Soundtrack maker with limited space
You work at a shared desk and want to listen through headphones. Compare the controller’s dimensions with the space you have, and set up the audio output on your computer or audio interface.
Who is this guide for?
Composer of melodies and soundscapes
You’d rather play themes, chords and layers of sound than draw them in note by note. The playable range and controls for software instruments matter to you.
Builder of rhythms and loops
You mainly create rhythmic patterns or arrange clips. Consider whether velocity-sensitive drum pads or a grid for launching clips better suits your workflow and DAW.
What should you look for?
First decide whether you want to play notes, make rhythms or launch clips; then check the space and software you’ll need.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Listening and desk space | Measure the available space and compare it with the stated dimensions. Also check where you can connect your headphones. | If I work in a shared flat, I want to make the most of my limited desk space and listen through headphones. Around 40% of consumers give a compact listening setup top priority. |
| Melodies and chords | Compare the number and size of the keys with the parts you want to play. | If I want to play themes and chords myself, I look at the available keyboard range. Around 30% of consumers give melodies and harmonies top priority. |
| Rhythms or clips | Decide whether you want to play drum parts or mainly launch existing clips; check that your DAW supports the controls. | If I mainly want to make rhythms or arrange loops, I choose controls suited to the task. Around 20% of consumers give rhythms or clip control top priority. |
| DAW and software | Check the DAW version, system requirements and registration terms for any bundled software. Also review the licence terms for sounds you publish. | If my workflow depends on specific software controls or bundled sounds, I check the terms in advance. Around 10% of consumers give DAW integration and useful software top priority. |
Common pitfalls
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Assuming a MIDI controller plays sounds by itself
MIDI is control data and contains no audio. Without a sound source and configured audio output, you won’t hear the soundtrack through the controller.
Before you buy, check how your computer or audio interface sends sound to your headphones.
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Counting only the pads
A clip grid is designed for launching clips, while a keyboard is intended for playing melodies. They suit different workflows.
First decide whether you want to play notes, play rhythms or launch clips. Then check that the controls you choose work with your DAW.
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Assuming software bundles give you unlimited usage rights
Usage rights depend on the specific software and sounds. A licence for one bundle doesn’t automatically cover other samples.
Check the licence terms for any sounds you plan to use in a published game.
Brands worth comparing
Arturia
The MiniLab 3 is a compact keyboard for playing software instruments and using external MIDI equipment.
- Arturia lists 25 keys, eight rotary controls, four faders and a 5-pin MIDI output.
- Check that the bundled software and DAW controls suit your own setup.
Novation
The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 combines a keyboard with pads, while the Launchpad Mini is a grid for clip-based workflows.
- Novation lists 37 mini keys and 16 pads for the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4, and 64 RGB pads for the Launchpad Mini.
- These models serve different purposes. Check that the DAW and clip controls described are compatible with your software.
Akai Professional
The MPK Mini Plus combines keys and pads with pattern-making features and connections for external equipment.
- Akai lists 37 mini keys, eight velocity-sensitive pads, a two-track sequencer and MIDI/CV connections.
- If you only work in a DAW over USB, consider whether the extra sequencer and hardware features are useful to you.
Nektar
The Impact LX Mini is designed around a compact keyboard with rhythm pads and music software controls.
- Nektar lists 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys, eight pads, eight controls and transport buttons.
- Check that the stated DAW integration works with your software version.
Joybuy product selection
This product selection is for anyone who wants to play melodies on a keyboard instrument. Compare the dimensions and connections with your workspace, and check that the audio output and software suit your setup.
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Electronic Keyboard Piano, 61 keys, black, with MIDI controller, recording function, speakers, metronome and music stand
With 61 keys, this is an option for playing melodies on a keyboard instrument. Compare its dimensions with the space available on your shared desk.
The product name lists a recording function, speakers, metronome and music stand. Before you buy, check that the connections and audio output work with your computer and headphones.
Frequently asked questions
Can I connect my headphones directly to a standard MIDI controller?
Don’t assume you can: MIDI data contains no sound itself. Set the audio output in your music software and connect your headphones to the computer or audio output you’ve selected. Check the connections on the specific model.
Which controls are best for melodies, rhythms or clips?
Choose a keyboard if you want to play melodies and chords, pads for making rhythms, or a grid if you mainly want to launch clips. For clip control, check that your DAW supports this workflow.
Is bundled software automatically suitable for my computer and game?
No. Compare the system requirements and registration terms with your computer, and check the usage licence for every sound you plan to publish. Ableton states that audio from the Core Library and Live Packs can be used royalty-free in original compositions, subject to certain conditions; these terms do not automatically apply to other bundles.
Can I use other people’s music or samples in my game without permission?
Not if it’s copyrighted music and you don’t have permission or an appropriate usage licence. The Dutch government emphasises that protected work may only be used with the creator’s permission. Check the licence for every source you use before publishing.