Who is this for?

DAW producer

You create short patterns on your computer and want to enter them using keys or pads rather than relying solely on a mouse.

Standalone melody pattern creator

You want to programme notes on the device and not have to rely on the DAW interface for every step.

Drum pattern creator

You want to enter a beat using pads and work out whether the melody and drums need separate sequencer tracks.

What should you look for?

For a short pattern in a home studio, your choice mainly depends on where you want to programme the notes: in the DAW, on the controller or via external equipment.

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Sequencing notes on the device Check whether the exact model lets you programme individual notes and steps, and whether the pattern length and polyphony suit what you want to create. If I want to enter melody notes directly on the controller, I need to know which steps and notes the device can handle. Around 36% of consumers say standalone melody sequencing is their main need.
Entering a pattern in the DAW Check compatibility with your DAW and distinguish between clip control, arpeggiator functions and step input. If I mainly develop the pattern in software, hands-on input and control from the controller are important. Around 29% of consumers say DAW input is their main need.
Separating drums and melody Check whether the pads send MIDI notes or can also programme an independent drum pattern on the hardware. If I want to create a beat alongside a melody, I check whether the parts can be programmed separately. Around 21% of consumers say creating drum patterns is their main need.
Connecting external equipment Compare the MIDI connections, connector type and any clock or CV/Gate requirements of the controller and instrument. If I use external synthesisers or modular equipment, the connections and synchronisation need to suit my setup. Around 14% of consumers say synchronising external instruments is their main need.

Common buying mistakes

  • Confusing an arpeggiator pattern with a full step sequencer

    On the Novation Launchkey Mini 25 MK4, the described Arp Pattern switches arpeggiator steps on or off. That doesn’t prove you can freely programme each melody note step by step.

    Check the manual for the exact model to see how to enter notes, rests and steps.

  • Checking connections only after you’ve bought it

    A MIDI output on a minijack or a CV/Gate output won’t necessarily fit every input.

    Make a note of the connections and synchronisation requirements for both the controller and the instrument before choosing a combination.

    You may need a suitable cable or adapter, so check what your setup requires.

  • Assuming extra warranty cover replaces your full statutory rights

    According to the Dutch government, the Netherlands has no fixed statutory warranty period. An additional warranty is separate from your statutory rights and doesn’t replace them.

    Before choosing an optional warranty package, check what it covers and which terms and conditions apply.

    An optional warranty package may involve an extra cost.

Brands to consider

Arturia

Arturia’s KeyStep models are worth considering if you’re looking for a built-in melody sequencer and connections to software or hardware.

  • Arturia specifies a polyphonic step sequencer with up to 64 steps and eight-note polyphony for the KeyStep 37 mk2.
  • Arturia specifies four independent polyphonic sequencers for the KeyStep Pro. You won’t necessarily need that extra capacity if you want to enter one short pattern in a DAW.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini Plus combines mini keys, drum pads and a built-in sequencer for melody and drum ideas.

  • Akai specifies two internal sequencer tracks and eight pads for the MPK Mini Plus.
  • A Dutch Bax Music retailer page lists this model as ‘discontinued’; that doesn’t definitively say anything about its availability from other sellers.

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 is designed for entering patterns and controlling a DAW.

  • Novation specifies 25 mini keys, 16 pads and DAW integration.
  • Novation describes the Arp Pattern feature as control of arpeggiator steps. Don’t confuse it with a polyphonic step sequencer for freely programmable notes.

Korg

The SQ-1 is worth considering if you’re mainly looking for a compact step sequencer for an external setup and don’t need a keyboard.

  • Korg specifies 16 or 2 × 8 steps.
  • Korg specifies a MIDI output on a minijack; check that the connector type is compatible with the instrument you want to control.

Products on Joybuy

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Can I create a short pattern with a MIDI controller without a computer?

Only if the device can sequence on its own and your setup also has a suitable sound source. Arturia specifies a built-in step sequencer for the KeyStep 37 mk2. With the Novation Launchkey Mini 25 MK4, you should distinguish between entering patterns in a DAW and the eight-step Arp Pattern feature.

What should I check when connecting an external synthesiser?

Check the MIDI connector type and, if you use synchronisation or modular equipment, the clock and CV/Gate connections required. Korg specifies a MIDI output on a minijack for the SQ-1; Arturia lists MIDI, clock and CV/Gate connections for the KeyStep Pro.

Am I automatically entitled to exactly two years’ statutory warranty in the Netherlands?

No. According to the Dutch government, the Netherlands has no fixed statutory warranty period: what you can reasonably expect from a product is also taken into account. An additional warranty is separate from your statutory rights.

Can I return a controller bought online?

For a standard online consumer purchase, you generally have a statutory cooling-off period of up to 14 days after delivery, according to ACM ConsuWijzer. Exceptions may apply; also check the terms for any digital content supplied with the product.

Which product safety rules apply in the Netherlands?

The relevant European product rules apply to electrical and electronic devices placed on the Dutch market. Ondernemersplein lists safety, electromagnetic compatibility and CE marking with an EU declaration of conformity among the requirements. The rules that apply to a particular model depend, among other things, on its electrical and any wireless functions. This general information does not confirm that any individual product offered for sale complies.