Gearank Recommendation
The EK-50 appeared on our recommended list for Portable Arranger Keyboards Under $500 from April 2020 until September 2021 when it was removed due to a price increase.
Overview
For a 61-key portable keyboard, the Korg EK-50 offers a big step up in terms of control, voicings and recording features.
At its price point, it is no longer targeting beginners, but is designed to be a portable instrument for more experienced keyboardists.
At the onset, it has a very expressive keybed, with 61 full-size keys that feature adjustable touch control and velocity sensitivity.
It allow you to trigger a wide variety of voicings, rhythms and auto-accompaniment styles that are built into the unit.
Speaking of voicing, there are 700 sounds, 280 styles, 34 effect types (with 148 variations), and many other sonic options to play with, all of which should be more than enough to keep anyone busy tweaking.
Other notable features include an onboard sequencer for advanced recording and playback, multiple input/output options, MIDI connectivity, and it can run on 8 x AA batteries
Specifications
- USB MIDI
- 61 Full Size Keys with Touch Control and Velocity Sensitivity
- 64-note Polyphony
- 700 voices, 280 Styles, 41 Drum Kits, 18 Demo Songs
- 34 Effects Types (148 variations)
- 1 x 1/8″ (Aux in)
- 2 x 1/4″ (L & R Output), 1 x 1/8″ (Headphones)
- 1 x Type A USB, 1 x Type B USB
- 2 x 4.7″ Speakers, 10W Amp per side
- Optional Sustain Pedal
- Included 12V DC Adapter, Runs on 8 x AA batteries
- Weight: 16.5 lbs.