Hi. So my KeyLab essential 88 mk2 has a wonky F key. Mostly just sending max velocity, but sometimes not triggering or double triggering. It started to do this last November, but I did compressed air cleaning, resets and it got better. Still was a bit unpredictable but now it’s just a mess
It’s out of warranty, and I had it repaired before and getting a shipping box plus shipping—over half the cost of the keyboard. I called around where I live (Santa Cruz, smallish town) and the one guy that does some midi repair gave me an estimate of $500 (!) to repair. Yes I know that’s an insanely high number
Back before Christmas when this first started, I found a number of still-new mk2s that were obviously less expensive than the new mk3s. The mk3s are cool, but I don’t really need the arpeggio, chord and transpose new features. I was trying to find another new mk2 for the lower cost. I think the essentials are a pretty good bargain as they are, but I’m disabled and really have to watch the $ thing
So, I looked again and the mk2s that I’d found a few months ago aren’t around anymore. It makes sense, the new ones are out and etc.
But I’m just writing here to see if anyone may have an idea where I may find a new but last gen KeyLab essential 88. I tried the usuals—Amazon, Walmart, guitar center, b&h. One place had them but shipping is over $200 (honestly I feel like I went to sleep and woke up in a much more expensive reality)
So that’s all. The mk3s are great and the price is good. I’m a little frustrated that I had it repaired once and now have a wonky key, I’m not exactly taking this out on the road. But I actually really like the feel—I think the mk3s have same keys (?)
Anyway, that’s all. Just thought worth a shot asking
Thanks