If you're diving into music production or performance, you’ve probably come across both MIDI keyboards and regular keyboards. But what exactly sets them apart, and which one should you choose for your needs? In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between MIDI keyboards and regular keyboards, helping you understand their unique features and applications in music creation.
MIDI Keyboard vs Regular Keyboard
MIDI keyboards and regular keyboards are both used in music production, but they serve different purposes. A MIDI keyboard allows for precise control over digital instruments, while a regular keyboard functions as a traditional piano. Here’s how they differ and which one might be right for you.
5 Differences Between MIDI & Regular Keyboards All Pianists Should Know
1. What is a MIDI Keyboard?
A MIDI keyboard sends MIDI data to devices like computers, synthesizers, or DAWs, acting as a controller for virtual instruments and software sounds. Unlike regular keyboards, it doesn’t produce sound itself but offers customizable controls like knobs, faders, and pads for creative flexibility.
AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3
2. What is a Regular Keyboard?
Regular keyboards, including acoustic and digital pianos, produce sound directly when a key is pressed. While some digital models offer MIDI functionality, their main purpose is to replicate acoustic instruments like pianos, organs, or strings.
Alesis Recital 88 Key
3. Portability and Size
MIDI keyboards, especially mini controllers, are compact and ideal for musicians with limited space or on the go. Regular keyboards tend to be larger.
The Best Keyboard For Easy Transport
This 88 key portable keyboard offers full-size keys in an incredibly lightweight design, ideal for those needing portability. It’s perfect for beginner to intermediate players looking for a quality digital piano that can be put away or taken to gigs with ease.
Roland GO
The Best MIDI Keyboard For Easy Transport - AKAI MK2
This MIDI keyboard is incredible for precise control over drum loops. Its 40 clip-launch buttons create a large grid layout, perfect for triggering and layering drum patterns in real time. You can seamlessly compose dynamic loops, adjust effects with the 8 assignable knobs, and enhance your set with the 25 velocity-sensitive keys for added melody or basslines.
AKAI Professional APC Key 25 MK2
4. Price Differences
MIDI keyboards are often more affordable than regular keyboards, especially for music production. Their price depends on features like size, number of keys, and additional controls but is generally lower than digital pianos or acoustic keyboards. Regular keyboards, particularly acoustic pianos, cost more due to their advanced sound mechanisms and high-quality materials.
Keystation Mini 34: Affordable at Just $50
M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3
3. Sound Production: MIDI vs Regular
Regular keyboards have built-in sound generators and speakers to produce tones directly. In contrast, MIDI keyboards don’t create sound on their own. They rely on external sources, like computers or synthesizers, to generate sounds from the MIDI data they send.
4. Control and Customization: MIDI Keyboards Lead the Way
MIDI keyboards are designed for customization, featuring knobs, faders, buttons, and pads for real-time sound adjustments. These controls work seamlessly with digital audio workstations (DAWs), offering more flexibility than regular keyboards, which focus on replicating acoustic sounds with limited control.
M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49
5. Applications: Where Each One Fits
MIDI keyboards: Perfect for music producers, composers, and electronic musicians who rely on software instruments and DAWs. If you're producing electronic music or using music production software like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, or FL Studio, a MIDI keyboard is an essential tool. It’s also great for controlling virtual synthesizers and drum machines.
Regular keyboards: deal for musicians who prefer traditional piano playing. They are used by those who want to play and perform acoustic music, whether for practice, performance, or recording. While many digital pianos can connect to MIDI devices, they are still primarily designed for playing and producing piano sounds.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between a MIDI keyboard vs regular keyboard depends on your needs and the type of music you plan to make.
Choose a MIDI keyboard if you're a music producer, electronic musician, or composer using software instruments, or if you want more control over virtual instruments and sound manipulation in a DAW.
Choose a regular keyboard if you're a pianist, need a full piano range, or prefer to play acoustic or traditional piano sounds directly without relying on a computer.
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