M-Audio Oxygen MIDI Controller

Whether you’re putting out some beats on your laptop computer or working in a professional recording studio with an array of synths and computers, you are eventually going to need a MIDI controller, if you don’t already have one. MIDI controllers look like piano keyboards for the most part. They usually sport a row of piano keys with several knobs and sliders at the top to control reverb, echo, treble, bass, and other effects. Looking for a MIDI controller can be a bit of a hassle sometimes, but as long as you know what to look for you can eliminate a lot of the headache involved. Here are some tips to keep you pointed in the right direction.

The MIDI Controller Standard

For a long time, MIDI controllers were primarily shaped like piano keyboards. In fact, for a long time they were known as simply electronic keyboards. Eventually, as synthesizer technology progressed, the addition of extra control functions like volume knobs, effects sliders, and bass and treble control became more common. Another standard form of MIDI controller used by professionals outside the electronic industry is the electronic drum kit, or trigger pad. They’re much more versatile than standard drum sets and can produce a wider range of sounds. Even the Apple iPhone contains MIDI controller apps, really reinventing the phrase mobile music production.

USB MIDI Controllers

There’s a good chance that anyone working with a MIDI controller will be hooking it up directly to a computer, and for that reason nearly every controller that’s currently manufactured allows for a USB connection to the PC / Mac. This makes it easy to simply “plug and play,” with the digital audio workstation picking up on the MIDI data. If the connection is not USB-based, it will typically use a MIDI cable, which is not directly compatible with a computer. In this instance, you would need to purchase a separate box known as a MIDI Interface that will convert the feed into USB from the 5 pronged MIDI standard connection. USB is the standard external connection for computers.

Weighted Keys Vs. Non-weighted

There are a lot of options when it comes to the keys on a MIDI controller. There are variations of 25-key keyboards all the way up to larger models with 88 keys. Some don’t even have a keyboard, simply an array of input knobs to manually change the sound. In the models with keys, you have the option of choosing weighted, non-weighted, and semi-weighted keys – weighted will simulate the feel of an actual piano keyboard, and are usually featured on models with 88 keys. This is all up to personal preference, and people with piano experience will prefer the weighted keyboards while artists who might only want to key in a melody now and then will probably be fine with semi- or non-weighted models.

MIDI Controllers and Audio Interfaces

If you are plugging your MIDI controller directly into a PC or laptop, there is really no need for a built in audio interface that can convert the analog signal to digital. In a different scenario though, perhaps if you are playing on the road, then it’s important to have an audio interface included in the MIDI controller. These are known as ADCs (analog-digital converters). These are useful for recording away from a computer or while playing onstage at a live show. For the highest resolution audio recording, look for an audio interface that supports 24 bit/96kHz transfer.

Other Types of MIDI Controllers

While the keyboard or drum formats are the most common types of MIDI controller, manufacturers are coming up with new and unique ways to give artists freedom with their music. A controller like the Yamaha WX5 is shaped like a woodwind instrument, with sensors that detect lip pressure and wind speed, as well as buttons on top to simulate the feel of the real instrument. Other MIDI controllers are shaped like trumpets, guitars, and turntables. They all work in the same way, and the design is simply to facilitate creative use among professionals who are used to the real instrument.

Looking for a quality MIDI controller can be overwhelming at first, but once you get into the specifics of each type, it shouldn’t be too hard to pick out a controller that is perfect for your needs. Understanding the basics of what each model can do will let you make a more informed decision, ultimately resulting in a more rewarding experience while recording.

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