Keyboard player who improvises
You want to play melody and accompaniment without unwanted octave shifts. Compare the key range, size and touch response before considering extra controls.
Who is this for?
DAW recorder in the rehearsal room
You want to capture your playing as MIDI and hear the software instrument you’ve set up. Check the MIDI input, that the track can be armed for recording, and the audio output.
Travelling studio musician
You take your controller to different rehearsal rooms and may be willing to trade playing range for a smaller keyboard. Also check that its connections work with the equipment at each venue.
What should you look for when buying?
Start with the playing range and connection for your recording setup. Then consider how often you’ll transport the keyboard and which controls you want to use while playing.
| What to consider | What should you look for? | Who should consider this? |
|---|---|---|
| Playing range and touch response | Try playing your part on the exact key size. For example, compare 37 mini keys with 49 or 61 keys, or choose a larger keyboard if your part calls for it. | If I’m playing melody and accompaniment with both hands, I want enough range and a touch response that suits me. Around 31% of consumers put playing range and touch response at the top of their list. |
| MIDI recording and monitoring | Check the MIDI connection and whether you can enable the right input in your DAW. Arm the track for recording and test that you can hear the instrument through the audio output. | I need to capture the improvisation as MIDI and hear it through the sound source I’ve set up. Around 31% of consumers prioritise a working recording and monitoring setup. |
| Transport and setup | Measure the space available and check that you can still play your part on the smaller key size. Also check which connections are available in the rehearsal room. | If I’m taking the keyboard between rehearsal rooms, I weigh portability against playing space. Around 23% of consumers put transport and setup space first. |
| External MIDI equipment | Compare the keyboard’s MIDI output with the input on your external instrument. To record the sound you hear, you’ll also need a suitable audio connection. | If I want to control an external MIDI sound source, the connection needs to work with my equipment. Around 15% of consumers give connecting to external MIDI equipment top priority. |
Common buying mistakes
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Confusing a MIDI recording with an audio recording
MIDI stores performance data; it doesn’t automatically capture the sound of an instrument or the studio speakers. Decide in advance whether you want to save editable notes, audible audio or both.
To hear sound, load a software instrument or use an external sound source. If you want to record the sound from external hardware, you’ll also need to connect its audio output to a suitable input.
Recording sound from external hardware may require additional audio equipment; this is a different signal path from MIDI.
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Focusing only on the number of keys
A compact keyboard, a 61-key keyboard and a piano-style 88-key model differ in both key size and playing range. The number of keys alone won’t tell you whether the touch response suits you.
If possible, try playing your own part on the exact model and measure the space available in the studio.
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Assuming the DAW controls will work straight away
Manufacturers specify integration with particular DAWs and sometimes particular software versions. The controls you need won’t necessarily work with every studio setup.
Check the exact controller model and DAW version. Test separately to make sure notes are recorded and the controls you want work as expected.
Allow time to check the settings and test the controls before recording.
Brands to consider
Novation
The Launchkey 49 MK4 combines 49 keys with pads and controls for supported DAWs.
- Novation lists 49 semi-weighted keys, 16 velocity-sensitive pads and nine faders.
- How useful the DAW integration is depends on the software used in the studio. Specifications don’t tell you whether the touch response suits your playing style.
Arturia
The KeyLab Essential 61 mk3 combines 61 keys with DAW controls and a five-pin MIDI output.
- Arturia lists USB-C, a pedal input and integration scripts for the DAWs mentioned.
- Check the software requirements and connections available in the studio. Arturia describes the keyboard as a synth-piano hybrid, not as having hammer action.
Akai Professional
The MPK Mini Plus is a compact option with 37 mini keys, pads, MIDI connections and a built-in two-track sequencer.
- Akai describes the built-in sequencer as suitable for short patterns.
- The mini keys offer less room for parts played with both hands. Akai recommends updating the firmware before use.
M-Audio
The Keystation 61 MK3 focuses on 61 velocity-sensitive keys and USB-MIDI control.
- M-Audio also lists a five-pin MIDI output and a sustain input.
- The sustain pedal mentioned is sold separately. Compare the physical controls available if you want to operate lots of DAW functions from the keyboard.
Nektar
The Impact LX mk3 range includes a 61-key version with physical DAW controls.
- Nektar lists pads, faders, encoders and USB-C across the range.
- The DAW integration mentioned has version requirements for each programme. Check these for the LX61 mk3 and the DAW version used in the studio.
Joybuy product picks
These Joybuy picks are 61-key keyboards for players looking for room to improvise. Check which MIDI connection and features each model offers to make sure they suit your recording setup.
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Digital Piano MLS-931, 61 weighted keys
The 61 weighted keys offer plenty of range for improvising, while the title lists USB-MIDI for connecting to a recording setup.
The product name also lists 300 sounds, 300 rhythms, an LCD screen, speakers and a headphone socket.
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Electronic Keyboard Piano, 61 keys, MIDI controller
The 61-key layout may suit you if you want more room to play while improvising. Check that the connection works with your recording equipment.
The product name also lists speakers, a metronome and a music stand.
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Digital Keyboard Piano Kit, 61 keys, USB-MIDI
This 61-key keyboard lists USB-MIDI. Check that the connection works with the recording setup in your rehearsal room.
The product name lists a stand, stool, music stand, 300 tones, 300 rhythms and an LCD screen.
Frequently asked questions
Will a MIDI keyboard automatically record the sound of my improvisation?
No. A MIDI controller sends performance data. To hear sound, load a software instrument or use an external sound source. If you want to save the sound from external hardware, you’ll also need an audio signal connected to a suitable audio input.
How can I test whether the DAW records my playing before rehearsal?
Connect the controller, enable the MIDI input for notes if necessary, select a MIDI track and arm it for recording. Play a few notes and check both the recorded MIDI clip and the sound through the audio output. Ableton describes these steps for Live; menus may differ between DAWs.
What can I do if the notes sound delayed through my headphones?
First, check the audio interface, driver, plug-ins and buffer size. Ableton says a smaller buffer can reduce latency, but test the setting on the studio computer to make sure the audio continues to run smoothly. Changing keyboards won’t necessarily fix audio latency.
What are my warranty and cancellation rights when buying online in the Netherlands?
When you buy as a consumer, the product must meet what you can reasonably expect from it; the seller is your point of contact for your statutory guarantee. ACM ConsuWijzer generally states that you have 14 days to change your mind after delivery for online purchases, subject to legal exceptions. Check who the seller is and which returns terms apply to your order. The right to change your mind about a purchase is separate from your rights if the product is faulty or does not conform to the contract.
What product safety information should I check for a MIDI keyboard?
According to the Dutch government, electronic devices placed on the market in the EU must carry a CE mark. Check the marking and product information for the exact device on offer, especially if buying directly from outside the EU. Information about another model doesn’t automatically confirm the specification of the one you’re looking to buy.