Who is this choice for?

String arrangers with limited desk space

If you record parts alongside your usual office work, you can weigh the controller’s dimensions against the key range you need. Arturia gives the MiniLab 3’s dimensions as 355 × 220 × 50 mm.

Arrangers who play in expressive parts

If you want to control dynamics or expression as you play, check which MIDI assignments your library uses and whether the controller has suitable controls. For example, Spitfire Audio describes CC1 for dynamics and CC11 for expression in the relevant libraries.

Arrangers who play parts directly

If you want to switch octaves less often, you can weigh a wider key range against the space the keyboard takes up on a shared desk. Some string patches also use keys outside the playing range to switch articulations.

What should you look for?

Compact keyboard with 25 mini keys

A good fit if: you have limited space and mainly record or edit parts one layer at a time.

Trade-off: a limited key range may mean switching octaves more often, especially if you also use articulation keyswitches.

Compact mid-size keyboard with 37 mini keys

A good fit if: 25 keys feel too limiting, but a 49-key keyboard won’t fit comfortably in your workspace. The Akai MPK Mini Plus has 37 mini keys.

Trade-off: check that the mini keys and knobs suit your playing style and the controls you need.

49-key keyboard with faders

A good fit if: you want to play string lines more directly and control parameters as you perform. Arturia and Novation list models with 49 keys and nine faders.

Trade-off: measure the available width and depth first; according to Novation, the Launchkey 49 is 730 mm wide and 264 mm deep.

Consideration What should you check? Who is this important for?
Dynamics and expression Check your library’s CC assignments and whether the faders or knobs can be assigned to the parameters you want. For the libraries described, Spitfire Audio lists CC1 for dynamics and CC11 for expression. I want to control dynamics, expression or articulations as I play without interrupting my workflow; around 34% of consumers make these controls their top priority.
Desk space and noise in the office Measure the available width and depth, and assess the physical sound of the keys and pads in a similar space. Arturia and Novation publish dimensions for their models. I want to keep my shared workspace clear and minimise disruption to colleagues; for around 33% of consumers, space and reducing disruption come first.
Key range for playing directly Check the playing and keyswitch zones of your own patch, and try a representative part on the keyboard size you’re considering. Spitfire Audio describes keyswitches for changing articulations. I want to play string lines or chords without constantly switching octaves; around 20% of consumers give direct keyboard playing their highest priority.
Software compatibility Check whether your computer and DAW recognise the controller, whether any integration is compatible with your software version, and whether your library supports MIDI Learn or the CCs you need. I want to use the controller with my existing DAW and string software; for around 13% of consumers, software compatibility is the top priority.

Common mistakes

  • Mistaking a sustain socket for an expression input

    According to Novation, the Launchkey MK4 does not accept an expression pedal through its sustain socket. If the socket isn’t suitable, you may need to control the parameter you want using another control.

    Check the exact model and the function of its pedal input. If needed, use an assignable fader or knob, provided your software supports that control.

    A pedal that doesn’t match the input may mean you need another way to control MIDI.

  • Choosing based on the number of keys alone

    A smaller keyboard takes up less space, but offers fewer keys at once. Some string patches use keyswitches outside the usual playing range, so the combination of patch and keyboard can affect your workflow.

    Measure your workspace and check the playing range and keyswitches of your own patches before choosing a keyboard.

    A keyboard that doesn’t suit the way you play may mean more octave changes or take up more desk space.

  • Assuming headphones make the device silent

    Headphones prevent sound coming from speakers, but don’t tell you whether keys, pads or a pedal make physical noise.

    Assess the sound of the controls separately if keeping noise down for colleagues is important.

Relevant brands to consider

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 and KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 differ in size and controls; that doesn’t automatically apply to every Arturia controller.

  • Arturia lists a configurable input for sustain, expression or a footswitch on both models.
  • The KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 has nine faders, compared with four on the MiniLab 3. A single listed pedal input doesn’t confirm that sustain and expression can be connected at the same time.

Novation

The Launchkey 49 MK4 is worth considering if you’re looking for 49 keys, faders and DAW integration.

  • Novation specifies 49 semi-weighted keys and nine faders.
  • According to Novation, the Launchkey MK4 pedal input is for sustain and does not accept an expression pedal.

Nektar

The Impact LX49 mk3 is a 49-key model to compare if you’re looking for faders and model-specific DAW integration.

  • Nektar lists eight faders, a modulation wheel and a pitch wheel, plus an input for a sustain footswitch.
  • The DAW integration listed is partly limited to specific software versions. The specifications cited don’t confirm an input for a continuous expression pedal.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini Plus is a 37-key model for anyone looking for a mid-size option with physical controls.

  • Akai lists 37 mini keys, pitch and modulation wheels, and eight assignable knobs.
  • The listed product specifications don’t show any faders. Check whether knobs suit the controls your string library requires.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Can I play string parts without disturbing colleagues through speakers?

Yes, you can listen through headphones instead of speakers. A standard USB MIDI controller such as Akai’s MPK Mini MK3 doesn’t produce sound itself; that’s generated by software on your computer. Using headphones doesn’t tell you whether the keys or pads make physical noise.

How do I assign a fader to expression in my string library?

First, check which MIDI CC the patch you’re using assigns to expression. For the libraries described, Spitfire Audio lists CC1 as the default for dynamics and CC11 for expression, and explains how to use MIDI Learn to link a control to a parameter; other libraries or patches may differ.

Can I connect any expression pedal to a pedal input?

No, the input’s function varies by model. Novation says the Launchkey MK4 input is for sustain and doesn’t accept an expression pedal. Arturia lists a configurable expression input on the MiniLab 3 and KeyLab Essential 49 mk3; also check that the specific pedal is compatible.

Do I need any other equipment besides a MIDI controller?

That depends on your existing setup: a controller such as the Akai MPK Mini MK3 sends MIDI signals to software, which generates the sound. Check that your computer, music software and audio output are suitable, and whether you also need headphones.

What are the rules for buying a controller online in the Netherlands?

For an eligible distance purchase from a business, you generally have 14 days to change your mind; the Dutch government lists some exceptions. According to Your Europe, CE marking is only required for products covered by harmonised EU rules that require it. Check the product information and seller for the specific product.