MIDI keyboards

All About MIDI Keyboards: A Guide to Choosing and Using

MIDI keyboards are a cornerstone of modern music production, whether in professional studios or home setups. They act as control devices that allow musicians to interact with music software and hardware. A MIDI keyboard sends MIDI data to a computer or synthesizer, which interprets these signals and converts them into sound. In this article, we’ll explore how a MIDI keyboard works, what to consider when buying one, and how you can optimize your setup for music production. We’ll also cover popular models on the market and the benefits of wireless and compact MIDI keyboards.

What is a MIDI keyboard and how does it work?

A MIDI keyboard is a musical instrument used to control digital sound modules, software instruments, and synthesizers via the MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) protocol. When a musician presses a key, the keyboard generates a MIDI message, which is sent to a computer or another device. This message contains information about which key is pressed, how hard it is pressed, and how long it is held. These details are then converted into sound by the connected software or hardware.

What distinguishes a MIDI keyboard from a regular keyboard is that it doesn’t produce sound on its own. It requires an external device – typically a computer or synthesizer – that receives the MIDI messages and generates sound. A MIDI keyboard is therefore ideal for both live performances and music production, as it provides musicians with full control over digital sounds and virtual instruments.

How to choose the best MIDI keyboard for your needs

Choosing the right MIDI keyboard depends on several factors, including how many keys you need, whether you prefer a compact MIDI keyboard, and if you want a wireless or wired model. For beginners or those with limited space, a smaller keyboard with 25 or 49 keys can be a great option, especially if it’s primarily used for creating melodies and chords. For more advanced musicians working on complex compositions, a MIDI keyboard with 88 keys may be necessary to access the full range of a classical keyboard.

Another key consideration is velocity sensitivity, which measures how hard a key is pressed. This feature allows for more expressive playing by affecting the volume and intensity of each note. The pads and buttons on a MIDI keyboard can also be critical, especially for electronic musicians and beatmakers. A MIDI keyboard with pads allows you to trigger drum samples and loops directly from the keyboard, making it a vital tool in many music genres.

Setting up and connecting your MIDI keyboard

Setting up and connecting a MIDI keyboard is a relatively simple process, but there are several options depending on your setup. Most modern MIDI keyboards come with USB connectivity, making it easy to connect to a computer. Many keyboards also support wireless connections, which is a great advantage for musicians who want a more flexible workspace. Wireless MIDI keyboards can connect via Bluetooth, eliminating the need for cables and making them ideal for live performances or smaller home studios.

Once connected, it’s important to configure your MIDI keyboard in your music software (DAW). This typically involves selecting the MIDI device in the software’s settings and ensuring all the buttons, pads, and knobs are correctly mapped to their respective functions in the software. Many DAWs, like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and FL Studio, offer extensive MIDI mapping features that allow musicians to customise the keyboard’s functions to their workflow.

The most popular MIDI keyboard models on the market

There are many popular MIDI keyboards available for both beginners and professionals. Models like the Akai MPK Mini, Novation Launchkey, and Arturia KeyLab are known for their quality, functionality, and compact design. These models are suitable for both production and live use, where compact MIDI keyboards are especially useful for musicians who are on the go or need a mobile setup.

For musicians working in studio environments who require more keys and features, models like the M-Audio Keystation 88 and Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 are popular choices. These keyboards offer a more comprehensive playing experience with 88 weighted keys, simulating the feel of an acoustic piano, which is essential for those working with classical or cinematic music. These keyboards also integrate deeply with music software, offering a range of built-in control features that make them versatile tools for music production.

Wireless vs wired MIDI keyboard: Which is best?

The choice between a wireless MIDI keyboard and a wired one primarily depends on personal preference and workflow. Wireless MIDI keyboards offer greater mobility and can reduce clutter in the studio, but in some cases, they may have a slight latency (delay), which can be problematic, especially in live setups. Wired keyboards provide a more stable connection with no latency, making them the preferred choice for many professional musicians and producers.

However, there are high-quality wireless keyboards available that offer near-zero latency, making them suitable for both live performances and studio-based work. If you prioritise flexibility and mobility, a wireless MIDI keyboard could be the right solution for you, while a wired MIDI keyboard provides stability and reliability in any situation.