If you want to play notes and adjust software sounds at the same time, choose a keyboard controller with keys and assignable controls. If you already have a way to input notes and mainly want to adjust parameters, a control surface without keys could be a good fit. Either way, check the software mapping, connections and sound source you’ll need.
Wants to adjust parameters using physical controls while listening, and uses a computer, software instrument and audio output to do so. Novation explains the controls available on its controllers, while Bax Music outlines how a MIDI keyboard can control software or other MIDI devices.
Wants to play notes and adjust software sounds. The keyboard size and available parameter controls can help you decide which controller is right for your practice space. Novation and Arturia provide specifications for their controller models.
Wants to control an external MIDI synthesiser, so needs to check that the connections and routing are compatible with both devices. Novation and Akai explain the connections and settings for specific models.
First decide whether you mainly want to play notes, control sound parameters or operate external equipment during a practice session. Then compare the controls, software mapping and connections with your own setup.
| What to consider | What to look for when buying | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Direct parameter control | Check the number and type of knobs and faders, as well as how they can be mapped in your DAW or plugin. | If I want to adjust parameters while listening, I look for controls that my software recognises. Around 33% of consumers prioritise direct parameter control. |
| Playing and shaping sounds | Compare the number and size of the keys, their velocity sensitivity and the space available on your desk. | I want to play notes and change a sound at the same time, so a keyboard with easily accessible controls is important. Around 27% of consumers prioritise this combination. |
| Connecting to MIDI hardware | Check the MIDI ports, power supply and routing required on both the controller and the external device. | If I want to control a synthesiser I already own, I check that the connection will work with my setup. Around 20% of consumers prioritise hardware connectivity. |
| Workspace and software setup | Measure the available space and check which computer, software instrument and audio output you use. | If I have a small workspace or an incomplete software setup, I want to know in advance what will fit and what I’ll need. Around 20% of consumers have this priority. |
A controller won’t make a sound on its own: you’ll also need a software instrument or another MIDI instrument, plus a way to play the sound.
Before you buy, decide which DAW, instrument software and audio output you’ll use in your rehearsal studio.
A USB connection to a computer doesn’t automatically mean the controller can send signals directly to an external synthesiser. The ports and routing you need will depend on your setup.
Compare the connections and settings on the exact controller and the device you want to control.
For sound design, control over sound parameters can be just as important as the keyboard. A controller without keys will require another way to input notes.
Decide which controls matter most during your practice sessions, then compare the keys, controls and software mapping.
The Launchkey 49 MK4 combines a keyboard with controls, while the Launch Control XL 3 is designed for adjusting parameters without keys.
The MiniLab 3 and KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 combine keys and physical controls in different sizes.
The MPK Mini Plus is a compact keyboard controller with pads, controls and connections for external equipment.
A typical MIDI keyboard is used to control audio software or another MIDI instrument; it isn’t automatically a standalone keyboard that makes its own sounds. Check which software or external sound source will produce the sound, and where you’ll play the audio.
Select the right MIDI input and an instrument track in your DAW, and set up the audio output too. Arturia explains these steps for the KeyLab Essential mk3 and Analog Lab; the menus may differ with other combinations.
You can’t tell from the presence of a USB port alone. Check the ports, power supply and MIDI routing on both devices. Akai explains how use of the 5-pin output on the MPK Mini Plus depends on your setup.
For an online purchase from a business as a consumer, you’ll usually have a 14-day cooling-off period from delivery, although exceptions apply. ACM ConsuWijzer also explains that if a product doesn’t do what you could reasonably expect when used normally, you have statutory rights against the seller. A manufacturer’s guarantee doesn’t replace those statutory rights.
No. According to Business.gov.nl, CE is not an independent quality mark; it means the manufacturer declares that the product complies with the relevant EU rules. The rules that apply, and whether a mark is required, depend on the specific product.
