Keyboard And Software For Beginner Options

[Wulf]

Hello Everybody,

I have been reading a lot in these forums and was wondering if you could help me out with some information. I have searched but couldn't really find an answer.

To start, I am a beginner and new to everything. That includes playing and creating music. I would like to learn to play the keyboard but I am not sure what I'll need. From what I've read and researched so far, a keyboard controller with GarageBand would get me started without costing too much? Not that I mind spending money on it but I have to make sure that I am going to enjoy playing first.

1) For the keyboard controller, what size/number of keys do I need? 61 seems a popular choice.

2) I have looked at some velocity/semi-weighted offerings under $200 from Korg (K-61), M-Audio (61es, Oxygen61), Behringer (UMX61), Roland Edirol PCR-M80. Are these all pretty much the same for what I need it for right now? Or should I spend a bit more with more features to get one that will suit me better when I become more experienced? Any other brands I should consider? Korg and Roland are names I recognize, not familiar with the other ones.

3) Are there any websites or other sources of information (books?) to get familiar with all the basics about vocoders, sequencers, synthesizers, samplers and so on?

4) Any good books or software to get me started on learning how to play? I prefer to learn on my own, even though having a teacher is probably better.

I am a big fan of a lot of electronic music for a long time (bought my first Jean Michel Jarre LP at 16 about 24 years ago) and just want to have fun with this kind of music as a hobby. I have a Dual 2.3GHz G5 Powermac so that should be powerful enough for now.

Thanks for your time, I appreciate any information or suggestions.

[hanuman]

You have a good point. How do I start and how do I get familiar with plug-ins. I think the industry would gain if there were some entrance books. Most of it is like customers are supposed to know everything. I'd say; Go to your local musicshop and ask for an entry level sequencing program. Some offers might be there that include plug-in instruments and plug-in effects. If you don't manage to install it yourself ask someone available to do that for you and begin with one thing. Google a bit for 'getting started' or try your manual.
In regards to the keyboard.... they all play so take the one you like to look at. If you want to lay with knobs check the new Novation system.

[mortalengines]

Try not to feel too overwhelmed....I have an Oxygen 8 (yeah the dinky one) that I bought 2 years ago & am still happy with it. Later I bought a Behringer BCF for more knobs and faders in addition to the Oxygen 8. A 61 key keyboard is cool but unless you have been trained as a piano player & feel stunted by really only using one hand or hammering out single notes, buying a huge keyboard might be overkill. If you are into techno or dance, I would concentrate on as many knobs and faders as I could get my hands on if I were you in a small package. Garage Band is way cool if you have it already on your Mac & there are "power" books out there for it that are very helpful. The same goes for Reason and Ableton live (they both have very helpful forums & online tutorials in addition to having "power" books). Reason, I feel, is almost the best to get into first as it is real easy on the CPU & I NEVER crashed my computer with it alone. It's sequencer is very traditional and straightforward and it really doesn't take long to learn how to make beats with the Redrum or chop drum loops up with Dr Rex. Just my two cents.

[jimdubpram]

www.tweakheadz.com/

This is an excellent site for learning about the basics of computer music.
Good luck and welcome to the dream zone!

[rickenbacker]

The Novation Remote LE 61 seems to be one of the best deals. I've been researching this myself lately and this is the conclusion I've come to. Semi-weighted keys, great feel, knobs and faders and all that, not too expensive. I've had a 49-key controller before, but once you place your hands on a 61-key model, you really appreciate the extra space you have either side. Basically, you don't have to worry about running out of notes mid-run. Plus it's not something you can change later - y'can't glue those extra 12 notes to one end. Sure, for synth basslines or bashing out a drum pattern, one or two fingers is fine. But almost everyone progresses beyond this eventually.