Who is this buying guide for?

Players with limited desk space

You want to record organ parts while still being able to use your mouse, computer keyboard and screen. So compare the keyboard’s full width and depth with the space you actually have available.

Players who adjust drawbars while performing

You want to shape the organ sound during a take. Don’t just look at how many controls there are: check their type and whether you can assign them to the functions you want in your organ plug-in.

Players recording longer parts

You play parts where a wider key range or larger keys matter more than having the smallest possible footprint. Decide how many octave changes you want to avoid while recording.

What should you look for when choosing?

First, measure the space left beside your computer controls. Then compare the controls, key range and connections with your own recording set-up.

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Desk space Measure the available width and depth, including room for cables. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 at 355 × 220 mm, Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 at 478 × 177 mm, and Arturia lists the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 at 790 × 240 mm. If I want to keep my mouse and computer keyboard in place, every centimetre counts. Around 33% of consumers prioritise the desk space available when making this choice.
Controls for the organ sound Check how many physical faders or rotary knobs the exact version has, and whether your organ plug-in lets you assign them to the functions you want. If I want to adjust drawbars while recording, I look for controls that suit my plug-in and playing style. Around 25% of consumers prioritise these controls.
Key range and key size Try playing your part on a keyboard with the same number and size of keys. Consider whether changing octaves during a take will work for you. If my parts need a wider range at my fingertips, I weigh up the number and size of the keys against the extra space the keyboard takes up. Around 25% of consumers choose based on playing range.
Connections and set-up Make a note of your computer, DAW, organ plug-in and any pedal or external MIDI connections. Then check that each model has the right ports and connections. If I also use a pedal, mobile device or external MIDI equipment, I want to know in advance how it will fit into my recording set-up. Around 17% of consumers prioritise connections and set-up.

Buying pitfalls

  • Choosing based on the word ‘compact’ alone

    Compact models vary in width and depth. You’ll also need to allow space for cables, your mouse and your computer keyboard.

    First measure the available desk space, then compare it with the dimensions of the exact version.

  • Assuming knobs, pads and faders do the same thing

    These controls work in different ways, and your organ plug-in determines which functions you can assign to them.

    Decide which parameters you want to adjust during a take, and check the MIDI mapping before choosing a model based on the number of controls.

  • Assuming the included software has the organ sound you want

    A bundle description does not confirm that it includes the instrument or features you want.

    Check the software bundle for the exact version and the requirements of the organ software you plan to use.

    Depending on your chosen set-up, you may need a separate organ plug-in. Also check whether you need a pedal or adapter.

Relevant brands and models

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 is designed for a compact work space, while the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 offers more keys and faders.

  • According to Arturia, the MiniLab 3 measures 355 × 220 mm and has 25 keys and four faders.
  • According to Arturia, the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 has 49 keys and nine faders, and measures 790 × 240 mm.
  • The models differ in size and key range, so check which dimensions and controls will suit your desk and plug-in.

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 offers 37 mini keys in a compact footprint.

  • Novation lists dimensions of 478 × 177 mm and eight encoders for the Mini 37 MK4.
  • This model has no faders. The Launchkey 37 is a different version: according to Novation, it measures 557 × 251 mm and also has no faders.

IK Multimedia

The iRig Keys 2 family is worth considering if you’re looking for a compact keyboard with specific connections.

  • According to IK Multimedia, the iRig Keys 2 has 37 mini keys, assignable rotary knobs and a pedal input.
  • The iRig Keys 2 Mini has 25 keys and, according to the manufacturer, no pedal input. So check the exact version and MIDI assignments for your plug-in.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini Plus is a 37-mini-key controller for anyone looking for production features alongside organ recording.

  • Akai Professional lists eight assignable rotary knobs and a built-in sequencer.
  • Rotary knobs aren’t the same as a row of physical faders, so check whether the controls suit the way you want to adjust drawbars.

Nektar

The Impact LX mk3 series is worth considering if you’re looking for faders and DAW integration and have room for its dimensions.

  • Nektar lists versions with 25 or 49 keys and eight faders for the mk3 series.
  • According to Nektar, the mk3 series replaces the LX+ products. So don’t assume LX+ specifications or mappings will apply without checking.

Products on Joybuy

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI keyboard produce the organ sound for my recording?

A standard MIDI keyboard controller operates a sound source, but doesn’t produce an organ sound by itself. Decide which organ software or other sound source you’ll use and how you’ll record it in your DAW.

Do the faders work as organ drawbars straight away?

There’s no guarantee. Compare the assignable controls on the exact keyboard version with your organ plug-in’s MIDI mapping, and test them before an important take.

What extra costs or requirements should I check?

Check which DAW and organ sounds are included with your chosen version, and whether you’ll also need a specific plug-in, pedal or adapter. Software bundles and connections vary between versions.

How do I set up the keyboard for recording?

Check the USB port and cable, select the keyboard as the MIDI input in your recording software, and save a working control assignment. Follow the manual for the exact version when cleaning the keys and controls.

What are my rights when buying online in the Netherlands?

According to the Dutch government, many distance contracts for consumer purchases come with a 14-day cooling-off period, although there are exceptions. In the Netherlands, statutory guarantees also apply, with no fixed statutory guarantee period; what you can expect if a product is faulty depends in part on the circumstances. Your statutory rights are separate from any additional manufacturer’s warranty.