I need a USB MIDI controller for my home studio, having long since sold my MOTU rackmount MIDI interface. My Focusrite interface resides at The Snaxodrome.

So I think I'll acquire one of those Novation controllers that have an A-Station synth onboard as well as an audio interface too for demo-ing demo bits.

Links?

http://www.novationmusic.com/products/hardware_synths/

The X-Station is more pricey, but has more DAW control options. The Xio's a lot cheaper, but the same synth engine.

Sure.

Why not just use the microkorg as a midi controller?

I'd use my Alesis first, as it's bigger. I was originally just looking for a USB controller so I wouldn't have to buy another MIDI interface, but whilst searching I discovered the Novation controllers have an onboard synth. More synth = more better. The audio interface is an added plus. Basically, I don't have to take the rack with my Focusrite, ART DMPA and FMR comp back and forth when I don't feel like going down to the studio. It seems a reasonable option.

How much does the X-Station usually run?

The 49 key is around 500 and the 61 is around 7.

I really need to get a USB-to-MIDI thingamajob so i can use keyboardy elements again.

You do. I have one of the little MIDI I/O to USB all-in-one cable-interface bits kicking around in a box in my attic... Largely because it no longer functions. I can mail it to you if you want it as a fixer-upper.

AH. If you wanted to go to the trouble of digging it out and mailing it, i would gladly attempt its repair.

Nae a problem, assuming it's in the box of random computer and audio bits I'm fairly certain it's in. Otherwise it's a search-and-rescue mission through things I should probably organize anyway.

I know I said I wanted a standar MIDI I/O keyboard, but considering my setup (ghetto) I am starting to think a USB keyboard would do me just fine, at least for now.

X-station may be a bit out of my price range for now, but when it comes time to step up to something nicer I think I will go for one of the 61 keys ...

Good choice on the Novation. I loaf their midi controllers.

Great minds drink alike.

I wound up snagging a XioSynth off the 'bay for under two bills. There was a 61 key X-Station that went for like $250 around the time I left work yesterday, but I got beat out on that one. I wouldn't bitch about having the sliders for DAW control porpoises, but the synthesis engine's the same and it'll load all the Novation patches you'd like. I have recording gear to buy, and I just wanted a half-decent controller to begin with. The synthyness is a plus.

Also, the X-Gator gated pattern sequencer looks like it could be fun.