Composer with limited sockets
Works with a laptop or computer and wants to avoid an extra mains adapter for the controller; checks the power supply provided by the chosen connection.
Who is this choice relevant to?
Orchestral composer
Wants to control dynamics, expression or articulations while playing in parts, and chooses keys and controls to suit the sound library they use.
Piano-style composer
Prioritises a range suitable for playing with both hands and a comfortable key feel, as long as the keyboard fits in the available workspace.
What should you look for?
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who should pay particular attention? |
|---|---|---|
| Power without an extra socket | Check the power supply method and connection for the exact model. For example, Roland notes a Lightning-related exception for the A-88MKII. | If you don't have a spare socket, you'll want to know whether your computer or device powers the controller over USB. Around 36% of consumers prioritise power. |
| Expression and articulations | Check which MIDI messages your library uses and whether you can assign the required fader, knob or key to them. Spitfire Audio describes various controls for dynamics, expression and articulations. | If you play in orchestral sounds, you'll want to control dynamics, expression or articulations as you play. Around 29% of consumers prioritise these controls. |
| Range and key feel | Match the number of keys and the key response to your parts and available space; check your library's keyswitch positions too. Novation lists the Launchkey 61 as 895 mm wide. | If you want to play across a wide range or use both hands, you'll need enough room to play and a key response that suits the way you compose. Around 21% of consumers put range and key feel first. |
| DAW setup | Check which DAW is supported and whether you need to configure ports, scripts or MIDI assignments. M-Audio and Arturia describe software setup specific to their models. | If you want to control knobs and transport functions from your DAW while composing, you'll want to know how much configuration is needed. Around 14% of consumers prioritise DAW setup. |
What to watch out for
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Assuming USB always provides bus power
A USB connection doesn't guarantee that every device or connection setup will power the controller. Roland notes that bus power doesn't work for the A-88MKII when it's connected to an iPhone or iPad with Lightning.
Before choosing, check the power instructions for the exact model and your computer or mobile device.
-
Assuming more faders will automatically control orchestral expression
A fader will only control the function you want if its MIDI assignment works with your library and DAW. In the default setup described, Spitfire Audio distinguishes between dynamics and expression, among other functions.
Check which MIDI functions your library uses and assign the control you want to them.
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Choosing a compact keyboard without allowing for keyswitches
Keyswitches may use keys outside the range you play your part in. This can make the available playing range for your instrument different from what you expect.
Check the keyswitch positions for the sounds you use before choosing the number of keys.
Relevant brands to consider
Novation
The Launchkey 61 MK4 is worth comparing if you're looking for 61 keys and direct DAW control.
- Novation lists USB bus power, nine faders and 16 pads for this model.
- Its stated width of 895 mm needs to fit your workspace; these are manufacturer specifications, not the result of an independent user test.
Arturia
According to Arturia, the KeyLab Essential 61 mk3 combines 61 keys with software controls.
- Arturia lists USB power for the Essential mk3.
- If you have connection problems, Arturia recommends connecting directly to a computer port; this advice applies to this product range.
M-Audio
The Oxygen Pro 49 is a 49-key option with transport controls and faders.
- M-Audio lists USB power and DAW mapping for this model.
- According to M-Audio, whether the controls work straight away also depends on your DAW configuration.
Roland
The A-88MKII is worth considering if you value hammer action and a piano-style key response more than a compact setup.
- Roland lists USB-C bus power.
- According to Roland, bus power doesn't work when connected to an iPhone or iPad with Lightning; the brand recommends using a separate adapter.
Akai Professional
The MPK Mini Plus is a compact option with 37 mini keys, pads and assignable knobs.
- Akai lists USB power without a separate mains adapter.
- The mini keys and more limited range may be less suitable for wide-ranging parts or playing with both hands. This is the MPK Mini Plus, not the MPK Mini Plus II.
MIDI keyboards at Joybuy
This selection includes 61-key keyboards with USB-MIDI. Check each model separately to see whether USB also supplies power and whether the keyboard works as a MIDI controller with your DAW.
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Black 61-key keyboard with MIDI controller
Could suit you if you're looking for a 61-key keyboard with USB-MIDI; check separately how the device is powered.
The product title lists 61 keys; the description also mentions a recording function and built-in speakers.
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Black 61-key keyboard kit with stand and bench
Could suit you if you're looking for a 61-key keyboard with USB-MIDI and a bundle that includes a stand and bench.
The product title lists USB-MIDI, 300 tones, 300 rhythms, an LCD display and a three-level learning mode. Check the power supply for this model separately.
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MLS-931 Digital Piano, weighted 61 keys
Could suit you if you're looking for weighted keys and USB-MIDI, but take note of the listed power options.
The product title lists 61 keys and a headphone socket. The description mentions a mains adapter for power, with AA batteries as an option; don't assume it can be powered over USB.
Frequently asked questions
Does a MIDI controller make the sound of my film music itself?
A standard MIDI controller sends performance data to, for example, a computer running audio software. You'll also need a software instrument and audio output; check which features may vary between models.
How do I set up a control for dynamics or expression?
First, check which MIDI functions your library uses. For the default setup mentioned, Spitfire Audio describes CC1 for dynamics and CC11 for expression, and recommends Learn MIDI CC to assign your own knob or fader.
Can I always use a hub if I don't have many USB ports?
Don't assume so without checking the model: if you have connection problems with the KeyLab Essential mk3, Arturia recommends connecting directly to a computer port. This is the manufacturer's advice for this product range, not a general rule for all controllers.
Does USB-MIDI mean a keyboard is powered over USB?
No. USB-MIDI on its own doesn't tell you how the keyboard is powered. Check whether the exact model supports USB power and whether this works with your computer or mobile device.