First, decide how you’ll control articulations and dynamics in your string library, then choose a key range that fits your shared desk. A compact keyboard leaves more room to work; 37, 49 or more keys can be more comfortable if you want to play in longer parts, but they take up more space. To hear any sound, you’ll also need a software instrument and a configured audio output, as well as MIDI input.
You want to control dynamics and articulations as you play. The controls you need depend on the library: Spitfire Audio describes the differences between long and short articulations, and mentions keyswitches or UACC for supported libraries.
You want to place the keyboard alongside your usual work equipment and listen to the software instrument through a suitable audio output. Dimensions vary by model, and you’ll need to configure the audio output in your computer or software setup.
You want to play notes and chords across a wider range of keys and have room for a larger keyboard. Compare the key range, dimensions and available controls of the model you’re considering.
Best for: limited desk space and parts you mainly play in short sections.
Bear in mind: the limited physical range; you may need to switch octaves or control articulations in software.
Best for: anyone who wants more room to play than a small keyboard offers, but doesn’t have space for a 49-key model. Novation lists the dimensions of the Launchkey 37 MK4 as 557 × 251 × 79 mm.
Bear in mind: Novation’s specifications list eight encoders and no faders for this model.
Best for: longer parts and physical controls you can assign to library parameters.
Bear in mind: the desk space required. Arturia lists the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 as measuring 790 × 240 × 70 mm; Novation lists the Launchkey 49 MK4 as 730 × 264 × 93 mm.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Articulations and dynamics | Check which functions in your library can be assigned to controls via velocity, a dynamics control, keyswitches or MIDI CC. | If I want to control expression as I play, the library needs to support it and I need to be able to assign the right control. Around 33% of consumers prioritise expressive control. |
| Desk space and listening | Measure the available width and depth, including room for cables; decide where to plug in your headphones and configure that audio output. | If I want to use my keyboard alongside my work equipment and listen privately, I consider the available space and my audio setup. Around 27% of consumers prioritise workspace and personal listening. |
| Key range and playing feel | Compare the range of your parts with the 25-, 37- or 49-key model, and check the key size. | When I want to reach more notes directly on the keyboard, I compare the model with the parts I actually play. Around 20% of consumers put direct access to a wider playing range first. |
| Integration with music software | Check the model-specific instructions for your DAW, software version and plug-ins; test the MIDI input and audio output. | If I want to keep using my existing DAW and plug-ins, I need to check which controls and settings will work with them. Around 20% of consumers make software integration their top priority when choosing. |
For the libraries described by Spitfire Audio, long articulations are controlled using the dynamics control, not the MIDI controller’s velocity sensitivity.
Check how your own library works and how you can assign the required control to a fader, encoder or pedal.
Keyswitches take up space on the keyboard; Spitfire Audio also notes that assignments can vary between patches.
Compare your playing range with your library’s keyswitches and check whether a supported articulation map or MIDI CC method suits your workflow.
MIDI input and audio output are separate parts of your computer setup.
Check which software instrument you’re using and where to plug in your headphones, then configure the right MIDI input and audio output.
The MiniLab 3 is a compact 25-key model; the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 offers more keys and controls.
The Launchkey 37 MK4 has 37 standard-size keys; the Launchkey 49 MK4 combines 49 keys with faders.
According to Nektar, the Impact LX mk3 range includes 25-, 49-, 61- and 88-key models, and is designed for DAW control.
According to M-Audio, the Oxygen Pro 49 is a USB MIDI controller with 49 keys for use with music software.
This product option is designed for MIDI input, with a 61-key range.
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The description lists USB MIDI and a 61-key range for MIDI input and playing parts across a wider range.
Listed features include a headphone socket, built-in speakers, a recording function and a metronome.
No, USB MIDI doesn’t produce an audible string sound by itself. Set up a software instrument, the MIDI input and your computer or audio interface’s audio output. For private listening, select the appropriate headphone output.
Not necessarily: Spitfire Audio describes keyswitches and, for supported libraries, articulation selection via UACC with MIDI CC#32. Check which method your library supports and how to set it up in your DAW.
Check the USB connection, selected MIDI port and audio output. Arturia recommends connecting the KeyLab Essential mk3 directly to your computer rather than through a USB hub; follow the manual for your model when cleaning and disconnecting it.
According to the Dutch government, when you buy from a business at a distance, you generally have a 14-day cooling-off period, subject to applicable exceptions. There is no fixed general term for statutory guarantee in the Netherlands; if a product is faulty, contact the seller.
According to the European Commission, CE marking is required when specific harmonised EU rules stipulate it for the product. Check which rules and product information apply to the particular model; a brand name or USB connection alone doesn’t prove compliance.
