Is this a good Midi Controller?

  • Thread starter Thread starter markymarc
  • Start date Start date
works on my side...
it is this keyboard:

M-Audio
Keystation 49E Full Size 49-Note Keyboard ( Windows PC / Mac )

$99

The Keystation 49e the perfect USB MIDI controller keyboard for getting started with music on your Mac. Class-compliancy with OS X means true plug-and-play operation—and the included Maximum Audio Tools software bundle is designed to get you playing immediately. Despite it’s simplicity, the Keystation 49e includes a 49-note full-size, velocity-sensitive keyboard for authentic playing experience, as well as built-in MIDI interface, pitch and modulation wheels, and sustain pedal input. This sleek, compact keyboard is USB bus-powered, requiring no external power supply. Compatible with most educational and studio software, the affordable Keystation 49e is the perfect companion to begin your musical journey with.
49-note full-size, velocity-sensitive keyboard
pitch bend and modulation wheels
volume/control slider
advanced function button for programming
sustain foot pedal input
octave +/- buttons to extend keyboard range
separate MIDI out jack routes MIDI signals from your computer to control external devices
powered via USB or 9VDC power adapter (not included)
functions as a standalone USB MIDI interface
class compliant with OS X and Windows XP for plug-and-play
also includes drivers for Mac OS 9.1 and later, and included for Windows 95/98/ME/2000
System Requirements PC
Windows 98SE / Me / 2000 (SP4) / XP (SP1)
System Requirements Mac
OS 9.2.2 with OMS 2.3.8 (included)
OS X 10.1.5 or greater
OMS 2.3.8 (included) for MIDI under OS 9.2.2
* native USB port required; G3/G4 accelerator cards not supported
 
Doesn't work over here and it sure doesn't look like a good link as far as syntax goes to me.

But, be that as it may, to answer your question-

It's an ok controller. A lot depends on what you're trying to do. If you simply need something to play basic sounds on your computer and don't need a lot of control then it should be fine. If you need something to control and program soft-synths, then you might find it's limited number of controllers, well....limiting.

Personally, I really dislike having only 49 keys. I'm constantly bumping into the ends of the keyboard. if I was only using it for bass or playing lead lines, it would probably be ok though.

Ted
 
radium 49

I have the Radium 49 key from MAudio (or Midiman?)...
not sure. but it works well with Reason, Tassman, PT. but it is a bit "chinsy" and tough to imagine a worthy gigging piece. fine for the studio to create some loops and to do some automation. i just wouldnt call it a performance instrument. for the money, its a good option. but you have to know what you want to do with it...

then again, i am in the process of looking for a good gigging synth/controller, so if you think youll need to do gigging eventually, you might want to save up more for a weighted, more solid controller...

THEN AGAIN...(lol)....i also use a microKorg live....which is fisher-price when it comes to key-feel. but it's got some kick ass sounds....
 
oh...i just clicked the link you posted. yours isnt the same, and without the sliders and knobs, it looks like a lame controller if you want to do some real time synth automation and sweeps. but who knows. it might rock.
 
I just need it for a second controller, cause I moved to the states just a couple of days ago and i coulndt take all my equipment with me. but i dont want to buy a huge expensive controller. again i "only" want to use it as an controller.
 
We understand that. It can ONLY be used as a controller anyway. That's all it's capable of.

If you want to use it to control soft-synths, you're probably going to wish you had gotten something in the Radium or Evolution lines instead.

Ted
 
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