What kind of things do you want to do?
If you're just wanting to play in bass lines, some simple block chords, etc., 37 is prooooobably workable. I've been working on my actual key playing skills and 49 is starting to feel cramped...but so, too, is the synth action.I'd like to trigger some VI in my DAW via MIDI. maybe add some synth. Trigger some drums. So I am
thinking something with both pads and keys, and a few knobs. Limited desk space so 32 or 37 key. 49
is probably too big and 25 is probably too small.
Honestly, the $800 I spent on the Output desk is some of the best gear money I've spent - cable management is a breeze with it, the keyboard tray is very solid, and I've always got plenty of room for everything.Nice. Thanks so much! That Arturia is already on my short list. I have some stand-alone 61 key workstations
and can play some keys. Mostly just looking for something short and sweet to be permanently integrated
with my desk/DAW setup like you have.
May have to get a new desk to accommodate something bigger/better.
I have the 226, I probably should have bought this one because I really only use the pads. Works as advertised and simple to program. Adequate editor. Steps up drum production a lot better than hunting down kit pieces on a keyboard. Get this item.I was thinking about getting the Akai MPD218 just to trigger drums in Logic. (All pads no keys) Anyone use one of these?
Akai Professional MPD218 16-Pad MIDI Pad Controller
Class-compliant USB Pad Controller with 16 MPC Pads, 6 Knobs, 3 Layers, and Bundled Softwarewww.sweetwater.com
I have the 226, I probably should have bought this one because I really only use the pads. Works as advertised and simple to program. Adequate editor. Steps up drum production a lot better than hunting down kit pieces on a keyboard. Get this item.
*edit* the only thing I'd miss is the transport controls. I do tend to use them when I'm writing drum parts. If you think you would too, maybe consider the 226. Either way this isn't a deal breaker and both would step up your drum production.
Mapping the pads is pretty simple with the online editor. Shows you each pad and options for note choice, color etc etc so you can really customize it. My kicks are blue, snares red, hats yellow etc etc. Transport is stop, start and record so you don't have to use the mouse for those daw functions.Yeah I found out quick that hell on earth is using a mouse to program drums. I figure a MIDI controller to trigger my drums would eliminate about 90% of the fuss, by just being able to do a live take via pads to get the foundation of the parts down. (Then tweak as needed with the mouse to finish it off)
What is the “transport” feature?
How hard is it to map the pads? (I use a GetGood drums plug with Logic)