Hello, I am starting to fund a music composer but before we start, I want to get some things straight. Firstly, what keyboard (under the price of 400 USD) is the best for recording into the computer. In other words, how exactly does the keyboard record into the computer? What kind of cable? Secondly, what kind of software is the best to use? Is there a software that can record from the keyboard, and then have full editing capabilities. Or, does it need to be two separate pieces of software (one for recording, one for editing/mixing/balancing)? Also, what software (under the price of 250) would you reccommend for use of professional music development that has mixing/balancing/volume control/tracks/export in mp3/ogg/wav etc. All the modern features to create great music! Thank you, and if you can provide any further information you feel would be beneficial please do so :) -Mike

Check out the sticky post "Music Software, etc".

I have, twice, but it doesn't say what is the best for my specific needs which is why I posted this topic.

As long as you have a MIDI port on your keyboard, you can record it on your computer.

Bascially any of the software mentioned can do as you ask. You need a multitrack recording software (like Cubase, Sonar, etc..).

I guess this means I should better define the programs on the sticky thread? Either that or you just didn't read them.

For example, copied right from the other thread:

Anvil Studio, by Willow Software - Free
Sequencer Notation Effects MIDI
Record, sequence, edit, and save your MIDI work. SoundFont compatible.

It's even free!

You can also use the included links if you're looking for more detailed information. But to record from a keyboard (which I can't give you advice on, sorry), you just need a MIDI enable keyboard (try asking at a music store), a MIDI cable (buy it at your local electronics or music store), and some sort of input jack on your computer that will accept MIDI. If you don't have the latter, then you may be able to buy an adapter from MIDI-serial of some sort (try Fry's for this type of thing).

Anvil, Cakewalk, FL, Home Studio, and Orion all seem to fit your parameter, but check their websites for more detailed specifications.

If you have any more questions, just post again...