I'm currently using a Casio Privia PX310 to practice on at home. I don't like the action and the keys make an awful noise (it was given to me as a gift so i can't really complain i guess!) Anyway, i've been looking online at the M-AUDIO ProKeys 88 with a view to purchasing. None of my local shops stock M-AUDIO products so i would be buying it without trying it! The price seems a bit too good to be true, but the reviews that i've read are excellent. My question is this - Does anyone have this model and if so, can you give me your opinion on it please? I like a light action (similar to Roland stage pianos) - is the action light or heavy and of course, does it sound ok? Thanks for any advice.

I have no personal experience but I have checked out some review sites on the web and the signs are not good. Many reviewers complain of poor quality construction, things that don't work, or that soon break, unreliability, poor unrealistic feel, fuzzy sound etc.

I have had a second hand Yamaha P-80 for over two years. It is not my main instrument. I use it for "silent" practice early in the morning and/or late at night, and for studying theory. It cost me about 300 POUNDS second hand, which is not much more than the price of a new M-AUDIO unit. It does not feel like a real piano, and there are all kinds of things you can't do on it, but everything works, it is completely adequate for what I want and it has been totally reliable.

I'd recommend you to look at the well known makes (Yamaha, Roland, etc.) and maybe look at buying something second hand rather than new.

I have had experience with M-audio. My first midi piano broke within a couple of weeks. The second I sent back. They are good with software, not so good with keyboards - I wouldn't buy from them again.

I would second getting a yamaha P-80 or higher or get a casio px-320 or higher. I have a casio privia which is pretty good (the keys make a dull sound but no one in the house really notices), but its not as portable. So check those out and see which is around your price range and which has suitable portability (if there is such a word) for your needs.

The best thing to do would be to go down to your local shop and try one out.