Best Midi Driver For Mac
Info and downloads for Yamaha pro audio gear: mixers, processors, power amplifiers, speakers, and more. This time around, we will focus on MIDI keyboards and do our absolute best to single out the best MIDI keyboard for Mac. We’ll take several factors into configuration, most notable Apple OS X performance, price, durability, and even a pinch of looks. His time around, we will focus on MIDI keyboards and do our absolute best to single out the best MIDI keyboard for Mac.
The best MIDI keyboard controllers are becoming more and more popular today, seeing that technology continues to improve and musicians everywhere are slowly beginning the migration process of switching to a digital setup (or at least a hybrid with both analog and digital setups). I know people who still abide by analog-only equipment for mixing and mastering, but still use their MIDI controller frequently for various production in their studio. We’re huge fans of keyboards and although we still love real synthesizers and drum machines, you just can’t beat the cost-effectiveness and overall usefulness of a keyboard that is custom depending on which virtual instrument you’re using, creating an endless amount of possibilities for sounds and effects. Let’s review the top 10 best MIDI keyboard controllers available today — both for those who want the best of the best or are on a budget and want the most affordable.
How to choose your MIDI keyboard controller
First thing’s first. You need to take a few valuable questions into consideration when you’re choosing your MIDI keyboard controller. Here are some important questions to ask yourself before taking a look at what’s out there:
- What is your budget? This is the most important question to ask. There are numerous choices for any price range, from under $100 to $500 or more. Typically, the higher the key count (which is next in importance below), the higher the price. You’ll also see some extra software included in packages which sometimes increases the price tag, so keep that in mind as well.
- How many keys would you like your controller to be? There are numerous options, such as: mini-compact 25, 32, 37, 49 (the most popular), 61, or even 88 (the highest — the equivalent to a real piano). Who know those want 88 to truly replicate the look and feel of a real piano, while others who travel a lot, use laptops, or merely don’t mind go with the 25-key option. It all depends on the person.
- What type of key-make would you like? Whether it’s synth-action, semi-weighted, full-weighted or equipped with aftertouch, it all comes down to preference. Here’s a quick run down of the different makes of keys typically found in MIDI keyboards:
- Synth action: Most of the popular MIDI keyboards come with “synth action” keys, meaning they’re made of plastic and use springs (instead of actual weights) to return the key to its original stance once you’re pressed and released it. The feel is a bit quicker and lighter than other weighted models. For music types and who likes to use them, it’s pretty broad– they work with most genres and really just depends on the person and how they like to play.
- Semi-weighted: These aren’t made of plastic and springs, but instead combine the spring-loaded build with a built-in light weight for each key. It’s a bit in the middle for when you press it (as compared to the lower end and quickness of synth action, while up next with weighted are heaviest).
- Fully-weighted: Most digital pianos have weighted keys because it attempts to truly emulate what it feels like playing the piano. It isn’t completely like playing the real thing, but you’re super close. It’s rare to find a MIDI keyboard with weighted keys, but the more expensive models do have them.
- Is portability important to you? If so, you need to keep the overall size into consideration. As stated previously, 25-key and other “mini MIDI keyboards” are ideal for traveling, but we’ve transported our 49-key numerous times, especially for performing live.
- Do you want your controller to have MIDI pads? A lot of keyboards coming out nowadays include ‘drum pads’ (although not just for drums, other sounds can be assigned to them, too), typically within the 8-16 count range with 3-4 possible banks. If you want a (almost) drum machine built-in to your MIDI keyboard as well, this is your best bet to consolidate.
- Are any other functions desired? Such as knobs, faders, buttons, arpeggiators, mod and pitch bend wheels, or various other performance controls. These are all pluses, but not necessarily musts. Try to keep in mind the way you work, what kind of music you make, or which extra features you see worth the extra money.
- Does the software bundle included with the keyboards matter to you? Some come with hefty programs, such as full on digital audio workstations, while others some FX or VST’s (sounds to use with your MIDI keyboard) while others do not.
Fore more information on this aspect of shopping, we recommend reading Sweetwater’s how to choose your MIDI controller article.
