Depends on the style you're producing too and if you are good enough with the keyboard to actually record MIDI data. If you don't have the chops a keyboard controller will just be an exercise in futility. I started out producing dubstep and main room EDM type stuff but I'm getting more into chill out and IDM and I find I almost never click notes in, I'm playing all the parts. But thats just me.eldoogle wrote:I think a keyboard isn't essential. I don't use one, but I play piano and I've produced music since 2010. Sure it might be useful but surely not essential in comparison.
If a keyboard is as essential to you as a mouse is to some people (i.e. for recording MIDI notes), then I'd almost say its more important than your monitor etc because you can't make music without it haha, but you can still create with shitty speakers. It really depends on whether you're more interested in songwriting or the technical aspects of production and sound.
Either way... Don't cheap out on whatever you decide to get. Gear is an investment, buy it once so you don't have to waste your money buying the same thing again when it breaks or starts limiting you.
