Who is this for?

Sound designer who works quietly

You make synth bass in a DAW and want to adjust parameters by hand while listening through headphones.

Musician with limited workspace

You want to play bass parts in a compact space and work out how many keys and physical controls you need.

External synth user

You want to control a separate sound source and need to manage the MIDI connection separately from the audio path to your headphones.

What should you look for when buying?

First decide how you want to play bass lines and control parameters. Then check that your sound source and headphones are connected correctly.

What to consider What to look for Who should prioritise this?
Controlling synth parameters Check which knobs or sliders are available and whether you can assign them to the parameters you want in your software. If I want to adjust parameters such as cutoff or resonance while playing, I look for controls that work with my plug-in. Around 36% of consumers with this buying question make parameter control their top priority.
Listening quietly Check which DAW or hardware synth produces the sound and where you can plug in your headphones. Also check the MIDI input, monitoring and selected audio output. If I want to work without speakers, I need a complete signal path from the instrument to my headphones. Around 29% of consumers with this buying question put a working listening setup first.
Keys and workspace Measure the available space and compare the number and size of the keys with the bass parts you want to play. If my workspace is compact, I want enough keys for my bass lines without taking up unnecessary space. Around 21% of consumers with this buying question make playing range and size their top priority.
Connecting an external synth Compare the inputs and outputs on both devices. If you’re using TRS MIDI, check the type too, and arrange the audio connection separately. If I want to control an external synthesiser, the MIDI connection needs to match its input, and I need a separate way to listen to the sound. Around 14% of consumers with this buying question prioritise compatibility with external hardware.

Common pitfalls

  • Mistaking a MIDI controller for a synthesiser

    A MIDI controller sends control data, but doesn’t produce audible synth bass itself. You’ll need a software instrument or external sound source, plus a separate audio path to your headphones.

    Map out the entire signal path before buying: controller, software or hardware instrument, audio output and headphones.

  • Assuming all the knobs will be assigned as needed straight away

    Pre-assigned controls depend on the software supported. With other plug-ins, you may need to assign the parameters manually.

    Check compatibility with your DAW and plug-in, and find out whether the controls can be assigned to your preferences.

    Allow time to set up the controls as you want them.

  • Confusing MIDI and audio connections

    TRS MIDI, five-pin MIDI and audio all serve different purposes. A MIDI connection doesn’t carry the sound you want to hear through your headphones.

    Compare the connections at both ends and check the type if you’re using TRS MIDI. Check the audio path separately.

    If the connections differ, you may need a suitable MIDI adapter or cable.

Relevant brands to consider

These brands offer different control and connection options. The features listed apply to specific models and software combinations.

Arturia

According to Arturia, the MiniLab 37 has 37 slim keys, eight encoders, four faders and a five-pin MIDI output.

  • The physical controls offer different ways to adjust software parameters.
  • Check the assignments in your plug-in. The controller isn’t a standalone sound source and doesn’t have its own audio output for headphones.

Novation

According to Novation, the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 combines 37 mini keys and eight encoders with DAW integration. This model uses TRS MIDI Type A.

  • The encoders and compact keys provide controls for a software-focused workflow.
  • Check the connection if you’re using an external synth with a different MIDI input. MIDI doesn’t carry audio to your headphones.

Akai Professional

Akai lists 37 mini keys, eight knobs, a two-track sequencer and MIDI and CV/Gate connections for the MPK Mini Plus.

  • The additional connections are useful if you use compatible external equipment.
  • The built-in sequencer doesn’t make the controller a standalone sound source.

Native Instruments

According to Native Instruments, the KOMPLETE KONTROL M32 has 32 compact keys and eight pre-mapped knobs for Komplete and NKS plug-ins.

  • The pre-mapped controls can be useful if you use these supported plug-ins.
  • Don’t assume the same mappings will work with every other synth plug-in.

M-Audio

M-Audio describes the Oxygen Pro Mini as a USB-powered controller with 32 mini keys and controls for DAWs and included virtual instruments.

  • The manufacturer describes automatic control for certain software and included instruments.
  • Check the configuration for your DAW and plug-in; don’t assume automatic mapping will work with all software.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI controller make a sound I can hear through my headphones?

No. The controller sends MIDI data; a software instrument or connected hardware synth produces the sound. You hear it through a suitable audio output and headphones. In your DAW, also check the instrument, MIDI input and track monitoring.

Do I always need a separate audio interface to work quietly?

Not necessarily, but you do need a working audio output for your headphones. If you want a separately adjustable headphone mix alongside speakers, Ableton recommends an audio interface with enough separate outputs.

What should I check if I’m sending MIDI but can’t hear anything?

Check that a software instrument is on the MIDI track, the controller is selected as the MIDI input, monitoring is set up correctly and the right audio output is selected. In Ableton Live, the ‘In’ setting always passes through the input; with ‘Auto’, you’ll hear monitoring when the track is armed for recording.

Should I turn up my headphone volume to hear the bass better?

No. Keep the volume at a moderate level and take breaks. The World Health Organization points out that both sound level and exposure time matter.