With the rise of the home studio, and the need to simplify setups and maximize ease-of-use, there are few pieces of the studio puzzle quite as fundamentally important as the MIDI keyboard controller.
At its most basic, MIDI keyboard controllers are exactly that; controllers. Serving as an interface between you and your software, even the most basic MIDI keyboard controllers allow you to play any virtual instrument you have installed, and as they get more complex, the more they allow you to control – all from one central workstation.
Saving time in your DAW by keeping your hands on the hardware and out of sub-menus means more time for creativity.
The options are extensive with a few factors to take into account:
- Number of keys
- Keyboard Action
- Portability
- MIDI Pads
- Additional Controls
- Price
Let’s run through these factors to help you understand each of them better, and in turn, help you find the best MIDI keyboard controller for you needs.
Number of Keys
Possibly the most obvious factor is the number of keys. You’ll find everything from ultra-portable 25-key controllers, to full 88-key piano-style controllers. If all you need is to play in some simple melodies or program some drum grooves, a 25-key controller will likely suit your needs fine, if you’re looking to play some synth/keyboard parts, looking at a 49 or 61 key controller would probably be beneficial, and if you plan on recording and playing full-fledged piano parts with the full spectrum of notes at your fingertips, an 88-key controller is your best option.
Keyboard Action
The Keyboard Action is what the keys feel like and the response they give when played. A basic synth-style non-weighted action is what you’ll find on most basic controllers. These have a very light touch and don’t deliver much resistance.
Many higher-end piano-style controllers will have a weighted action. These are designed to mimic the feel of a real piano, with a realistic, heavier response.
Another common feature is a semi-weighted keyboard. This is a middle ground between the two options which balances key response, weight of the unit, and often price.
Portability
The portability of a unit very much factors in to the two aforementioned elements, but it is an incredibly important factor to consider. If you’re looking to leave your controller setup in one place, your options are limitless, but if you want something you can take on stage with you, or even throw in a back-pack, there are controllers built for exactly that purpose.
MIDI Pads
Additional Controls
Price
The more features a unit has, the higher the price, for the most part. So when choosing the MIDI keyboard controller for you, it’s important to find the balance between budget and the features you actually need.