Or if you want an alternative to MIDI, read our top 10 best digital pianos or 10 best synthesizers articles.
The top 10 best MIDI keyboard controllers
Some say MIDI keyboards are one of the most important pieces of music production equipment when building a studio. Below is our list of top 10 best MIDI keyboard controllers available today. Most of these come in different key counts, provide various additional functions as well as include pads and some decent software bundles. Sift through them and see which fits your budget and overall preferences. If you need some sounds to go with your controller, remember to check out our best VST plug-ins post. Datamax st 3210 drivers for mac.
Novation Impulse
This is one of our favorites and at the moment top pick for the best MIDI keyboard controller available today. Novation music makes us scratch our heads in confusion with how a controller of this caliber can have such a solid build, include pads and other external functions at almost half the price of its competitors. The Impulse is one of the best MIDI keyboards in the market today and we’ve listed it at #1 for a reason: build, keypad make, etc and budget ratio is almost-perfect.
The only downside would be the lack of software bundle, but nowadays a lot of companies are trying to use the inclusion of DAWs and VST’s (ones they make for that matter) to justify an ‘upgrade’ or merely a higher price for the controllers. The Impulse does come with Ableton Live Lite and two pretty good VST’s. It isn’t necessarily as good of a build as Akai but it gets the job done very well. It’s won our best MIDI controller for Logic and a few others as well.
Key counts available: 25-key 49-key 61-key
Main features:
- Ultra-responsive semi-weighted keys
- Keys include aftertouch
- Assignable options: 8 knobs, 9 faders, 9 buttons (25-key has less)
- Automap software for easy MIDI control with major DAWs
- USB powered
- Expression and sustain pedal inputs
- MIDI in and out ports
- Comes with Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station synth and Loopmasters sample pack
Akai MPK2
The original MPK series of MIDI keyboards by Akai Professional took the market by storm and quickly became one of the favorites in terms of MIDI music equipment. They’ve come out with a brand new upgrade of their beloved keyboards and they’re very solid in terms of stability and overall assignable functions, not to mention a rather hefty software bundle. Aside from the mini, all key count models come with Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3.0 virtual synth, SONiVOX Twist 2.0, and MPC Essentials software (an almost-worthy DAW — we’d still recommend grabbing a more reliable software).
Their key make is some of the most solid we’ve felt thus far and the drum pads are RGB backlit and velocity-sensitive — they know what they’re doing. You have a lot of options in terms of key-count and price, ranging from a mini 25-key to a full on 61 key. A bit more expensive than the Novation keyboard but if you’re looking for a better software bundle, an arpeggiator and an overall better build, grab an MPK2. It’s one of the best MIDI keyboards out there and the user reviews don’t lie.
Update: They’ve just come out with their new “Advance” MIDI keyboard, so we’re going to see how they stand the test of some time first before we replace it with their MPK2 series. Stand by!
Key counts available: Mini 25 25-key 49-key 61-key
Read our reviews: MPK Mini MkII MPK225 MPK249 MPK261
Main features:
- Full-size, semi-weighted keys with aftertouch (all except mini)
- 16 RGB lit, velocity-sensitive drum pads (4 possible banks for a total of 64 combinations)
- High-resolution LCD screen
- 8 assignable faders, buttons and control knobs
- Octave controls
- Pitch bend and mod wheels
- Relatively solid software bundle
M-Audio Keystation MK3
We love this keyboard by M-Audio because of it’s lower retail price for those on a budget. It’s absolutely perfect for those who don’t need pads or other fancy controls — it keeps it simple with only keys, a pitch and mod wheel and a few other functions. Even more, M-Audio has continuously upgraded the Keystation as time goes on. We had the II roll out a few years ago, and now the MK3 on board with even better stability and features.
Just the essentials at a very affordable price. We personally don’t use knobs and faders, and really don’t touch our pads much. We’re into just keys for a MIDI keyboard, but when we do perform live, tend to break out our other keyboard (MPK2) for that. So this is better for home studios who don’t need a bunch of random buttons but instead simply a nice keyboard to play some MIDI data on. The key make is solid for the price and is synth-action (a bit more springy than semi and full-weighted, which I like) and comes with a nice software bundle of AIR Music Tech Mini Grand, AIR Music Tech Velvet, AIR Xpand!2, and surprisingly, Pro Tools (M-Audio Edition), as well as Ableton Live Lite. They’ve also made this one iOS compatible with a connection kit (sold separately), so if you make tunes on your Apple device this would be nice as well.
