GarageBand FAQ: MIDIKeys

Q. Can I play GarageBand's software instruments with my computer keyboard?
[Related Entries : Audio ≠ MIDI , Keyboard Compatibility , Install SoundFonts , Make SoundFonts , MIDI-Out , Print Notation , Use SoundFonts ]

A. In this early version of GarageBand, no, you will need a Third Party add-on such as MIDIKeys...

A. Yes, select Musical Typing from under GarageBand's Window menu. However most people find an unacceptable amount of latency with GarageBand's musical typing, so a somewhat better solution is to use the Third Party product, MIDIKeys. The ultimate solution is to use a MIDI Keyboard (a controller). I use the Keystation 49e and think it's great. No latency and all I had to do was plug it in to a USB port and it worked. No drivers, no configuration, no power cord, "no nothing". The Keystation 49e is the most widely used controller by people in the Apple Discussion Forums.
Was this information helpful? Yes / No

GarageBand from Apple Computer uses audio loops and MIDI loops in Apple Loops format. It can work with Audio Units plug-ins. Apple Macintosh Compatible FireWire and USB interfaces can be used to connect Audio and MIDI instruments to your Mac, and be recorded into GarageBand.

200,000 Views!