Lord of the Keys - Midi Keyboards

A MIDI keyboard is a controller operated with piano keys and does not generate sounds itself, but only transmits control signals. Through a USB connection, the keyboard can be connected to and controlled by the computer. The keyboard is used as a DAW Controller, for composing, or even, as many do, for live performance on stage.

MIDI keyboards are a subcategory of MIDI controllers, which complement your equipment excellently and get the best out of your DAW. The MIDI keyboard also allows you to play software synths and other virtual instruments while actually playing keys, providing a familiar performance and natural feel.

A good keyboard is hardly dispensable in modern production and should not be missing in any studio, whether for home recording or professional studios.

Keys on Keys

Midi keyboards come in different sizes, mostly limited by the number of keys. At the top end are 88-key keyboards, which naturally take up the most space but provide the best and most authentic playing feel. In contrast, a 25-key keyboard can fit practically anywhere but is only suitable for playing simple bass or synth phrases.

Here's an overview of all common MIDI keyboard key sizes:

• 25 Keys: Suitable for playing light and uncomplicated melodies. Ideal for bass or simple arp-synth lines.
• 37 Keys: Also suitable for light melodies. By quickly operating the transpose button (octave + or -), simpler piano passages can be realized. Also ideal for quick idea generation, which doesn't require much space on the desk.
• 49 Keys: From here, more complex melodies can be played without constantly needing to change octaves with the transport button. However, it does require some space on the desk. Nevertheless, it's the ideal compromise between space consumption and playability.
• 61 Keys: Complex melodies are possible here. Even professionals can handle this keyboard size well. The playability is excellent, and it should cover practically everything without needing to use the transport button.
• 88 Keys: Modeled after a real piano. Interesting for the professional pianist or for those, for example, taking or giving piano lessons and not having space for a real piano at home.

Pads and More - More than Just Keys

A keyboard comes either - very spartanly with just keys - or as a complete package with drum pads and faders. Especially Akai or M-Audio were the pioneers here, who started to expand normal keyboards with new features. Thus, the keyboard has not only become a great idea generator, but can also function as a complete control unit for all sorts of DAWs. Besides the usual job - playing melodies - with modern MIDI keyboards, it's now also possible to play complete drum sets and then mix everything with fader and knob controls. All on one device.

One step further was taken by Native Instruments with its Komplete Kontrol series. These controllers work so closely with NI's proprietary software that extensive control of the DAW (e.g., Maschine software) is largely possible via the keyboard. Besides switching presets, here you can also scroll directly through sounds. The endless rotary knobs have a display where the most important parameters - depending on the preset - can be dynamically changed and manipulated. The entire keyboard is equipped with LEDs that can display different colors - perfect for chords or for learning notes.

Inputs - Outputs

In the past - when there was no USB yet - a keyboard had "real" MIDI inputs or outputs. Today, everything is transferred digitally via USB. Practical and sufficient for most people. Simply connect the keyboard via USB to the computer or MAC, drivers are installed and BAM - you can play.

However, those who still work with older standalone synths or samplers will appreciate physical MIDI outputs and even better inputs, which most modern keyboards still offer. However, power supply via USB is then eliminated and an adapter must be used, which is usually not included and only available as an accessory.

A modern MIDI keyboard usually offers the following connections:

• MIDI-OUT: The output to connect the keyboard to another MIDI device - e.g., a synthesizer
• USB: Provides power to the master keyboard and digitally transfers all MIDI data to the software
• AC: If the keyboard is not powered via USB, an adapter can be connected here
• PEDAL: Usually present from the mid-range upwards. A connector to connect external optional foot pedals
• MIDI-IN: Usually present in higher-end keyboards. The keyboard can receive MIDI signals
• MIDI-Trough: Also more commonly found in high-end keyboards. The device can receive MIDI signals and pass them on to the MIDI-OUT

Dynamics - Weighting

When considering purchasing a keyboard, two additional terms often come up: touch sensitivity and weighted keys. These two factors significantly influence the feel of the keyboard and are therefore often hotly debated - also because they are very subjective and every pianist has their own idea of what constitutes good playable keys.

Touch Sensitivity

Indicates whether the keyboard keys are "touch-sensitive". If the keys are struck lightly, the sound will also be soft. If struck harder, the sound will be played louder. The gradation occurs in 127 steps. 1 = very soft, 127 = very loud.

Practically all keyboards available on the market are touch-sensitive. Usually, the intensity can additionally be controlled via drivers or software and adjusted to one's own needs.

Weighted Keys - Semi-weighted Keys

Indicates whether the keys react "inertly" and build up a certain counterpressure. Weighted keys allow for better dosing of the strike and finer nuances to be played.

• Inexpensive keyboards usually do not have weighted keys, but they can also be played very nuanced with some practice and familiarity.
• The compromise is semi-weighted keys, simply weighted with small weights to provide a better playing feel.
• Weighted keys are typically found in more expensive professional keyboards and are often also present in the 88-key variants to provide as authentic a playing feel as possible.

As mentioned above, here the individual's requirement for a keyboard is decisive. One might prefer to play only on heavy 88 keys, while another might prefer to handle better with 25-key mini keyboards. In doubt, the only way is to try out and find one's personal keyboard.