For editable arpeggio notes, choose a MIDI keyboard that works with your DAW and the arpeggiator you want to use. To capture the sound of a synthesiser, you’ll also need a software sound source or a separate audio recording setup. Novation explains that MIDI carries control data, not sound. Then compare the connections and clocking options with your equipment, and choose a keyboard size that suits your space and playing style.
You want to play a software instrument during rehearsals and edit the MIDI parts later. Check how the arpeggiator is controlled, how your DAW is configured and how the separate audio signal is routed. Novation describes the arpeggiator controls on the Launchkey MK4 and explains that MIDI itself carries no sound.
You want to send patterns to external equipment and synchronise the tempo across your setup. Connections and clock settings matter, so check they suit your synthesiser and workflow. Arturia and Akai Professional describe the connection options on the models mentioned here.
You move between rehearsal rooms or have limited desk space, so you’re considering mini keys. Compare the key size with what you want to play during rehearsals; a compact format may offer less room to play. Akai Professional and M-Audio specify mini keys on the models discussed here.
First decide whether you want to record editable MIDI notes, audible sound or both. Then consider whether you’ll mainly use a DAW, external synthesisers or a combination of the two.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Creating and recording arpeggios | Check the arpeggiator on the exact model and test whether your DAW records the MIDI notes it generates. | If I want to play patterns during a rehearsal and edit the individual notes later, the arpeggiator needs to work well with my recording setup. Around 33% of consumers would make recording arpeggios their top purchase priority. |
| DAW and audio recording | Check your DAW settings and software sound source. To capture the sound of your hardware, use a suitable audio output and recording setup. | If I want to record the sound of my synthesiser as well as the editable part, I need a suitable audio signal path in addition to MIDI. Around 27% of consumers would make DAW and audio recording their top priority. |
| Hardware and synchronisation | Compare the connections with your synthesiser and decide which device will provide the clock. Check the cables and power supply too. | If I want to control my synthesisers directly and keep patterns in sync, the connections and clock settings need to suit my setup. Around 20% of consumers would prioritise hardware connections and synchronisation. |
| Size and playing feel | Measure the space available and decide whether mini or larger keys suit your playing style. | If I often take my keyboard with me or have limited desk space, I weigh portability against the room the keys give me to play. Around 20% of consumers would make size and playing feel their top purchase priority. |
MIDI carries control data, not the audible sound itself. A MIDI track alone won’t capture the audio from a synthesiser.
Before you buy, map out both the route from the keyboard to the MIDI track and the route from the sound source to the audio recording.
A USB connection to a computer and a direct MIDI-DIN connection to a synthesiser are two different ways of connecting.
Compare the connections on the exact keyboard model with those on your existing equipment.
Different generations can have different features and connections. The specifications of an earlier model don’t automatically apply to a version with a similar name.
Check the full model name and use the manual for that specific version.
The KeyStep 37 mk2 is designed for arpeggios, sequencing and connecting a DAW to external equipment.
The Launchkey MK4 range is designed to control software instruments and a DAW, with built-in arpeggiator controls.
The MPK Mini Plus combines a compact keyboard with an arpeggiator, sequencer and connections for hardware.
The Oxygen Pro Mini is a compact USB controller for use with software.
This selection includes an electronic keyboard piano with a MIDI controller function and a stated recording function. Check that its recording output and connections suit your DAW or synthesiser; MIDI alone doesn’t capture sound.
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The product name lists a MIDI controller function and a recording function. Check that the recording function supports the type of recording you need.
Listed features: 61 keys, built-in speakers, metronome and music stand.
To record audible sound, you’ll need a suitable software or audio recording setup in addition to MIDI.
Not with a MIDI connection alone: MIDI carries control data, not sound. Use a software sound source or record the audio output from your hardware sound source. Novation also explains this distinction.
Check the physical MIDI and sync connections, and decide which device will provide the clock. Arturia describes separate USB, MIDI and sync clock modes for the earlier KeyStep 37; don’t assume those controls work the same way on the KeyStep 37 mk2 without checking.
Don’t assume they do. Check the full model name and consult the manual for that exact version before comparing connections or features.
For electrical and electronic devices covered by the relevant European requirements, the Dutch government describes CE marking and an EU declaration of conformity as obligations. Check the information for the specific version; the model name alone doesn’t prove compliance.
Many applicable distance sales contracts with a business come with a 14-day cooling-off period. The Dutch government lists exceptions and distinguishes between buying from a business and buying from a private individual; check whether the rules apply to your specific purchase.
