Ableton Forum

I'm looking to get one of these as my first proper midi keyboard. It seems to be just right for my needs.

I want to be able to use it as a midi controller as well as its own instrument (it boasts a fantastic piano emulation I hear). It's works through USB so I shouldn't have a problem using it straight through my macbook, should I?

Are there any reasons why this isn't a good choice for an all-purpose midi keyboard? DOes anyone have any experience/opinions on this beast?

It's probably fine. But I would suggest maybe considering a keyboard controller with more assignable MIDI controls (at least 8 knobs or sliders): especially useful if you want to get the most out of Live.

Depends if the built-in piano sound/using it as a stand-alone instrument is the major selling point for you. There are lots of piano sounds in Live and elsewhere as 3rd-party samples/instruments.

Just a thought, hope this helps.

I'm not so sure about the Keystation. As Pitch Black mentioned, it would probably be fine as an 'instrument' - but the lack of assignable controls is a concern, not to mention the price of it.

I would opt for a 'pure' midi keyboard instead of a stand-alone instrument. It's cool that the keystation has its own sound, but there's no point in getting that over something that can provide you more control when it comes to midi, especially when you use live.

I have an Oxygen49 from M-Audio and it's been a great keyboard for me so far. It comes equipped with nine midi assignable faders and eight knobs, not to mention it's cheaper than the Keystation.

I currently use the Piano Refill pack from Reason ReWired into Ableton live, and the quality is absolutely superb. The USB should be fine for your MacBook.

Alternatively, there's the Akai MPK49 midi controller, but that's nearly twice as expensive as the Keystation and is still just a midi controller.

Hope this helps.

You guys are absolutely right about the piano function. No point in getting it for that reason. To be honest the reason I'm considering it is because I have the chance to get one pretty cheap.

Pitch Black, I think your idea of something with more to offer in that respect is a good point.

I was originally thinking of getting a seperate midi controller for knobs and faders but a keyboard with some controls could be a great idea. Hmmm...

Edit: Thanks for the help guys!

PLacidBasilisk wrote:Are there any reasons why this isn't a good choice for an all-purpose midi keyboard? DOes anyone have any experience/opinions on this beast?

You can get one for cheap but you will have a keyboard that feels like a cheap toy. I would recommend Emu Xboard 49 for an inexpensive keyboard with the best action in that price range and lots of knobs. Even better would be M-Audio Axiom 49 which I rate highly.

blinkeye wrote: Even better would be M-Audio Axiom 49 which I rate highly.

I got the Axiom 49 as my starter keyboard controller. $499 from the Rock Shop. Check to see if there is a xmas deal.

axiom 49 vs MPk 49, what are everyones thoughts?

PCR-500.

just one person?