Who is this for?

Producer who layers pads live

Wants to play chords while hearing two sounds at once, and is looking for clear controls for layers and sound parameters.

Home worker using headphones

Wants to hear and adjust a pad without turning up the speakers; the right choice also depends on the software, audio output and monitoring setup.

Creator with a small desk

Balances playing range against the controller’s size, and can build layers in software.

What should you look for?

Layers in your music software

Choose this if: you want to layer several software instruments in one project. In Ableton Live, instrument chains in an Instrument Rack can receive the same input.

The trade-off: you don’t need a Layer button on the keyboard, but you will need to set up the software and controls you want to use.

Two MIDI channels from the keyboard

Choose this if: you want to control two instruments at once from the keyboard. According to Novation, the Launchkey 49 MK4 has a Layer mode for Parts A and B.

The trade-off: set the receiving instruments or tracks to the right channels; the controller itself doesn’t make any sound.

Compact keyboard, layers in software

Choose this if: desk space matters more than having a wider playing range at your fingertips. The Akai MPK Mini Plus has 37 mini keys.

The trade-off: mini keys and a smaller range may be less suitable if you play wide chords or parts across several registers.

What to consider What should you check? Who should prioritise this?
Two sounds at once Check whether you’ll create layers in your DAW or want to send two MIDI channels from the keyboard. Then compare the controls you need. If I want to play and adjust two pad sounds at once, I prioritise layer controls; around 36% of consumers put this need first.
Quiet listening Check where to plug in your headphones and how to select the audio output in your software. If you want to hear the pad through headphones without turning up the speakers, pay particular attention to your audio setup; around 29% of consumers prioritise quiet monitoring.
Keys and playing range Compare the number and size of the keys with the chords and registers you want to play at the same time. If I need room for chords and different registers, I look at the keyboard’s range first; around 21% of consumers put this at the top of their list.
Desk space Measure the space available and allow room for cables. If you want to use a controller on a small desk, weigh its size against the playing range available straight away; around 14% of consumers prioritise their available workspace.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming a MIDI controller is a keyboard with its own pad sounds

    A MIDI controller sends performance data, but you also need an instrument to turn it into sound. Akai states this for the MPK Mini Plus.

    Before buying, check which sound source you’ll use and which audio output you’ll listen through.

  • Assuming a Layer button will set up the software for you

    With the Launchkey 49 MK4, the receiving instruments or tracks need to be set up correctly for Parts A and B to respond.

    Check the channel assignments and monitoring with your DAW and instruments.

  • Looking only at the number of keys

    A controller with 37 mini keys and a 49-key model offer different playing ranges at your fingertips and take up different amounts of desk space.

    Compare the key size and available space with the chords you want to play at the same time.

Brands to compare

Novation

The Launchkey 49 MK4 is worth considering if you want to layer two MIDI parts from the keyboard and have controls for sound parameters.

  • Novation specifies a Layer mode for Parts A and B, eight encoders and nine faders for this model.
  • The receiving instruments or tracks need to be set up correctly; the controller itself isn’t a sound source.

Arturia

The KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 is an option if you’re looking for 49 velocity-sensitive keys and controls for software instruments and DAW use.

  • Arturia specifies nine encoders, nine faders and included Analog Lab software.
  • Check that the features you want work with your DAW and software version, and find out what the current software bundle includes.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini Plus is a compact option if you’re looking for mini keys, knobs and connections for external equipment.

  • Akai specifies 37 mini keys, eight assignable knobs and a built-in two-track sequencer.
  • The smaller keyboard is a compromise if you want to play wide-ranging parts; the controller itself doesn’t produce sound.

M-Audio

The Oxygen Pro 49 is designed for controlling software instruments and DAW functions from a 49-key keyboard.

  • M-Audio describes assigning functions such as transport and fader controls after selecting and configuring your DAW.
  • Check that it works with your software version and setup.

Native Instruments

The Komplete Kontrol A49 is particularly relevant if you use Komplete or NKS instruments.

  • Native Instruments specifies 49 keys and eight pre-mapped, touch-sensitive knobs for Komplete and NKS plug-ins.
  • Don’t assume other plug-ins will have the same pre-mapped controls.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does the MIDI keyboard make sound on its own?

Don’t assume it does: a MIDI controller sends performance data to an instrument that produces audio. Akai confirms this for the MPK Mini Plus; check whether each other model has its own sound source.

How can I create a two-layer pad without a Layer mode?

In Ableton Live, you can put instruments in parallel chains in an Instrument Rack so they receive the same MIDI input. Then set up the sounds, levels and monitoring you want. For other DAWs, check which equivalent feature is available.

What should I check if I want to play through headphones?

Select the right output in your audio software and plug your headphones into your computer or audio interface. Ableton explains how to set up audio outputs and connect headphones to an interface; a MIDI connection won’t select that output for you.

When shopping online in the Netherlands, do I always have 14 days to change my mind?

When you buy from a business at a distance, you’ll often have a 14-day cooling-off period. The Dutch government lists some exceptions; buying online from a private seller is not included in its example of distance selling. Check which terms apply to your purchase.

Is the statutory guarantee in the Netherlands always two years?

No. According to the Dutch government, there is no fixed statutory guarantee period in the Netherlands. You’re entitled to a product that meets what you can reasonably expect from it; if a product is faulty, the seller must provide a solution.