Who is this for?

Lead player who shapes their sound

You want to change pitch and modulation by hand while playing a solo. Controls vary by model: Novation, Arturia and Akai Professional describe options including wheels and touchstrips.

Player with a hardware synth

You bring an external sound source to rehearsal and want to match the controller's outputs to your synth's inputs and controls.

Player looking for a wider key range

You play longer lead phrases and are weighing up mini keys and a compact keyboard against full-size keys, with more of them within easy reach. Models from Akai Professional, Novation and M-Audio illustrate the different key sizes and numbers available.

What should you look for?

Start with the sound source and connection: these determine how your controller works with your computer or external synth. Then compare the physical controls and key size with the space you have and the way you play at rehearsals.

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Expressive controls Compare the pitch and modulation controls, such as wheels or touchstrips, and check which messages your synth or software receives. Novation, Arturia and Akai Professional describe different control types for each model. If I want to control pitch bend and modulation straight away while playing a lead, I look at the physical controls and their assignments. Around 36% of consumers prioritise expressive controls.
Connection to hardware Make a note of your synth's inputs and compare them with the controller's outputs. Novation and Arturia describe models with MIDI-DIN; M-Audio confirms USB-MIDI for the Keystation 49 MK3. With an external synth, I want to know in advance whether both devices have a compatible connection. For around 29% of consumers, connecting to hardware is the top priority.
Key size and range Play your own phrase on mini keys and full-size keys, and check how much space your setup allows. Akai Professional, Novation and M-Audio list different key sizes and numbers for each model. If I'm playing a longer phrase, I want to know how much of it is within easy reach and whether the keys feel comfortable. Around 21% of consumers prioritise key size and playing range.
Software and audio setup Test your software synth, MIDI input and audio output together using the buffer setting you plan to use for rehearsal. Ableton explains that a smaller buffer can reduce latency. With a software synth, I want to play my part without distracting latency. For around 14% of consumers, getting the software and audio setup working is the top priority.

What to watch out for

  • Mistaking a MIDI controller for a keyboard with built-in synth sounds

    A standard MIDI controller doesn't produce audible sound itself. It sends control data to a software instrument or external sound source, as Novation explains.

    Before you buy, decide which software instrument or hardware synth will create your lead sound, and how its audio will reach the rehearsal setup.

  • Assuming USB-MIDI and a five-pin MIDI connection are interchangeable

    The models mentioned have different connections. A USB-MIDI connection doesn't automatically let you connect directly to a synth with a five-pin MIDI input.

    Compare the inputs and outputs on both devices, then test the connection and settings before rehearsal. Novation, Arturia and M-Audio describe connections specific to each model.

  • Choosing based on the number of keys alone

    Mini keys and full-size keys feel different and affect how much of your part you can play straight away. Controls such as wheels and touchstrips also vary by model.

    Play one of your own phrases using pitch bend and modulation, and check that the size suits your playing style and available space.

  • Blaming latency on the MIDI keyboard alone

    With a software synth, the software and audio settings are also part of the signal chain. Ableton explains that a smaller buffer can reduce latency.

    Test the audio interface, driver, software synth and buffer setting together with the session you plan to use at rehearsal.

Brands to consider as a reference

Novation

The Launchkey MK4 range combines keys, physical controls and DAW features. According to Novation, the Launchkey 37 MK4 also has a five-pin MIDI output.

  • Novation lists 37 full-size synth-action keys, pitch and mod wheels, and a MIDI output for the Launchkey 37 MK4.
  • Check the DAW features and assignments with your own software. The controller isn't a standalone sound source.

Arturia

Arturia describes the KeyStep 37 mk2 as a compact hybrid option and the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 as a separate model with a larger keyboard and DAW controls.

  • For the KeyStep 37 mk2, Arturia lists velocity sensitivity, aftertouch, and pitch and modulation touchstrips. For the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3, Arturia lists 49 velocity-sensitive keys and wheels.
  • The models use different types of controls. Check that the connection and controls are compatible with your synth.

Akai Professional

According to Akai Professional, the MPK Mini Plus is a compact controller with 37 mini keys and connections for external equipment.

  • Akai Professional lists pitch and modulation wheels, MIDI/CV/Gate connections and a built-in two-track sequencer for this model.
  • The smaller keys may be a trade-off if precise lead playing matters to you. Akai's claims about the playing feel are manufacturer claims.

M-Audio

The Keystation 49 MK3 offers a straightforward way to get 49 full-size keys, wheels and USB-MIDI for software instruments.

  • M-Audio lists velocity-sensitive keys, pitch and modulation wheels, and USB power.
  • Don't assume this model has a direct five-pin hardware connection without checking separately; its stated use is primarily with computer software.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Can I hear a synth lead with just a MIDI controller?

No, a standard MIDI controller doesn't produce synth sounds itself. You'll need a software instrument or an external sound source. Also check how its audio will reach the rehearsal setup.

How do I connect a Launchkey 37 MK4 to a hardware synth without a DAW?

Novation describes using USB power and a MIDI cable from the five-pin MIDI output to compatible external hardware. Check your synth's MIDI input and settings; MIDI sends control data, not an audible audio signal.

What can I do if my software synth responds with a delay?

Test the interface, driver and buffer setting in your audio setup. Ableton explains that a smaller buffer can reduce latency; check which setting works reliably with your software and session.

Am I automatically entitled to exactly two years' legal guarantee in the Netherlands?

No. According to the Rijksoverheid, the Netherlands has no fixed legal guarantee period. You're entitled to a product that meets what you could reasonably expect; if there's a fault, contact the seller.

Can I return a controller bought online within 14 days?

According to the Rijksoverheid, a 14-day cooling-off period applies in many cases to eligible consumer purchases made at a distance. Not every online transaction is covered by this rule, such as a purchase from a private seller. Check which terms apply to your purchase.