For a shared desk, a compact controller is a sensible choice if you need to put it away regularly. A 49-key model with faders may suit your workflow better if you prioritise playing range and hands-on control, and have the space for it. Also check whether you can map the controls to the MIDI CCs used by your string library. Spitfire Audio specifies CC1 for dynamics and CC11 for expression in the libraries described, but these assignments don’t automatically apply to other libraries.
If you need to set your controller up and put it away regularly, its dimensions and key size are important considerations. Novation User Guides lists the Launchkey 37 MK4 as 557 mm wide and 251 mm deep; compare these measurements with the space you actually have available.
If you want to control dynamics or expression as you play, check which controls your string library supports. Spitfire Audio specifies CC1 for dynamics and CC11 for expression in the libraries described; other libraries may use different settings.
If you prefer to play passages on a keyboard and want hands-on control, consider a model with more keys and faders. The 49-key models mentioned take up more desk space; Novation User Guides lists the Launchkey 49 MK4 as 730 mm wide and 264 mm deep.
Suitable for a workspace where you want to be able to put your controller away regularly, but need a wider playing range than a very small keyboard offers. Novation lists the Launchkey 37 MK4 as measuring 557 × 251 mm.
Trade-off according to the manufacturer, the Launchkey 37 MK4 has no faders. Assign another suitable control if you want to adjust a parameter independently.
Suitable for a desk where easy storage is the priority and you mainly enter individual lines or parts. According to Akai, the MPK Mini Plus has 37 mini keys and assignable knobs.
Trade-off mini keys feel different from larger keys, so check that the size suits the way you play.
Suitable for a workspace where you can set aside room and want a wider playing range and hands-on controls. According to their manufacturers, the Novation Launchkey 49 MK4 and Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 both have 49 velocity-sensitive keys and nine faders.
Trade-off check how much space you have and whether your DAW and string library work with the controls you want to use; the stated features don’t guarantee automatic mapping.
| Consideration | What should you check? | Who should prioritise this? |
|---|---|---|
| Space and storage | Measure the available width and depth, allowing room for cables too. Novation User Guides lists 557 × 251 mm for the Launchkey 37 MK4 and 730 × 264 mm for the Launchkey 49 MK4. | If I need to put my controller away after arranging, I want to know whether it will fit in the free space on my desk. Around 33% of shoppers give space and tidying away the highest priority. |
| Dynamics and expression | Check the CC settings for your own string library and whether you can assign a knob, wheel or fader to the parameter you want. Spitfire Audio specifies CC1 for dynamics and CC11 for expression in the libraries described. | If I want to adjust expression while playing, I need to know which controls my library actually recognises. Around 27% of shoppers prioritise hands-on expression control. |
| Playing range and key size | Decide whether you mainly enter individual notes or play longer passages. Also compare 37 mini keys with larger keys, and check the exact variant. | If I want to play parts on keys, both the number and size of the keys matter to my workflow. Around 20% of shoppers say playing range and key size are their main priority. |
| DAW and plug-in workflow | Check support for your DAW and version, then see whether the MIDI CC assignment you want works in the plug-in. Manufacturer information about integration applies to the configurations specified. | If I want to use DAW features and plug-in controls while arranging, I need to know whether my software setup supports this. Around 20% of shoppers prioritise their software workflow. |
The CC1 and CC11 assignments mentioned apply to the Spitfire libraries described. Your own library may use different settings.
Check your library’s documentation and see whether you can assign the parameter you want to a control before relying on a particular type of control.
The Launchkey versions reviewed also differ in size and whether they have faders. The number of keys alone won’t tell you whether a version will fit on your desk or provide the controls you need.
Compare the exact variant with the free space on your desk and the controls you want to use.
A larger model takes up more of the shared desk, which can make it harder to put away.
Software bundles and DAW connections vary by model. An included bundle doesn’t guarantee that your string plug-in will automatically recognise the controls.
Check the contents and licence terms of the exact bundle, and its compatibility with your DAW and string plug-in.
The Launchkey MK4 range includes 37- and 49-key versions, which differ in size and controls.
The KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 is a 49-key controller, while the MiniLab 3 is a smaller model in the same brand family.
The MPK Mini Plus combines 37 mini keys with controls in a compact keyboard layout.
The Impact LX mk3 range includes 25-, 49-, 61- and 88-key versions and is designed for DAW control.
The Oxygen Pro 49 is a 49-key controller with controls for DAWs and virtual instruments.
No, faders aren’t a general requirement. For the Spitfire plug-in described, MIDI Learn can map a suitable knob or fader to a parameter; check the features and assignments available in your own library. Spitfire Audio specifies CC1 for dynamics and CC11 for expression in its libraries.
Don’t assume so. Manufacturers list support for specific DAWs and sometimes particular versions or configuration steps. Check the documentation for the exact controller and your DAW before relying on transport or control integration.
Akai’s support information says the firmware must be updated before use and that registration is required to redeem the included software licences. Follow the latest instructions from the manufacturer for your version.
According to the Dutch government, when you buy from a business online or at a distance, you often have a 14-day cooling-off period, although there are exceptions. You’re also entitled to a product that works as it should; if there’s a problem, the seller is your point of contact for the statutory guarantee. When you place your order, check who the seller is and what terms apply to any included software.
