Fatar ST-900

This is a follow up to a previous review of the ST900. My model wasmanufactured in 96 not 94. I also have learned how to service it without major disassembly so don't want prospective buyers to be spooked by my former dire warnings. If some debris accumulates in the sensor cups one can lift off the actual key for decomtamination instead of operating from the bottom of the action via a burdomesome operation.

I use an Anatek POCKET curve box when driving two Kurzweil MicroPianos. One could use one of the on board velocity curves of the sound module of course but I think the SL880 has solved the dilemma of adjusting the velocity response for most modules.

I have had some plastic parts break involving the action mounting and assume that the newer SL990 and 880 have a different bracing for the action. I still would recommend the ST900 if you could find one in good shape for under $400.

I am currently (1-02) unaware of shop manual availability. I think any keyboardist should be able to handle modest troubleshooting servicing and a shop manual would be very helpful.

If one is reluctant to buy a controller my suggestion is to consider the Kawai EXS. Seems to have a decent piano sound and will suffice for most gigs. I have students with all models of Yamaha, Roland, etc but that particular Kawai model has for my tastes a workable action and piano sample.

This 88 key early hammer action controller is a good buy used. I've used one for a few years and it has held up well even though it was manufactured in 1994. I actually prefer the action of the ST900 to the SL990 although the SL880 beats them both.

This predecessor to the current SL990 has a simpler levered action but feels quite solid without being heavy. It is lighter and quicker and has a shorter key travel than a Yamaha P80.

No aftertouch or zones but it does have an expression pedal jack along with the standard sustain pedal jack and two midi outs. It can access most of the GM controller numbers. I use to trigger MicroPianos and early GM boxes. Bank select and variation access is something iffy on these early Fatars. One surprise is that it can use both normally open or normally closed sustain pedals. The manual does not mention that the unit senses the polarity of an inserted pedal open power-up. This design consideration is fairly standard on lots of Alesis stuff- drum machines, It used to be that you had to buy a normally open pedal for all Fatars. Most pro keyboardists today buy a double polarity sustain pedal. Again a plus for this older unit if you can find one for about $300.

Fatar doesn't offer manuals. I am experienced enough to be able to service my own equipment. If a piece of grit somehow lodges in the sensor cup you are in for some major dismantling. Keep it covered while playing outdoors because big chunks of pollen of junk can slip in between the keys and possibly contaminate the sensors.

Forget Fatar or Studiologic for now unless you live in Italy. Learn to service your own stuff so you won't be dependent upon a techkie to do work you could tackle with some guidance.

I'd look for another. It was a good deal at $450 three years ago and worth $300.