Keyboard Recommendations?

[CorneliusMoonRock]

Hi All,

I apologize if this is not the right forum for this question, but since I'm just "getting started", I figured it was worth a shot...

I'm new to Pro Tools First and was wondering if anyone can recommend any keyboards (two octave or bigger) that are both affordable and of decent quality?

I'd prefer not to spend more than $300 (hopefully less than that, but willing to make the investment if something is truly worth it).

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

Matt

[JFreak]

Novation Launchkey 61 is pretty decent

[albee1952]

Akai Advance 61 in use here and it does a decent job. Since its discontinued, they can be a bargain(mine was an open box for $199). The Behringer Motor 49 has some cool stuff to offer but might be a bit more than your budget Try to get hands on any that you are considering as the key beds in this price range can be good or bad

[JFreak]

Just re-read the OP and still recommending Novation, they also have 25 key (two octave) version and also 49 key which seems to fit on desk pretty nicely.

[jeffro]

I have a couple older Axiom Pro's that work well, but keys are secondary to guitar/bass for me. Check out output.com/blog/choosing-midi-controllers-guide for some helpful info.

[musicman691]

Something not mentioned here is connecting the keyboard to the system. Not all keyboards/controllers have USB outputs, especially older 'boards. Some will only have traditional round 5 pin DIN MIDI connectors. Also powering the keyboard - some use wall wart, others bus powered or even battery powered.

[Benoni]

Native Instruments KOMPLETE Kontrol A series is nice and affordable. Nice key beds.

[musicman691]

Originally Posted by Benoni

Native Instruments KOMPLETE Kontrol A series is nice and affordable. Nice key beds.

Don't they use Fatar keybeds?
Do stay far away from any keyboard from Arturia. They don't last.

[Benoni]

Originally Posted by musicman691

Don't they use Fatar keybeds?
Do stay far away from any keyboard from Arturia. They don't last.

The A series uses a custom Native Instrument keybed.

The S series uses the pro-grade Fatar beds, but they are more than the OP wants to spend, nice though.

[CorneliusMoonRock]

Everyone,

Thanks for all the recommendations and advice!

You've given me a lot to think about, which is all helpful.

Thanks again!

Matt