---
{"type":"item","title":"MIDI Keyboard Controller","listId":100434,"itemKey":2,"position":3,"visibleItemTotal":5,"canonicalUrl":"https://listium.com/@tiffanyy9/100434/5-investment-music-students-should-really-consider/2/midi-keyboard-controller","listUrl":"https://listium.com/@tiffanyy9/100434/5-investment-music-students-should-really-consider","listTitle":"5 Investment Music Students Should Really Consider","creator":{"id":"tiffanyy9","name":"Tiffany Young","url":"https://listium.com/@tiffanyy9"},"stats":{"views":235,"likes":0,"followers":0},"category":"education","publishedAt":"2024-02-29T02:01:12.089Z","updatedAt":"2024-02-29T02:02:55.046Z","fields":[{"id":0,"name":"Item","type":"PrimaryText"},{"id":1,"name":"Notes","type":"Text","format":"long"}]}
---

# MIDI Keyboard Controller

From [5 Investment Music Students Should Really Consider](https://listium.com/@tiffanyy9/100434/5-investment-music-students-should-really-consider)  
By [Tiffany Young (@tiffanyy9)](https://listium.com/@tiffanyy9)

List stats: 235 views · 0 likes · 0 followers  
Published 29 February 2024 · Updated 29 February 2024

Category: education

- Notes:
  > If you’re interested in writing and producing beats, loops, and instrumentals, a MIDI keyboard is invaluable. MIDI keyboards connect to your computer via USB and allow you to play software instruments from your DAW with your hands. High-quality controllers feature velocity-sensitive keys and pressure-sensitive drum pads for finger drumming.
  > 
  > MIDI keyboards range widely in size, features, and price. On the affordable end, the Akai MPK Mini Play offers an intuitive way to start making $150. It packs a small 25-key keyboard with 8 drum pads into a highly portable controller. Popular models like the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 and Novation Launchkey MINI MK3 offer similar portable functionality. 
  > 
  > On the higher end, keyboards like the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 provide a fully weighted 88-key hammer action keyboard akin to a premium digital piano. While weighted keys offer more realistic playing dynamics for pianists, they do come at a steep price premium. Novation’s SL MK III series also provides premium hybrid synths with deep software integration.
  > 
  >   
  > 
  > While more advanced MIDI controllers are fantastic, even an entry-level model will instantly open new creative possibilities. Learning some basic keyboard skills can greatly speed up your workflow compared to only using a mouse. Plus, nothing beats the tactile creative experience of playing instruments with your hands.