Navigating the world of MIDI controllers can be overwhelming. What size should you pick? How much money should you spend?
The truth is, there is a MIDI keyboard for every person and every budget.
And in this guide, we are going to help you find the perfect one for you! Together, we will look at what MIDI actually is, MIDI controllers and their functionalities, and which one is right for you.
Ready? Let’s dive in 👇
What is MIDI?
Before diving into MIDI controllers, let’s explore what MIDI is.
MIDI stands for Musical Instrument Digital Interface.
You can think of it as the language in which keyboards and computers communicate. In the physical world, the parallel would be a sheet of music:
A music sheet contains all the information to play the music: which notes to play, at what speed, what velocity etc. Music notation allows a musician to “communicate” with the piano. Similarly, MIDI is a way to store information in your DAW:
An important thing to remember is that MIDI is just information, not sound.
Just like a music sheet needs an instrument to play the music, a MIDI pattern needs a synth to play it. This means that a MIDI controller will not generate sound by itself. It will simply trigger a synth within your DAW, which will then emit sound.
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What is A MIDI Controller?
Now that we know what MIDI is, let’s explore MIDI controllers. What are they, and do you really need one?
The short answer is yes. A MIDI keyboard will speed up your workflow tremendously.
Although you can use your computer keyboard or draw in notes with your mouse, a MIDI controller will make music writing a lot more seamless.
The most common functionalities are the following:
- Number of keys. The smallest MIDI controllers usually feature at least 2 octaves. If you are used to playing an actual piano however, you will need 4 to 5 octaves. But if you’re just beginning, you can start small.
- Type of keys. MIDI controllers vary in the quality and size of the keys. Keys can be full-sized and “weighted” (like a real piano), or miniaturized and unweighted. This will largely depend on your preferences and your experience.
- Pads, knobs and other controls. These allow you to trigger samples like drums and tweak your sounds. If you plan on using your MIDI keyboards for live performances, then these will be crucial.
- Arpeggiator and chord generator. More advanced features might include an arpeggiator or automatic chord generators. These options can be useful when starting out, so make sure to check if a MIDI controller features them.
Starting Out? Our 3 Favorite Entry-Level MIDI Controllers
Is this your first time buying a MIDI controller? The good news is, you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to get something of quality. Let’s look at the 3 best options on the market in 2023.
🔸 Akai MPK Mini MK3
The Akai MPK Mini has become a go-to for many producers around the world. Not only does it feature everything you need in a MIDI controller, but it’s also easily portable and durably made. In our opinion, this is the best keyboard to start with.
Key features include:
- 25 keys (mini and non-weighted)
- 8 velocity-sensitive drum pads
- 8 “360-degrees” knobs for automation and sound design
- Built-in arpeggiator
- Sustain pedal input
Check out the Akai MPK Mini MK3 here (US$ 95.57)
🔸 Alesis Q Mini
If you just need keys and nothing more, then the Alesis Q Mini is for you. This is a super compact MIDI controller option featuring just the essentials. You get 2 octaves-and-a-half, and a single assignable knob. This is the cheapest option you can find without trading the quality.
Key features include:
- 32 keys (compact, synth-style)
- Octave and transpose buttons
- Re-assignable knob
- Pitch bend and modulation buttons
Check out the Alesis Q Mini here (US$ 59)
🔸 Keith McMillen K-Board-C
Looking for something a bit different? Then the K-Board-C might be for you. This MIDI controller takes an innovative approach in terms of its layout and overall aesthetic. It’s colorful and immediately inspires you to play it.
Key features include:
- 25 keys (pad-style with aftertouch sensitivity)
- LED backlight keys
- Octave buttons
- USB-C connection
- Comes in different colorful options.
Check out the Keith McMillen K-Board-C here (US$ 119)
One Step Further? Our Favorite Mid-Range MIDI Controllers
Maybe you’re an experienced piano player, and need something bigger? Or do you already have a small MIDI keyboard and are looking to expand your collection? If you’re ready to invest a bit more, here are our picks.
🔸 Novation Launchkey 37 [MK3]
Novation makes a wide range of excellent MIDI controllers. And although this MIDI controller works with any DAW, it was specially designed to integrate with Ableton Live. You get 3 full octaves of semi-weighted keys and 16 velocity-sensitive pads, and a display screen.
What sets this keyboard apart are its creative tools. “Chord mode” for example lets you create complex chords by simply pressing one key.
Other key features include:
- Pitch bend and modulation wheel
- Arpeggiator, scale and chord modes
- Integrated Ableton Live commands such as Quantize, Capture MIDI and Record
- Sustain pedal input
- LED backlight keys
Check out the Novation Launchkey 37 here (US$ 229)
🔸 Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A49
Native Instruments is known for building high-end, quality products. The A49 is not different, with a solid build and a sleek design. You also get 1.6Gb of Maschine factory sounds, as well as some of Native Instruments synths: Monark, Prism and a few others.
Other key features include:
- 49 custom, semi-weighted keys
- 8 touch-sensitive control knobs
- Smart Play: automatically stay in key, and instantly generate chords and arpeggios.
- Integration with Komplete Kontrol software for browsing and previewing sounds.
Check out the Komplete Kontrol A49 here (US$ 219)
Unlock Expert Mode? The Best High-End MIDI Keyboard
🔸 Arturia KeyLab Essential 88
If money is no issue, then we would recommend you look at the Arturia products. Not only do they create some of the best soft synths on the market, but they also manufacture beautiful hardware synths and MIDI controllers.
The KeyLab Essential 88 is a beautifully made MIDI controller with advanced chord generation. It also features a DAW command center, allowing you to seamlessly interact with your DAW.
Other key features include:
- 88 keys with hybrid synth-piano feel
- Chord Play mode
- Includes Analog Lab V with 2,000 synth sounds and integration.
- 9 faders for direct mixer control
Check out the Arturia KeyLab Essential here (US$ 379)
🔸 Roli Seaboard Rise 2
Finally, let’s close off this guide with the Rolls-Royce of MIDI Controllers. The Roli Seaboard is by far the most unique and advanced keyboard on the market.
What sets this one apart is its playing surface. With a traditional keyboard, you can only control the volume of each by how hard you press. Here, you can glide between notes, press to deepen the sound and much more. If you’re looking for something to forever expand your creativity, the Seaboard Rise 2 is for you.
Other key features include:
- Hybrid synthesizer software
- 5 dimensions of touch: Strike, Press, Slide, Glide and Lift
- Adjustable touch sliders
Check out the Roli Seaboard Rise 2 here (US$ 1,299)
Final Words on MIDI Controllers
That’s it for this guide on MIDI controllers!
Whatever your level as a music producer, MIDI controllers are a must-have. We hope we were able to help you find the right fit for you. MIDI keyboards also often come with additional software and sample packs. So this is also worth looking into on a case-by-case basis.
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