe KeybedType of SynthesisSample Rate and Bit DepthKnobs and ControllersRemovable MediaComputer Interface

What Is a Keyboard Workstation?

A keyboard workstation is equipped with tools for both performers and composers alike. In addition to basic “bread-and-butter sounds” that professional keyboards typically come with, a workstation generally has more synth sounds, more effects, and other music creation, such as advanced patch editing and sequencing. Whether you’re a “one-man band,” performing in a group, or writing original music, the workstation can accommodate your musical needs.

Types of Synthesis

Keyboard workstations provide a greater palette for creating original sounds and effects than other professional keyboards. Workstations employ different methods of sound generation, such as analog modeling (great for electronic music) and sample playback (for realistic renditions of acoustic instruments). Many keyboards even offer sampling functionality, so you can record any sound and reproduce it in varying pitches across your keyboard. If you need to cover all the bases, consider a top-of-the-line workstation (such as the Korg Nautilus 88) that employs multiple synth engines. With a robust control set that allows you to modulate hundreds of presets or build patches from scratch, the keyboard workstation makes it easy to design and shape your sounds.

Combination Sounds

The best thing about a workstation is its ability to generate multiple sounds simultaneously. For instance, a film composer can sequence strings, brass sections, woodwinds, percussion, and grand piano patches for a cinematic orchestral score. If you’re a songwriter, then you might assemble a “band” that consists of a bass, organ, guitar, and drums. If your workstation records audio, then you can add vocals to the mix. For live performance, you might layer a synth pad, violin, choir, and piano for a unique composite sound you wouldn’t be able to achieve with any other type of keyboard.

Sequencing and Audio Recording

Whether performing live or writing music, MIDI sequencing is a valuable tool. With the push of a few buttons, you can record numerous accompaniment parts on your keyboard — and then play live parts with the sequenced backing tracks. Some workstations also have a mic/line input that lets you record audio, such as vocals or guitar, and incorporate it into your sequenced track. Also, if you are performing cover music and want to produce more authentic covers, then workstations give you options such as pre-programmed MIDI files for reproducing the music more accurately.

Effects Processing

Applying effects to a MIDI or audio track can turn an ordinary sound into something special. All keyboard workstations include onboard effects processors. Many feature effects that can be applied to individual tracks (insert effects) and the total mix (master effects). Additionally, workstations with audio recording capability usually provide important sound-shaping tools, such as EQ and dynamics processing. This will give you even more control over the final sound that you produce with your keyboard workstation.

What Is an Arranger Keyboard?

There is another type of professional keyboard called an arranger keyboard. Arrangers have evolved into a necessary tool for professional performing musicians and have even made their way into the studio. The main difference between a workstation and an arranger is that the arranger keyboard has built-in “auto accompaniment.”

In other words, with the push of just a few buttons, the keyboard will provide backing tracks that automatically match your playing style, rhythm, and tempo. These are unique tools for composers who must produce music quickly in a style they may not be familiar with. Even songwriters who can’t program drums or play guitar can use the arranger to hear their songs played by a band without calling in musicians. Finally, for the working solo performer, the arranger can add a new dimension to your sound by giving you the advantage of sounding like a full band.

What to Look for in a Keyboard Workstation

The Keybed

Pro keyboards come in a variety of sizes with various numbers of keys. Finding workstations with 88, 76, 73, 61, and even 49 keys are standard. You will also hear the words “hammer action” (which emulates the weight and feel of a real piano keyboard), “semi-weighted,” and “synth action” (which describes light, spring-loaded keys). Determine which combination of keybed action type and number of keys will provide the best combination of feel and functionality for you.

Type of Synthesis

The type of synthesis depends on the kind of music you want to make and what other sound sources you have. A sample-playback synth will work well if you want convincing piano, string section, brass, and percussion sounds. A workstation with analog modeling, wavetable, or FM synthesis might be more appropriate if your genre is electronic music. Once you determine the type of synthesis you prefer, choosing an instrument will be easier. However, consider a top-of-the-line workstation that employs multiple synth engines if you need to cover all the bases.

Sample Rate and Bit Depth

In a professional setting, one determiner of sound quality is the sample rate and bit depth of the samples, such as 24-bit/96kHz. With many workstations offering sounds recorded in world-class studios with premium vintage gear, the question of sound quality becomes an issue of whether the sounds that a particular keyboard produces inspire you.

Knobs and Controllers

The bare necessities are a functioning pitch wheel, mod wheel, or joystick controller. If a workstation has knobs and sliders, then ensure they transmit MIDI continuous controller (CC) messages. These become very useful as you find your way around the MIDI universe. You can use them to sweep filters and fade effects in the keyboard’s sound engine and control levels in your sequencer.

Removable Media

Removable media is vital for archiving or saving your patch information. Its purpose is twofold. If your keyboard goes in for repair and you have a backup copy of your patches, then you won’t lose your settings when the keyboard is reinitialized. Also, eventually, the number of patches you create may exceed the memory capabilities of the keyboard. Removable media allows you to organize your patches to match your performance needs. Modern workstations are often outfitted with connections for flash drives or SD cards for additional preset storage.

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Computer Interface

Many keyboard workstations offer a USB interface for data transfer and archiving. If you are working with a computer-based DAW, then a USB port that passes bidirectional MIDI allows you to use your keyboard as a master controller for your favorite software and virtual instruments. A keyboard with a built-in audio interface can be a cost-effective way to get high-quality audio in and out of the computer without investing in additional gear.

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Find Your Keyboard Workstation at Sweetwater

Clearly, there are many options to consider when choosing a keyboard workstation. With the knowledge and training to help you decide, your Sweetwater Sales Engineer can be a valuable resource. Give them a call at (800) 222-4700.
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