[Jbroad572]

I want to start with music on my PB. I have a keyboard with midi in and out that I want to hook up to my laptop. I'm a beginner and don't need anything fancy right now. What is my best/cheapest option?

[nagromme]

I don't do MIDI myself, my friend uses something from M-Audio. Check http://midiman.com

They have USB boxes. An internal cardBus solution would be cool, but I haven't heard of one. Doesn't mean it doesn't exist!

They have some USB-poweres ones--no wall outlet needed:

http://midiman.com/products/midiman/USB1x1.php

http://midiman.com/products/midiman/USBuno.php
(This one has the cables built in.)

Software-wise, I think there are products from Apple (Logic), Steinberg (CuBase) and ProTools. Probably even some basic freeware. I can't advise on software, I just know the names.

[mintcake]

There's also the Audiotrak Midimate (includes cables, seems a bit cheaper than the Midisport & Midiman Uno). I'm in the market for one of these myself.

[elmer]

Originally posted by nagromme:
http://midiman.com/products/midiman/USB1x1.php

I use that one with Cubase SX, Panther on 12" PB 867. Works fine.

[Eug Wanker]

The 2x2 Midisport works fine with Reason.