MIDI Controller?

[Newbie dude]

It seems that everybody has one of these short keyboards called MIDI Controllers. From all I can tell, all they do is let you start recording, stop recording, and play back the song. At least that's what I've observed. So do you really need one? I mean, it's not really all that much trouble just to use your mouse...

[Dr Biscuits]

Are you referring to a musical keyboard controller? For people who play keyboard even on a very basic level, it's much easier to use a controller than to plug in each note with a mouse (even though it can be done). As well, most controllers feature pitch/mod wheels and assignable pots to control various parameters, so again it's a question of speed and ease.
If you're refering to a mixing type controller, again it all comes down to how people like to work and for effeciency... I like to push faders with my fingers as I mix, even though others are perfectly happy using a mouse for the same task...
It really comes down to how you like to work - if you're happy with the mouse, then that's great, go for it! But usually people find the greatest efficiency can be had by a combination of mouse/keyboard/MIDI controller....

[Zane1Tsu]

MIDI controllers generally are geared to work with an external sound source, either your computer or some rack module. This way, as said above, you can manipulate those external sounds without having to draw every note or controller(eg: pitch bend, modulator, filters) on the computer. In addition, a lot of "workstation" keyboards are keyboard controllers themselves. Meaning they have their own sound library, or can manipulate an outside sound source thats MIDI capable, of course.

[Zane1Tsu]

Personally, I like drawing some things out with the mouse, and combining the "analog" feel of faders, knobs and the keys.