For orchestral parts, a controller with controls you can assign to the dynamics and expression of your virtual instruments is a sensible choice. If you mainly play piano parts, prioritise keyboard range and the feel of the keys. A second screen doesn’t call for a special MIDI controller, but it does require a suitable video and DAW setup. Also check the available space, pedal inputs and support for your version of the DAW.
You record virtual strings or other orchestral sounds and want to shape their dynamics and expression as you play. Check the CC settings for your own library; Spitfire Audio explains how dynamics, vibrato and expression can be assigned to MIDI controllers in its libraries.
You keep the video and your music project on separate screens and want to control transport, instruments or mixing from your controller. Which controls work depends on your DAW, version and supported controller integration. For example, Steinberg documents a separate video window in Cubase Pro 15.
You play a lot with both hands and prioritise a larger keyboard or piano-style key action over a small controller. Also consider how much space your chosen model takes up; Roland describes the A-88MKII as an 88-key model.
First, decide which instrument parameters you want to control as you record and what controls you’ll need. Then compare your DAW version, keyboard range and available workspace.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Expressing orchestral sounds | Check which MIDI CCs your library uses and whether the faders, modulation wheel or a compatible pedal input can send those signals. | If I want to shape virtual instruments dynamically as I record, I look for controls that suit how my library handles them. Around 36% of consumers say expressive control is their main purchase priority. |
| Control alongside two screens | Check your DAW’s video features, then confirm support for the exact controller, edition and software version. | If I want to keep the video on one screen and control my music project on the other, suitable DAW integration is a deciding factor. Around 29% of consumers give DAW workflow their highest priority. |
| Playing range and key feel | Compare the number of keys and the key action with the parts you play; check the configuration and dimensions of the exact model. | If I play a lot of piano parts with both hands, I want enough keyboard range and keys that suit the way I play. Around 21% of consumers put piano playing first. |
| Workspace and pedal connections | Measure the available width and depth, and check separately which types of pedal the model supports. | If I have limited space around my screens, keyboard and mouse, the controller needs to fit my setup and offer the right connections. Around 14% of consumers name workspace and connections as their main selection criteria. |
With orchestral libraries, velocity and dynamics controls can serve different purposes. Spitfire Audio explains that, in its libraries, long and short articulations don’t respond to velocity in the same way.
Check how your library handles controls, then decide which faders, wheels or other assignable controls you need.
According to Novation, the sustain input on the Launchkey MK4 doesn’t support a continuous expression pedal. Pedal connections vary by model, so don’t assume compatibility just because there’s an input.
Before buying, check the exact input type and whether it’s compatible with the pedal you want to use.
If you choose a pedal before checking the input type, you may need a different pedal or a different control option.
Controller integration may depend on a specific DAW version and setup. Novation lists Cubase 12 or later for the Launchkey MK4; Nektar lists Cubase 13 or later for the Impact LX mk3.
Compare your DAW edition and version with the documentation for the exact controller model.
Allow time to set up and test the controls in your own DAW.
In Cubase Pro 15, importing and playing video depends, among other things, on file compatibility. A separate video window doesn’t remove that requirement.
First test a representative video file in your DAW, then check that the screen layout works for you.
If a video file isn’t compatible, you may need to convert it in advance using a separate application.
According to Novation, the Launchkey 49 MK4 combines 49 semi-weighted keys and nine faders with integration for Cubase 12 and later, subject to the setup requirements described.
According to Arturia, the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 has 49 velocity-sensitive keys, nine faders and assignable controls, with scripts for DAWs including Cubase.
According to Nektar, the Impact LX mk3 range includes 25-, 49-, 61- and 88-key models, with eight faders. The manufacturer lists Cubase 13 or later for integration.
According to Roland, the A-88MKII is a piano-style controller with 88 keys, three configurable zones and two assignable pedal inputs, in addition to the sustain connection.
According to Native Instruments, the Kontrol S61 from the S-Series MK3 has 61 semi-weighted keys, polyphonic aftertouch and assignable pedal inputs.
No. Your computer and music software handle the screen layout, not the number of screens supported by a MIDI controller. Steinberg documents a separate video window and the import of compatible video files for Cubase Pro 15. Check which features are available in your DAW and edition.
First check the MIDI assignments for the library you use, then assign a suitable control. For its libraries, Spitfire Audio lists CC1 for dynamics and CC11 for expression as the defaults; according to Spitfire Audio, the response to velocity varies by articulation. These settings don’t automatically apply to every plug-in.
It depends on the specifications of the exact model. Novation states that the sustain input on the Launchkey MK4 doesn’t support a continuous expression pedal. Arturia lists a pedal control input on the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 that can be set up for sustain, expression or a footswitch; check that your pedal is compatible too.
Check what’s included with the controller and whether you need any additional software or pedals for your setup. For applicable consumer purchases in the Netherlands, statutory guarantees apply to what you can reasonably expect from the product, according to ACM ConsuWijzer. For applicable online consumer purchases, ACM ConsuWijzer generally lists a 14-day cooling-off period after delivery. If you’re buying mainly or exclusively for business use, don’t automatically assume consumer protection applies.
