A MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) Keyboard has many parts and functions with different inputs and

outputs available. A MIDI keyboard is usually a piano style user interface used to send MIDI signals or commands through a !" or MIDI cable to other devices that are running on the same MIDI interface. #his could also be a personal computer$ running software like a Digital Audio %orkstation (DA%) these listen to and send MIDI information to other MIDI devices connected through cable or running to the personal computer system. A basic MIDI keyboard will not produce sound$ however it will send MIDI information to a electronic module that is capable of reproducing a wide range of digital sounds or samples that resemble the sounds of analogue musical instruments. #hese samples&waveforms can also be referred to as voices or timbres. MIDI keyboards aren't (ust based on the piano style user interface. Many MIDI keyboard controllers consist of pads or buttons that send MIDI signals. Most pads have a velocity sensing capability$ this allows varying volumes of sound to be played. Another similar device is the )ontinuum *ingerboard$ this is based on a +fretless' keyboard interface$ this all enables a portamento style to the note changes whenever the user feels like during play. #here is MIDI protocol used in each of the different types of midi controllers$ they use an encoding scheme to map a score for each instrument sample. It also picks up othe parameters such as the notes velocity$ aftertouch$ modulation and pitch bend. #he keyboard is only a controller of the different sound modules and other MIDI devices with in the DA% software. ,ecording studios often include MIDI keyboards and any DA% setup will near enough always include them. Most will include the ability to set different octaves and have a transpose function which will allow you to move a collection of notes up or down in pitch. Many MIDI keyboards have modulation and pitch bend wheels. -ften you will find some with e.tra assignable rotary knobs or buttons for sending messages to the synthesisers or DA% software. !ome devices include many features such as a rhythm input$ instrument selection and transport control$ these can also be known as keyboard controllers.