A big deal for someone like me is having a midi-out port. Small keyboards are great, but when you have a lot of outboard gear the inclusion of a midi port is the difference between whether or not you can make use of it in a lot of situations. Glad to see them showing up more in this price range/product focus
Hobbytronics is once again selling their USB MIDI host to DIN adapter, which for around 50 bucks solves the problem. You can also cobble something similar up from a RasPI or an Arduino and a DIN daughter card, but I'm willing to front a few bucks for the convenience of someone else building it for me.
Thanks for making this video! I found it very useful in picking out a mini midi controller. Ended up with both the MPK Mini 3 and Minilab 3. One update for your video is that the MPK Mini 3 can be configured to match the Minilab 3's encoders when using Analog Lab via Akai's MPK Mini Editor app. The parameter name can also be assigned to the same encoders for display. For the lower four encoders use cc# 93-Chorus, 18-Phaser, 19-Delay, 16-Reverb going left to right. For the upper four encoders use cc# 74-Brightness, 71-Timbre, 76-Time, and 77-Movement. Once you do this, the MPK Mini 3 encoders match the Minilab 3 and display the correct variable on the screen. Of course, there are no sliders in the MPK Mini 3 to match the Minilab 3. Hope this helps!
@@LS95774 the Akai, once I matched the knobs to the Arturia encoders, I use the Akai more because it takes up a lot less space. Not sure if they improved the build since Sanjay reviewed it but the Akai I got feels as solid as the Arturia.
Very helpful comment! I assume same things apply to the MPK Mini Plus. I use the Arturia Collection a lot and even though the Minilab 3 is amazing, I find the 2 octaves very limiting. I was intrigued by the MPK Mini Plus's 3 octaves plus the CV outputs but I was hesitant as to how compatible it will be with Arturia's plug-ins. So you have answered exactly that. Big thanks!
Just wondering which one you recommend for a beginner? I want to learn how to make music as I can sing and song write but can’t play any instruments.. yet! Thanks for your video even if I don’t get a reply I will decide on one of them!
I'm between the m32, the m-audio, and the mpk mini plus. I really like the extra keys on the mpk mini plus, but it sounds like the keybed is not as good, and as someone who used to play piano, that sounds offputting. The m-audio seems like a good choice, but I don't like the lack of endless knobs. Finally the m32 seems super sleek, which I like, but it's lacking drum pads. It's not a make or break for me, but it would be the easy choice if it had some.
I truly appreciate your videos. You are truly the man and very professional. I am a new piano player at the young age of 50. As a disabled US Marine, learning to play the piano has been a phenomenal tool for stress release. My love for piano began with my passion for praise and worship. I would like to know if you would consider doing a review of the Sunday Sounds Appropriate and software. It's idea is fantastic, but I am starting to wonder if it is my keyboard (SL88 studio), my playing, or the quality of the piano VSTs. I would love to get the grandeur, but the cost wow. I love the Sunday sounds pads and pianos, they just don't seem to sound great. What would you suggest for someone that wants pads, ambience sounds and praise and worship type piano sounds..? Thank you again for your time sir...
Great video Sanjay! There's something about MIDI keyboards that are just so fun to watch and hear about. I got the AKAI Mini Plus recently and haven't looked back, and paired with my AKAI Fire, I have fantastic control over FL Studios. It's always nice to see these in depth reviews on what else is out there, so thank you!
I already Have Native instruments S 61 yeah M32 is good but no drum pads in it but nice as Sanjay said it's minimalistic but nice to play.thinking to buy Arturia minilab 25 I love there Vst plugins are awesome.For me Native instrument and Arturia is best even donner mk3 is good because I feel there Keys are good.
Which is best for beginners? My son has been talking a lot about making music lately and I want to get him something like this but not sure which would be best considering he doesn’t play piano
None of them have aftertouch. That's a showstopper for me. One that does is in this price range the Arturia Keystep, which sadly mostly only ever gets reviewed in the context of being a sequencer and not a regular midi controller.
