What budgets are we looking at for these top 5 MIDI keyboards for music producers?
For those delving into the world of music production, a MIDI keyboard forms an integral part of your journey. A high-quality MIDI keyboard can help you to effectively navigate your digital audio workstation, refining your harmonic dimensions and sharpening your melodic ideas. For that reason, we have put together a list of some of the best MIDI keyboards you can buy in 2021.
1. Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII
Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII The Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII is a compact and portable MIDI keyboard that’s particularly appealing to mobile music producers. It focuses on portability without sacrificing control. With 25 velocity-sensitive keys, 8 individual drum pads, 8 assignable control knobs, and a 4-way thumbstick for pitch and modulation, this model offers all you need for on-the-go music creation.
2. Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MkII
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MkII This MIDI keyboard is a little more advanced, boasting a professional-grade semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and rounded key edges for a more comfortable playing experience. The Komplete Kontrol S49 MkII features two high-resolution color screens for browsing, previewing sounds and more. Also, it has robust integration with the most popular DAWs, making it a top choice for those who seek versatility and control.
3. Arturia KeyLab 49 MKII
Arturia KeyLab 49 MKII A genuinely professional-grade MIDI keyboard, the KeyLab 49 MKII by Arturia offers a high-quality playing experience. It features 49 keys (with velocity sensitivity and aftertouch), 16 pads, 9 faders, and 9 rotary knobs. Its build quality, performance pads, customizable controls make it a solid choice for professional music producers.
4. Novation Launchkey Mini MK3
Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 Novation’s Launchkey Mini MK3 is another fantastic option for producers on-the-go. Despite its small size, it boasts 25 mini keys, 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads, 8 knobs, and dedicated navigation and control buttons. Furthermore, it provides deep integration with Ableton Live and can also control Logic, Reason, or any other MIDI compatible music software.
5. M-Audio Oxygen 49 MK IV
M-Audio Oxygen 49 MK IV The M-Audio Oxygen 49 MK IV offers excellent value for its price. With 49 full-sized, synth-action velocity-sensitive keys, 8 velocity-sensitive trigger pads for beat production, and 9 assignable faders, it’s proficient in most music production tasks. Its simple plug-and-play setup stands out, making it a wonderful choice for newbies and professionals alike!
Choosing the ideal MIDI keyboard depends on your production needs, budget, and the nature of your workflow. Whether you need a keyboard for on-the-go or for your home studio, these options offer a great mix of quality, functionality, and value.
Happy Music Making!
