That roland looks ok, but since I will be using it for some piano/synth stuff as well, I would like for it to have velocity sensitive, full sized keys. A big plus if they're weighted or even semi weighted. I would also prefer a mod and pitch wheel rather than a "joystick" type controller for those functions. I could care less about being able to use it as a control station like a mixer. I just want it for recording and arranging virtual instruments.

Also, any tips on using Sampletank to it's full potential, and/or any other similar vst's?

One more thing I'm not clear on... Since I've never used a midi keyboard, do you just arm the midi track, hit record, and play what you want recorded? Will it automatically "draw" out the notes in a "piano roll view" by doing this?