What is a MIDI keyboard?

A MIDI keyboard is a controller that sends Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) data to your computer. Unlike digital pianos, MIDI keyboards don't produce sound on their own - they control virtual instruments in your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW), in this case, FL Studio.

Required Equipment

• FL Studio (any edition)
• MIDI keyboard (AKAI MPK Mini 3 or LPK25)
• USB cable (usually included with your MIDI keyboard)
• Computer with available USB port
• Latest keyboard drivers (optional but recommended)

Quick Setup Guide

1. Connect your MIDI keyboard to your computer via USB
2. Launch FL Studio
3. Open FL Studio MIDI settings
4. Enable your MIDI controller
5. Test the connection

Detailed FL Studio Configuration

1. Open FL Studio and navigate to Options > MIDI Settings
2. Look for your device in the 'Input' section
3. Enable the controller by clicking the checkbox next to its name
4. Set the 'Port' to the appropriate number (usually 0)
5. Click 'Refresh device list' if your keyboard isn't showing up

Setting up the AKAI MPK Mini 3

Initial Connection:

1. Connect your MPK Mini 3 to your computer
2. Wait for Windows/macOS to recognize the device
3. Launch FL Studio
4. Go to Options > MIDI Settings

Controller Configuration:

1. Find "MPK Mini 3" in the input devices list
2. Enable both 'Controller Type' and 'Input'
3. Set controller port to 0
4. Enable 'Enable Generic Controller' for basic functionality

Pad Configuration:

1. Click the 'Controller type' dropdown
2. Select 'AKAI Generic Controller'
3. Set up pad banking:
   • Bank A: Drums
   • Bank B: Samples
   • Bank C & D: Custom assignments

Setting up the LPK25

Basic Setup:

1. Connect the LPK25 via USB
2. Open FL Studio MIDI settings
3. Look for "LPK25" in the device list
4. Enable input and controller options

Key Configuration:

1. Set keyboard to USB MIDI mode (if applicable)
2. Enable MIDI input in FL Studio
3. Configure octave settings
4. Test keyboard response

Common Troubleshooting Tips

Device Not Recognized:

1. Check USB connection
2. Restart FL Studio
3. Verify driver installation
4. Try different USB ports
5. Check Windows/macOS device manager

No Sound:

1. Verify MIDI channel settings
2. Check if the correct instrument is selected
3. Confirm audio output settings
4. Test with the virtual MIDI keyboard

Advanced MIDI Mapping

Custom Controls:

1. Open MIDI mapping mode in FL Studio
2. Right-click the parameter you want to control
3. Select 'Link to controller'
4. Move the desired knob/slider on your MIDI keyboard
5. Save your mapping configuration

Tips for Optimal Performance

• Keep your MIDI keyboard drivers updated
• Use a powered USB hub for stable connection
• Create custom templates for different workflows
• Label your custom mappings
• Regular maintenance of keyboard pads and keys
• Save different mapping profiles for various projects