Keystation 88 - do i have to buy anything else for it to work

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Hey Nick, thanks for replying. So basically i have to buy a midi cable separately in order for me to play with it in synthesia?

Synthesia is a program you can run on your computer so you can just use the USB cable. The USB cable will power the controller as well as transfer MIDI data. Using a MIDI cable is only necessary if you want to send MIDI data from the DIN port on the back of the Keystation to an external MIDI device (like a hardware synthesizer) or a MIDI interface.

Thank you, it really helped me. I just have one more question. If you don’t know then it’s completely fine. Would you rather prefer the M-Audio Keystation 88 or the Alesis Retical 88 beginner? I don’t have any experience with pianos yet so I don’t know what is better for me to start.

Happy to help!

One of the main differences between the two keyboards is that the Recital has sounds built into it (including piano and other instruments) so you can play without the computer - you can use the built-in speakers, connect its audio output to external speakers, or you can use headphones. The Recital does not have a MIDI DIN output but it does have a USB connection so like the Keystation, it can be used with Synthesia and send MIDI data to your computer.

The Keystation is a MIDI controller so it has no built-in sounds of its own. It will always need a computer or MIDI module in order to produce any audio. That might not be a problem for you if you intend on using Synthesia and eventually getting into music production with other software but it is something to be aware of.

Both of these boards have semi-weighted keybeds so their keys will have more of a piano feel than a synthesizer feel. I would think about whether you like the idea of being able to play without a computer with the Recital or being able to control external MIDI instruments with the Keystation - that should help you make your decision!

I hope that helps you!

Yeah I’d rather like the Retical more because I can use it with and without a pc. Ok last questions do you get a usb cable with the Retical or do I have to buy it separately? If I have to buy it separately could u link me one?

The Recital does not include a USB cable but they are very common and inexpensive. You might even already have a few - this is the same type of cable that computer peripherals (like your printer, for instance) use to connect to your computer.

You can find this cable at most stores that sell electronic equipment - what you're looking for is a USB-A to USB-B cable.

Alright, thank you very much for your help!

Of course! Best of luck and have fun :)

Ehm sorry but this is my last question hopefully ^^ where do I hear the sound of the keystation? Do i have to connect loudspeakers to my pc?

Yes that's correct - the software you're using will allow you to route audio to an audio output device.

You can use either your computer's built-in audio output or an audio interface you've connected to your computer that has speakers connected to its outputs.

Let me know if anything else comes up :)

Can I use it on a laptop too? I know it’s a stupid question but I just want to make sure