Modern VL-Tone?

October 17, 2009 7:24 AM

What's the modern equivalent of a Casio VL-Tone?

I've seen suggestions like the microKORG, MINIKP, and KAOSSILATOR, but that really doesn't capture the same segment. I'm looking for something appropriate for a 5 year old.

posted by dmd to Shopping (3 answers total)

Um, a Casio VL-tone from the thrift store? Barring that, there's a proliferation of little kid's electronic keyboards (simple & durable for kids), just stop in at any Toys R Us or similar store.

If you're looking specifically for the modern product that fills the exact same niche as the VL-Tone did (simple & durable for "grown-ups"), I don't think that niche exists anymore.
posted by Aquaman at 8:08 AM on October 17, 2009

I've found that Vtech keyboards, in particular something like the the Music Major and Little Smart DJ have sounds that will make it popular for years to come [like the VL-tone]. Both of those keyboards can sometimes be found at thrift stores and they have a stronger array of features and sounds than your typical slapped-together keyboard.

Really, your best option is to go to a thrift store and buy old keyboards.
posted by cloeburner at 8:17 AM on October 17, 2009

dude that thing was straight up AWESOME. I had that exact one as a kid!

how 'bout beaterator? Does your 5 year old have a PSP? You can sample your own voice and make sweet loops to rap over, etc. It is awesome!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beaterator

watch timbaland play with it with his kid on youtube. it's amazing.
posted by wuzandfuzz at 9:24 PM on October 17, 2009