Recording: Midi keyboard set up

1️⃣ Connecting your MIDI keyboard

Physical connection: use a USB cable to connect the MIDI keyboard to your computer's USB port — once connected, you'll see the keyboard light up with power.

Problem connecting? If the keyboard doesn't power up, check whether you're using a USB hub — try connecting it directly into your laptop instead. If that doesn't work, try another cable.

2️⃣ Configuring your DAW

GarageBand

1. Open GarageBand.
2. Go to GarageBand > Preferences > Audio/MIDI.
3. Under the MIDI section, make sure your keyboard is detected and selected as an input device.

Logic Pro

1. Open Logic Pro.
2. Go to Logic Pro > Preferences > MIDI.
3. Make sure your keyboard is listed under Input Devices and activated.

Ableton Live

1. Open Ableton Live.
2. Go to Live > Preferences > Link MIDI.
3. Select your keyboard in the Input section and make sure it's enabled for Track and Remote.

FL Studio

1. Open FL Studio.
2. Go to Options > MIDI Settings.
3. Make sure your keyboard is listed and enabled under the Input section.

BandLab

1. Open BandLab in your browser or the desktop app.
2. Web: click your profile picture (top right) and select Settings. Desktop app: go to the Settings section.
3. Look for MIDI Devices or MIDI Settings in the menu.
4. Make sure your keyboard is detected and selected as the MIDI input device.

3️⃣ Testing your MIDI keyboard

1. Create a new MIDI track in your DAW.
2. Press keys on your MIDI keyboard — you should see corresponding notes appear on the track, confirming it's connected and working.

4️⃣ MIDI mapping (optional)

Some DAWs let you map MIDI controls — assigning your keyboard's knobs or sliders to control parameters in the software. Check your DAW's manual for instructions on MIDI mapping.