Who is this for?

Creating synth bass with a DAW

You want to play in a bassline and use physical controls to adjust a synth parameter as you play. The parameter you want must be available for assignment in your software.

Working with limited desk space

You share a workspace and are weighing up a compact keyboard against the number of notes you can play without changing octave.

Controlling an external synthesiser

You want to use a hardware synth you already own, so you need to match the controller’s connections to those of the synth.

What should you look for?

First decide whether your synth bass will come from software or an external hardware synth. Then choose the keyboard range and check that the controls work with your DAW.

What to consider What to look for Who it matters to
Synth parameter control Check how many controls you can assign and whether your DAW supports MIDI mapping for the parameter you want. If I want to adjust a sound parameter while playing, I want to know whether I can control it in my setup. Around 36% of consumers prioritise sound control.
DAW and sound source Check which DAW and software synth you use, along with any installation requirements or controller scripts. When I work in a shared music room, I want the controller to work with the software and sound source available. Around 29% of consumers prioritise DAW compatibility.
Space and playing range Measure the available desk space and compare the dimensions, key size and range you need for your bass part. If the desk is shared, I weigh up a compact size against how many notes I want to play without switching octaves. Around 21% of consumers prioritise workspace and playing range.
Connecting to hardware Compare the synthesiser’s input with the exact controller’s output, and check the power requirements too. For consumers who want to control an external synth, the connection is crucial; around 14% prioritise hardware connectivity.

Common buying mistakes

  • Mistaking a controller for a standalone synthesiser

    A standard MIDI controller sends MIDI messages to software or other equipment; it does not produce an audible synth bass sound by itself.

    Before buying, check which sound source and audio output you’ll use in your music room.

  • Assuming every knob automatically controls the functions you want

    Physical controls and their assignment in your DAW are two separate things. Settings can vary between controllers and software.

    Compare the controls on the exact model with the MIDI mapping in your DAW and synth plug-in.

  • Assuming USB alone will control a hardware synth

    USB, 5-pin MIDI and CV/Gate are different connections. The connection that works depends on the outputs and inputs on your devices.

    Compare the connections on both devices and check how the controller is powered. Depending on your setup, you may also need a suitable cable or power solution.

Brands to consider

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 is a compact option if you want to combine keys with several types of physical controls.

  • According to Arturia, the MiniLab 3 has 25 slim keys, eight encoders, four faders and a 5-pin MIDI output.
  • Having physical controls doesn’t mean the plug-in parameter you want is already assigned; Arturia provides setup steps for specific DAWs.

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 is worth considering if you want a wider playing range at your fingertips and DAW controls.

  • Novation lists 37 mini keys, eight encoders and 16 velocity-sensitive pads for this model.
  • Check which controls your version of the DAW actually supports; integration with certain software isn’t guaranteed to work in every setup.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini Plus is a 37-key option to consider if you also want connections for external equipment.

  • Akai lists eight knobs, MIDI and CV/Gate connections, and an internal sequencer for the MPK Mini Plus.
  • Don’t confuse the MPK Mini Plus with the MPK Mini MK3: Akai describes the MK3 as a USB MIDI controller that relies on computer software for sound.

Nektar

The Impact LX Mini is designed as a compact USB keyboard with controls and pads for a software-based workflow.

  • Nektar lists 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys, eight pads and eight knobs for this model.
  • The stated DAW integration is the manufacturer’s description; check compatibility with the DAW you use.

Native Instruments

The KOMPLETE KONTROL M32 could suit a compact software setup if the described Komplete Kontrol workflow works with your instruments.

  • Native Instruments lists 32 keys, eight touch-sensitive knobs and USB power for the M32.
  • The integration with Komplete Kontrol described by the manufacturer won’t automatically work with every synth plug-in.

Joybuy products

A Joybuy keyboard with MIDI controller functionality to consider for a synth bass workflow. Check first that the connections and DAW controls work with your setup.

Black electronic keyboard with 61 keys and MIDI controller functionality

Electronic keyboard with MIDI controller, 61 keys, black

Could suit you if you’re looking for a keyboard instrument with MIDI controller functionality and built-in speakers. For synth bass via software, check that the connection and MIDI controls work with your DAW.

The product name lists 61 keys, a recording function, speakers, a metronome and a music stand.

View at Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI keyboard produce a synth bass sound by itself?

Not if it’s a standard controller without its own sound source. Akai describes the MPK Mini MK3 as a controller that sends MIDI messages to computer software; in Ableton Live, an instrument converts MIDI into audio. Check which sound source and audio output you’ll use.

How do you set up a control to change a synth parameter?

First check that your DAW recognises the controller, then assign the control you want to an available parameter. Ableton explains how to map MIDI controls manually; Arturia provides additional setup steps for specific DAWs for the MiniLab 3. The exact controls depend on your software and plug-in.

What should you check when using a keyboard in a shared music room?

Check the available desk space, the computer connection, and the DAW and software available on the computer. Don’t assume a controller is already set up for your synth; check that the assignments you need are available in your workflow.

What return and warranty rights apply to a purchase in the Netherlands?

According to the Dutch government, in many cases you have 14 days to change your mind when buying remotely, but exceptions and the type of seller matter. If a product is faulty, the seller must provide a solution. The Dutch government also states that there is no fixed statutory warranty period in the Netherlands that is the same for every product.

What legal requirements should you check when buying an electronic MIDI keyboard in the Netherlands?

The Dutch government states that electronic devices placed on the market in the EU must meet the applicable safety requirements and carry a CE mark. This doesn’t confirm that a particular version or offer meets those requirements; check the exact version and seller before buying.