Alright, I'm thinking of getting the Edirol PC-70 midi controller ... however, what's the difference between that and the, say, PCR-80? I can see that the PCR-80 has many more sliders, buttons, etc. However, these simply control onscreen parameters, correct? Also, I'm guessing these are controlled by the USB, hence the PC-70 has no sliders, buttons, etc. I want something inexpensive and that has quite a few octaves ... but it doesn't matter to me that I have to control parameters via the mouse, so will the PC-70 be a good solution for me?

a generic set of knobs and sliders is a great thing to have for doing any daw work. i'd go with the pcr if i were you- you'll appreciate it eventually. yes, the knobs and sliders (just like the keys) only send midi info- that's correct. but once you've set the sliders up to control levels on your mixer you'll like being able to adjust levels as you would with a hardware mixer (ie sliders). the knobs will grow on you too- promise.

Alright, one more question before I make my decision. Right now I'm deciding between the Evolution MK-361 C-16 USB and the M-Audio Radium 61. I definitely want a 61 key controller, and both feature sliders and knobs. So which does everyone prefer and why? The Edirol PCR-80 is nice, but more than I would like to spend. Why are the Edirol's more expensive, are they considered the best of MIDI controllers? Thanks.

Edirol aren't particularly reknowned for making awesome Midi keyboards. I think the Edirol is just a nicer-looking keyboard. I've got the Evolution, which works fine, but it looks a bit cheap. Does exactly the same job: I just wish it were less ugly. If you want to drool uncontrollably over the absolute pinnacle of Midi controller keyboards, check out the two Novation ReMote 25s. Wow.

Holy ... $400 bucks for only 25 keys! I'm sure other features make up for the price, but I just want something with the most amount of keys for the least amount of money. I kind of like the design of the Evolution, it's very minimilistic. The music I write could be described as a cross between Radiohead and Pink Floyd, but a little more pop. Mostly guitar music with strings or other effects behind it, or piano tracks with guitar riffs over it. Will the MK-361 C-16 be good at doing this? Thanks.

Hey, I never said the Novation was cheap!

But it certainly is lovely. Check out the even-more-expensive version with audio I/O. Mmm-mmm.

Still, only 25 keys as you say, so no use to players used to working with two hands. A very luxurious machine for bashing out one-finger basslines.

As for the Evolution, it works as well as any other Midi controller keyboard. If you can play it, it'll do it.