Advantages and Disadvantages of a MIDI Keyboard

Advantages of MIDI Keyboards

A MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) keyboard functions as a means to control and transmit particular sounds to various devices. "Midification" can allow keyboard keys to function as various instrument samples or to act as a channel to control a previously recorded and programed instrument sound. A "channel" on a MIDI keyboard can function as a single note or beat or a succession melody. Often the MIDI data generated by contact with the MIDI keyboard keys can then be mastered, which means it can be manipulated or synthesized through a music editing program to produce various effects such as changing key, changing octave, or creating the sound of an instrument that could not be easily reproduced.

Versatility

Versatility is one of the major advantages of having a MIDI keyboard. You only need to have a MIDI keyboard and interface to be able to achieve what an entire live orchestra takes practice, coordination and talent to achieve. These same sound effects can be created on a Midi keyboard using synchronized patches and sound banks. A small amount of time investment and minimal knowledge of musical theory can produce stunning results that would ordinarily be the result of painstaking effort. However, most attainable MIDI keyboards at median prices do not have weightable keys and cannot reproduce the tactile experience of a traditional piano, or for that matter, an electronic keyboard. This might offer difficulties to a traditionally trained musician.

Reproduction Sound Quality

MIDI keyboard sound quality is often proportional to the quality of the MIDI keyboard itself and the software that is translating the .MIDI file. One advantage to this is that you have limited need for stand alone amplifiers or sound systems. Unfortunately, software that has poor instrument samples or distortion ability can limit the special effects you can use to try to make the sound more authentic.

Creative Credibility

MIDI music is considered to be part of the advancement of the computer age. It allows you to have complete control to the millisecond during recordings. However, many traditional musicians and listeners consider it to be an inferior form of music, as they believe it contains less emotion and does not lend itself well to reproduction for live performance.

References

• MIDI: Learn About MIDI
• MIDI: Make Music with MIDI
• Tom Rudolph: Keyboard Lab Advantages