A MIDI keyboard is a device used by amateurs and professional musicians to create and record a variety of electronic music. The device can be connected to a computer and used as a synthesizer, where each key will be responsible for playing a specific note or imitate some instrument.
Classification of devices depending on the type of key mechanics
According to the type of key mechanics , a MIDI keyboard can be of three types: weighted, half-weighted, and unweighted. These types are distinguished by the presence of an additional weighting keys, which allows you to simulate the sound of a real piano. This affects the cost of this device - the more realistic it sounds, the higher its price.
For professionals, a weighted MIDI keyboard is more suitable. With their own hands, virtuosos can create melodies, the sound of which will not differ from reproduced on real high-quality musical instruments. In addition, the expensive models of this unit are also equipped with a function such as aftertouch. Thanks to this, the key mechanism in them works on the same principle as a real piano.
There are more budget options that have semi-weighted mechanics. This method is perfect for beginner musicians or just amateurs.
Differences depending on the number of octaves and the size of the keys
The best option for a professional performer would be equipment with 4-5 octaves and 49 or 61 keys. The music played on such a device will be almost identical to that played on real instruments, although it is virtual. A MIDI keyboard with fewer octaves will be a good option for amateurs, or for those who are going to use this unit only for a set of notes or arrangements.
An important point is also the type of connection of the device to the computer. Various options are possible here - via USB, a special cable, etc.Connecting additional devices
You can also connect additional pedals to the device to create authentic sound. The cheaper options are equipped with devices that can be reprogrammed depending on the situation. A high-class MIDI keyboard has several connectors, which allows you to simultaneously connect several pedals, each of which will be assigned a specific function. It can be volume, modulation, etc. This is especially important for professional musicians, in particular for those who use this device as a substitute for piano.
It is also important to immediately determine the number of configurable controller devices. This, in particular, is important for those who work with various musical directions, since it allows you to adjust additional effects and virtual analogs of instruments in real time.-
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If you want to just have fun and sometimes play something, then a simpler option will do. Many of the additional functions that a professional MIDI keyboard has in this case will be simply incomprehensible and unnecessary.The level of knowledge of the keyboard is also important . If a person is a pianist, then he simply will not be able to play on a simple model with poor keyboard mechanics. The minimum is 7 octaves, a weighted and full-sized keyboard and maximum resemblance to the piano.
For a person who, in general, knows how to play, but does not need virtuoso performance, a device from 3 to 5 octaves is suitable without additional controllers and pedals. He still will not be able to fully use the various capabilities of a professional device.
A MIDI keyboard is a device that allows you to play and record music at a high professional level. The types of this unit differ with respect to the scope of use, the number of octaves, the mechanics of the keys and the possibility of connecting additional equipment. Thanks to a wide selection of models, each musician, regardless of whether he is a professional or an amateur, will be able to choose a device based on personal preferences and financial capabilities.