How To Choose A Midi Keyboard
If you're into making music using your computer then you know how important it is to have a good MIDI keyboard at your disposal. There are a number of products to choose from and depending on your wallet you can get them new or used with varying quality and results.
Keyboard Size
Perhaps the biggest concern you may have, other than the technical aspects is that of size - or rather the number of keys your keyboard will have. Typically they come in 88, 76, 61, 49, 37, and 25.
Many would argue for getting the big one even if it is somewhat pricey while still others like the portability and compactness of the 25. Most would say that for multipurpose action the 49 Midi keyboard is worth it.
It really depends on what you're going to use it for and the space available. If you usually do live performances on stage then space is not an issue and an 88 may be the best, even if it is quite bulky. On the other hand if you work at home where space can be a premium then a smaller one might be in order.
How Heavy?
We're not necessarily talking about the weight of the unit itself but rather of its keys. Depending on your preference you can get keys that are touch sensitive, un-weighted, semi-weighted, or full weighted.
1) Touch sensitive keys will play depending on how hard you play. The harder you press the louder the sound that comes out.
2) Un-weighted keys offer little or no resistance. You won't feel any springiness unlike say the keys on a real piano. If you're the type who plays fast or a beginner who doesn't really have an idea about playing then this may be the best option for your Midi keyboard.
3) The semi-weighted keys are a compromise between the un-weighted and the full-weighted versions. It offers some resistance or "feel" to the user while keeping it light at the same time. Most will find this a better fit for them.
4) For those who are used to playing the piano then the weighted keys are the ones for you. These will offer the resistance and springiness one would find and associate with regular pianos. Those that choose this prefer the feedback playing gives them versus the above selections.
Again the choice will depend on your action and what you're used to. If you played the piano before then you may feel more comfortable with the weighted keys. On the other hand if you like playing faster or don't like the resistance then an un-weighted key is for you. But for the majority the semi-weighed keys will do as it's the best compromise between the two extremes.
When it comes to the price the bigger they are (i.e. the more keys they have) the higher the price. At the same time the more weighted the keys the higher the price. Of course that's not to say that price should be your limiting factor when choosing your Midi keyboard. What's important is the use you will be getting out of it and if you "feel" it - that is worth the price you will pay and then some.
Check out useful tips in buying Midi Keyboards. Know what other users say in the Midi Keyboard Reviews section.
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