If you want to play pad chords yourself, choose a keyboard controller with enough range. If you mainly want to trigger existing layers, a clip grid may suit your workflow better. The Layer function on the Novation Launchkey 49 MK4 can control two MIDI channels from the same keys, but you’ll need to set up your software and instruments correctly. A MIDI controller doesn’t create pad sounds by itself: you’ll also need a sound source and a working audio output. When listening at a low volume, it’s still important to consider both volume and listening time.
You want to build layers using played chords and changes in sound, so you’ll need to consider keyboard range, controls and MIDI routing. Novation describes Layer on the Launchkey 49 MK4 as controlling two MIDI channels simultaneously from the same keys.
You’ll need a software sound source and a suitable audio connection to listen at a low level. Ableton explains how software instruments receive MIDI and output audio; Akai states that the MPK Mini Plus does not produce sound by itself.
You’d rather trigger recorded or programmed layers from a grid than play them live on keys each time. Novation describes the Launchpad Mini as a way to trigger clips and scenes in Ableton Live.
First, decide whether you want to play chords live or mainly trigger clips. Then consider the keyboard range you need, the space available and the audio connection you’ll use to listen at a low volume.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Playing chords and layers | Decide which chord voicings you want to play at the same time, and check that your software can receive the instruments and MIDI channels you need. Novation documents the Layer function for the Launchkey 49 MK4. | If I want to play chords myself and control several layers at once, I look at keyboard range and routing. Around 36% of consumers prioritise playing pad chords. |
| Listening at a low volume | Check which software instrument produces the sound, where the audio signal comes out and how you control the volume. The WHO points out that both sound level and listening time affect the risk to your hearing. | When I want to monitor quietly at home, the whole chain from MIDI to audio needs to work and be adjustable. Around 29% of consumers give listening at a low volume top priority. |
| Size and playing space | Measure the space available and compare the range you need with the keyboard size. Akai specifies 37 mini keys for the MPK Mini Plus; the Launchkey 49 MK4 has 49 keys. | If I have limited desk space, I want to know whether a more compact keyboard offers enough range for my chords. Around 21% of consumers put workspace and playing range first. |
| Triggering layers with clips | Check that your music software can use the grid to trigger the clips and scenes you want. Novation describes the Launchpad Mini as an 8×8 grid with 64 RGB pads for controlling clips and scenes in Ableton Live. | If I’d rather trigger existing layers than play them on keys, I look for controls that suit my clip-based workflow. Around 14% of consumers prioritise triggering clips. |
A controller sends MIDI data; you’ll also need a sound source with audio output to hear pad sounds. Akai specifically states that the MPK Mini Plus does not produce sound by itself.
Before you buy, check the full signal path, from MIDI input through your software instrument to the audio output.
According to Novation, the Launchkey 49 MK4 can control two MIDI channels from the same keys. Your software’s instruments and MIDI routing must also be set up to receive those channels.
Check both the function on the exact model and the settings for your software and instruments.
The Launchpad Mini is documented as a way to trigger clips and scenes. That’s a different way of playing from performing chords on a keyboard.
Before choosing, decide whether you want to play layers live or mainly trigger existing clips.
Novation describes both keyboard controllers for playing MIDI parts and a grid for clip-based control.
According to Akai, the MPK Mini Plus combines a compact keyboard with pads and connections for MIDI and CV equipment.
Arturia describes the KeyLab Essential mk3 as a controller for software instruments and DAW functions.
The Oxygen Pro 49 is designed for anyone looking for a keyboard with assignable controls and chord functions.
The A-49 is aimed at anyone who mainly wants to play on a keyboard.
Not necessarily: a MIDI controller sends performance data, which a software instrument can turn into audio. Also check where the audio signal comes out and how to set up monitoring.
Load suitable instruments in your music software and set up MIDI routing so that both receive the intended notes. According to Novation, the Layer function on the Launchkey 49 MK4 can control two MIDI channels from the same keys. Whether you can hear both sounds also depends on the settings of the instruments receiving them.
No. According to the WHO, the risk to your hearing depends on both sound level and listening time. Keep the volume low and pay attention to how long you listen for, too.
The Dutch government advises people experiencing noise nuisance to start by agreeing arrangements with their neighbours, such as when music can be played. This doesn’t set a generally permitted volume or a nationwide time limit for playing music at home.
