Yamaha PSS-A50

UPDATE JUNE 2021
After 18 months of working fine, the keyboard suddenly stopped functioning. It just won't switch on. From what I read across other reviews, this is not an exception.
Sending it back to Thomann for repair (thank God for the warranty), but really disappointed in Yamaha's quality standards...

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You will read it in a lot of reviews: the PSS-A50 is trying so hard to punch above its weight it ends up disappointing.

Granted: Yamaha was full of good intentions with this keyboard but did have to make a few compromises.

Now look at it from the other angle: this is a below 100€ keyboard. For a fraction of the price of a Reface, you notably get:
the same keys than the Reface series with velocity sensors,
a compact but playable format,
tons of voices + some effects (pitch, modulation, etc.),
100+ 'arpeggios' (loops you can play over)
a basic but fun one track recorder
a MIDI connection to use it as a master keyboard,
and a lot more...

So yes, the only speaker doesn't sound great,
yes, the usability of some functions is questionable,
and yes, "overall it could have been better".

However at that level of price, I challenge you to find any competitive keyboard that does better.

Just take the time to learn how to make the most out of it.
Definitely having a ton of fun with mine x Garageband.
Highly recommended as a travelmate or family mini-synth.

Compact and light with 37 keys, runs on 4xAA batteries or USB power. Built-in speaker. Small selection of voices can seem a little bland. Arpeggiator is a great feature which takes time to master.Basic short phrase recorder is also very handy for sketching ideas. Doubles as a MIDI keyboard so great for travellers. No sustain pedal socket and only a combined headphones/output socket, which can be a little hissy. Everything involves compromise but Yamaha have steered a sensible course with this mini keyboard. Recommended.

I bought two of these because one of the kids stuck something into the USB port and MIDI stopped working (charging and power still works).
Love it so much, that I did not hesitate to get another one since repair costs exceed the value of a new unit.
Simply a winner in this price range if you want velocity keys and MIDI controller option.
PRO: velocity keys, phrase record/loop, compact, USB charged and MIDI support via USB
CON: slight noise when using headphones, mono speaker, could use more info on the left side of the keyboard