CONTROL KEYS

These days, a USB port is also a must. If you use a laptop onstage, USB to MIDI is simple and convenient with low latency. Even if you don't currently use a laptop onstage, there are so many great software synths and samplers available that it's crazy not to anticipate taking advantage of this extensive resource someday. Most USB-equipped keyboard controllers have at least one MIDI Out jack, which is essential for controlling hardware MIDI sound modules. If you gig with several hardware units, two (or more) MIDI Outs is preferable. Several recent models (such as the Alesis Photon and the Korg Kontrol) even feature a MIDI In jack, which is necessary for connecting a MIDI-only external controller (such as a Roland HandSonic or a Korg KP2 Kaoss Pad). So many parameters of software synths and hardware MIDI sound modules can be controlled in real time with MIDI CCs that it's silly to not take advantage of that dimension for more expressive performances. You can slowly push up faders assigned to volume to crescendo a sustained note or turn a knob controlling the frequency sweep of a resonant filter for a more dynamic drum loop. No matter who you are, you'll want to control your sounds using knobs and faders (in addition to the ivories). Eight faders and knobs are generally a nice accompaniment. If you must choose between faders or knobs, go with the knobs, because they're easier to grab during a performance. Make sure that the knobs and faders are of a decent size and feel positive to the touch, because some controllers have small, economical controls that are fine for the studio but less than ideal for the stage.