I would go for the korg. I've tried the Alesis and the features are so basic it's hard to rise above it's generic sound.

John W.

Which one did you get?

I ended up purchasing the Nord Lead 2X. A bit more expensive than the Alesis or MicroKorg, but a lot more flexible in regards to tone creation and presets.

Unfortunately, my wife and I added up all we owe on credit cards and found out we're fucked!

Maybe next year... here is an uncharacteristic emoticon from me

My experience with the microkorg suggests that these things are beyond durable. There is no amount of beer, blood, water spilled nor a height they can fall onto concrete that will damage it.

I had a Korg. It ruled. Absolutely one of the best values around.