Two-handed chord player
You play ambient chords yourself and want enough keys to reach different chord voicings without constantly changing octaves. Novation offers the Launchkey MK4 with 49 or 61 keys.
Who is a MIDI keyboard for ambient chords suitable for?
Live sound shaper
You want to control software or connected equipment parameters while sustaining chords. Choose controls and connections to suit your sound source and setup; Arturia and Novation describe models with hands-on controls.
Mobile rehearsal player
You take your keyboard with you and weigh up playing range against portability and the space available. The Akai MPK Mini Plus has 37 mini keys; compare this size with the way you play chords.
What should you look for when choosing a MIDI keyboard?
First, work out how you’ll hear the sound and what playing range suits your parts. Then consider the controls and connections your setup needs.
| What to consider | What to look for when buying | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Key range and playing feel | Compare 37 mini keys with 49 or 61 keys against the chord voicings you play; check the dimensions and, if possible, try the key action. | If I play chords with both hands, I want to reach the notes I need straight away. Around 31% of consumers prioritise key range and playing feel. |
| A working sound setup | Check the sound source, MIDI connection, power supply and audio route to your studio setup. | If I don’t already have a complete signal chain, I want to know in advance how my keyboard, sound source and audio system will connect. Around 31% of consumers prioritise having a working sound setup. |
| Live sound control | Check whether the model has the controls or pedal input you need, and whether they work with your software or equipment. | If I want to adjust parameters while playing a chord, I need controls I can use with my setup. Around 25% of consumers prioritise being able to make adjustments while playing. |
| Portability and space | Measure the available space and compare it with the dimensions and key size of the exact model. | If I need to take my keyboard to rehearsals, I want it to fit the space available without making my chord voicings impractical. Around 13% of consumers prioritise portability and space. |
Things to watch out for when buying
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Assuming a MIDI controller is a keyboard that produces sound on its own
A standard MIDI controller doesn’t produce sound by itself. Without a suitable sound source, you won’t hear the chords you play through your studio setup.
Map out the whole signal chain: keys, MIDI, sound source, audio and audio system.
If you don’t already have a suitable sound source or the audio connections you need, you’ll need to include these in your setup too.
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Choosing based on the number of keys alone
A model with 37 mini keys differs from a 49- or 61-key keyboard in playing range, key size and the space it takes up. More keys aren’t essential for every player.
Try playing or note down the chord voicings you usually use, and measure your available space before choosing a size.
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Assuming every sustain pedal will work
Pedal inputs and compatibility can vary between keyboards. Arturia notes a compatibility issue between the KeyLab Essential mk3 and the KORG DS1H.
Check the compatibility information for both the exact keyboard and the pedal.
You may need a different pedal if they aren’t compatible.
Brands to consider
These brands offer options with different key ranges, connections and controls. The features listed apply to the specific models and versions mentioned.
Novation
The Launchkey MK4 is available with 49 or 61 keys, combining playing range with software controls.
- Novation specifies semi-weighted keys, faders and encoders for these models.
- The 61-key version is wider, so check that it fits your playing space and is practical to transport. The benefits of DAW integration depend on your software and setup.
Arturia
The KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 combines 49 keys with controls and connections for a computer or compatible external MIDI equipment.
- Arturia specifies velocity-sensitive keys, USB-C, a five-pin MIDI output and a pedal input.
- Check that your choice of pedal and the automatic controls suit the exact model and your setup.
M-Audio
The Keystation 49 MK3 offers a straightforward USB-MIDI connection for playing notes on a software instrument.
- M-Audio lists 49 velocity-sensitive keys, USB power and a sustain pedal input.
- The sustain pedal mentioned is sold separately. Check which connections your sound source requires.
Akai Professional
The MPK Mini Plus is a compact option for players who want mini keys and a chord mode.
- Akai says this model has 37 mini keys, a chord mode, and MIDI, CV and Gate connectivity.
- Check that the smaller keys and limited playing range suit the way you play chords; extra connections are only useful with compatible equipment.
Joybuy products for playing chords and MIDI connectivity
This selection includes keyboards and digital pianos with 61 keys for playing parts yourself. For each model, check that the listed MIDI connection, sound features and audio connection suit your rehearsal studio.
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Digital Piano MLS-931, 61 keys, black
Worth considering if you want to play chords yourself and check that the listed MIDI and sound features suit your setup.
61 weighted keys; the product name lists USB-MIDI, speakers, a headphone socket, LCD, 300 sounds and 300 rhythms.
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Electronic keyboard piano, 61 keys, black
Consider this model if you’re looking for a 61-key keyboard with the MIDI controller function listed in the product name.
The product name lists 61 keys, speakers, a recording function, metronome and music stand.
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Digital keyboard piano set, 61 keys
An option if you’re looking for a set with a keyboard and stands; check that the connections and features suit your studio setup.
The product name lists USB-MIDI, a stand, bench, music stand, 300 tones, 300 rhythms, an LCD screen and a three-level learning function.
Frequently asked questions about MIDI keyboards for rehearsals
Can I connect a MIDI keyboard straight to an audio system and hear sound immediately?
A standard MIDI controller doesn’t produce sound by itself. You’ll need a suitable computer with sound software or an external sound source. You’ll also need to work out how to route the audio from that source to your audio system. Oostendorp Muziek explains that a MIDI keyboard does not produce sound on its own.
What should I check when connecting a sustain pedal?
Check whether your exact keyboard has a pedal input and whether the pedal is compatible. Arturia notes a compatibility issue between the KeyLab Essential mk3 and the KORG DS1H; this warning does not automatically apply to other models.
What extra purchase might I need for a sustain pedal?
Check whether a pedal is included with the keyboard. M-Audio says the sustain pedal for the Keystation 49 MK3 is sold separately.
Do I have a cooling-off period when buying online in the Netherlands?
According to the Dutch government, when buying at a distance from a business, you usually have a 14-day cooling-off period, although there are exceptions. Check that you’re buying from a business and which terms and conditions apply to your purchase.
What guarantee applies to a product in the Netherlands?
If a product is faulty, you can claim under your statutory rights from the seller. The Dutch government says there is no fixed statutory guarantee period in the Netherlands; the product’s expected lifespan is taken into account.