- BEST MIDI KEYBOARD FOR LIVE PERFORMANCE FOR MAC
- BEST MIDI KEYBOARD FOR LIVE PERFORMANCE FULL SIZE
- BEST MIDI KEYBOARD FOR LIVE PERFORMANCE PRO
- BEST MIDI KEYBOARD FOR LIVE PERFORMANCE SOFTWARE
- BEST MIDI KEYBOARD FOR LIVE PERFORMANCE FREE
While just something to keep in mind when it comes to making your decision here, the added software is a big part of the value when it comes NI controllers. While the included software with the new, more affordable options is really just a bonus, it really jacks the price up on the more fully-featured models. NI’s virtual instrument collection/infrastructure is extensive to say the least, and all of its MIDI keyboard offerings include a glimpse into this world. The big highlight of its hardware offerings is the software/virtual instruments they provide access to.
BEST MIDI KEYBOARD FOR LIVE PERFORMANCE FOR MAC
Native Instruments has updated its lineup of MIDI keyboards for Mac this year including several of its most affordable yet. Several of the major players in the space have updated their lineups this year while some mainstays remain atop the heap for another year running. Today’s roundup is mainly focused on Mac setups, but you will find options that will take you from the home studio to the beach, and beyond as well.ĭown below you’ll find the best MIDI keyboards for Mac 2019 edition.
BEST MIDI KEYBOARD FOR LIVE PERFORMANCE PRO
While anything more than basic DAW integration with Logic Pro X will cost a pretty penny, we have curated a series of the best options for Apple’s in-house production suite that will also accommodate an ever-evolving musical workflow with other apps - in some cases across both desktop and mobile environments. These days, most of the best manufacturers offer a wide range of options that land across all price ranges, largely differentiated by the factors above, additional performance controls, and physical build quality.
BEST MIDI KEYBOARD FOR LIVE PERFORMANCE FULL SIZE
Full size or mini keys, pitch wheels or sliders, weighted or synth-action, iOS-integration out-of-the-box, and included software all come to mind. There are several key points that usually arise when it comes to deciding which Mac MIDI keyboard is the one to get.
Head below for a detailed look at the best keyboards on the market and information to help you decide which option will suit your needs best. While some of the mainstays are making another appearance this year, there have also been a series of new releases across 2019 from Native Instruments, Arturia, IK Multimedia, and more. After detailing our favorites a couple years back, it’s now time to reassess the MIDI keyboard situation for Mac users. This is great for musicians and producers who want to use more than just a keyboard to create their tracks.Today we are looking at the best MIDI keyboards for Mac in 2019.
The Oxygen Pro is available in a variety of key configurations, including the most popular 49 and 88 key versions. What’s even better is that the Oxygen Pro features Auto-Mapping, which means you can instantly map all the keyboard’s controls to your DAW without having to individually assign each function. You also get 16 customizable RGB-lit pads and 8 assignable knobs, along with 9 assignable faders and the usual pitch and modulation wheels. Playing on the Oxygen Pro feels much more realistic and accurate compared to using a cheaper keyboard with hollow keys.
M-Audio’s highest end offering comes with semi-weighted keys, meaning that it feels and plays like a real piano. If you’re serious about music and want a keyboard that can do it all, the Oxygen Pro is for you. Some keyboards have very sensitive keyboard aftertouch which will allow you to express the tiniest details. Expression pedals and footswitch inputs on the back of the keyboard for even more control. Look out for pitch and modulation wheels. If you want to use it for performance, it’s better to have more knobs directly accessible to you during the show. The amount of variable control knobs depends on what you want to use it for.
BEST MIDI KEYBOARD FOR LIVE PERFORMANCE FREE
Most of the keyboards come with free software. For example, M-AUDIO’s popular model Keystation MK3 comes with 88-keys or you can choose their 49-Key or their Mini 32 MK3.Īll MIDI boards are reliant on a computer and software in order to produce a sound. Most models offer multiple key configurations, so you can pick the best one for your needs and portability requirements. MIDI keyboards come in various sizes, usually with either 25, 49, or 88 keys. But the downside is this can take away its sturdiness. Some MIDI boards are made for portability which is why they are extremely light and made out of plastic. It provides real-time control and feedback of all virtual instruments. It is a device that you can connect to a computer and all differ in size to transform computer-based plugins into an entirely hands-on playing experience. What is a MIDI keyboard, controller, and MIDI board?