Who is this choice relevant to?

Synth bass creator

You want to play a bassline while adjusting sound parameters using physical knobs. Check which parameters your synth lets you assign, as Novation and Arturia recommend for their respective models.

Producer short on desk space

You’re looking for a keyboard and controls that will fit on your desk. Compare mini keys with larger keys, and measure the available space before you choose.

Producer with existing software

You already have a DAW or instrument library and want to know whether the controls will work with it. Native Instruments describes pre-mapped controls for Komplete and NKS plug-ins; check compatibility with your own software.

What should you look for?

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Sound control Check whether your synth or DAW lets you assign the parameters you want to the knobs. If I want to adjust the bass sound while playing, I need to know whether the knobs can be assigned to my synth parameters; around 33% of consumers prioritise direct sound control.
Keyboard and workspace Measure the available width and depth, and consider whether mini keys suit the parts you want to play. I want the controller to fit on my desk without sacrificing more room to play than necessary; around 27% of consumers prioritise the space available.
Software compatibility Check support for your DAW version, any setup requirements and, for external hardware, the type of MIDI connection you need. If I’ve already chosen my DAW or instruments, I want to know in advance whether the controls will work with them; around 20% of consumers prioritise software compatibility.
Listening at home Check whether you have a software or hardware synth and suitable audio output; take your living situation into account. At home, I want to listen to my synth bass while being considerate of my neighbours; around 20% of consumers prioritise a practical monitoring setup.

Pitfalls to avoid

  • Thinking a MIDI controller is a standalone synthesiser

    MIDI control data doesn’t contain any sound itself. Novation Support explains that you need a sound source to make the notes audible.

    Before you buy, work out what will turn the MIDI notes into bass sounds and how you’ll listen to them.

    To hear bass, you’ll need a sound source and suitable audio output as well as the controller.

  • Assuming lots of knobs will control every plug-in directly

    Pre-mapped controls and DAW scripts work under the software conditions described by the manufacturers. For example, Native Instruments lists Komplete and NKS plug-ins, while M-Audio says you need to select the right configuration in your DAW.

    Check your exact DAW and synth, test the knobs you want to use, and save a working configuration if your software supports it.

    Setting up mappings takes time, and the configuration you need can vary between DAWs.

  • Buying a larger keyboard without measuring your workspace

    Arturia lists the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 as 790 mm wide. A smaller keyboard offers a narrower playing range, so your choice depends on both what you play and how much space you have.

    Measure the available space, including room for your computer and controls, before choosing the number of keys.

Brands to consider

Novation

According to Novation, the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 combines a compact keyboard with encoders, pads and DAW integration.

  • Novation lists 25 mini keys and eight encoders for this model.
  • The knobs won’t automatically control the parameters you want in every synth; check the mapping in your own DAW.

Arturia

According to Arturia, the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 is designed around keys, physical controls and integration with Analog Lab and the DAWs it lists.

  • For this model, Arturia lists 49 keys, nine rotary knobs, nine faders and a 5-pin MIDI output.
  • It is listed as 790 mm wide; measure your desk and check DAW integration with your software version.

Akai Professional

According to Akai, the MPK Mini MK3 is a compact controller with 25 keys, pads and assignable knobs.

  • The manufacturer lists 25 keys and assignable knobs for the MPK Mini MK3.
  • Don’t assume every synth will be mapped to the knobs straight away. This model isn’t the same as the MPK Mini Play, which has built-in sounds.

Native Instruments

According to Native Instruments, the Komplete Kontrol M32 is a compact option for users of Komplete and NKS instruments.

  • The manufacturer lists 32 compact keys and eight touch-sensitive knobs, pre-mapped for Komplete and NKS plug-ins.
  • That pre-mapped control isn’t guaranteed to work with every external synth.

M-Audio

According to M-Audio, the Oxygen Pro Mini is designed for controlling a DAW with mini keys.

  • M-Audio describes this model as offering automatic mapping.
  • M-Audio also says you need to select the right configuration in your DAW; check that it works with your software.

Joybuy products

This Joybuy selection is a 61-key keyboard whose product title mentions a MIDI controller; check that its MIDI connection is compatible with your DAW or synthesiser.

Black 61-key keyboard with MIDI controller, recording function, speakers, metronome and music stand

Electronic Keyboard Piano 61-Key Black with MIDI Controller, Recording Function, Speakers, Metronome and Music Stand

The 61 keys may suit you if you’re looking for a wider playing range; check that the MIDI connection works with your equipment.

The product title describes a black 61-key model with a recording function, speakers, metronome and music stand.

The title also mentions a MIDI controller; check the connection and make sure it works with your own DAW or synthesiser.

View at Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI controller produce synth bass sounds by itself?

No, MIDI control data doesn’t contain any sound itself. Set up a software or hardware synth and an audio output; for a specific device, check separately whether it also has its own sound source.

What should I set up first after connecting it?

Select the controller as the MIDI input in your DAW, load a software instrument and choose your audio output. Then test whether the keys send notes and assign the knobs to the parameters you use for your bass; the steps vary by brand and DAW.

How can I keep my MIDI mappings useful?

Save a working setting or preset if your software allows it, and test the mapping again after changing your DAW, plug-in or configuration. Don’t assume the same pre-mapped controls will work with every instrument.

What are my rights when buying online in the Netherlands?

For a consumer purchase made online, there is generally a 14-day cooling-off period from delivery; ACM ConsuWijzer lists some exceptions. You’re also entitled to a product that, under normal use, does what you could reasonably expect, and the seller is responsible for the statutory guarantee. Check the terms for any digital software included separately.

Can I play loud synth bass in my loft at any time?

There isn’t automatically one national time or volume rule that applies to every loft. The Dutch government states that nuisance caused by neighbours may be covered by local by-laws in many municipalities, and advises you to talk to your neighbours first. The local or contractual terms that apply to your address depend on your municipality and living situation.