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

[macrulzman]

To ben entirely honest, the all-in-one isn't really worth the upgrade. You DEFINITELY do not want to run X on a 233MHz processor, and it will eat 64MB of RAM for breakfast. You would need to upgrade your RAM to a minimum of 256 (512+ preferrable) and your hard drive is a bit small, but it's usable. You'll need a MIDI interface for your computer and, yes, a MIDI keyboard capable of sound. However, you could replace the keyboard with a software instrument. Search around the net for a software synth and that may be all you need. You won't even need the MIDI interface for this, you'll just need to download OMS (Open Music System).