Who is this for?

Bass sound tweaker

You play bass notes and want to adjust synth parameters using physical controls at the same time. Being able to assign controls in your own software is therefore more important than simply having a certain number of keys.

Producer with a small workspace

You’re looking for a keyboard and control layout that fits on your limited desk space, while leaving enough room for your other equipment.

Hardware synth player

You want to control an external synth, so you’ll need to compare the MIDI connections and required cables for both devices.

What should you look for when buying?

First decide whether you’ll be controlling a software synth or an external synth. Then check the controls, available space and connections to find the right fit for your setup.

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Hands-on sound control Check which synth parameters your DAW or instrument lets you assign to encoders and sliders. If you want to adjust sound settings while playing, check whether you can assign the controls you want to your synth’s functions. Around 36% of consumers put direct control of bass sounds first.
Fits your desk Measure the available width and depth, then compare them with the controller’s dimensions. If you have limited space next to your computer or other equipment, the keys and controls need to fit within the space available. Around 29% of consumers give desk space top priority.
DAW and software synth Check compatibility with your DAW and plug-ins, any required settings, and whether you can assign MIDI controls manually. If you want to control your recording software and software synth from the controller, check which functions work with your own software. Around 21% of consumers prioritise a smooth software workflow.
Connecting to an external synth Compare the MIDI connections, cable type required and power requirements of both devices. If you’re controlling an external synth, the signal path between the controller and synth needs to be compatible; a headphone socket is not a substitute for a MIDI output. Around 14% of consumers start by checking how the controller connects to external hardware.

Common pitfalls

  • Assuming a MIDI keyboard is a complete synth that makes sound on its own

    Controlling MIDI and producing audible bass sounds are two different things. Ableton describes MIDI controllers as controls for software instruments, among other things; that doesn’t automatically make the controller itself a sound source.

    Before buying, decide which instrument will produce the sound and how you’ll listen to it.

    You may also need suitable synth software or a hardware synth to produce sound.

  • Measuring only the width

    The stated depths of the models discussed vary, so a controller could take up more of a small desk than its width alone suggests.

    Measure the available width and depth, and allow room for cables and your other equipment.

  • Confusing a MIDI output with a compatible cable or an audio output

    The models discussed have different MIDI connections. For the iRig Keys 2 Mini, IK Multimedia specifies a TRS connection with an adaptor; a MIDI output is not an audio output either.

    Compare the connections on both devices and check which cable type and adaptor you’ll need.

    Some combinations may require a different or additional MIDI cable or adaptor.

Relevant brands for this use

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 is worth considering if you want to control a software synth using physical controls, or connect an external synth at a later date.

  • Arturia lists eight encoders, four sliders and a five-pin MIDI output for this model.
  • The stated dimensions are 355 × 220 × 50 mm. In particular, check that its depth will fit on your desk; Arturia recommends connecting directly to a computer port for a reliable USB connection.

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 is designed to work with several DAWs, while the FLkey Mini 25 MK2 is tailored specifically to an FL Studio workflow.

  • Novation describes DAW control features for these models; check which layout suits your software.
  • The FL Studio assignments on the FLkey don’t mean that the same pre-mapped controls are available in other DAWs.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini IV is worth a look if you’re after pitch and modulation wheels, as well as a MIDI output.

  • Akai lists mechanical pitch and modulation wheels, a MIDI output and the Studio Instrument Collection for this model.
  • Check the computer requirements and software compatibility before planning to use the bundled software as your sound source.

IK Multimedia

The iRig Keys 2 Mini is worth considering if desk depth is limited or MIDI in and out are important to you.

  • IK Multimedia gives the dimensions for this version as 324 × 139 × 54 mm and lists a headphone output.
  • According to IK Multimedia, the Mini specifically has no pitch or modulation wheels and no pedal input. Check the specifications for this version separately from the larger iRig Keys 2 models.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI controller produce the sound of my synth bass on its own?

Don’t assume it does: a MIDI controller sends performance and control data to a software instrument or external synth, for example. Choose your sound source first, then check the MIDI and audio connections; having a headphone output on a controller doesn’t change the distinction.

How do I get a USB controller working in Ableton Live?

In Ableton Live, set up the required MIDI ports and select the instrument and correct input on the MIDI track. Ableton recommends enabling only the ports you need; when testing, also check the track’s monitoring setting or make sure it’s armed for recording.

Should I expect software costs or registration requirements?

Check which software is included with the exact version, how activation works and whether your computer meets the requirements. Akai lists the Studio Instrument Collection and Ableton Live Lite 12 for the MPK Mini IV; check the system requirements for that bundle separately.

What warranty applies when buying in the Netherlands?

According to the Dutch government, a product must meet what you could reasonably expect from it. The Netherlands has no fixed statutory warranty period; if something is wrong, contact the seller, even if a manufacturer’s warranty is also offered.

Do I have a cooling-off period if I buy online from a business?

The Dutch government generally gives a 14-day cooling-off period for distance selling, with some exceptions. If a bundle includes separate digital software, check the terms for that item; don’t assume that every item has the same returns policy.