This article will explain a few options for connecting a MIDI keyboard to your iPad and jamming in style with Garage Band. It’s actually pretty easy to connect a MIDI controller to your iPad, but you’ll need an adapter to route that MIDI signal to your tablet. Luckily, there are a few inexpensive options.

The iRig MIDI 2 is the most expensive MIDI solution for the iPad, but it is also packed with features. The adapter offers MIDI in, out, and through using the standard MIDI interface. It also has a USB port, so you can keep your iPad battery from draining while you play. This makes it a great choice compared to other solutions. If you can’t keep your iPad charged, your playing time will be limited. And if you walk into the studio and see that your iPad battery is almost dead, this is the solution that allows you to still sit down and play. iRig MIDI 2 also works with all generations of the iPad or iPhone.

Next up is the iPad Camera Connection Kit, which essentially turns the Lightning connector into a USB port. Remember, when using this, you will first plug a MIDI controller into the connection kit, and then plug the Connection Kit into your iPad. This will help the iPad recognize your device. While the Connection Kit doesn’t have the musical versatility of the iRig MIDI 2, it does have non-musical versatility. Since it’s essentially a USB port, you can use it to load photos from a camera onto your iPad, or even connect a hardware keyboard to your iPad. This solution is great for those who just want a basic MIDI connection. The Connection Kit is available for iPads with the Lightning connector, as well as older iPads with the 30-pin connector.

While the Line 6 MIDI Mobilizer II is less expensive than the iRig MIDI, it doesn’t offer MIDI through or a USB connection to keep your iPad charged. If you’re just looking to use MIDI between your iPad and computer, this is the solution for the least amount of money, but without the ability to keep your iPad charged, your playing time will be limited.