Key counts available: Mini 32 49-key 61-key 88-key
Main features:
- Full-size (except the mini), synth-action keys
- Velocity-sensitive keys
- Pitch bend and mod wheels
- Transport controls
- Sustain pedal input
- Comes with SONiVOX Eighty-Eight Ensemble
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S-Series
Here’s the latest heavy-hitter from the beloved Native Instruments, and when we first heard about the release we were ecstatic. Before you let the price tag steer you away, check out the specs and overall intention of this MIDI keyboard. We first and foremost only recommend grabbing this if you use N.I.’s popular Komplete VST bundle because it is literally made for that piece of software. As in, each button and side nifty feature is meant to pair up with the VST on your computer. Don’t get us wrong — you can still very well use this model with other VST’s; however, it may not be worth the money and you would be safer grabbing another high-end MIDI keyboard that has pads and faders, or merely a cheaper price to save you some money.
Key counts available: S25 S49 S61 S88
Read our reviews: S25 S49 S61
Main features:
- Keys: Semi-weighted Fatar keybed (Except the S88, which is fully weighted with hammer-action Fatar)
- Aftertouch on all models
- Exceptional, rugged build
- Easy-to-browse buttons via Komplete
- Automatic parameter mapping
- Nifty ‘Light Guide’ lights up specific keys for chords
- Two (2) multi-purpose touch strips
- Arpeggiator
- Scale mapping
Novation Launchkey
The Launchkey is one of our favorites. It’s a step down from our all-time best Impulse previously spoken about, so we recommend going with this if you want to save a hundred dollars or so. The drum pads are a bit smaller than the Akai or Oxygen (which bugged us at first but we ultimately were able to get used to it), but it does have assignable faders and buttons (no knobs), as well as pitch bend and mod wheels. Overall build and stability are great as expected from Novation (not as good as Akai but still solid) and it comes with Novation V-Station and Bass Station VST (PC and Mac), as well as their Novation apps for the iPad, so it’s a huge plus if you use iOS for music (seems to be getting more popular lately). This also won our best MIDI keyboard or controller for Reason award.
Key counts available: Mini 25 25-key 49-key 61-key
Read ours reviews: Launchkey Mini
Main features:
- 16 velocity-sensitive multi-color ‘Launch Pads’ aka trigger pads
- InControl technology for DAW mapping
- Synth-styled keys
- Suite of software included
- 8 assignable faders
- 8 assignable buttons
- 8 assignable knobs
- Transport controls
- Octave up/down controls
- Pitch and mod wheels
M-Audio Code
M-Audio makes an appearance again with a brand new MIDI keyboard line that isn’t budget-friendly at all, but well worth the price if you’re looking for more than just some keys and pads. Coming with some very nice quality velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch, we’re also given 16 velocity-sensitive pads that are of course assignable, but can also be coded to color LEDS, CC or note values. The typical pitch bend and mod wheels as well, but numerous faders, knobs and buttons you can assign if you’re into automation (great for performing live as well).
In terms of software packages, let’s take a look at what we have here. Ableton Live Lite, Loom (additive synthesizer VST with features such as a morph pad — more of a create-your-own synth software), and Sonivox Hybrid 3 (more synth software). To us the software is pretty underwhelming, but nowadays we don’t many who buy MIDI keyboards just because of the software bundle. Overall this keyboard is for those who want a higher-end build and extra features as opposed to just keys.
