Typical MIDI Keyboard Setup
Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) is the digital language that computers and keyboards use to exchange basic information related to a musical performance. The MIDI protocol allows information from your keyboard to be converted by your computer into a variety of sounds.
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USB as a MIDI Input
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The simplest way to set up your keyboard as a MIDI input for your computer is via USB (a musical keyboard with a USB out is connected to an available USB port on your computer with a USB cable). This is a one-way connection that will send information about the notes you play to your computer.
Recording and Editing
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The typical MIDI setup will require some recording software, sometimes referred to as "DAW" (Digital Audio Workstation) software. This will allow you to record your performances to hard disk, edit them on screen, and play them back through any of your virtual instruments. Popular recording software options include GarageBand, Cubase, Logic and Pro Tools.
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Virtual Instruments
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Installing virtual instruments onto your computer will give you the option of hearing back a wide variety of sounds when you play, depending on the software package you decide to purchase. Possible sounds include pianos, organs, violins, guitars, and sound effects.
MIDI Controllers
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A common type of USB MIDI keyboard is a "MIDI controller." This kind of keyboard does not generate audio by itself. Instead, it must be plugged into a computer with the appropriate software, such as virtual instruments. This limitation does mean that a MIDI controller is a more cost-effective choice than a keyboard that also generates sounds.
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- Photo Credit keyboard image by salimar6 from Fotolia.com
