First, choose a MIDI keyboard with the key size and controls that suit the way you want to play a synth lead, such as pitch bend, modulation or key aftertouch. You’ll also need a separate sound source and audio output: a MIDI controller doesn’t produce sound on its own, and your audio settings can affect the latency you hear when using a software synth.
You want to bend notes and change the sound as you play. Compare key sizes and controls for pitch, modulation and any aftertouch; Novation, Arturia and Akai Professional describe different features across their specific models.
You want to hear a synth quietly or through headphones. Start with the sound source and audio output: Novation Support and Akai Professional Support explain that MIDI itself carries no sound.
You’re looking for a compact keyboard or want to control hardware. Compare mini keys with larger keys, and check that the controller’s MIDI connections are compatible with your instrument; Arturia and Akai Professional list different key sizes and connection options for their models.
Start with the key size and controls that suit the way you play. Then check how the sound is produced and which output you’ll use to listen at low volume.
| What to consider | What to check before you buy | Who is this more important to? |
|---|---|---|
| Expressive controls | Check whether it has pitch bend, modulation or key aftertouch, and whether your synth uses those MIDI messages. | If you want to change the pitch or sound while holding a lead note, check which controls your synth can receive. Around 40% of consumers say expressive lead controls are their top priority. |
| Quiet listening | Work out which synth produces the sound and where you’ll connect your headphones or speaker; if you’re using software, check the audio settings too. | If you want to practise quietly at home, you’ll want to know in advance where the sound comes from and how you’ll listen to it. Around 30% of consumers prioritise being able to listen at low volume. |
| Key size and space | Compare the dimensions of the exact model with your playing area, and consider whether full-size, slim or mini keys will suit your fingers. | For consumers short on space, a playable size that fits matters more than the number of keys alone. Around 20% of consumers prioritise key size and available playing space. |
| Connecting an external synth | Compare the keyboard’s MIDI output with your synth’s input, and check which cables and connections you’ll need. | If you want to control a hardware synth, the connections on both devices need to match. Around 10% of consumers give connecting to an external synthesiser top priority. |
A MIDI controller sends control data, not audio. So, to hear a synth lead, you’ll also need a sound source, such as software on a computer or an external instrument, as well as a suitable audio output.
MIDI messages aren’t audible on their own. Connecting a keyboard doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be able to hear a synth lead.
Map out the whole signal path: keyboard, MIDI connection, software or hardware synth, then the audio output for your headphones or speaker.
When you’re holding a lead note, it matters whether changes in pressure on the keys themselves are being sent. Controls on pads aren’t the same as aftertouch on the keys.
Check specifically whether the keys support aftertouch and whether the synth sound you’ve chosen responds to it.
Latency with a software synth can be caused by audio settings and processing; changing the controller won’t automatically solve it.
Test the synth with your own computer and audio setup, and check the buffer setting before blaming the keyboard for the delay.
According to Novation’s specifications, the Launchkey 37 MK4 combines full-size keys with controls for a software session.
The KeyStep 37 mk2 is designed, among other things, for expressive playing and external synths. The MiniLab 37 is a different product line, focused on compact software control.
The MPK Mini Plus combines mini keys with physical pitch and modulation wheels for a compact setup.
The Oxygen Pro Mini is a USB-MIDI controller designed for portable setups and DAW control.
Don’t assume you can: MIDI carries no sound. Connect your headphones to a suitable audio output on the computer, audio interface or external synthesiser producing the sound, and check the connections on your equipment.
Audio processing can cause a delay when you’re using a software synth. Check the audio output and buffer settings; a smaller buffer can reduce the delay, but may make playback more prone to interruptions.
Set the playback volume deliberately low. VeiligheidNL explains that well-fitting headphones let less sound escape, so background noise is less likely to tempt you to turn up the volume. You’ll still need a sound source.
For distance purchases, you’ll usually have a 14-day cooling-off period, although the Dutch government lists some exceptions. If a product is faulty, you’re entitled to a legal guarantee, with no fixed guarantee period in the Netherlands. Contact the seller to resolve the issue; the Dutch government says they can’t simply send you to the manufacturer.
