Alesis IO2 express + Keyboard?

[gfuchs]

Hello!

I am a beginner here...I own an Alesis io2 express 2 channel recording interface with midi in and midi out. It is perfect for recording guitars and vocals. Now I would like to record keyboard. I am seeing new Midi through USB keyboard controllers, like the Akai MPK Mini, the M-AUDIO Oxygen 25, etc, but they do not have midi out, so I could not connect them into the io2.

Would it be crazy to acquire an old chep synthesizer instead of a new keyboard controller with midi out? If I choose the first option, could I change the bank of sounds with software plugins?

Sorry for bothering, I do not even play keyboard, just guitar

Thanks!!

 

[dervish riff]

No, just use the USB cable (get a small hub if you don't have enough ports). I bought the iO2 express because it had the MIDI ports, but I only need it for my older equipment. A new Oxygen 25 has software to adapt to most modern DAWs and will save you a lot of headaches.

 

[JG96]

I agree, a usb keyboard is a lot more simple and compact than most old synths. If you need to track keyboard and other instruments live midi may be the way to go. Considering you have a 2 channel interface probably not though.