File:iRig Keys vs Line 6 Mobile Keys 49.jpg

English: * IK Multimedia iRig Keys

• Line 6 Mobile Keys 49

I'm pursuing hobbies that start with 'P'. Next year it'll be 'Paleontology'. :)

Until then I'll see if I can figure out piano.

Both of these keyboards plug into an iPad and use MIDI to control keyboard apps. Both are typical Apple compatible accessories - they 'just work'. No driver loading, no compatibility problems, just plug-n-chug.

I started with the keyboard at the top, an iRig Keys. I upgraded to the one on the bottom, a Line 6 Mobile Keys 49.

Here's tip for any aspiring keyboard players - size matters.

The iRig Keys has fewer and smaller keys by design, to keep the footprint small. Very convenient. In spite of its light weight it feels pretty solid. The only problem is that my hands don't have a small footprint and in spite of being over 50 years old, they have the coordination of a 4-year-old.

The Line 6 Mobile Key 49 has more and bigger keys, weighs a lot more and takes up more room on my desk. But my aim doesn't need to be quite as precise. The keys feel slightly more piano-y, too.

I'll use the iRig Keys for goofing off and for dragging around if I ever want to serenade feral cats. But I think I'll stick to the Line 6 for anything more serious.