M-Audio KeyRig 25 MIDI Controller

If you looking for a starter midi controller this has got more than enough to keep you busy. If you want to learn how to play I would recommend something with more keys. If you just want to goof around and enjoy yourself this is a great unit.

I've played a lot of vintage and modern keyboards, and I didn't expect a $100 MIDI controller to blow me away, but this definitely fell a little below my expectations. M-Audio has a good reputation for making affordable products for musicians that need good tools to make music, but this controller feels more on the toy end of the spectrum than a real utility for making music. I chose this because I needed an inexpensive controller for my VST synths, and for that purpose it works well. The keys are undersized (as with some other controllers). The main problem is that the entire thing feels light, weak, and cheaply made. I've only had the thing for 1 day but I feel like it will break down under any sort of regular use. I realize this wouldn't be bought by someone using this on a real day-to-day basis so I would only recommend this to casual MIDI users and recording novices. I can say that the setup is easy and the included software does do a good job of approximating a good concert piano, poly synth, and Hammond organ. They are definitely on par with the best freeware available. In conclusion I'd say you should buy this only if you need a cheap MIDI controller or want to get your footing in the virtual world of synthesizers.

The knobs feel solid; great smooth resistance. The slider works great and the software installed very easily. The keys are not weighted but thats expected for a workstation in this price range. Reliable brand. If your looking at MIDI workstations within this price range, the Keyrig 25 is the best. Buy the Keyrig 25 instead of the Keystation 25. They are the same exact device, but the Keyrig 25 comes with some great software.

Well first off for the price you can't beat it, its a great controller and its light weight for all of you mobile folks but the only concern i had was that there was no manual if anybody wanted to get a little advanced with their programming but far as plug in play its great my 7yr old uses it with reason and he loves it...................P.S. I also use it

So far so good. Works instantly with Reason 4.0. Still need an ASIO driver for my laptop to use the programs that came with it. No biggie. The KeyRig Controller could have came with better manual that shows what knobs and keys are for what usage. Don't quote me on it, but I think you can go download it from MAudio, but I've been lazy. Definitely a good starter for the time consumed and hobbyist. Would look for better Midi Controller if more experienced.