For a long time, for producers and sound engineers, the MIDI controller has become an important attribute that helps create great music. Virtual instruments always sound especially, therefore they are an ornament of any melody.
Due to the fact that many musicians are very concerned about the quality of their products, the question arises: how to choose a controller such as MIDI? This article will describe tips and basic selection criteria.
What is a MIDI controller?
In the distant 80s, such a device as a controller was used so that a musician could control the work of several synthesizers at once using one keyboard. This idea was a success, therefore, devices of this type instantly gained distribution. If not everyone could purchase them, then at the moment the controllers have greatly decreased in price. Musicians, sound engineers, songwriters, performers, DJs all use similar devices.
What is a MIDI controller? This is a device that has a keyboard. It looks like the keys of a piano and synthesizer. Pens, various buttons and sliders are added to it. When interacting with them, the melody is transmitted to sound modules that have an external type. We are talking about laptops and other devices. In other words, controllers (most of them) are not able to make sound on their own. They are designed to control bits, notes and other parameters reproduced from an external device (sound module).
What are the advantages of a MIDI controller? The most obvious: it is versatile and portable. Thanks to him, you can apply all the virtual effects and manage modern software. It is easy to carry using, for example, a laptop bag.
What to look for when buying?
Before you purchase any controller, you need to think about what it is for. It will be useful to answer the following questions, they will give an accurate idea of which option from a huge assortment is suitable.
What will the controller be used for? The device, which is intended for performing on stage, must have a material resistant to mechanical stress. Given that most controllers are made of plastic, you need to pay attention to metal options. It is also necessary to determine the type of mechanism and the number of keys. If there are too many of them, then it is likely to confuse the appointment of any during a live performance.
A small MIDI controller is fine for a DJ. It is not difficult to do it yourself with your own hands, if a person understands electronics. This means that often DJs use homemade appliances. You can read more about this in a bit below. To purchase such a device is necessary taking into account the fact that handles and sliders are also necessary. Without them, the program (the MIDI controller only works in conjunction with it) will not perform the desired functions.
In the event that the musician edits the tracks in bed, plane, car or other place, then the main nuance when choosing will be portability. Given that the device is powered, you need to pay attention to those that are capable of charging from the USB bus.
Pioneer MIDI Controllers
The Pioneer MIDI controller is a device that has always been in demand. In the market for similar equipment, this manufacturer has long been in the top three. What distinguishes the "related" models of the "Pioneer" from each other? Just the presence of additional functions that on the control panel look like ordinary mechanical buttons. Any controller of this brand has excellent jogs. Appearance is serious and elegant. The impressive dimensions of the device are compensated by its maximum functionality.
No need to wonder which model to choose. You should immediately look at the DDJ-T1. The device is advised by many famous DJs. Value for money is quite successful. The control panel is convenient, buttons are pressed without problems, the device is easily transferred.
Novation Launchpad Controller
The Novation Launchpad MIDI Controller is designed specifically to work with Ableton Live. The device is suitable for activities on stage, as well as in a home studio. It will also be easy to hold discos with him. The grid of the device consists of 64 buttons. It is equipped with additional effects, as well as functions for working with software. The device can be connected to a computer via a USB cable. The controller works with both the Windows family and some other operating systems.
Do-it-yourself MIDI controller - reality or myth?
Homemade MIDI controllers have long been in demand. What is needed to bring ideas to life? We need a scheme for soldering and assembling the device, a budget, a physicist or an electrician who understands this field.
In addition to knowing the technical side, you also need to ask yourself the question of how much the creator knows about the controllers. For the correct assembly of the device, which will meet all expectations, you need to understand which base is better to use, why the model will be assembled, and where to install the control panel. The issue is quite complicated, but quite solvable. Today, there are many ready-made circuits for which you can assemble a controller. The main thing is confidence in the plan and patience.
Brand model Akai
Akai recently released a new controller called MPC Touch. Unlike related devices, this one has a 7-inch display. This greatly facilitates the work with him. Based on reviews, it must be said that it is the described model that is cited as an example when it comes to professional controllers. Looking at it and considering the functionality, the question immediately arises of how to choose such a device. The software works quickly and efficiently, problems do not arise, and crashes are extremely rare.
The only drawback is that the controller is not able to function without a power source, since it does not have a battery. The Akai brand has long been known on the market. The MIDI controller of its production is a powerful and high-end device that can withstand heavy loads. Often some models are used on stage.