Key counts available: 49-key 61-key
Main features:
- Keys: Velocity-sensitive (aftertouch)
- 16 drum pads (velocity-sensitive as well)
- Assignable color LEDs, Note and CC values for pads
- X/Y touch pad
- USB powered
- Assignable pitch a mod wheels, faders, buttons and knobs
- Split keyboard (assignable zones — 4 of them)
- Expressionsustain pedal inputs
- LED display (6-digit)
Behringer U-Control UMX
We own quite a few pieces of music equipment by Behringer. In our opinion they’re one of the top 5 best brands when it comes to affordable gear. The U-Control UMX is rather unique, featuring a solid build of keys and a few assignable controls. We also included this in our best 61 key MIDI keyboard controller article. It comes with 100 virtual instrument sounds and 50 different VST effects, although some of these are just a bit preset-sounding in our opinion. The keys are relatively nicer, not as good as the Akai or Novation but they still do the trick (you get what you pay for). They’re velocity-sensitive and full-size. It also comes with its own audio interface for some external control of the volume and other functions. You just can’t beat the quality and price this one packs. The 61-key is one of the cheapest we’ve seen, albeit lacking pads and faders.
Key counts available: 25-key 49-key 61-key
Main features:
- Full-size, velocity-sensitive keys
- Comes with its own USB interface (Mac and PC)
- NI KorePlayer sound module included
- 8 real-time rotary controls
- 10 assignable switches
- 128 tone range octave shift function
- MIDI out and runs via USB (no power adapter)
Korg microKEY
This keyboard by Korg instruments is even simpler than the M-Audio controller we mentioned earlier in the article. These are very affordable as one of our favorite budget-friendly picks and what’s nifty is their offering of a rare 37-key model, although it isn’t available in the popular 49 count. This MIDI keyboard is exceptional in terms of lightweight and portability. The keys are velocity-sensitive and they feel pretty nice considering the price. It is USB powered so you don’t have to hassle with an adapter and you also get an octave shift and key transpose button, alongside the nifty pitch bend and mod wheels. Super affordable and very simple. Doesn’t come with any price-adjusting software bundle either, besides the free download of their KORG KONTROL Editor. A raw, here’s-what-you-get keyboard by Korg. Grab this if you want a convenient keyboard that doesn’t take up half of your entire desk, or if you travel with your gear a lot.
Key counts available: Micro 25 37-key 61-key
Main features:
- Velocity-sensitive mini keys
- Perfect for portability
- Natural touch keyboard
- Octave shiftkey transpose
- Pitch bend and modulation wheels
- USB powered
Arturia KeyLab
Arturia music instruments is typically known for their synths and other modern-day analog sounds, but this gives MIDI keyboards a slightly different spin. It comes with their Analog Lab software that was 5,000 synth sounds taken from a range of their classic synths (Prophet V, SEM V, CS-80V to name a few), so if you’re looking for some awesome synth sounds this MIDI keyboard controller is the way to go. We think this justifies the higher price if it’s what you’re looking for because it’s also a controller with 10 encoders, 9 sliders and 10 switches that are assignable. Not to mention the very nice key make, which are semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive and have aftertouch. Lastly it includes some pads so this thing really has it all, especially the sounds. It’s worth it if you have the dough. It looks cool, too.
Key counts available: Mini 25 25-key 49-key 61-key
Main features:
- Includes Analog Lab software with 5,000 synth sounds
- Preset sorting by type, instrument or characteristic
- Preset editing
- Semi-weighted keys with velocity-sensitive and after touch (except the mini)
- 2 clickable encoders
- 6 transport switches
- Mod and pitch bend wheel
- 16 velocity-sensitive backlit pads
- 10 encoders, 9 sliders, 10 switches (2 banks available)
Midi Driver Vista
M-Audio Axiom AIR
Here’s another one of the higher end models by M-Audio. This MIDI keyboard has only 12 trigger pads but they’re on the better-quality side. Also includes 8 knobs, 9 faders and 3 banks for all assigned functions. The keys are synth-action and have aftertouch and you’re able to create your own velocity curves if you want to get fancy. Lastly, a huge hit with this keyboard is the inclusion of Pro Tools Express and Ignite by AIR. If you already have your DAW setup going, it isn’t necessarily a must; however, if you want to switch over to Pro Tools and join the industry standard with it, we recommend trying it out. Just a nicer keyboard than most.
