More than ever, MIDI controllers are essential components of stage, studio, and home studio rigs. The earliest controllers—created to control or expand the capabilities of MIDI-equipped hardware synths, samplers, and sequencers—were usually keyboard-based. Today, they come in many varieties: keyboard controllers, pad controllers, percussion pads, touch screens, and other more exotic devices.
If you want to play virtual instruments or samples within your DAW, you'll need a MIDI controller. And depending how you make music, what kind of DAW you use, and how much you're willing to spend, there are many options available.
In our video above, Justin DeLay shows off numerous examples. Watch the full video to learn all about the different varieties. Then, you can find more info, recommendations, and more in our brand-new MIDI controller buying guide.