Hey thanks for the good info ! Akai and aturia is working indivisually as well ? I mean they need to connect with the daw to make the sound ? Or they can work with just electric power
Yeah true i Have Native s 61 mk3 I also feel like going for minilab and they have nice vst collections also.Now Native instruments and Arturia are my loved keayboards feel like having minilab from thoman
Before buying Native s 61 mk2 I was confused with which to take because I had 3 midis which I selected Native instruments 61 mk3,Arturia 61 essentials ,and nectar panaromic 61 and m audio code 61 which was discontinued my Selected thing after watching Sanjay video I went for native instruments
I am still thinking of which to get... It is easier for me to work with my 88 hammer yamaha stage cp33 piano, but I really want something compact on my desk to sit anytime I want to record something. What do you say? I am also a pianist, but even tho I love the key feel of the acoustic piano I own, I would rather prefer electric midi key - keys than big and heavy. Thanks
is minilab3 the only one that gives free instruments pack? what about oxygen pro mini? what would be a good choice for beginners? I'm thinking about 120$ for the whole setting
I am a guitarist, I don't know how to play piano so I want a midi keyboard to write my orchestra stuff and synthwave, ambient music. What do you suggest?
@@AlexanderPochertPiano It was mainly for portability and key-feel. BUT... Since I posted this comment, I got hold of a used Roli Lumi Keys and it's my new fave. The keys are so comfortable, and make far less noise. It's smaller than the minilab and it can do bluetooth.
I bought the Arturia Essential Keys 49 mk3 and I was really disappointed by the key feel, so I sent it back after 3 days. I’ve read that the Minilab may have a better key feel but too few keys for my taste. It seems that only much more expensive products will ally a good key feel with more DAW controller options and a good sound bank. I still haven’t bought another midi keyboard yet. I’ll need to save up for a better and more expensive one. Also looking on the used gear market.
Great video as always, I love the screen in screen shots so we could completely see you and the keyboard at the same time. I have older versions of the M Audio Oxygen and the Arturia MinLab (my favourite) As always keep up the great work 👊🏾
Hey Sanjay. It felt like you were a bit 50/50 when it comes to the FL Keys keyboard. I really want a solid option to use in FL. Is it still an excellent choice to go for this one or are there simply better options out there?
@@SanjayCI like the Mini lab 3 for the keys, but, I own the Akai MPK mini and the Akai MPC key 61 so it makes sense to get the plus because I already enjoy the Akai line of midi keyboards
I’m a bit confused about the M32. So in order to use the scale mode I can only use it with NKS related plugins, or all plugins, including the ones not supported by Native Instruments?
Can I use the Arturia plug and play with virtual instruments I already have installed on my pc? I'm not interested in controlling the DAW from the mini keyboard but I want to control the sound of my virtual instruments and most of them are not Arturia. Can I simply connect the mini keyboard via USB with my PC and use it? And can I play synth modules from it?
help! do i get the novation FLkey49 or the Roland GoKeys? hobby with FLStudio and Ableton, and i got a 25 key but needed more keys.. ssince i already have the oxygen25, should i go for the gokeys which is a standalone keyboard or still FLkeys49 since i can do a lot more with it? thanks sanjay
Not Sanjay but imo, you do not need a control surface. Everything they do can be done with a mouse and keyboard. The only thing you might want, and it's not necessary, is a keyboard regardless of DAW controls. Part of the problem with control surfaces is their limited interface, often they take more button presses than just using your mouse. Knobs and faders without "scribble strips" mean you have to look at your screen to check where each parameter is at. Some control surfaces, like the launchpad or push, have a big learning curve and are not meant for beginners, they have too many unlabeled functions. If you really REALLY hate using a mouse and keyboard, skip the control surface and go straight to something like the MPC Key, or a workstation like the FANTOM, though those are out of a beginner's budget.
@@D1570R73D Thanks. Im looking more from a mixing perspective as well interms of being able to mix with faders and control volume. I am a producer as well as a mixer and for me personally using the mouse especially when mixing makes it more of a task to match fader volumes and control two things at once that might be adjusted so that is where my mind was when asking but thank you, this definitely made the choice easier.
Hi Sanjay, I work on Studio One 6, wich mini Keybord you recommend? I am interested in Nektar impact lx 25 + or the mini version because of its good integration with Studio one. In your opinion, is mine a good choice or do you recommend something else? 
