The Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard 1.0 has been developed by AbletonKurse with the objective of revolutionising the music production experience in Ableton Live. This incredible Max for Live MIDI device breathes new life into your standard computer keyboard, converting it into a highly customisable MIDI keyboard that still retains the standard functionality of key commands and shortcuts in Ableton Live, on the condition the foremost application focus is granted to the M4L plugin window.
Before this invention, the lack of a traditional MIDI hardware forced producers to juggle between mouse and keyboard commands, breaking up the flow of their creative process. Now, the Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard 1.0 provides them with a fluent workflow, enabling them to define their musical journey using the very tool they use for coding and programming.
This device shows compatibility with Live version 12.0.5 and Max version 8.6.2, implying that it functions at an optimal level with these versions. To mitigate any potential issues, make sure that the active window is Max for Live in order to receive key commands correctly. It's also worth noting that key commands and shortcuts in Ableton Live will be triggered when using keys to play MIDI notes, maintaining a certain level of integration into the Live workflow.
The Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard 1.0 is granted with Commercial License and is accessible for download from the official website. Despite its recent launch (August 02, 2024), this revolutionary Max for Live device has the potential to significantly enhance the quality of music production in your Ableton Live suite.
The website for the Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard 1.0 provides you with a plethora of strategic insights and knowledge to maximize your experience with this new tool. Visit the website for a detailed rundown of device features and discover how this device opens new realms of possibility for music production without traditional MIDI hardware.
To sum up, the Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard 1.0 is a significant breakthrough in the world of Max for Live MIDI devices, combining the ease of your computer keyboard with the rich possibilities proffered by a MIDI keyboard. To experience this dynamic tool for music production on Ableton Live, visit this link: https://maxforlive.com/library/device/10834/extended-computer-midi-keyboard.
Example Usage
If you're just starting out with Ableton Live and looking to play MIDI notes without a physical MIDI controller, the Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard 1.0 by AbletonKurse is a fantastic Max4Live device for you. Say goodbye to the limitations of the typical computer keyboard and hello to a more extensive range of notes and custom mappings.
Here's a basic step-by-step guide on how to set it up:
- Installation: After downloading the Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard 1.0, drag and drop it into the MIDI Effects section of your User Library in Ableton Live.
- Accessing the Device: Insert the device onto a MIDI track by double-clicking it or dragging it onto the track. This track will now receive the MIDI input from your computer keyboard.
- Understanding the Interface: The device will display a virtual keyboard layout that mirrors your computer keyboard. You can see which keys correspond to which MIDI notes.
- Customization: Begin by setting the root note – this determines the starting note of the keyboard layout. You can adjust the key mapping to fit your preferences or the specific scale you’re working with.
- Playing Notes: With the Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard window in focus, press the keys on your computer keyboard. You'll hear the respective notes through the instrument loaded on the MIDI track.
- Recording: Record your performance by arming the track for recording and hitting the global record button.
Remember that while using this device, Ableton Live's key commands are still active, so some keys may trigger actions within Live. Always ensure that the Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard window is in focus (the foremost application) to play notes.
This device is perfect for sketching out ideas when you’re away from your main MIDI controller or if you’re just getting started with electronic music production in Ableton Live. It's an easy and interactive way to experiment with melodies, chords, and more.
As you progress in your music production journey with Ableton Live, exploring the capabilities of Max4Live devices can significantly enhance your workflow and creativity. The Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard 1.0 by AbletonKurse is a remarkable tool for those who want to leverage their computer keyboard as a more powerful MIDI controller. Here’s an intermediate-level application of this device in a creative project setup:
Imagine wanting to perform a live jam with various synths layered across different tracks while not having a physical MIDI controller or looking for a quick and effortless setup. The Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard allows you to convert your QWERTY keyboard into a multi-octave MIDI keyboard. To make the most out of this, let’s set up an advanced key mapping scheme.
- Custom Octave Range: Start by launching the Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard 1.0 on a separate MIDI track in Ableton Live. Assign the home row of your keyboard to play a C3 to B3 octave. Extend the octave range by mapping the row of keys just below the home row to trigger C2 to B2. This gives you instant access to bass and lead sounds simultaneously.
- Layering Instruments: Create three MIDI tracks with different instruments—perhaps a bass synth, a pad, and a lead synth. On each track, drop an instance of the Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard. Assign the same octave range on your keyboard for each track, but use the device's 'Key Offset' feature to transpose the notes as needed for the specific instrument.
- Dynamic Performance: To make your performance more dynamic, map the 'Toggle Hold' function of the Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard to a key you designate as a 'sustain pedal'. This feature will allow you to sustain notes without holding the keys down, adding an expressive element to your jams.
- Custom Scales: Take advantage of the 'Scale Mode' to lock your keyboard to a specific scale. Choose a scale that fits the theme of your song, and program the corresponding settings in the Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard. This way, whatever key you press will stay in tune with your composition.
- Live Effects Control: Use additional keys to your advantage by mapping them to trigger effects in Live. For instance, you could map the top row of numbers on your keyboard to different clip slots in Ableton Live, triggering effects like delays or beat repeats for on-the-fly sound manipulation.
- MIDI Automation: Finally, use the Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard to record MIDI notes directly into a clip in Arrangement View. While playing the notes on your keyboard, this could allow for improvisations to be captured as MIDI data, which you can later edit or automate for intricate control over the performance.
Incorporating the Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard 1.0 into your Ableton Live setup like this unlocks a diverse range of performance possibilities, turning a simple computer keyboard into a versatile and personalized MIDI controller. As you get more proficient with it, tweaking the settings to suit different musical scenarios can lead to a highly personalized and efficient setup that's perfect for studio and live performance environments.
Further Thoughts
Imagine you're in the heat of a live performance, and you suddenly feel the urge to add an improvised melody over the top of your track. You don't have a MIDI controller with you, but you've got your laptop. With the Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard 1.0, you can turn your computer's QWERTY keyboard into a fully-fledged MIDI instrument.
Here’s how you could utilize this Max4Live device to create an impromptu melodic element in the midst of a live set:
- Load the Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard 1.0 device onto a new MIDI track in Ableton Live.
- Open the device view and ensure that it's the front-most application so it can receive key commands.
- Assign keys on your computer keyboard to the notes you plan to use. With this device, you can create an extended layout beyond the typical limited octave range, giving you access to an array of notes and even chords.
- Respect the original key commands of Ableton Live while assigning the MIDI notes. For example, avoid overriding essential shortcuts like Cmd+S (Save) or Spacebar (Play/Pause).
- Now, arm the track for recording, and you're all set. As you play the keys on your computer keyboard, they will trigger the MIDI notes you've assigned, allowing you to perform a melody in real-time.
- To add depth, map aftertouch and velocity parameters within the device to different keys or modulation sequences. This will enable dynamic expression during performance.
- Record this live-melody as a MIDI clip, and after your performance, this clip can be edited, quantized, or even used to replace with different synths or instruments for variations in your arrangement.
This improvised session feature provides a creative solution for those moments where inspiration strikes without the convenience of a physical MIDI controller, keeping the creative flow uninterrupted and your live performance dynamic. The Extended Computer MIDI Keyboard 1.0 is a robust tool in making sure your creativity is never hindered by a lack of hardware.