Basic Studio Setups
System 1 - Simple MIDI Keyboard

By Kevin P Murphy

So you want to buy some gear, but are not sure how to put it all together? We've drawn some basic systems for you to look at to see how the different parts go together. Also, we point out what each system will be able to do.

Keep in mind, the examples below are not the only way to do things, but rather these should be used as a point of departure for you when putting together a MIDI studio.

January 15, 2001

We start with the most basic setup: a MIDI keyboard attached to a computer thru a MIDI interface.

In order to connect a MIDI keyboard to a computer, you need a MIDI interface. In this example, we see the simplest version, a 1 in and 1 out. This gives us up to 16 parts of playback on our MIDI keyboard. Simple and easy, this is the way most people get started.

What can I do with this setup?

• MIDI Sequencing (up to 16 parts)
• Music Notation

Next Setup

For all of these examples assume that

• The keyboard and sound modules are 16 part multi-timbral
• The Computer has the appropriate software
• The Amp/Speakers/Etc. can be powered speakers, a dedicated power amp and speakers, or headphones.