Which of these MIDI keys would be best if I wanted to use my pedals with it? I have a Chroma Console that I normally use with my Akai mini. Figured I would need a Midi out
I have a question of a complete beginner. I’m looking for an instrument my daughter could use to learn to play and maybe in the future, if she desire, to upgrade to a bigger instrument (piano etc). I want the instrument to be small, portable, preferably allow usage of headphones so she can practice and do not disturb others. I always thought midi keyboards cannot be used on its own to play but rather to control other hardware or be used with software. Am I wrong? Can any of these instruments be used to play without software/Mac/pc? If so, which one would you recommend for a 10 yo girl who wants to learn to play?
Hello can i use this without laptop? Im looking for a small keyboard as small as a midi keyboard to be plugged directly into speakers via the guitar cable. Must have a transpose frature what can you recommend?
I am looking for something that probably isnt invented. I own a Ferrofish B4000+ Drawbar organ module which I love but the sounds are selected by a rotary knob and the numbers of the sounds or programs are 1/8 inch in height which is impossible to see and impossible to adjust without twisting the knob too much or not enough. Is there a small item similar to what you have pictured that allows those 8 ( or how many ever) pads or the synth keys to be set to select midi note numbers once I tap them thus allowing me to change programs or sounds on the Ferrofish ? Thanks for any advice. Small is key and I'd need 8 or so pads or keys is all.
Hi thanks, a lot for this video, which keyboard should I use if I do mainly classical music (piano and strings flutes...etc.) I want to create some songs for my games. I use Cubase as software
Yes, good video. I personally don’t need a keyboard controller that small. I‘m always looking for a keyboard controller that works best together with Logic Pro and has 61 or 73 (76) keys. There seems to be none like that on the market. Most likely the Nektar controllers, but somehow I don’t like their outer appearance…
I want to start making my own music ( i did like 30 years ago, with fasttracker, madtracker etc and a mini korg synth, only keys) Now i want start making some dance/trance music. What is the best program to work with Fruitloops? I am thinking of the Akai MPK mini plus. good choice?
You should the alesis vi series (specific ly the alesis vi49) its very simple but the best one i have ever tried it integrates very well with ableton live
That one sounded awesome till you got to that loud ass clicking. I was sold until I heard that big ass "chonk" of a button press and instantly said "HEEELLLLLL NAWWW!". Thanks for this video!
If you taking about the m-audio i can confirm the buttons are very loud, and they really feel like buttons from a toy.. Same with the pitch wheel which i feel has to hard springs with a hard center stop, it's hard to pitch max to minimum without a little noticeable stop in the mid position. I have the oxygen pro 61 but it looks so identical.
First of all, I am a real fan of your Videos and always look forward to the one on a Saturday, it's sort of in my routine now when I sit down on a Saturday evening. I have a quick, probably troll worthy question, but I am torn on which one of these to get still. I also see benefits to at least two of them but there isn't a single one that does it all. So my question; If I choose the Arturia with only 8x pads, I take it there is a way to play all 16x allocated sounds from things like Maschine etc? I have searched through the manual for it but I can't find any confirmation. I am confident the other keyboards with 16x pads will auto assign to all 16x drum sounds, but I don't want to buy the Arturia if I have to re-map all my kits to the first 8x pads. I hope you see what I am getting at? :) If you can, I can see me buying the Arturia + the NI so I get best of both worlds on my desk while my 88 key keyboard is only brought out when needed. thanks again !!!
I already had a maschine mk3 mikro, so the m32 was the perfect addition, and in that time NI had a deal + komplete 14 select with the purchase of a m32, thank you for your past review on this. Best buy ever, now I feel komplete.
Hi and thanks a lot for your amazing videos. Newbie here, i would like to ask you which one will work with Amplitube 5 max and which one offers straight away virtual instruments?
Thanks for the video, Sanjay Still cant decide. A very noob question here: what do you think the best for a newbie who also is starting to learn using Ableton? I have a hard time figure out those on-screen controls and parameters, yet I dont really know what really helps for that. Thanks!
Hi Sanjay. My little boy wants a Midi controller with keys and finger drum pads. He is too young for production software on a PC. Is there a stand-alone machine that will loop, record but does not need a pc.
It would be so nice if the Akai Plus as a play variable to play too without pc or extra stuff like the mini play. Problem at the mini play, it have no pitchwheels and no steprecording, too smal ... . As an play variant it would be a synth + midi as an full transportable Play version.
