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 PSRSX900 Arranger Workstation keyboard is a comprehensive tool for musicians of all skill levels. It features 61 keys, which is standard for arranger keyboards. A standout feature is the color touch screen, which simplifies navigation and control, making it easier to adjust settings and access features. This is particularly beneficial for users who need an intuitive interface.

The joystick controller allows for dynamic pitch and modulation changes, adding versatility to your music. Additionally, the assignable real-time control knobs offer a hands-on approach to sound customization, similar to an analog synthesizer, which can be very engaging for creative musicians. The chord looper is a useful tool for recording chord progressions, allowing you to focus on playing without worrying about keeping up with chord changes. This can be particularly helpful during live performances or practice sessions. The style section reset is another practical feature, helping to keep your accompaniment in sync during performances.

The keyboard is relatively heavy at 31.5 pounds, which might be a drawback for those needing portability. Connectivity options are robust, with multiple USB ports, MIDI, and headphone jack, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices. Sound quality and variety are commendable, with numerous built-in styles and rhythms catering to various musical genres. Despite its strengths, some users might find the price point to be on the higher side, especially if they are beginners. The Yamaha PSRSX900 is best suited for intermediate to advanced musicians seeking a versatile and feature-rich arranger keyboard that can handle both studio work and live performances.