Best Midi keyboard for Finale – Music notation software makes it easy for composers and hobbyists to create music using a keyboard, MIDI interface or a simple mouse. Setting up a MIDI keyboard or controller in Finale is easy. Since the release of Finale 2012, Finale has included a handy auto-detect feature that does most of the work for you. We’ve also provided a short video to walk you through the remaining steps.
Playing on this MIDI keyboard feels great, and you can get very expressive with its semi-weighted action keys.
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However, if you want something with more faders and knobs, then perhaps then you can consider the higher end keyboards.
1.Novation Impulse 25
Features
- Ultra-responsive semi weighted keyboard with aftertouch
- Full DAW/plug-in control surface with 8 knobs, 1 fader and button
- Automap 4 control software enables instant hands-on access to your DAW and plug-ins
- Multi-function drum pads enable you to warp arpeggios, roll beats and launch clips in Ableton Live
- Includes downloads for: Ableton Live Lite, Novation’s Bass Station synth, XLN Audio Addictive Keys, and a Loopmasters Sample Pack. Novation now offers a 3-Year Warranty on this and all other Novation products.
2.Native Instruments Komplete
Features
- Smart keyboard controller for all your virtual instruments and effects
- Pro-grade Fatar keybeds with aftertouch, fully weighted, hammer-action keys
- Pre-mapped control of KOMPLETE instruments and effects, plus hundreds of Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) plug-ins from leading manufacturers
- Includes required PSU
- Includes KOMPLETE 12 SELECT and MASCHINE Essentials.1/4 inch TRS connections for expression and sustain pedals
3.Arturia
Features
- 61 Velocity-Sensitive Keys
- Includes Analog Lab Software
- Over 6000 TAE-Powered Preset Sounds
- 9 Faders and 9 Encoders
- 8 Velocity- & Pressure-Sensitive Pad
4.Alesis V49
Features
- MIDI Keyboard with 49 full-sized, velocity sensitive square-front keys, perfect for playing Virtual Instruments
- 8 velocity- and pressure-sensitive backlit pads for beat production and clip launching
- 4 assignable knobs and 4 assignable buttons interface with your music software. Seamless, visual feedback via illuminated buttons and knobs
- Octave Up and Down buttons let you access the full keyboard range and Pitch and modulation wheels deliver expressive, creative control
- Premium Software Included - Includes Ableton Live Lite, Xpand!2 virtual instrument software by Air Music Tech and MPC Beats
5.Studiologic Numa
Features
- 88-keys, TP/9 Piano semi-weighted action with after touch; dual switch detection system
- USB port allows to transmit and receive digital audio; high quality built-in speakers amplify the sounds of your computer or tablet
- 128 voices of polyphony and 88 onboard sounds with a selection of acoustic pianos, electric pianos, synths, organs, guitar & basses, drum kits, and more
- Tone wheel organ with drawbars
- Featherweight and portable cabinet -- small and compact; everything you need in just under 16 pounds
6.M-Audio Hammer 88
Features
- Perfect Feel, Ultimate Response - 88 fully-weighted, hammer-action velocity-sensitive keys deliver natural piano feel, faithfully replicating every subtle nuance of your performance
- Plug & Play - Driverless class compliant and USB powered specification provides seamless USB-MIDI connection for playing virtual instruments, controlling recording software and more
- Express Yourself - Conveniently located pitch bend, modulation, volume and octave controls for immersive, expressive performances
- All The Right Connections - Expanded control options for Inputs for Sustain, Expression and Soft pedals included
- Free Online Lessons - Includes FREE 3-month subscription to Skoove. The easiest way to learn piano with interactive piano lessons for beginners and advanced players
- Pro Software Suite Included – MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Eighty Eight Ensemble, AIR Music Tech’s Velvet, Mini Grand, DB33, and Touch Loops
7.Xkey 25
Features
- Full Size Piano Keys, Ultra Mobile Award Winning Keyboard
- Only 0.6 inches thick and weighs less than 2 lbs. – Goes wherever you go
- Professional playability with velocity sensitivity, Polyphonic after touch & more
- Rugged anodized aluminum frame built for years of use - NOT plastic
- Simply plug & play with all formats: IOS, Android, PC, MAC and Linux
8.ESC Flip Keyboard
Features
- MORE ADJUSTABLE: The NEW ESC Flip Keyboard Stand is now wider for more stability, adjusts Taller and Shorter and folds Compact! Tired of your flimsy keyboard adjustment legs constantly collapsing or not providing you with enough adjustment to be comfortable? This simple sturdy design gives your Keyboard rock-solid, stable support at the angle you choose.
- REDUCE STRAIN ON YOUR WRISTS AND ARMS: Adjust your Keyboard angle for optimal comfort, reducing wrist strain and repetitive strain injury (RSI). Simply set it and forget it’s even there. Minimize muscle strain, improve typing accuracy and comfort. Reduce those annoying typos!
- STAND INCLUDES: Three Adjustable Heights - Fits all Full size and Compact Keyboards with a flat back surface. Will not scratch or scuff your desk or damage your expensive keyboard.
