How about the Korg EMX1? I've only tried it a few times in Guitar Center but it was a lot of fun. People on here have called it a "toy" but for beginners such as eisbaer6 and myself it seems like a good option. The only problem is it runs for about $500, but it's got synths, drums, effects, sequencer, etc all built into one sleek box. It even has some sort of (not fake) vacuum tube effect dealie.

Here's a couple clips of a guy playing one...not bad if you ask me:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kn4gRvcFlWc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iz4AMEgS2HM

Thoughts?

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-tom