Who is a MIDI keyboard for arpeggios suitable for?

DAW user recording arpeggios

You want to create patterns with a software instrument and edit the individual notes later. In that case, keyboard controls and suitable MIDI routing matter more than connections for external equipment.

Music maker short on desk space

You share your desk with a computer and recording equipment. Consider whether mini keys or full-size keys suit your playing style and the space you have available.

Music maker with external synthesisers

You create patterns using devices outside your computer. Make sure the MIDI, clock and, if necessary, CV/Gate connections are compatible with the equipment in your own setup.

What should you look for in a MIDI keyboard for arpeggios?

First decide whether you’ll create the pattern on the controller, in a plug-in or using external equipment. Then choose the key size and connections that suit your workspace.

Keyboard with arpeggiator and DAW controls

Choose this option: if you want to shape patterns from keys or pads and mainly work with software. Novation lists a built-in arpeggiator, 37 full-size keys, pads and integration with specific DAWs for the Launchkey 37 MK4.

Keep in mind: check that your DAW receives the generated notes in a way you can edit. DAW integration doesn’t automatically mean the arpeggio output will be recorded in the way you want.

Keyboard with sequencer and hardware connections

Choose this option: if you want to use an external synthesiser or modular equipment. For the KeyStep 37 mk2, Arturia specifies features including an arpeggiator, sequencer, MIDI-DIN, sync, CV/Gate and USB-C.

Keep in mind: connections for external devices add little if you only use software instruments. The mk2 specifications don’t automatically apply to the older KeyStep 37.

Compact keyboard with mini keys and pads

Choose this option: if you also use pads to enter beats and want to control hardware. Akai specifies mini keys, pads, an arpeggiator, MIDI/CV/Gate/Clock connections and an internal two-track sequencer for the MPK Mini Plus.

Keep in mind: mini keys require a different playing technique from full-size keys. For arpeggios that follow the external clock, Akai also describes clock and MIDI sync settings in the DAW.

Compact keyboard for a software workflow

Choose this option: if you already work with Komplete or NKS instruments. Native Instruments specifies 32 compact keys, pre-assigned controls and Smart Play for arpeggios on the Komplete Kontrol M32.

Keep in mind: for Ableton Live, Native Instruments documents separate MIDI routing to send MIDI from the Komplete Kontrol plug-in. Don’t assume it works the same way in every DAW.

What to consider What to look for Who it matters most to
Recording arpeggios as MIDI Check in your DAW and plug-in whether the recording captures the generated notes, not just the keys you press to start the pattern. I want to be able to edit individual notes afterwards. Around 36% of consumers prioritise recording editable arpeggios.
Playing space on a shared desk Measure the space available and decide whether you’d rather play full-size keys or mini keys. I share my desk with computer and recording equipment and want a keyboard that fits comfortably. For around 29% of consumers, desk space and key size are the main considerations.
External synthesisers and sync Compare the connections and clock settings you need with the manuals for your own equipment. I want my external synthesisers to play in time with my recording. Around 21% of consumers prioritise connections for external equipment.
Existing plug-in workflow Check which plug-ins, DAW versions and MIDI routing are supported in your project. I already use Komplete or NKS instruments and want to stick with that workflow. Around 14% of consumers prioritise that software environment.

Buying pitfalls to avoid with MIDI keyboards for arpeggios

  • Assuming an audible arpeggio means the notes have been recorded and can be edited

    You may hear a pattern without the DAW recording the individual generated notes on the track you want. For Ableton Live, Native Instruments describes separate settings for sending MIDI from the Komplete Kontrol plug-in.

    Before you buy, test whether your DAW records the generated notes, not just the keys you pressed to start the pattern.

  • Assuming similarly named models are identical

    The KeyStep 37 mk2 and the older KeyStep 37 are different model versions. The same applies to the MPK Mini Plus and the MPK Mini Plus II; you can’t assume that features from one version are available on the other.

    Compare the full model name and check that the exact model has the ports and features you need.

  • Assuming USB-MIDI means a keyboard is suitable for arpeggios

    A MIDI connection alone doesn’t tell you whether a keyboard has the arpeggiator function and generated-note recording you’re looking for.

    Check separately whether the model has an arpeggiator and how MIDI output is recorded in your DAW.

Brands to consider for MIDI keyboards for arpeggios

Novation

Novation describes the Launchkey 37 MK4 as a DAW-focused option with a built-in arpeggiator and pad controls.

  • Novation specifies 37 full-size keys, 16 pads and integration with named DAWs.
  • Recording generated notes also depends on MIDI routing in your DAW.

Arturia

According to Arturia, the KeyStep 37 mk2 is designed to combine DAW use, sequencing and external MIDI or CV/Gate equipment.

  • Arturia specifies USB-C, MIDI-DIN, sync, CV/Gate and an arpeggiator for the KeyStep 37 mk2.
  • Check the full model name; the mk2 specifications don’t automatically apply to the older KeyStep 37.

Akai Professional

According to Akai, the MPK Mini Plus combines melody input, drum pads and connections for a compact hybrid setup.

  • Akai specifies 37 mini keys and an internal two-track sequencer for the MPK Mini Plus.
  • For arpeggios that follow the DAW clock, Akai describes additional editor and DAW settings. The MPK Mini Plus II is a different model.

Native Instruments

According to Native Instruments, the Komplete Kontrol M32 is primarily designed for a Komplete/NKS workflow with Smart Play.

  • Native Instruments specifies 32 compact keys and pre-assigned controls for Komplete/NKS.
  • For Ableton Live, Native Instruments describes separate MIDI routing for Smart Play; those instructions don’t automatically apply to every DAW.

Related products

Related products will be available soon.

Frequently asked questions about MIDI keyboards and arpeggios

Do I need a sound source as well as a MIDI keyboard?

Yes, if you choose a controller without built-in sound generation. MIDI carries information such as notes and playing data, while a software instrument or connected synthesiser produces the sound. Then check whether your DAW records the keys you press or the generated arpeggio notes.

How do I keep a hardware arpeggio in time with my recording?

Match your DAW’s clock source and MIDI output. For the MPK Mini Plus, for example, Akai describes selecting ‘External’ in the editor, enabling MIDI sync in the DAW and starting DAW playback. These steps don’t automatically apply to other models.

What can I do if music noise bothers my neighbours in a loft?

Check the rules that apply to your address and situation. The Dutch Government says that nuisance from neighbours may fall under local by-laws in many municipalities and advises trying to agree arrangements with your neighbours first. This isn’t an address-specific statement about permitted noise levels or times, and it says nothing about any permit or registration requirements for the keyboard.

What are the rules on cooling-off periods and faulty products when buying online in the Netherlands?

According to ACM ConsuWijzer, for a standard online consumer purchase you generally have up to 14 days after delivery to change your mind, subject to legal exceptions. If a product is faulty, the seller is responsible for the statutory guarantee. Before buying, check who the seller is and what terms apply to any software included.

Does an electric MIDI keyboard sold in the Netherlands need a CE marking?

A CE marking is required when the product is covered by harmonised EU rules that require it. The manufacturer assesses which requirements apply to the specific product; a model name or overseas product specification alone doesn’t confirm that a particular listing meets the applicable requirements.