A MIDI controller such as the MPK Mini MK3 doesn’t produce sound itself: Akai Professional describes it as a controller that sends MIDI to computer software. So connect a suitable sound source and listen through its audio output using headphones. Choose the number of keys based on the space available on your desk and how much of a bassline you want to play without switching octaves. Consider the mechanical noise of the keys separately: headphones or a particular number of keys won’t guarantee quiet key action.
If you’re writing basslines while others need some peace and quiet, you can listen through headphones connected to your computer or another sound source. The mechanical noise of the keys is a separate consideration.
If you need to keep your workspace clear, you can weigh up a compact keyboard against its playing range. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as measuring 355 × 220 × 50 mm.
If you’d rather switch octaves less often, compare the number of keys with the space you have available. Novation describes the Launchkey Mini 37 as a 37-key model.
Headphones let you hear the sound from your connected computer or another sound source, but they don’t tell you anything about the mechanical noise of the keys. So check both your listening setup and the feel of the keys.
| What to consider | What should you look for? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Listening without speakers | Check that your computer or other sound source has instrument software and a headphone socket. A standard MIDI controller doesn’t have its own sound source. | If I want to hear basslines without using speakers, I need a suitable sound source and headphones; around 37% of consumers put quiet listening first. |
| Desk space | Measure the space available and compare it with the dimensions of the exact model. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as measuring 355 × 220 × 50 mm. | If I want to keep my workspace clear, a compact keyboard that fits matters a great deal; around 27% of consumers give desk space top priority. |
| Playing bass phrases | Compare 25, 32 and 37 keys with the playing range you want, and check whether octave controls suit the way you work. Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 37 as having three octaves. | If I want to play longer phrases with fewer octave changes, I look at the range under my fingers; around 18% of consumers put playing range first. |
| DAW controls | Check the support and settings for your model and DAW. M-Audio describes a configuration step in the DAW for the Oxygen Pro Mini. | If I want to control software features from the keyboard as well as play bass notes, I check how it works with my DAW; around 18% of consumers give these controls top priority. |
You won’t hear MIDI notes without a connected sound source. Akai Professional explains that the MPK Mini MK3 sends MIDI to computer software rather than producing sound itself.
Before buying, check which computer, synthesiser, instrument software and listening setup you already have, and what you want to control with them.
Headphones let you hear the sound from your sound source, but they won’t automatically prevent the mechanical noise of the keys.
If possible, try the keys in a suitable setting and don’t assume they’ll be silent.
Your keyboard needs to suit both the space available on your desk and your playing range and preferred controls.
Compare the dimensions of the exact model, octave controls, connections and support for your DAW.
The MiniLab 3 combines 25 slim, velocity-sensitive keys with controls for a compact setup. Arturia also lists a 5-pin MIDI output.
The Launchkey Mini 25 and Mini 37 have 25 and 37 mini keys respectively, along with pads and controls for music software.
The MPK Mini MK3 is a compact MIDI controller with pads alongside the keys.
The Oxygen Pro Mini has 32 mini keys and controls for music software.
The Impact LX Mini is designed for a compact DAW workspace, with 25 mini keys, octave buttons and transport controls.
Not with a standard MIDI controller: it doesn’t produce sound itself. Connect the controller to a suitable sound source and listen to its audio output; check the connections on the exact devices you’re using.
Check that the software has an instrument sound loaded and that the audio output is set up correctly. Akai Professional explains that the MPK Mini MK3 sends MIDI to computer software rather than producing sound itself.
Check the manufacturer’s support information and installation instructions for your model and DAW. Arturia provides mapping scripts for selected DAWs; M-Audio also describes a configuration step in the DAW for the Oxygen Pro Mini.
For a typical online consumer purchase in the Netherlands, you generally have a 14-day cooling-off period after delivery, subject to legal exceptions, according to ACM ConsuWijzer. You’re also entitled to a product that meets what you can reasonably expect; if it’s faulty, the remedy depends on the relevant legal rules.