Are there any midi controllers that have medium sized keys? Tried the Minilab mk3, and while I really like it, the actual keys are just to little for me... I already have a larger controller with regular sized keys, but my hands are small, and playing octaves on the left hand is a bit of a stretch...arthritis doesn't help either... I'm looking for something in between but I haven't seen anything available... Thanks for any suggestions!
If you don't have Audio Interface, then ASIO for All is a way to get started but yes, good to have Audio Interface and also DAW software of which these will come bundled with cut down versions. You can also try Reaper which is cheap and has a generous trial period. Works well with the M32 and ReaKontrol (thing that drives Reaper DAW functions from the M32 and is quite good).
do you have or can you do a similar video with regards to larger keyboards? I want a more full length piano to use, but I'm having a hard time finding one.
At the time the Novation SL MKII was the top midi controller. It still works perfectly today. Although I always played the drums on the keys. And faders when it comes to mixing. But you have to have something to mix, you have to get to that stage. I want to say, today there is a lack of talent. All you need is 61 keys and 2 knobs. Preferably separate pitch and modulation. As little as possible of vst, today it is a sea in which people are suffocating in general. And if possible, play an acoustic instrument, go out with friends and have fun together with acoustic music. Everything has already been played anyway. Life is short to be alone in a small room making a déjà vu
Hey Sanjay! Im a beginner at producing music but I really enjoy trying to make songs on my midi keyboard. I would really like to find some type of online training course that would help broaden my skills at producing music. Do you have any suggestions?
⬇ Links here ⬇
Universal Audio (Sponsor) bit.ly/3slXsUf
1. Arturia Minilab 3 geni.us/qjYl
2. Akai MPK Mini Plus geni.us/FMNDS7
(Akai MPK Mini geni.us/6M2JNEM
3. M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini geni.us/cdGB7p
4. Native Instruments M32 geni.us/r1YI
5. Launchkey Mini Mk3 geni.us/lL0Yhsy
6. FLkey Mini geni.us/ASBlQ
Can you talk about M-Audio Oxygen Pro 25, as it has everything you mention, and great keys too.
And it looks like it the best on the market...
Which is the best if I'm just starting out and want to use it for drums and synth?
Super helpful, thanks. Still trying to decide!
Great to see doctors taking some time out for themselves
A big deal for someone like me is having a midi-out port. Small keyboards are great, but when you have a lot of outboard gear the inclusion of a midi port is the difference between whether or not you can make use of it in a lot of situations. Glad to see them showing up more in this price range/product focus
Hobbytronics is once again selling their USB MIDI host to DIN adapter, which for around 50 bucks solves the problem. You can also cobble something similar up from a RasPI or an Arduino and a DIN daughter card, but I'm willing to front a few bucks for the convenience of someone else building it for me.
I got the Arturia minilab 3 a few months ago on sale for $80 NEW and it is AMAZING!
Best feeling budget keyboard and the performance is very accurate!
Thanks!
You're welcome! And thanks for the Super Thanks!
Great in-depth comparison of the Top 6 Midi Keyboards. Thank you. I really look forward to your “best of” videos. Keep them coming!
Thanks for making this video! I found it very useful in picking out a mini midi controller. Ended up with both the MPK Mini 3 and Minilab 3. One update for your video is that the MPK Mini 3 can be configured to match the Minilab 3's encoders when using Analog Lab via Akai's MPK Mini Editor app. The parameter name can also be assigned to the same encoders for display. For the lower four encoders use cc# 93-Chorus, 18-Phaser, 19-Delay, 16-Reverb going left to right. For the upper four encoders use cc# 74-Brightness, 71-Timbre, 76-Time, and 77-Movement. Once you do this, the MPK Mini 3 encoders match the Minilab 3 and display the correct variable on the screen. Of course, there are no sliders in the MPK Mini 3 to match the Minilab 3. Hope this helps!
Between the Akai and the Minilab, which one do you prefer?
@@LS95774 the Akai, once I matched the knobs to the Arturia encoders, I use the Akai more because it takes up a lot less space. Not sure if they improved the build since Sanjay reviewed it but the Akai I got feels as solid as the Arturia.
