MidiKeys is a powerful macOS application that transforms your computer keyboard into a professional MIDI controller. Perfect for music production, live performance, and composition, MidiKeys gives you instant access to play notes, control effects, and express musical ideas without needing external hardware. Featuring pitch bend controls, modulation wheel, and multi-language support, MidiKeys brings professional MIDI controller functionality to any Mac. Elevate your music creation workflow with MidiKeys today.
Overview
MidiKeys turns your computer keyboard into a fully functional MIDI controller with professional-grade features. The application provides low-latency MIDI output, customizable key mappings, and expressive controls including pitch bend and modulation wheel. Compatible with all major DAWs and MIDI software, MidiKeys offers instant musical expression without requiring additional hardware. Perfect for studio production, live performance, and music education.
Additionally, MidiKeys supports system-wide hotkeys, allowing you to play music from any application when enabled. The intuitive interface and responsive controls make it ideal for both beginners learning music and professionals needing a reliable backup controller.
MidiKeys is completely free and offers full functionality including standalone operation and seamless integration with your favorite music software. The application includes automatic updates, multi-language support, and comprehensive MIDI compatibility for professional music creation.
Enhanced Expression Controls
Version 1.9.2 introduces professional pitch bend functionality with dedicated A and 1 keys for smooth pitch modulation. The new system provides real-time pitch bending with visual feedback, allowing for expressive playing techniques previously only available with hardware controllers.
Interactive Mod Wheel Slider
The new modulation wheel interface provides continuous controller 1 (CC1) support for vibrato, tremolo, and filter effects. The interactive slider offers precise value control with real-time visual feedback, bringing professional modulation capabilities to your computer keyboard setup.
Multi-Language Support
MidiKeys now offers complete internationalization with full interfaces in English, German, French, and Japanese. All UI elements, menus, help text, and preferences are professionally localized, making MidiKeys accessible to musicians worldwide with culturally appropriate keyboard layouts and conventions.
Comprehensive Control System
Arrow keys continue to provide octave and velocity control, while the new pitch bend keys (A/1) and mod wheel integrate seamlessly without interfering with standard note playing.
The control system supports professional MIDI controller functionality including real-time parameter adjustment, visual feedback during control changes, and compatibility with all standard MIDI devices and software.
Enhanced Keyboard Mapping
Improved key mapping system with customizable layouts and visual feedback. The piano-style keyboard mapping transforms your QWERTY keyboard into an expressive musical instrument.
System-Wide Hotkey Support
Enable system-wide hotkeys to play music from any application. Configurable modifier key combinations (Control, Shift, Option, Command) provide flexible hotkey setup without conflicting with other applications.
Professional Performance
Low-latency MIDI processing ensures responsive playing experience suitable for live performance and studio recording.
Universal Compatibility: Works with all major DAWs including Logic Pro, GarageBand, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, and more.
Multi-Endpoint Support: Connect to multiple MIDI applications simultaneously for complex setups.
Supported Platforms
Standalone Application: No additional software required.
System Requirements
Big Sur 11.0+. Apple Silicon or IntelMacBook Pro: Late 2013+MidiKeys is completely free with no limitations on features or commercial use. Perfect for musicians of all levels, from beginners learning music to professionals needing reliable MIDI control.
Credit and Licensing
MidiKeys is originally developed by Chris Reed (flit) and available as open source software on GitHub. The discoDSP 1.9.2 enhancements are developed by George Reales, building upon the original codebase with additional features including pitch bend controls, modulation wheel, internationalization support, and modern macOS compatibility.
This enhanced version maintains the original open source spirit while adding professional features for modern music production workflows. Available as freeware for all users with no restrictions on personal or commercial use.
