Roland JUNO-DS61 61-Key Synthesizer

The JUNO-DS61 has earned its reputation as one of the most reliable gigging synths on the market. It's light enough to carry one-handed, runs on batteries when you need it to, and the sound library covers everything a working keyboardist encounters -- pianos, organs, strings, brass, pads, leads, and more. The interface is laid out for fast sound selection on stage, not for deep-diving through sub-menus.

The velocity-sensitive keys have a nice semi-weighted feel that works well across all sound types, from piano splits to synth leads. Eight performance pads handle samples and phrase launching, and the mic input with vocal effects lets you process your voice without extra gear. USB audio interface capability makes it a solid recording tool too. If you're a gigging keyboardist who needs a versatile, lightweight, affordable workhorse that sounds good every night, the DS61 is the definition of a no-brainer.