Key counts available: Mini 32 25-key 49-key 61-key
Main features:
- Synth-action keys with aftertouch
- 12 trigger pads that are pressure and velocity sensitive
- Roll buttons
- 8 encoders, 9 faders (70mm) (3 banks each)
- Velocity curves for custom style
- Pitch bend and mod wheels
- Comes with Pro Tools Express and Ignite by AIR (275+ instrument sounds)
- HyperControl software for mapping with DAWs
- Mac and PC compatible
More gear reviews and guides in the realm..
Sometimes it can be really hard to be sure if your MIDI keyboard controller or other your USB-MIDI interface is working correctly, particularly if you are using it with complicated software. My suggestion is to separate the two things! Test that the hardware is working OK first. Use your computer’s control panel then test the device with a MIDI diagnostic tool.
Once you can see the MIDI device is working you know that you need to work on the software configuration. Tip: Make sure you install, connect and turn on your MIDI controller first, then start up the software you want to use. Some software just won’t find devices if you turn them on after starting up the software. The video below will take you through some testing basics, then read on for links and more information. If you want a bit more info, then you might find our basic guide on what is MIDI helpful.
MIDI-Ox MIDI diagnostic tool.
Then if you want a step-by-step guide on how to use it, this page on the M-Audio support portal is great, with easy to follow screen shots. Although it is referring to an M-Audio device you can use this software with any MIDI keyboard or interface.
If you are on a Mac then the SNOIZE MIDI Monitor software does a similar job and they have nice documentation on their site on how to use it.
What If The MIDI Keyboard Isn’t Working?
If you still think the keyboard is not connecting correctly, then there is a useful post here on the Numark site which will help you to troubleshoot your plug and play device. Especially in Windows the native drivers can be missing or corrupted and may need to be re-installed.If your device is not plug and play then you will need to go to the manufacturer’s site and download the correct drivers. NEVER do a ‘google search’ for drivers – there are lots of dodgy sites out there which will try to tempt you to download all kinds of things from them. Instead, go to the official site of the manufacturer of your particular device and navigate to their support/download page directly. The best manufacturers (Alesis, M-Audio, Numark, Roland, Korg, Samson etc) have telephone support as well, so take advantage of it. But do work through the above steps first!
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We have tried all the following controllers, they work really well and if you have any problems then the manufacturer’s give fantastic support. As an added bonus, they all work on PC, Mac and iPad!Samson Graphite 49 USB MIDI Controller A USB MIDI Controller that gives you all the performance and production control you need to get the most out of your music software. Combining an intuitive semi-weighted keyboard with a feature set that is both useful and accessible.
CME Xkey 25-Key Portable Musical Keyboard USB MIDI compliant with iPad, Android, tablet / phone, Microsoft Surface Pro, Mac and PC, perfect for mobile music creation, studio recording, and live performance
Novation Launchkey 25-Key Mini USB MIDI Controller Keyboard for iPad, Mac and PC A compact mini-key instrument/controller, Launchkey Mini features 16 velocity-sensitive, three-color illuminated launch pads, which can be used to launch loops, sounds, effects, transport controls, and more.
Korg microKEY 37-Key USB Powered Keyboard a thin, lightweight, and USB-powered keyboard with 37 velocity-sensitive mini keys, comfortable and easy-to-play Natural Touch keyboard
Already got a nice keyboard, but no MIDI connection? Then you could get one of the following MIDI interfaces and soon be hooked up to your favourite MIDI softwareRoland UM-ONE MK2 USB MIDI Interface High-performance FPT processing, very compact, affordable, and easy to use. Compatible with PC, Mac and iPad.
Midi Driver For Mac
iConnectivity mio 1-in 1-out USB to MIDI Interface Plug and play – no drivers or difficult installation needed, ultra low latency MIDI Input and Output
Best Midi Driver For Windows
Creative EMU XMIDI 1X1 USB MIDI Interface Active-Sensing messages filtered, MME, DirectMusic and CoreMIDI supported
Usb To Midi Driver
M-Audio USB Midisport Uno MIDI Interface Perfect for connecting a keyboard or controller to your computer with upward mobility – add as many USB Midisport interfaces to your computer as you have USB ports