- DESIGNED IN THE UNITED STATES: Your new Patent Pending ESC Flip Computer Keyboard Stand attaches with Micro Suction Grip Pad technology, allowing it to be cleanly removed and re-positioned as desired. Non-slip rubber foot grips onto any desk surface, whether you have a wood, laminate or glass desk.
- TAKE IT WITH YOU ANYWHERE: Super-portable, lightweight and Folds Compact for storage or travel. Buy with Confidence. Keyboard not Included.
9.LANGTU Keyboard
Features
- Metal Panel Keyboard--Our gaming keyboard is designed with an Aluminum alloy panel. Cool brushed metal panel not only enhances the texture of the keyboard but also extremely improves the durability of the whole keyboard. This light up keyboard has a water-resistant function, you don't have to worry about spilled liquids damaging it.
- Soft & Responsive Keys--All keys are very soft to touch and offer very precise keystrokes, ideal for work or gaming. Our white gaming keyboard has a lifespan of 5,000,000 clicks. The double-colored injection keycaps offer crystal clear uniform backlighting and the letters will never fade away.
- Cool Rainbow Backlight Keyboard--The colorful keyboard has a 7-color rainbow LED backlight, and each key is colored brightly, so you can type and play games even in a dark environment without difficulty, and the soft light won’t hurt your eyes. You can adjust the brightness and breathing speed of the backlit according to your preference. Let you immerse the game world in a cool atmosphere (Note: The light is not RGB, the color of light cannot be changed).
- Ergonomic Design--The scientific stair-step keycap design makes it easy for the finger to reach all keys, maximizing the comfort of your hand to meet the needs of a long-time game or work. 25 keys Anti-ghosting technology allows you to use more combinations to win a game. 12 combinations of multimedia keys facilitate the operation of your work or game and improve efficiency.
- Strong Compatibility & Quality Assurance== LANGTU USB wired keyboard meets the need of gamers, typists, programmers, writers, and combines your office and gaming experience. No driver needed, Plug-and-Play. Support Windows 2000 / 10/8/7 / ME / XP / VISTA, MAC, Linus. If there is any product problem under normal use, please feel free to contact us, we will provide the best solution for you.
10.Logitech MK270
Features
- Reliable Plug and Play: The USB receiver provides a reliable wireless connection up to 33 ft (1), so you can forget about drop-outs and delays and you can take it wherever you use your computer
- Type in Comfort: The design of this keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the low-profile, quiet keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys, number pad, and arrow keys
- Durable and Resilient: This full-size wireless keyboard features a spill-resistant design (2), durable keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height
- Long Battery Life: MK270 combo features a 36-month keyboard and 12-month mouse battery life (3), along with on/off switches allowing you to go months without the hassle of changing batteries
- Easy to Use: This wireless keyboard and mouse combo features 8 multimedia hotkeys for instant access to the Internet, email, play/pause, and volume so you can easily check out your favorite sites
- Comfortable Mouse: This compact wireless mouse is designed to be equally comfortable for both left- and right-handed users, plus its smooth cursor control allows easy navigation on most surfaces
- Favorite Wireless Combo: MK270 brings together familiar typing, wireless freedom, and long battery life; no wonder this is the world's top-selling combo(4)
- Upgrade to Logitech MK540 Combo: Experience increased comfort with the MK540 combo, featuring scooped keys, palm rest, full-size mouse with soft rubber grips, and customizable shortcuts
Best Midi keyboard for Finale – BUYER’S GUIDE
Keyboardists rarely ask this question — most of them have already checked out the latest keyboard hardware just for fun — much like James Bond studies the latest gadgets that Q creates for him. But many others recognize that even with minimal keyboard skills a MIDI keyboard can often help us obtain our goal of “the fastest note entry with the least amount of editing.”
If your sole interest is in entering music into your computer, you can cut costs by purchasing a keyboard that doesn’t have built-in sounds; such keyboards are often referred to as MIDI controllers. If desk space is in short supply, or if you’d like to be able to travel with your new keyboard and a laptop, you’ll want to check out the new breed of ultra-compact controllers.
The Akai LPK25 is both about the width of your laptop keyboard and weigh next to nothing. Their velocity-sensitive keys are smaller, but still very playable, and both include octave controls that provide access to the full range of a piano from each two-octave keyboard. They connect to your computer via a USB cable, and they enable Finale users to enter notes in step-time and real-time via Simple Note Entry, Speedy Note Entry, and HyperScribe.
Imagine pulling both your laptop and MIDI keyboard from a shoulder bag, fitting both on one of those dinky coffee shop tables, and entering notes as you enjoy your morning cappuccino. Just a few years ago this technology would have seemed worthy of James Bond. Shaken, not stirred, indeed!
The best thing of all is how inexpensive they are. I’ve seen the Korg nanoKEY advertised for around $50, and the Akai LPK25 for around $70. What’s more, each controller is easy enough to use that you don’t need a pre-mission demonstration by Q. Want to see them in action? Here’s a short video from Akai and a Korg video that covers all three nanoSERIES controllers (and the M1Le software that comes with the nanoKEY).
Frequently Asked Questions
Good Keyboard Specifically for Finale HyperScribe?

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We are having a look at the best MIDI keyboards available in 2021 and giving our thoughts on what we consider to be our top 10.
To help you choose we have included small MIDI keyboard reviews with each one along with our pros and cons.