Very helpful comment! I assume same things apply to the MPK Mini Plus. I use the Arturia Collection a lot and even though the Minilab 3 is amazing, I find the 2 octaves very limiting. I was intrigued by the MPK Mini Plus's 3 octaves plus the CV outputs but I was hesitant as to how compatible it will be with Arturia's plug-ins. So you have answered exactly that. Big thanks!
Just wondering which one you recommend for a beginner? I want to learn how to make music as I can sing and song write but can’t play any instruments.. yet! Thanks for your video even if I don’t get a reply I will decide on one of them!
did u decide on one?
I'm between the m32, the m-audio, and the mpk mini plus. I really like the extra keys on the mpk mini plus, but it sounds like the keybed is not as good, and as someone who used to play piano, that sounds offputting. The m-audio seems like a good choice, but I don't like the lack of endless knobs. Finally the m32 seems super sleek, which I like, but it's lacking drum pads. It's not a make or break for me, but it would be the easy choice if it had some.
You should take a look at the more expensive Akai Midi’s.
In this price range, i feel like the Akai is the best out of all worlds.
I truly appreciate your videos. You are truly the man and very professional.
I am a new piano player at the young age of 50. As a disabled US Marine, learning to play the piano has been a phenomenal tool for stress release.
My love for piano began with my passion for praise and worship.
I would like to know if you would consider doing a review of the Sunday Sounds Appropriate and software. It's idea is fantastic, but I am starting to wonder if it is my keyboard (SL88 studio), my playing, or the quality of the piano VSTs. I would love to get the grandeur, but the cost wow. I love the Sunday sounds pads and pianos, they just don't seem to sound great.
What would you suggest for someone that wants pads, ambience sounds and praise and worship type piano sounds..?
Thank you again for your time sir...
I bought Novation... So bad... Keys and pads are horrendous. Misfires... No fires... Random action...
Same, I hate how cheap the keys feel and I feel like there's a significant delay on them
Same, bought it and it made me leave the hobby, now im looping for an AKAI to come back
Great video Sanjay! There's something about MIDI keyboards that are just so fun to watch and hear about. I got the AKAI Mini Plus recently and haven't looked back, and paired with my AKAI Fire, I have fantastic control over FL Studios. It's always nice to see these in depth reviews on what else is out there, so thank you!
I JUST watched your MIDI keyboard review from a year ago, great timing.
Thanks for this very informative video.
None of these kbd feature aftertouch, let alone MPE or polyaft. Do they ?
I plan to get the M32 and deep dive into Ableton.
Ordered as well 🎉
Nice! Why did you choose the M32?
@@SanjayC because of my affinity for NI and Komplete Kontrol. I think it will work best for how I make music.
I already Have Native instruments S 61 yeah M32 is good but no drum pads in it but nice as Sanjay said it's minimalistic but nice to play.thinking to buy Arturia minilab 25 I love there Vst plugins are awesome.For me Native instrument and Arturia is best even donner mk3 is good because I feel there Keys are good.
Don’t bother it’s no good
Which is best for beginners? My son has been talking a lot about making music lately and I want to get him something like this but not sure which would be best considering he doesn’t play piano
None of them have aftertouch. That's a showstopper for me. One that does is in this price range the Arturia Keystep, which sadly mostly only ever gets reviewed in the context of being a sequencer and not a regular midi controller.
Hey thanks for the good info ! Akai and aturia is working indivisually as well ? I mean they need to connect with the daw to make the sound ? Or they can work with just electric power
Is there a best choice for the Waveform DAW?
I'm only here for a dose of keyboard envy😉 as I already have the M32 which I like a lot. But the weighted keyboard feel of the Minilab is tempting :-)
Yeah true i Have Native s 61 mk3 I also feel like going for minilab and they have nice vst collections also.Now Native instruments and Arturia are my loved keayboards feel like having minilab from thoman
Before buying Native s 61 mk2 I was confused with which to take because I had 3 midis which I selected Native instruments 61 mk3,Arturia 61 essentials ,and nectar panaromic 61 and m audio code 61 which was discontinued my Selected thing after watching Sanjay video I went for native instruments
I am still thinking of which to get... It is easier for me to work with my 88 hammer yamaha stage cp33 piano, but I really want something compact on my desk to sit anytime I want to record something. What do you say? I am also a pianist, but even tho I love the key feel of the acoustic piano I own, I would rather prefer electric midi key - keys than big and heavy. Thanks
I think its best to have two - so get a small keyboard from this list that checks your boxes and use it alongside the hammer action full keyboard
is minilab3 the only one that gives free instruments pack? what about oxygen pro mini?
what would be a good choice for beginners? I'm thinking about 120$ for the whole setting
I am a guitarist, I don't know how to play piano so I want a midi keyboard to write my orchestra stuff and synthwave, ambient music. What do you suggest?
