Common Products
The most common MIDI controllers encountered are various sizes of "piano" keyboard. A modern controller lacks internal sound-generation, instead acting as a primary or secondary input for a synthesizer, digital sampler or a computer running a VST instrument or other software sound generator. Many have several user-definable knobs and slide controls which can control aspects of a synthesizer's sound in real-time. Such controllers are much cheaper than a full synthesizer, and are increasingly equipped with Universal Serial Bus, which allows connection to a computer without a MIDI interface. Despite not using MIDI directly, software applications recognize such controllers as a MIDI device. In most cases, a USB-equipped controller can draw necessary power from the interface's 5v line, and does not require an A/C adapter when connected to a computer. Keyboards range in size from 88 weighted-action keys to portable 25-key models. Controllers, such as Audiocubes, can be used for performance applications (by a trained pianist, for example) or by a DJ to trigger sound samples and rhythm loops.
Drums systems are also commonly used, especially dedicated drum pads. Many drum setups are paired with a sound generator from the same manufacturer, but often have a MIDI output in addition. Such systems allow a drummer to practice quietly (through headphones) and to record drum tracks without a studio, expensive microphones, etc. Also, the pads can control any sort of percussion instrument sample, providing the drummer with a greatly increased sound palette.
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