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super turbo synth workstation with a million expression knobs...
uber complex multi-tonal LCD display with 40000 built in midi channels...
jog wheels and DAW control up the wazoo..

no thanks
I'm just looking for a keyboard with MIDI out so that I can sequence my songs' keyboard parts without having to program the notes. I can play piano better than I can click a mouse!
I don't need onboard synth capabilities, or a million knobs.
I'll be outputting to a software synth, so no need for any extensive hardware sound libraries...

So, just a simple keyboard, though I'd like velocity sensitive keys, and preferably full-keyboard...

My question to anyone who might be able to shed some light on this is...
for a reasonable price, what would you all recommend as a MIDI keyboard just so I can actually PLAY my music instead of "left-click" it?

Thanks a lot!
appreciate your opinions.

Adrian

Comments

pr0gr4m Mon, 08/08/2005 - 15:51

You don't need a full on Synth Workstation. What you want is a MIDI controller. It a keyboard without the sounds or "Bells and Whistles". Some of them have just MIDI out's, some have MIDI and USB.

I would say that Edirol or M-audio are your best choices for a nice cheap midi controller. Both companies make them in different sized, 25, 49, 61, and 88 keys. They can have bells and whistles or, pots and sliders if you will, for controlling other things, like your soft synths. They can also be bare with just a control for changing programs/patches.

You might also want to check out Studiologic/Fatar. I've never used them but they make them.

Check out any of the online retailers and you should be able to find one that fits your needs.