Same here, I think oxygen pro check many boxes for me. Did you get one?
I love the Minilab 3! It’s my absolute favorite for the key feel/size. I like it better than the Keylab 61 Essential.
Same
Why do you like the MiniLab more?
@@AlexanderPochertPiano It was mainly for portability and key-feel. BUT... Since I posted this comment, I got hold of a used Roli Lumi Keys and it's my new fave. The keys are so comfortable, and make far less noise. It's smaller than the minilab and it can do bluetooth.
@@tiffanyanthony Thanks a bunch for your answer!
I bought the Arturia Essential Keys 49 mk3 and I was really disappointed by the key feel, so I sent it back after 3 days. I’ve read that the Minilab may have a better key feel but too few keys for my taste. It seems that only much more expensive products will ally a good key feel with more DAW controller options and a good sound bank. I still haven’t bought another midi keyboard yet. I’ll need to save up for a better and more expensive one. Also looking on the used gear market.
Great video as always, I love the screen in screen shots so we could completely see you and the keyboard at the same time. I have older versions of the M Audio Oxygen and the Arturia MinLab (my favourite)
As always keep up the great work 👊🏾
your reviews are the best. thank you!
Wondering if any of these have good integration with UA Luna
Up. Wondering the same thing
Thank you for yet another video made with love, great information, and in-depth knowledge.
You're welcome! I hope you also watched the best headphones of 2023 video th-cam.com/video/fvcguBzVR3g/w-d-xo.html
@@SanjayC brother please help me should I go with arturia or m audio mentioned above
Hey Sanjay. It felt like you were a bit 50/50 when it comes to the FL Keys keyboard. I really want a solid option to use in FL.
Is it still an excellent choice to go for this one or are there simply better options out there?
Another amazing video!
Thanks so much! Which one would you pick?
@@SanjayCI like the Mini lab 3 for the keys, but, I own the Akai MPK mini and the Akai MPC key 61 so it makes sense to get the plus because I already enjoy the Akai line of midi keyboards
Arturia 🔥🔥🔥
I’m a bit confused about the M32. So in order to use the scale mode I can only use it with NKS related plugins, or all plugins, including the ones not supported by Native Instruments?
Always GREAT videos!!!
Does keyboards gives any extra plugins or software applications?
Can I use the Arturia plug and play with virtual instruments I already have installed on my pc? I'm not interested in controlling the DAW from the mini keyboard but I want to control the sound of my virtual instruments and most of them are not Arturia. Can I simply connect the mini keyboard via USB with my PC and use it? And can I play synth modules from it?
Yes.
Thanks so much for this video
:)))
Can you tell us what you think about the M-WAVE 25?
I just wish Arturia would release a 25-key or 37-key with full-sized keys. I miss the Keylab 25.
Yeah, that would be so good
We need you to get the message to Arturia, hahaha. :) @@SanjayC
help! do i get the novation FLkey49 or the Roland GoKeys?
hobby with FLStudio and Ableton, and i got a 25 key but needed more keys.. ssince i already have the oxygen25, should i go for the gokeys which is a standalone keyboard or still FLkeys49 since i can do a lot more with it?
thanks sanjay
Hey Sanjay do u think that control surfaces are necessary for beginners?
Not Sanjay but imo, you do not need a control surface. Everything they do can be done with a mouse and keyboard. The only thing you might want, and it's not necessary, is a keyboard regardless of DAW controls.
Part of the problem with control surfaces is their limited interface, often they take more button presses than just using your mouse. Knobs and faders without "scribble strips" mean you have to look at your screen to check where each parameter is at. Some control surfaces, like the launchpad or push, have a big learning curve and are not meant for beginners, they have too many unlabeled functions.
