Re:Ask HN: Manufacturing somewhat novel MIDI controller
by weinzierl on Friday November 10, 2023 @01:12PM
(#38222345)
Keybeds is an almost sacred topic for many.
One consequence is that even keyboard manufacturers often don't make their own keybeds but rely on third parties like Fatar or procure them from high quality piano manufacturers like Kawai.
Another consequence is that no matter which keybed you choose, you will always have some people who don't like it and you unnecessarily limit your potential customer base.
I think this is the reason why most midi controllers fall into one of three categories:
- Try to get the best keybed they can justify. I would put Native Instruments in that class, because I see their keyboards as kind of MIDI controllers with keys. Some Arturia devices would also fit into that category. All of them don't rely on the MIDI controller as their main product but have primarily other revenue streams.
- Include the cheapest keybed possible, because no matter how good your keybed is, many will hate it anyways, so why no just let everyone hate it. I spare you examples, the list is long. Might be viable but the question is if this is the place you want to be in?
- MIDI controllers that integrate well with existing keyboards. One example is the MonogramCC, which can be arranged around your keyboard. Special Waves is similar. I'm sure there are others.
As much as I love the idea of tight integration, I think the last category is the commercially most viable approach for a small manufacturer.
One consequence is that even keyboard manufacturers often don't make their own keybeds but rely on third parties like Fatar or procure them from high quality piano manufacturers like Kawai.
Another consequence is that no matter which keybed you choose, you will always have some people who don't like it and you unnecessarily limit your potential customer base.
I think this is the reason why most midi controllers fall into one of three categories:
- Try to get the best keybed they can justify. I would put Native Instruments in that class, because I see their keyboards as kind of MIDI controllers with keys. Some Arturia devices would also fit into that category. All of them don't rely on the MIDI controller as their main product but have primarily other revenue streams.
- Include the cheapest keybed possible, because no matter how good your keybed is, many will hate it anyways, so why no just let everyone hate it. I spare you examples, the list is long. Might be viable but the question is if this is the place you want to be in?
- MIDI controllers that integrate well with existing keyboards. One example is the MonogramCC, which can be arranged around your keyboard. Special Waves is similar. I'm sure there are others.
As much as I love the idea of tight integration, I think the last category is the commercially most viable approach for a small manufacturer.