First, decide where the sound will come from: a standard MIDI controller sends notes but doesn’t produce audible sound itself. You’ll need a software instrument or a connected synthesiser for that. Then consider the arpeggiator and how it syncs with your DAW, the keyboard’s range or the connections you need for external equipment. A model with built-in sounds and a headphone output is most relevant if you also want to listen without a computer.
You want to record repeating notes and changes in sound using a software instrument. Novation lists a built-in arpeggiator on the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4; also check that the controls and MIDI settings work with your DAW.
You want to listen to your ideas without disturbing anyone, so you need to know where the sound is produced and where to plug in your headphones. Ableton explains how an instrument converts MIDI into audio; Akai lists a headphone output on the MPK Mini Play MK3.
You want to send arpeggios to other equipment, so check its connections and synchronisation options. Arturia lists MIDI DIN, Sync I/O and CV/Gate for the KeyStep 37 mk2; other models don’t necessarily have these connections.
First, decide how you’ll create and listen to the sound. Then choose the controls and connections your recording set-up actually needs.
| What to consider | What to look for when buying | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Arpeggiator and DAW sync | Check the arpeggiator on the exact model and whether your DAW can configure the MIDI and clock ports you need. | If I record arpeggios in my DAW, I want the pattern to line up with the recording and tempo. Around 36% of consumers prioritise arpeggio recording and synchronisation. |
| Listening quietly | Decide whether you’ll listen through your computer or audio interface, or via a headphone output on the instrument. | If I want to practise quietly, I need to know which device produces the sound and where I can plug in my headphones. Around 29% of consumers prioritise the sound and headphone set-up. |
| Keyboard range and workspace | Compare the number of keys and measure the available space; Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as measuring 355 × 220 × 50 mm. | If I have limited desk space, I want a suitable size without sacrificing more keys than necessary. Around 21% of consumers prioritise a compact set-up and keyboard size. |
| Connecting external equipment | Compare the outputs on the exact keyboard with the connections and clock options on your synthesiser. | If I want to control external synthesisers, I need the connections and synchronisation to work with my equipment. Around 14% of consumers give this type of hardware connection top priority. |
MIDI notes aren’t the same as audio. Simply connecting a keyboard doesn’t automatically mean you’ll hear sound or be able to listen through headphones.
Before you buy, work out where the sound will be produced and where you’ll plug in your headphones.
A computer-based set-up may also need a suitable sound source or audio equipment.
Akai lists built-in sounds and a headphone output for the Play MK3. Don’t assume the standard MPK Mini MK3 has these features.
Check the full product name and the connections on the version you want to buy.
You may need to configure settings on both the keyboard and your DAW’s MIDI ports to sync them.
Check the model’s manual and test the clock source and MIDI recording in your own DAW.
Setting up MIDI routing and the clock may take extra time.
The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 and Mini 37 MK4 are designed for compact DAW set-ups and feature an arpeggiator.
The MiniLab 3 offers compact control of software; the KeyStep models are designed for sequencing and connecting external equipment.
The MPK Mini MK3 is a compact controller with pads; the MPK Mini Play MK3 is a separate version for playing without a computer.
The Oxygen 25 MKV is designed for controlling a software instrument and adjusting arpeggiator parameters.
Not from MIDI notes alone. With a DAW-based set-up, use a software instrument, configure the MIDI input and monitoring, then listen through a suitable audio output. The MPK Mini Play MK3 is a separate model with built-in sounds and a headphone output.
Check the clock source on the exact model and the MIDI Sync settings in your DAW. For some models, including the MPK Mini MK3, Akai explains how to set External Clock via the editor. Ableton warns that enabling Sync in both directions for the same device can cause a feedback loop.
That depends on the controller and the features you want to use. Ableton explains that class-compliant devices can work without a separate driver; other devices may need a driver from the manufacturer. Also check whether any model-specific software or settings are required.
According to the Dutch government, when you buy online from a business, you usually have 14 days to change your mind, although exceptions depend on the circumstances. Products must also be of satisfactory quality, and if something is faulty, you should contact the seller. The Dutch government states that there is no fixed statutory guarantee period for all products in the Netherlands.
