How do I buy a keyboard? (musical)

[Hack&Lube]

And by that, I mean a musical keyboard. I am interested in using sound patches and emulation as a cheaper way to get good sounding and varied instruments versus spending a lot on a stand-alone synthesizer.

I used to play piano as a kid but I've totally and completely forgotten how and I think the best way to motivate me to start playing again is to get some kind of keyboard I can plug into my computer and play around with in front of my monitor with some really satisfying tones, etc.

I am a big fan of warm pads and classic smooth jazz and funk licks, especially the Fender Rhodes, etc. What is the cheapest and easiest way for me to do this? Remember, I can hardly remember how to play the piano anymore but everytime I touch a Casio or Yamaha synth in a store (even if it is over $100), it sounds terrible to me and I know you can get some really fantastic patches with a PC. Is there any way to do this with USB?

I'm a generally techy guy but I know next to nothing about music except that I have a passion for it somewhere and I really want to pick it up.

[missdpuck]

You might want to PM Traditional Ale about it. Hope it's okay I volunteered you Traddy!

[Locke]

Exchange currency for goods, transaction completed....get a receipt.

[Sparks]

I don't know much about soft synths but you're going to need a midi controller, like these:
http://www.m-audio.ca/index.php?do=p...ardcontrollers

but remember, you're also going to have to buy (or maybe, "buy" ) some software that actually makes the sound.

Another thing - I've used MIDI through USB before, but there's a delay and it's very difficult to play that way. You might need to buy some fancy sound card MIDI thing (more $$$). Something to keep in mind.

What does your price range look like? If you give me an idea how much you want to spend, I could probably figure something out for ya. You really shouldn't waste your money on any stand-alone keyboard less than about $700 new.