Who is this for?

Expressive lead player

Wants to shape pitch and tone as they play a phrase. Compare the key feel, playing range, and pitch and modulation controls. Also check which expression signals your synth can actually process.

Software synth player

Plays through a computer and wants to control instrument or DAW functions from the keyboard. Check that the features and assignments work with the software you use.

External synth player

Wants to control an existing synthesiser. Compare the controller’s and synth’s connections, and check that they support the MIDI or CV signals you need.

What should you look for?

Software synth via a computer

Choose this option: if you play your lead using a software instrument and also want to control DAW or plug-in functions from your keyboard.

Bear in mind: support and controls depend on your software configuration, so check the mapping in advance.

External synth or hybrid setup

Choose this option: if you want to control a synth module with a matching MIDI connection or compatible CV/Gate inputs.

Bear in mind: having the right outputs doesn’t guarantee that the synth will process every expression signal. Check the connections and settings on both devices.

What to consider What to look for Who is this important for?
Expressive lead playing Try the key size and check the pitch bend, modulation, velocity sensitivity and location of any aftertouch. If you want to shape pitch and tone as you play a phrase, you’ll need to know which signals your synth receives. Around 36% of consumers put expressive lead playing first.
Software control Check the USB connection, support for your DAW and the assignment of controls to your synth. If you want to adjust parameters while playing without constantly reaching for your mouse and keyboard, check that your software supports the features you need. Around 29% of consumers prioritise software control.
Connecting to hardware Compare the inputs and outputs on both devices, the cables and power supply you need, and the signals the synth can process. If an external synth is your sound source, the connection needs to match your setup. Around 21% of consumers prioritise connecting to hardware.
Desk space Measure the available space, including room for cables, and try the key layout with your own lead phrases. If desk space is limited, a smaller controller may be a good fit, but key size and playing range are still part of the decision. Around 14% of consumers prioritise minimising desk space.

Avoid common buying mistakes

  • Mistaking a MIDI controller for a synthesiser with its own sound

    A controller alone won’t produce an audible synth lead. You’ll need a software instrument or synth module, and a way to listen to its sound.

    Before buying, decide which sound source you’ll control and how you want to hear the sound.

  • Assuming a keyboard has aftertouch without checking where it is

    On the Novation Launchkey 37 MK4, the polyphonic aftertouch mentioned by Novation applies to the pads. Arturia lists aftertouch on the keys of the KeyStep 37 mk2.

    Check whether you want to play expressively using the keys or pads, and whether your synth can process those signals.

  • Assuming USB-MIDI will connect to every external synth

    The right connection depends on the inputs and outputs of the specific controller and synth.

    Compare the connections and power requirements of both devices before choosing a controller for an existing synth.

Brands to compare

Arturia

The KeyStep 37 mk2 is an option for expressive lead playing with software or compatible external hardware.

  • According to Arturia, this model has 37 Slimkey keys with aftertouch, pitch and modulation strips, USB-C, MIDI DIN and CV/Gate.
  • Check whether your sound source can process the expression you need. These features don’t automatically apply to other KeyStep versions.

Novation

The Launchkey 37 MK4 is designed for playing and controlling features within a DAW.

  • Novation lists 37 synth-action keys, wheels and eight encoders for this model.
  • The polyphonic aftertouch mentioned is on the pads, not necessarily the keys. Also check the mapping with your software.

Akai Professional

The MPK mini Plus offers a 37-key option with controls for software and external hardware.

  • Akai lists pitch and modulation wheels, five-pin MIDI in/out and CV/Gate for the MPK mini Plus.
  • Check whether it’s the MPK mini Plus or the MPK mini Plus II; Akai notes differences between the versions.

M-Audio

The Oxygen Pro Mini is a compact option if software control is important to you.

  • M-Audio lists 32 mini keys, USB power and DAW auto-mapping for this model.
  • Try the smaller keys for lead playing and check the auto-mapping with your software.

Korg

The nanoKEY Studio is designed for situations where desk space is limited.

  • Korg Netherlands lists 25 keys, an XY pad, USB and Bluetooth MIDI. The dimensions are 278 × 160 × 33 mm.
  • The limited playing range and unusual key layout may matter more for lead phrases than its compact size.

Joybuy products

This product selection features a 61-key keyboard piano with MIDI controller functionality. For synth lead playing, check that its MIDI connection and controls suit your software or external synth.

Black electronic keyboard piano with 61 keys

Electronic keyboard piano, 61 keys, black

A 61-key keyboard piano with MIDI controller functionality. Check that its controls suit the way you want to play your synth lead.

The product name lists a recording function, built-in speakers, a metronome and a music stand.

View at Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI controller produce sound by itself?

A standard MIDI controller doesn’t make any sound itself. You’ll need a synth module or a computer with audio software, plus a way to listen to the sound. Bax Music describes a MIDI keyboard as a keyboard for controlling other MIDI devices. Don’t confuse USB-MIDI with an audio or headphone output.

How do I connect a controller to my existing synth?

First, compare the synth’s connections with those of the exact controller model. USB for a computer, five-pin MIDI and CV/Gate are different connection options. Then set up the controls you want on the controller and synth.

Do I need to set anything up before the knobs control my software synth?

You might: MIDI notes and additional DAW or plug-in controls aren’t set up in the same way. Check your DAW configuration and, if necessary, assign the sound parameters you want. Auto-mapping described by a manufacturer for a particular model won’t necessarily work with every software combination.

What are my rights when buying online in the Netherlands?

For an eligible online purchase from a business, the Dutch government generally provides a 14-day cooling-off period. Check the applicable terms and exceptions. You also have statutory rights if a product doesn’t meet the terms of the contract. The Netherlands doesn’t have a fixed statutory warranty period of two years; if there’s a problem, contact the seller.