String arranger
You programme virtual strings and want to control dynamics during sustained notes. Spitfire Audio notes that velocity alone isn’t enough for certain long articulations, so check which MIDI control your library uses.
Who is this keyboard for?
Student with limited desk space
You need to fit the keyboard alongside your computer and may be able to enter parts one recording or octave at a time. Akai Professional offers models with 25 and 37 mini keys; Novation also has versions with 49 and 61 keys.
Keyboard-focused arranger
You want to play in string parts across a wider keyboard and need to weigh the range against the space it takes up. M-Audio specifies that the Keystation 61 MK3 has 61 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys.
What should you look for when choosing?
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Dynamics and expression | Check which control your library uses for dynamics and expression, and whether the keyboard has a mod wheel or assignable faders. | If I want to shape sustained string notes, I need to know which MIDI control my library uses; around 36% of consumers put dynamics and expression first. |
| Playable range at your fingertips | Compare 25, 37, 49 and 61 keys with your parts. Also consider the difference between mini and standard-size keys. | If I’d rather play parts without frequently switching octaves, I want more keys within reach; around 29% of consumers prioritise having a wider playable range. |
| Desk space | Measure the space available and check the dimensions of the exact version, not just the number of keys. | If my desk is already full, I want to be sure the keyboard will fit alongside everything else; around 21% of consumers put available space first. |
| Software and connectivity | Check the connection, your DAW (music software), the requirements of your string library and which software is actually included. | If I want to use my existing computer and music software, I’ll check the requirements and connections first; around 14% of consumers make compatibility their top priority. |
Common buying mistakes
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Assuming velocity sensitivity gives you complete control over sustained string notes
For the long articulations described by Spitfire Audio, dynamics aren’t controlled by velocity alone.
Check your library’s documentation to see how to control dynamics and expression, and whether those controls suit the way you work.
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Choosing more keys without measuring your available space
A wider playing range is only practical if the keyboard fits in your room and on your desk. Arturia lists the dimensions of the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 as 790 × 240 × 70 mm.
Measure the space you have and compare it with the dimensions of the exact version.
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Assuming a software bundle includes the string sounds you want
The software included and the requirements of string libraries vary. A bundle won’t necessarily include the library you want to use.
Check what’s in the bundle and the requirements of your chosen library, computer and DAW before choosing a model.
Brands to consider
Akai Professional
The 25-key MPK Mini IV and the 37-mini-key MPK mini Plus are compact options for entering individual parts.
- Akai Professional lists a mod wheel on both models.
- The smaller playing range may mean extra octave changes during longer passages. Also check whether the included software supports the string library you want to use.
Novation
Novation specifies 49 keys and nine faders for the Launchkey 49 MK4; the range also includes a 61-key version.
- The manufacturer lists customisable controls for MIDI CC parameters.
- Check the MIDI mapping for your DAW and library. A larger keyboard takes up more space, and the specifications for the 49-key version won’t necessarily apply to other versions.
Arturia
Arturia lists a velocity-sensitive keyboard, nine faders, a mod wheel and DAW functions for the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3.
- The manufacturer gives the dimensions as 790 × 240 × 70 mm, so you can check whether it will fit on your desk.
- Check that the listed software and integration work with your computer and DAW. On their own, these details don’t tell you how it will perform with a string library.
M-Audio
M-Audio describes the Keystation 61 MK3 as a USB MIDI keyboard with 61 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys.
- The manufacturer lists pitch and mod wheels, as well as a volume slider.
- If you want to control several string parameters using separate physical faders, compare the number of controls with models that have them.
Native Instruments
The Kontrol S61 is aimed at anyone looking for a 61-key keyboard with controls designed to work alongside virtual instruments.
- How useful the integration is will depend on the instruments and workflow you use.
- Don’t choose based on the number of keys or integration alone: check that the features work with your string library.
Joybuy products for a wider playing range
These products are 61-key keyboards for anyone who wants more notes within reach. Check each model’s MIDI connection and make sure the instrument will fit in your workspace.
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Digital Piano MLS-931, 61 keys, black
The 61 keys suit anyone who wants to play string parts across a wider keyboard; bear in mind that this size needs more space.
Weighted keys, USB MIDI and speakers.
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Electronic Keyboard Piano, 61 keys, black
The 61 keys give you more notes within reach when playing in parts; measure how much room you have for this size before buying.
The product name lists a MIDI controller function, recording function, speakers and metronome. Check which MIDI connection you need.
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Digital Keyboard Piano Kit, 61 keys, black
This 61-key version is an option if you want to play in more notes and have space for a larger keyboard.
USB MIDI; the set includes a stand, bench and music stand.
Frequently asked questions
Are velocity-sensitive keys enough to shape the dynamics of sustained string notes?
Not with every library. For the long articulations described, Spitfire Audio says the dynamics control is what shapes the sound, while short articulations do respond to velocity by default. Check the documentation for the library you use.
What should I check if my connected keyboard isn’t producing any sound?
Check that your DAW is using the keyboard as a MIDI input, that a software instrument is loaded and that your computer is sending audio to a working output. Also check the installation and system requirements for your string library; Spitfire Audio lists requirements for each product.
Do I need any extra software or equipment?
It depends on what you already have and the exact model. Akai Professional lists software for the MPK Mini IV, while Arturia includes a software bundle with the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3. Check whether the string library you want is included. Also make sure your computer meets the requirements and consider how you want to play back the sound.
What are my rights in the Netherlands when I buy a controller online?
For qualifying distance sales from a business, you generally have a 14-day cooling-off period, although exceptions and the seller may affect this. The product must also meet the legal requirements. If something is wrong with it, contact the seller. According to the Dutch government, there is no fixed statutory guarantee period in the Netherlands that applies equally to every product.