Who is this for?

DAW pattern-maker

You want to play, edit and record arpeggios in a software project. Ableton explains how a MIDI arpeggiator creates patterns and how MIDI is routed to an instrument.

Producer with an external synthesiser

You also want to control equipment outside your computer. Arturia lists MIDI DIN, sync and CV/Gate as connection options on the KeyStep 37 mk2.

Producer with a small desk

You’re looking for a compact keyboard and weighing up playing space against pads, knobs and software controls. Models from Arturia, Akai Professional and M-Audio differ in the number of keys and the controls they offer, among other things.

What should you look for?

First, decide whether you want to use the arpeggiator in your DAW or on the controller. Then check the connections and DAW controls you need, and finally compare the keyboard range with the space available on your desk.

Consideration What to look for when buying Who should consider this?
Creating and recording arpeggios Check whether you want to edit arpeggios on the controller or create them in your DAW, and test how the MIDI notes you need are recorded. Do you want to create patterns as you play and then edit them in your software project? Shoppers who prioritise pattern creation make up around 36% of this group of buyers.
DAW integration and recording controls Check compatibility with your DAW and version, as well as how MIDI input and controls are set up. Do you want to control recording and playback without having to keep going back to your computer? Shoppers whose main concern is DAW control make up around 29% of this group.
Controlling external instruments Compare the connections and control options on both the controller and your synthesiser. Do you also want to send patterns to an external synthesiser? Shoppers who prioritise these connections and controls make up around 21% of this group.
Desk space and playing range Measure the space available and compare the keyboard range and controls on the exact models you’re considering. Short on space but still want enough keys within reach? Shoppers who care most about the balance between size and playing space make up around 14% of this group.

Common buying mistakes

  • Assuming the DAW automatically saves the arpeggio notes you play

    The MIDI routing determines whether the pattern you hear can later be edited as the notes you want.

    Before settling on a workflow, make a short test recording and check which MIDI notes the DAW saves.

  • Assuming USB-MIDI means you can connect to any hardware synthesiser

    A USB connection doesn’t tell you whether the controller is compatible with the MIDI, sync or CV connections on your external instrument.

    Compare the connections and control options on both devices. Depending on your equipment, you may also need a suitable interface or cable.

  • Mistaking a software trial for a permanent licence

    For the FLkey Mini 25 MK2, Novation describes a six-month trial of FL Studio Producer Edition; it isn’t a permanent full licence.

    Check the offer terms for the exact model and think about which DAW you want to use afterwards. Continuing to use the software after the trial may involve additional costs.

  • Treating the Akai MPK Mini MK3 and MPK Mini IV as the same model

    Akai distinguishes between the models and lists different arpeggiator features, connections and control options for the MPK Mini IV.

    Check the full model name and the specifications of the unit you’re considering.

Brands to consider

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 is designed for compact arpeggio and DAW control, while the FLkey Mini 25 MK2 is made for controlling FL Studio.

  • According to Novation, the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 has 37 mini keys, a built-in arpeggiator and DAW integration.
  • The FL Studio Producer Edition mentioned with the FLkey offer is a six-month trial, not a permanent full licence.

Arturia

The KeyStep 37 mk2 is designed for arpeggios and sequencing with external equipment, while the MiniLab 3 is aimed at compact, software-focused studios.

  • According to Arturia, the KeyStep 37 mk2 has MIDI DIN, sync, CV/Gate and a step sequencer. The MiniLab 3 has a built-in arpeggiator and 25 keys.
  • The connections and sequencer on the KeyStep 37 mk2 are not specifications of the MiniLab 3.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini IV is designed as a compact controller with pads and arpeggiator controls.

  • Akai lists arpeggiator features, a MIDI output and USB-C for the MPK Mini IV.
  • Akai distinguishes these features from those of the older MPK Mini MK3, so check the full model name.

M-Audio

The Oxygen Pro Mini is designed as a compact keyboard with an emphasis on DAW controls.

  • M-Audio describes the controller as USB-powered, with 32 mini keys and customisable DAW controls.
  • To use the integration described, you’ll need to select the right configuration in your DAW.

Native Instruments

The Komplete Kontrol M32 is designed as a compact keyboard for use with Komplete Kontrol and NKS instruments.

  • Native Instruments lists 32 keys and controls for chords and arpeggios.
  • The arpeggiator works through Komplete Kontrol software; this doesn’t mean it has a standalone hardware arpeggiator.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does the keyboard need its own arpeggiator to record arpeggios?

No, not if your DAW has a suitable MIDI arpeggiator. Ableton describes this feature in Live 12; check how your own DAW routes and records the notes it generates. If you want to adjust patterns directly from the controller, compare models with a built-in arpeggiator.

Why can’t I hear anything when I connect only a MIDI keyboard?

MIDI data isn’t an instrument you can hear on its own. Select a software instrument or suitable external sound source in your DAW, then check the MIDI input and monitoring. Ableton explains that an instrument converts MIDI into audio.

Is the FL Studio software supplied with an FLkey a permanent licence?

No, the offer for FL Studio Producer Edition described by Novation is a six-month trial. You’ll need an eligible FLkey device to register; check the terms for the exact model and offer.

Who should I contact about a faulty keyboard, and what about returns?

For a faulty product, the seller is your point of contact under Dutch statutory consumer protection law. The Government of the Netherlands says there is no single fixed statutory guarantee period for all products. For an eligible online purchase from a business, the cooling-off period is generally 14 days; different rules apply to purchases from a private individual.

Can I share music recorded at home by other people without permission?

No, not simply because you recorded the music at home. According to the Government of the Netherlands, you can make a private copy of copyright-protected music for your own use, but you can’t share or publish it without permission.