MIDI Keyboard

MIDI keyboards are digital keyboards that are designed similar to a piano keyboard and are used to transmit Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) communications to an electronic module or computer that is capable of producing sound. Unlike older keyboards and pianos, MIDI keyboards produce no sound on their own, instead, relying on the electronic module for sound production. MIDI keyboards are also capable of producing samples that are similar other musical instruments depending on the capabilities of the device connected to the keyboard for sound reproduction.

What Information Does a MIDI Keyboard Transmit?

MIDI keyboards will send commands to a corresponding electronic device. These communications include mappings to specific instrument sounds, pitch and modulation inputs, synthesizer, sampler, and DAW software inputs. Some of the features that you will run across when comparing MIDI keyboards will either impact the information transmitted in the MIDI message or the quality of haptic feedback for the music creator. Information contained in the MIDI messages can also be updated from the use of foot switches or expression controllers, transmitting after touch, or the type of synth being used for the device.

What Qualities Should You Look For in MIDI Keyboards?

Many consumers will look to buy a used MIDI keyboard. One of the most important qualities in a used keyboard is that it is operational. The older the keyboard, the more likely that there will be keys or other internal components that are damaged. A general rule of thumb for MIDI keyboards is that as they increase with age, they probability of failure will increase. Another important factor when searching for a MIDI keyboard is taking cost into account. The brand, music synthesizing options, control knob options, and number of keys are all factors that can increase or decrease the cost of the keyboard. Some of the additional qualities to consider when purchasing a MIDI keyboard are listed below.

How Many Keys Do You Need on a MIDI Keyboard?

Some of the common keyboard key numbers for MIDI keyboards include 25, 37, 49, 61, 76, or 88 keys. In more recent years, mini MIDI keyboards have become more popular to focus on a smaller range of music samples or octaves. The majority of consumers will want to acquire a MIDI keyboard with at least 49 keys in order to play the majority of piano-based music. If you are interested in playing classical music, then 88 keys will be required for you to fully play complex classical pieces. The majority of classical music enthusiasts will find that a 73 or 76 key MIDI keyboard will suffice for their needs with those who are money conscious finding that 61 keys will fulfill the majority of their needs.

Weighted or Synth Keyboard Action

When MIDI keyboards first hit the consumer market, a common complaint was that they significantly lacked the feel of traditional piano keyboards. As a result, manufacturers started weighting keys in order to improve the haptic feedback of they devices. Weighted keys come in a variety of options to include full to partial weighting and they do increase the cost of the keyboard. Some MIDI users, however, prefer no weighting of their keys depending on what their musical background and training is. Synth action keyboards do not have weighting and can play faster, but are not as well-suited for the player who is focused on classical music.

On board MIDI Sequencers and Arpeggiators

Players that prefer to use their MIDI keyboard without a computer connection will find that on board sequencers are a necessity to use the device on public shows or gigs. For users that use a computer-based sequencer, a built-in one on the device is extraneous and will just increase the cost of the device. Arpeggiators, however, are used to help synch the MIDI clock and sequencer applications. They are commonly used for creating techno, ambient, and trance music types.

Types of MIDI Keyboard Synthesis

They type of MIDI keyboard synthesis you choose will ultimately depend on the type of music that you intend on producing with the device. Typically this question can be boiled down to the desire between analog modeling or a cleaner sounding playback. For producing mainstream-sounding pop or orchestra, the sample playback synth should be selected when choosing the MIDI device. For techno or dance music creation, the analog modeling synth is the more appropriate choice.