Thoughts on Roland A-80?

[stubbsonic]

I have an opportunity to get a Roland A-80 for cheap. I'm kinda torn. I'd appreciate any thoughts from any who have used the A-80.

ARGUMENTS FOR:
* I like non-hammer weighted actions.
* I like Polyphonic Aftertouch
* Can use in studio as main or 2nd controller
* Has 88 keys (I've never had a keyboard with more that 76 keys)
* I'm not IN LOVE with the feel of my current controller's keys (PC3)

AGAINST:
* My space is REALLY limited
* I already have a PC3 as a controller (with a ribbon) barely fits in my space.
* Do I REALLY need polyAT?
* A-80 is old, has one key with dodgy velocity (dirty or torn contact?)

Even though I have long been wanting a good controller with polyAT, I'm leaning toward saying no. I was just thinking if there were aspects of the A-80 that are just too good to pass on, maybe I should at least go try it out. The purchase price is not the obstacle, it's how will I fit it in my room!?

The PC3's action is a mixed bag. On one hand I like the firm springs and general response. However at the bottom of the key's travel is quite "spongy" which just makes the keyboard feel more a little less "percussive". You don't get the tactile "bang" at the end of the travel that tells you, "here's your force."

Any thoughts?

[gseibert]

I have both an A-80 and a PC3. The Roland has a MUCH nicer keyboard and was my main board since I bought it new back in the early ‘90’s. Make sure the faders are working smoothly. Mine are worn out and go from 0 or 127 and that’s it. The programming is a little wonky but very flexible. You really don’t use most of what it does when using it as a master controller for a DAW. It was great back in the day for a rack full of hardware modules. The user manual can be found on the internet I think. The 4 pedal inputs are a real plus. Allows for 3 sustain type pedals for grand piano patches that recognize those CC’s and a volume pedal.
You are correct the PC3 key action sucks. I use it mainly for B3 patches. It works there. I recently switched my main keyboard to my K2500x. I like the 8 sliders and the ribbon. I use the multi page to set up controllers for different VI’s.
You could do something similar with the A-80 if the faders work well. Also, make sure the LCD is bright enough for you. The backlight goes out eventually and gets hard to read. Sweetwater might still have parts if you contact them.

[stubbsonic]

Thanks so much for your impressions, that's very helpful. Even though I'm still leaning towards passing on it, it helps to "test" my leanings with some other data.

It is not hard for me to imagine liking the feel more than the PC3. But there are aspects of the PC3 that are hard to beat.

Again, thanks for taking the time, and confirming my suspicions.