- #BEST MIDI KEYBOARD 2015 FULL#
- #BEST MIDI KEYBOARD 2015 PORTABLE#
- #BEST MIDI KEYBOARD 2015 PRO#
- #BEST MIDI KEYBOARD 2015 SOFTWARE#
- #BEST MIDI KEYBOARD 2015 SERIES#
Based on our tests, we feel the 49-key MPK249 is the best value in this line.
If you can afford it, then we say you’d be hard pressed to find a more quality 49-key MIDI keyboard. Not a bad deal if you either don’t already have a DAW, or want to experiment with Live.īottom Line: Following in the footsteps of the popular Akai MPK 49, the newer MPK249 has a lot to love… except for maybe its price tag.
#BEST MIDI KEYBOARD 2015 FULL#
And speaking of DAWs, bundled together with this keyboard you get a copy of Ableton Live Lite (a stripped-down version of the full Ableton Live DAW). The MPK249 has transport controls (buttons for play, stop, record, etc.), which makes it well-suited for controlling your DAW.
#BEST MIDI KEYBOARD 2015 PRO#
The Logic Pro X integration doesn’t go as deep, but it’s more of a frustration than a deal-breaker. It has 8 assignable knobs, 8 faders, and 8 switches, pitch bend and modulation wheels, 1 assignable footswitch jack and 1 expression jack, amongst more bells and whistles.ĭAW integration is pretty solid, with presets existing for just about every DAW out there. The pads feel very musical, and respond well to your playing dynamics. You get 16 MPC pads, which are very customizable right down to changing the color of each pad. The full-size keys are semi-weighted and feel great. Everything from the enclosure to the feel of the keys and knobs is reminiscent of a $1000+ synthesizer, as opposed to a plastic-feeling MIDI keyboard. Akai set their sights on making a premium level keyboard controller, and it shows. They simply feel more polished and sturdier than any other MIDI keyboard out there they’re truly in a different league (the 61-key Akai MPK261 weighs in at a hefty 15 lbs). So, why the premium price tag? If we had to describe these Akai MIDI keyboards in one word, it would be quality. These are not the most budget-minded keyboards, with the smallest one starting around $250. The Akai MPK249 seems to have improved on just about everything from its very popular predecessor, the MPK 49. Three flavors are available: the MPK225 with 25 keys, MPK249 with 49 keys, and MPK261 with 61 keys. One of our favorite lines of MIDI keyboards out there is Akai’s MPK2xx series, particularly the Akai MPK249 49-Key USB MIDI Drum Pad and Keyboard Controller. Read moreĪll DAWs (Ableton Live, Logic, FL Studio, Cubase, GarageBand, etc.)
#BEST MIDI KEYBOARD 2015 SOFTWARE#
It's pricey, but with its polished design, great keybed, and beautiful dual screens, it's a must if you rely on the Native Instruments software ecosystem. Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2
Gorgeous design, tons of pads, sliders & knobs, comprehensive DAW support and seamless integration with the included Arturia Analog Lab 3 collection of software synths. Ableton users might prefer the Launchkey, but otherwise the slight edge goes to this one.
#BEST MIDI KEYBOARD 2015 SERIES#
With an impressive build quality, superior drum pads, nice price tag, and plenty of pro users, the M-Audio Oxygen series is a worthy competitor to the Novation Launchkey. Lots of pros use this one, and if you can do without sliders and pads, you're good to go. Bonus points for the availability of 88-keys with the Keystation 88. If you don't need sliders knobs & pads, and simply want a great quality no-frills MIDI keyboard, the M-Audio Keystation is the one to get. We highly recommend the Novation Launchkey 61 MK2 if you're looking for a 61 keys. If you're an Ableton Live user, you'll love how everything maps seamlessly. Novation Launchkey 61 MIDI Controller MK2 VersionĬonsidering all the features you get, the Novation Launchkey MIDI keyboards have a very attractive price tag. Unfortunately it only comes in a 25-key version, but despite that remains one of the most highly recommended MIDI keyboards. Whether a beginner on a budget or a pro looking for a super portable, full-featured MIDI keyboard, the Akai MPK Mini MKII is your best bet. Between the 3 sizes, we feel the 49-key Akai MPK249 hits the sweet spot. The feel of the keys, fit, and finish is top notch, and you get Ableton Live Lite. AMAZON REVERBĬarries a hefty price tag, but is truly a pro-level MIDI keyboard. 25 keys, 8 MPC-style pads, and 8 knobs give you lots of control.
#BEST MIDI KEYBOARD 2015 PORTABLE#
Whether you're just starting out with a MIDI keyboard or need one that's portable and full-featured, the Akai MPK Mini MKII is hard to beat for the price.