Two-handed improviser
Wants room to play chords and melodies at the same time while recording, so compares how the keys feel with the space available in the studio. The Novation Launchkey 49 MK4 and Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 both have 49 keys.
Who is this for?
DAW-focused recorder
Wants to capture a part as editable MIDI and control recording features or software instruments from the controller. Check that your DAW and computer setup support the features you want; Ableton explains how MIDI performance data is recorded in a DAW.
Musician travelling between rehearsals
Is looking for a controller that takes up little space, but wants to check whether a shorter keyboard with mini keys suits the part. According to Akai Professional, the Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus has 37 mini keys.
What should you consider when choosing?
49 keys for more room to play
Choose this option if: you want to play with both hands while improvising and have space for a larger keyboard.
Bear in mind: the space it needs and the DAW support for the specific model. The Novation Launchkey 49 MK4 and Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 both have 49 keys, but their controls and software integration differ.
Compact controller with mini keys
Choose this option if: portability and a small playing surface matter more than a longer keyboard. The Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus combines 37 mini keys with pads and connections for external equipment.
Bear in mind: the shorter keyboard offers less room to play than the 49-key models mentioned above. If possible, try playing the part you have in mind on it first.
Controlling an external sound source
Choose this option if: you also want to control a synthesiser or another MIDI sound source in the rehearsal studio. According to their manufacturers, the Novation Launchkey 49 MK4 and Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 have a 5-pin MIDI output.
Bear in mind: MIDI sends performance data, not audio. Decide separately how you’ll record the sound from the external sound source.
The percentages below offer a general indication of which needs might take priority in this recording setup; they are not measured market shares.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who might find this especially important? |
|---|---|---|
| Room to play and key feel | Compare the number and type of keys; if possible, try playing your own part. | If I want to play chords and melodies with both hands, my top priority is a keyboard that can accommodate the part. Around 36% of consumers prioritise room to play and key feel. |
| MIDI recording and monitoring | Check DAW support, MIDI input, the software instrument and audio settings. | If I want to record my improvisation and listen back straight away, my entire software and audio setup needs to work. Around 29% of consumers put this recording workflow first. |
| Portability and studio space | Compare the dimensions and required connection space with the room available. | If I want to take my controller with me or have limited desk space, a more compact size matters, as long as the keyboard suits my part. Around 21% of consumers prioritise compactness. |
| External equipment | Compare the MIDI connections and plan separately how you’ll record the audio. | If I use an external sound source in the studio, I want to know whether the MIDI connections are suitable and how I’ll record the sound. Around 14% of consumers prioritise connecting external instruments. |
Common pitfalls
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Assuming a MIDI controller is a standalone recording instrument
MIDI captures or sends performance and controller data; it isn’t the same as recording audible audio.
Before you start, check how the controller, your DAW and your chosen sound source will connect, and decide whether you want to save MIDI, audio or both.
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Choosing based on the number of keys alone
A shorter or more compact keyboard can also differ in key size and playing space, which matters when you’re improvising continuously with both hands.
Compare the exact model and, if possible, try playing your own part on the keyboard.
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Confusing a MIDI output with an audio output
A MIDI output sends performance data to compatible equipment, but doesn’t record the sound from an external sound source itself.
Check both the MIDI connection and the separate audio connection you’ll use to record the external sound source.
Brands to compare
Novation
The Launchkey 49 MK4 is aimed at anyone looking for 49 keys, DAW controls and a MIDI output in one controller.
- Novation specifies 49 semi-weighted keys, 16 velocity-sensitive pads, USB-C, a 5-pin MIDI output and a sustain input.
- According to Novation, the sustain input doesn’t support an expression, soft or sostenuto pedal. Check DAW integration for your software.
Arturia
The KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 is designed for a setup with 49 keys, software instruments and control of a supported DAW.
- Arturia lists velocity-sensitive keys, USB-C, a 5-pin MIDI output and a pedal input for sustain, expression or a footswitch.
- Check which software bundle comes with the model and whether it works on the computer you’ll use for recording.
Akai Professional
The MPK Mini Plus is a compact option for anyone who values mini keys, pads and connections to external equipment.
- Akai Professional lists 37 mini keys, transport controls, an internal two-track sequencer and MIDI/CV/Gate connections.
- If you play with both hands while improvising, consider whether the mini keys and shorter keyboard will suit you.
M-Audio
The Oxygen Pro 49 is a 49-key controller worth comparing if you want transport and mixer controls for your DAW.
- M-Audio describes the controller as USB-powered and lists automatically mapped controls for supported software.
- M-Audio’s description of the software integration depends on the correct configuration in the relevant DAW.
Nektar
The Impact LX49 mk3 is worth considering if you want direct control of a DAW supported by Nektar.
- Nektar lists USB-C, encoders, faders and pads for the LX mk3 range.
- Nektar specifies particular software versions for some DAW integrations; check compatibility with your studio computer.
Joybuy products
Related products will be available soon.
Frequently asked questions
Does a MIDI keyboard record the sound of my improvisation by itself?
No. The controllers discussed here send performance data to a DAW or sound source. Set up a software instrument or external sound source, then decide separately whether to save the MIDI, the audible sound or both. Ableton describes MIDI recording as capturing performance and controller data.
What should I check before my first rehearsal?
Make a short test recording with the controller connected to the correct MIDI input and sound source in your DAW. Also check that you can listen back to the part and that the audio settings suit your setup. Ableton explains how buffering affects latency, while Arturia provides guidance on MIDI ports and audio settings.
What if a key or connection doesn’t work properly after I buy it?
When you buy as a consumer in the Netherlands, you’re entitled to a product that meets the terms of the agreement. If there’s a fault, the seller must provide a solution. The Dutch government says there’s no single fixed statutory guarantee period for all products. Any manufacturer’s warranty is in addition to your statutory rights.
Can I return a MIDI keyboard bought online?
When you buy from a business online, you generally have a 14-day cooling-off period, subject to applicable conditions and exceptions. The Dutch government explains this cooling-off period for distance purchases; it’s separate from your statutory rights if a product is faulty.
What product regulations apply to an electronic MIDI keyboard in the Netherlands?
Electrical and electronic equipment sold in the Netherlands must comply with the European product regulations that apply to it. Business.gov.nl lists electromagnetic compatibility and, where required by the regulations, CE marking and an EU declaration of conformity. The requirements for a specific model depend on the product; CE marking alone says nothing about how the keys feel or the quality of its recordings.