MIDI keyboards differ from each other in size and number of keys, type of mechanics and a set of additional controls. Therefore, the choice primarily depends on the purpose of the keyboard - for teaching, for home music making or for performing classical works.
The MIDI keyboard itself does not reproduce sound, it does not have a sound synthesis unit and the computer's sound card is engaged in this. Therefore, it is more correct to call them MIDI controllers, since these are, in fact, only keys with contacts, the main task of which is to transmit information about the keys pressed to the computer.
Since there is no synth block, the main focus of manufacturers is on key design, so even in inexpensive MIDI keyboards, you can find design solutions used in high-end synthesizers.
Mechanics of keyboards
Since the main thing in a MIDI keyboard is the keys, it will be natural to start your choice with them. If the keyboard is chosen for a child, then you can choose the keys of a reduced size - it will be more convenient to play on them with a small brush. Most keyboards come with full-size keys - that is, the size of the piano keys.
MIDI keyboards are available in a variety of key counts, from two octave shortened keys to full-size 88-key piano-like keyboards. The most common ones are 49 or 61 keys, they are 4 or 5 octaves. They are not as bulky as the full-size ones, but they allow you to play almost any piece.
The mechanical part of the keys is classified both in terms of pressing force and construction. Depending on the key design, keyboards are divided into two types - synthesizer and hammer.
In synthesizer-type keyboards, the keys are fixed by a spring and are weighted, unweighted, and semi-weighted by force of pressing. Weighted keyboards have the tightest keys, and unweighted keyboards have the lightest ones, with little or no resistance to pressing. These types of keyboards are equally difficult to play, although this is all individually. But the most widespread are semi-weighted keyboards - as the most comfortable.
A hammer-type keyboard is a standard piano keyboard that has electrical contacts instead of strings, so playing it is no different from playing a regular piano. This mechanic is only found in expensive, full-size MIDI keyboards.
Also, MIDI keyboards are divided into active and passive. The active keys are velocity sensitive - Velocity sensitivity and simulate playing the piano - the harder you press, the louder the sound. In passive ones, the volume of the sound is set by the regulator and does not depend on pressing the keys.
Choice of functionality
The keyboard can have a different number of buttons and knobs that can be assigned by software. Don't chase a lot of control sticks as most of them are usually not used. Pay attention to the presence of two important controls - Pitch and Modulation Wheel. They should be large enough and comfortable enough to be located on the left side of the keyboard.
Another useful function is the after-sound, After touch, which determines the duration of the sound after pressing a key. It is somewhat similar to the action of a damper pedal on a piano and allows you to play legato.
Also check for auxiliary pedal jacks. Pedal assignments are programmable, and auxiliary pedals can be programmed to perform a variety of musical effects.
You need to make sure that the connectors and drivers of the MIDI keyboard and sound card match. The sound card may not have a five-pin MIDI connector, then the keyboard will have to be connected through the universal game port by purchasing a special cable. Some keyboards additionally have the ability to connect via a USB port.
