Keyboard player practising arpeggios by hand
You want to play the notes yourself, so key range and touch response matter. Yamaha, Korg and Novation’s specifications show that these features vary by model.
Who is this buying guide for?
Arpeggio pattern creator
You want to turn chords into repeatable patterns and are looking for straightforward arpeggiator controls. Yamaha, Korg and Novation describe different arpeggiator features on their models.
Producer using a DAW
You want to use keys and patterns in music software. Novation describes the Launchkey 61 MK4 as a DAW controller with a built-in arpeggiator; also consider how you’ll manage the sound.
What should you look for when choosing?
First decide whether you want to play the notes yourself or have patterns generated for you. Then choose between an instrument that produces its own sound and a setup that works through a DAW.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Key range and touch response | Compare the number and type of keys, and try out the touch response if you can. Yamaha lists 61 touch-sensitive keys for the PSR-E483; Korg lists 37 touch-sensitive mini keys for the microKORG2. | I want to play the notes myself and practise my timing, so I’m looking at the range and feel of the keys. Around 33% of consumers say playing by hand is their main reason for buying. |
| Arpeggiator controls | See how you activate and adjust patterns. Yamaha lists 164 arpeggio types for the PSR-E483; Korg lists ten types and a step arpeggiator for the microKORG2. | If I want to create patterns, I want to be able to control the arpeggiator myself and try out variations. Around 27% of consumers prioritise creating automatically generated patterns. |
| Working with a DAW | Decide whether you want to use MIDI data, the instrument’s sound or both. Novation describes the Launchkey 61 MK4 as a DAW controller with a built-in arpeggiator. | I want to use keys and patterns in my music software, and I’ll consider what sound source I need. Around 27% of consumers say working with a DAW is their main reason for buying. |
| Practising independently and quietly | Check the sound source, power supply and listening connections on the model you’re considering. Korg lists a headphone socket for the microKORG2. | I want to practise without a DAW and listen through headphones. Around 13% of consumers prioritise practising independently and quietly. |
Common buying mistakes
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Confusing an arpeggiator with practising your own fingering
Playing the notes yourself is a different practice task from using an automatically generated pattern.
Decide which task matters most to you. If you want to play by hand, focus on the keyboard; if you want to work with patterns, look at the arpeggiator controls.
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Buying a MIDI controller as if it produces sound on its own
To hear what you’re playing, a controller such as the Launchkey needs to be connected to a sound source and listening setup.
Before choosing, map out the entire signal path, from the controller and sound source to your headphones or other listening setup.
Depending on your existing setup, you may also need suitable cables.
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Comparing only the number of arpeggio types
A higher number doesn’t tell you, on its own, how easy a pattern is to control or how well a keyboard suits the way you play.
Compare the controls and feel of the keys in relation to what you actually want to practise.
Brands to consider
Yamaha
Portable keyboards such as the PSR-E483 combine keys with built-in sounds and arpeggio features.
- Yamaha lists 61 touch-sensitive keys and 164 arpeggio types for the PSR-E483.
- Those specifications don’t tell you whether the touch response will suit your playing style; try the keyboard yourself if possible.
Novation
Launchkey MK4 controllers are designed for use in a DAW-based studio.
- Novation describes the Launchkey 61 MK4 as having 61 semi-weighted keys and a built-in arpeggiator.
- You’ll also need a suitable sound source to practise and hear the results without other equipment.
Korg
Compact synthesizers with built-in sounds, such as the microKORG2, are an option for experimenting with patterns and sounds.
- Korg lists 10 arpeggio types, a step arpeggiator and a headphone socket for the microKORG2.
- The model has 37 mini keys; its stated polyphony is 8 voices in Single mode and 4 in Dual mode.
Arturia
The MiniFreak combines keys with sound design and sequencing features.
- Arturia describes the MiniFreak as having a built-in sequencer and arpeggiator.
Joybuy products
Related products coming soon.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an arpeggiator to learn to play arpeggios?
No, not if you want to learn to play the notes yourself. In that case, focus on the keyboard; an arpeggiator is a separate feature that automatically generates patterns.
Can I practise with a MIDI controller without a computer?
To hear what you’re playing, you’ll need a suitable sound source and listening setup. Decide in advance which software or MIDI sound source you want to use and how you’ll listen to the sound.
What should I consider when setting up my practice space?
Check what power supply, cables and listening connections your chosen model needs. Korg lists a headphone socket, USB-C, MIDI IN/OUT and power via an adaptor or batteries among the microKORG2’s features.
What rights do I have when buying online in the Netherlands?
According to ACM ConsuWijzer, you have up to 14 days after delivery to change your mind about an online purchase, subject to applicable exceptions. If a product breaks sooner than expected during normal use, the seller must resolve any fault covered by the guarantee free of charge, for example through repair, replacement or a refund.
What product regulations apply to electronic keyboards in the Netherlands?
According to the Dutch government, electronic devices placed on the market in the EU must meet the applicable product requirements, including the required CE marking. Check the information for the specific version; product specifications alone don’t confirm that an individual offer meets those requirements.