Supreme Picks For MIDI Keyboards And Controllers

Any music production setup is generally centered around a top-notch MIDI controller, so selecting the proper one is essential. Yet, the world of MIDI controllers might be confusing to navigate. As it happens, there is a MIDI keyboard to suit every taste and price range. However, you must determine which size you should choose and how much cash you should spend.

Smaller MIDI controller configurations are becoming increasingly popular these days. Not only do full-format controllers require more room, but having a complete range of keys isn't necessarily required for the composing side of music production. The compact form factor benefits producers who operate better on the fly and prefer laptops.

Music composing becomes much more fluid when using a MIDI controller. We've compiled a list of our top choices for MIDI keyboards and controllers to assist you in picking the ideal one for you.

1. Roli Seaboard Rise 2

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There isn't a more sophisticated keyboard synthesizer on the market than the Roli Seaboard Rise 2. It is ideal for someone seeking to enhance their creative abilities indefinitely. This one is unique because of its playing surface. Applying pressure adjusts each other's volume on a conventional keyboard. You can do many things here, including slide between notes and push to intensify the sound.

Imagine dragging your finger up and down the keys to adjust the filter cutoff point on a synthesizer. Maybe even changing pitch bend with a horizontal finger movement! All of this is made feasible by the Seaboard, which makes it extremely special. Roli even created their software plugins to make the most of their keyboard. Despite their complexity, the sounds are well worth the work.

2. Akai Professional MPK

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A lot of producers now turn to the Akai MPK. It has all the features you could want in a MIDI controller, and it's built to last. It's also highly portable.  The VIP software makes the Akai Advance keyboards intriguing. It is a VST instrument and effects host that automatically assigns all plugin controls to the encoders and buttons on the keyboard.

With the help of many virtual tools, you can create enormous multi-patches that can be managed from a single keyboard. A small full-color screen on the advanced keyboard is also available to display various data from the virtual instrument. This integration makes seeing a live show an incredible experience.

3. Arturia KeyLab Essential

Look at the Arturia items if money is not a concern. They provide gorgeous hardware synthesizers, MIDI controllers, and some of the best soft synths available. It is a well-constructed MIDI controller with sophisticated chord creation. A DAW command center lets you easily communicate with your DAW.

Although the keyboard isn't lovely, it has some intriguing features. A polyphonic step sequencer with up to 64 steps and 8 notes per step is included in the Arturia Keystep. Up to eight sequences can be stored and recalled with a turn of a knob. The best part is that you can use the CV/Gate outputs on the rear to send these sequences to analog and modular equipment. You now have a sequencer you can play and carry around for all your external synthesizers and modules. Naturally, it features a USB for connection to a computer and MIDI I/O.

4. Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol

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Native Instruments has a reputation for producing quality products. The A49 has an elegant appearance. In addition, you get 1.6 GB of Maschine factory sounds plus a few Native Instruments synthesizers, like Prism and Monark.

Native has well-integrated hardware and plugins. These keyboards come with a high-resolution OLED display that, unlike any other MIDI controller, allows you to operate NKS-supported plugins directly. Native Instruments initiated the trend of smart controllers using on-key LEDs.

For Native Instruments software and plugins, the S61 is the ideal keyboard controller. It boasts a high-end Fatar keyboard with an aftertouch and 61 semi-weighted keys. Eight touch-sensitive knobs and a four-directional push encoder are the assignable controls.

5. Novation Launchkey

Novation manufactures several high-quality MIDI controllers. While this MIDI controller is compatible with various DAWs, Ableton Live integration is its primary function, as it was created with Ableton Live in mind. It seamlessly integrates its 8x2 pad matrix and several color LCDs with the workflow.

There are sixteen velocity-sensitive pads, three complete octaves of semi-weighted keys, and a display screen. This keyboard is unique because of its creative tools. For instance, you can produce intricate chords with only one key touch in "chord mode."

Novation is best known for its Launchpad range of small 8x8 pad controllers designed for sample triggering. These controllers are unexpectedly effective in terms of performance. Even though many people now dismiss Novation as simply "the Launchpad company," they are adept at creating well-functioning products and know what their customers desire.

6. Nektar Impact

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Even though the Arturia KeyStep is fantastic, you won't use it to perform intricate passages like piano pieces or chords. For this reason, go for the Nektar SE49. Nektar's playability and straightforward control mechanism more than compensate for its lack of a large key count of 49.

Nektar provides MIDI controllers that work seamlessly with other DAWs, allowing you to work without looking at your computer screen. It is a master at making high-quality keyboards.

Although it may not be the most premium controller, it is still effective and the perfect MIDI controller for novices who wish to upgrade to a full-size keyboard. With 88 semi-weighted keys, the Impact is a full-size keyboard controller. It has eight knobs and nine faders among its many assignable controls. Though it is older and more expensive, it is highly regarded for providing exceptional value for the money.

Bottom Line

MIDI controllers are essential for all music producers, regardless of experience level. The whole point of MIDI controllers is to provide the user control. Although faders, knobs, and buttons appear old-fashioned, they're a simple way to alter sound settings and enhance expressiveness.