Who is this approach right for?

Keyboard player looking for two sounds

You want to play two pad sounds at the same time. Novation documents zones and layers for the Launchkey MK4 49, 61 and 88; make sure you also set up the MIDI channels and receiving instruments correctly.

Building clips during rehearsals

You build up the texture by launching separate parts or patterns. Novation describes clip control and a sequencer for the Launchpad Pro [MK3].

Player using external sound modules

You want to control existing MIDI hardware, so connections and channel routing matter. Native Instruments lists MIDI connectivity for the Kontrol S49; also check that the inputs and settings on your own equipment are compatible.

What should you look for?

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Playing two sounds at once Check the layer or zone function, MIDI channels and what your DAW or sound modules can do. If I want to hear two sounds at once while playing, the layer function needs to work with the channels and sound sources; around 36% of consumers put playing sounds simultaneously first.
Adjusting layers on the fly Check which controls the exact model has and whether you can assign them to commands in your instruments. I want to adjust the balance or sound while playing without constantly reaching for the mouse; around 29% of consumers prioritise direct control.
Launching clips individually Check that the clip and sequencer functions work with your DAW or external equipment. If I build up a pad by launching pre-made parts one at a time, that way of working suits me better; around 21% of consumers choose this as their primary need.
Connecting existing MIDI hardware Compare the controller’s MIDI outputs with the inputs and channel settings on your equipment. If my existing sound modules are central to my setup, I want to know first whether the physical connections and channels are compatible; around 14% of consumers prioritise this connection.

Common buying mistakes

  • Confusing a layer function with a complete sound setup

    A controller sends MIDI, but the receiving instruments and audio output determine how you hear the sound.

    Before choosing, map out the MIDI channels, instruments, monitoring and audio output in your rehearsal setup.

  • Choosing a clip grid when you mainly want to play keys

    Clip and sequencer controls are designed for launching parts or patterns; they don’t automatically replace playing longer parts on a keyboard.

    Decide whether you want to play the next layer yourself or launch a pre-made part.

  • Assuming the controls will operate the right parameters straight away

    Assignable controls need the right settings in both the controller and the receiving software.

    Check the mapping for your exact DAW and set up the required commands in advance.

Brands to consider

Novation

The models reviewed offer different ways of working: the Launchkey MK4 is aimed at keyboard players and offers zones, while the Launchpad Pro [MK3] provides clip control.

  • Novation documents zones and layers for the Launchkey MK4 49, 61 and 88, and clip and scene control for the Launchpad Pro [MK3].
  • These functions aren’t interchangeable; check which way of working you want and set up the receiving instruments.

Arturia

The KeyLab mk3 models reviewed are worth considering if you’re looking for a keyboard with assignable control of software or hardware.

  • Arturia describes customisable MIDI CC settings for controls within a User Program.
  • This doesn’t confirm that every KeyLab variant can play two sounds at once without extra setup. KeyLab mk3 and KeyLab Essential mk3 are different models.

Native Instruments

Native Instruments says the Kontrol S49 reviewed is designed for playing and controlling software instruments, and also has MIDI connections.

  • For the S-Series MK3, Native Instruments lists polyphonic aftertouch, pedal inputs and MIDI connectivity.
  • Check how expression and control work with your specific plug-in and setup; the listed features don’t automatically mean your desired layer will work without configuration.

Akai Professional

The MPK261 reviewed combines a keyboard with pads, making it suitable for a workflow that also involves playing short parts or patterns.

  • Akai lists 61 semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch and pad-based pattern functions for the MPK261.
  • These model specifications don’t confirm a built-in function for layering two sounds at once, and don’t automatically apply to other MPK models.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI controller make the pad sound itself?

No. For a software-based setup, you also need a receiving instrument and a configured audio output. In Ableton Live, MIDI tracks have a MIDI input, and instruments convert MIDI into audio; check how your own setup works.

How do I set up two layers to play at the same time?

According to Novation, with the Launchkey MK4 49, 61 and 88 you can assign separate MIDI channels to Part A and B, then select Layer. Set the receiving tracks or instruments to those channels and make sure you can hear them; Novation’s example uses two enabled tracks.

What can I check if my KeyLab mk3 isn’t recognised after connecting it?

Arturia recommends connecting the KeyLab mk3 directly to a USB port on your computer using the supplied cable, rather than through a USB hub. Then refer to the instructions for your model and software.

What are my warranty rights in the Netherlands if a controller breaks down too soon?

Your statutory consumer rights apply alongside any manufacturer’s or seller’s warranty. According to ACM ConsuWijzer, the seller must resolve the issue free of charge if a product breaks under normal use sooner than you could reasonably expect. The circumstances matter, not just the stated manufacturer’s warranty period.

Is CE marking required for every MIDI controller?

Not on the same basis for every product: according to Dutch government information, CE marking is required for products that fall within a designated product group. Check which European requirements apply to a specific model; don’t assume it complies based on the brand name alone.