Play your MIDI instrument straight into GarageBand or other MIDI-capable apps, or download MIDI Controller apps to use the MIDI out port and your touchscreen in performance, as a MIDI controller.

ENGADGET: Griffin's MIDIConnect now available at $80 to make beautiful music with your iDevice (video)

As such, the MIDI controller is a fairly established staple in professional and bedroom studios alike.

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The XDJ-AERO can be used as a MIDI controller for Traktor and HID controller for Virtual DJ software.

ENGADGET: Pioneer's new WiFi-enabled XDJ-AERO controller says goodbye wires, hello dancefloor (video)

The XDJ-AERO: the world's first wireless all-in-one DJ player, mixer and MIDI controller.

ENGADGET: Pioneer's new WiFi-enabled XDJ-AERO controller says goodbye wires, hello dancefloor (video)

The XDJ-AERO also functions as a 24-bit audio interface, MIDI controller for Traktor and HID controller for Virtual DJ software.

ENGADGET: Pioneer's new WiFi-enabled XDJ-AERO controller says goodbye wires, hello dancefloor (video)

Dubbed the Pianocade, it's a synthesizer and MIDI controller that, as you can see, is disguised as an arcade authentic joystick (albeit one with quite a few extra buttons).

ENGADGET: Pianocade synthesizer lets DJs practice their shoryuken skills

Second Sight Medical Products developed the world's first working bionic eye, which could soon be available in the US, and fashion company Machina produced the world's first jacket to combine a MIDI controller with motion sensors -- essentially, it's a jacket that turns your body into a synthesizer.

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