Who is this choice for?

String arranger recording expressive parts

You want to shape the dynamics of long string notes using a wheel or fader. Check that your library lets you assign that control to the parameter you need.

Keyboard player working on complex parts

You want to play more notes at once and check whether the keyswitches are within reach. Spitfire Audio Help Centre notes that keyswitches can vary from one patch or instrument to another.

Arranger with limited desk space

You’re looking for a smaller keyboard and could enter notes or articulation changes in separate steps.

What should you look for?

First check which controls your string library uses and how you want to enter articulations. Then weigh up the keyboard size against the space you have available.

For the Spitfire libraries described, Spitfire Audio Help Centre lists CC1 for switching between dynamic layers in long patches. Check the documentation for your own library and patch before assigning a fader or wheel to a MIDI CC.

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Dynamics and expression Check which MIDI CC your library uses and whether you can assign it to a wheel or fader. If I want to shape long notes while playing, I focus on having direct control. Around 36% of consumers put expression first.
Playing range and articulations Check the number of keys and the keyswitch layout for the exact patch. Also check whether you can enter changes separately. If I want to play notes and articulations at the same time, I look at the range my patch requires. Around 29% of consumers prioritise playing range and articulations.
DAW and library Check support for your DAW and its version, as well as MIDI Learn or assignable controls in the plugin. If I want to control things from the keyboard, I first check that it works with my software. Around 21% of consumers put their software workflow first.
Desk space Compare the stated width and depth with the space available, and decide whether the shorter key range suits the way you play. If I share my home workspace, I weigh up the dimensions against the range I need. Around 14% of consumers choose mainly for a compact size.

Common pitfalls

  • Assuming nine faders will directly control string parameters

    The number of faders doesn’t tell you which functions your string plugin will assign to them. You may need to set up the controls yourself.

    Check which MIDI CCs your patch uses and whether MIDI Learn supports the assignments you want.

    Setting up MIDI assignments can take extra time.

  • Counting the keys but forgetting about keyswitches

    Articulation keys may sit outside your comfortable playing range, and their function can vary from patch to patch.

    Check the layout for your exact patch and decide whether you’ll switch articulations live, move the keyswitches or enter changes afterwards.

  • Expecting a compact keyboard to offer the same playing range as a larger model

    With fewer keys, it can be harder to play parts and articulation changes at the same time. Arturia lists 25 slim keys and four sliders for the MiniLab 3; the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 has 49 keys and nine faders.

    Measure the space available, then decide whether you need to be able to play notes and articulations at the same time.

Brands worth comparing

Novation

The Launchkey 49 MK4 is a 49-key model for anyone who wants to combine a keyboard with physical DAW controls.

  • Novation says this model has nine faders, eight encoders and a modulation wheel.
  • Check the DAW integration and MIDI assignments for your string plugin. These features don’t automatically apply to smaller Launchkey models.

Arturia

The KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 and MiniLab 3 offer different options for a permanent or compact desk setup.

  • Arturia says the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 has 49 keys and nine faders, while the MiniLab 3 has 25 slim keys and four sliders.
  • Choose based on the number of keys and controls you need. Don’t assume both models offer the same playing range or controls.

M-Audio

The Keystation 61 MK3 is worth comparing if you’re mainly looking for a larger keyboard to record parts.

  • M-Audio specifies 61 velocity-sensitive, semi-weighted keys, a modulation wheel and one volume slider.
  • If you want to control several fader functions directly at the same time, compare the number of physical sliders with other models.

Nektar

The Impact LX mk3 range includes different key counts, including 49- and 61-key models, for anyone who values DAW control.

  • Nektar lists eight faders and DAW integration for specific named programmes and versions.
  • Check whether your software version is supported and how the controls can be assigned to your string library.

Native Instruments

The Komplete Kontrol A49 is worth comparing if you use Komplete or NKS instruments.

  • Native Instruments describes it as having 49 semi-weighted keys, eight touch-sensitive knobs, and pitch and modulation wheels.
  • The stated pre-mapped controls are for Komplete and NKS plugins. Don’t assume they’ll work with every third-party string library.

Joybuy products

Related products will be available soon.

Frequently asked questions

Should I control CC1 or CC11 for strings?

It depends on your library and patch. Spitfire Audio Help Centre lists CC1 for the dynamic layers in long patches. Check the documentation for your own patch and assign the control you need if necessary.

Can I switch articulations on a small keyboard?

Some patches let you move the keyswitches or enter the changes separately in MIDI. Spitfire Audio Help Centre explains that patches can differ, and notes that for BBC Symphony Orchestra Discover you can move keyswitches if your keyboard doesn’t cover the standard range.

Does a MIDI controller produce string sounds by itself?

No. A standard MIDI controller sends performance and control information; you need a receiving instrument or software to produce sound. Loopcloud explains this distinction for MIDI controllers. Also check which DAW and library you want to use, and what’s included with the keyboard.

What cooling-off period applies to online purchases in the Netherlands?

ACM ConsuWijzer says that online consumer purchases generally come with a cooling-off period of up to 14 days after delivery, subject to statutory exceptions. Check which terms apply to your purchase and any software bundle.