If you really REALLY hate using a mouse and keyboard, skip the control surface and go straight to something like the MPC Key, or a workstation like the FANTOM, though those are out of a beginner's budget.
@@D1570R73D Thanks. Im looking more from a mixing perspective as well interms of being able to mix with faders and control volume. I am a producer as well as a mixer and for me personally using the mouse especially when mixing makes it more of a task to match fader volumes and control two things at once that might be adjusted so that is where my mind was when asking but thank you, this definitely made the choice easier.
great video, but which one has a hold button?
Great video! What is best for writing a more classical/folk song?
is there a joystick I can buy for NI keyboards.
Hi Sanjay, I work on Studio One 6, wich mini Keybord you recommend? I am interested in Nektar impact lx 25 + or the mini version because of its good integration with Studio one. In your opinion, is mine a good choice or do you recommend something else?

What would you guys recomend for someone stating i don't have much software either
Which of these MIDI keys would be best if I wanted to use my pedals with it? I have a Chroma Console that I normally use with my Akai mini. Figured I would need a Midi out
As a beginner which should I go with? I’m in between the minilab 3 and launchkey 49
The launchkey 49 100%
@@Faterna.888ended up going with the keylab essential 61 mk3
What is the silver grey thingy with three knobs and 3 faders that is visible at 0:49 in the right side of the video?
I have a question of a complete beginner. I’m looking for an instrument my daughter could use to learn to play and maybe in the future, if she desire, to upgrade to a bigger instrument (piano etc). I want the instrument to be small, portable, preferably allow usage of headphones so she can practice and do not disturb others. I always thought midi keyboards cannot be used on its own to play but rather to control other hardware or be used with software. Am I wrong? Can any of these instruments be used to play without software/Mac/pc? If so, which one would you recommend for a 10 yo girl who wants to learn to play?
The Akai mpk mini play has build in sounds and is also a midi keyboard. Also got a headphone out
Which one is work with GarageBand ?
Hello can i use this without laptop? Im looking for a small keyboard as small as a midi keyboard to be plugged directly into speakers via the guitar cable. Must have a transpose frature what can you recommend?
Mini Play but no sequencer
I am looking for something that probably isnt invented. I own a Ferrofish B4000+ Drawbar organ module which I love but the sounds are selected by a rotary knob and the numbers of the sounds or programs are 1/8 inch in height which is impossible to see and impossible to adjust without twisting the knob too much or not enough.
Is there a small item similar to what you have pictured that allows those 8 ( or how many ever) pads or the synth keys to be set to select midi note numbers once I tap them thus allowing me to change programs or sounds on the Ferrofish ?
Thanks for any advice. Small is key and I'd need 8 or so pads or keys is all.
What kind of soundcard should we have to play this sounds!?
When I was younger only Soundblaster AWE32 had nice instruments to play in midi
Which one would you buy for a young child that you are trying to get into music making?
Which one works better with Luna daw
im looking for the best keyfeel! ty!
Which one for live performance through mixer, using NI and Cubase?
Does they work with Garageband for ipad?
Hi thanks, a lot for this video, which keyboard should I use if I do mainly classical music (piano and strings flutes...etc.) I want to create some songs for my games. I use Cubase as software
Does the pitch slide even work with Vital or Serum? I never got the slide notes when using those two.
Do you need a computer for a MIDI keyboard? Or can you play it with an amp?
You need something that generates sound; these are just controllers.
Which one is very compatible with Fl studio ?
Drum pads are a MUST:-)
Yes, good video. I personally don’t need a keyboard controller that small. I‘m always looking for a keyboard controller that works best together with Logic Pro and has 61 or 73 (76) keys. There seems to be none like that on the market. Most likely the Nektar controllers, but somehow I don’t like their outer appearance…
1:47 where did you get that plugin?
The Arturia Essential isn't among the 6 best? 🤔
Which midi keyboard or combination midi pad controllers fits best with CUBASE
I want to start making my own music ( i did like 30 years ago, with fasttracker, madtracker etc and a mini korg synth, only keys) Now i want start making some dance/trance music. What is the best program to work with Fruitloops? I am thinking of the Akai MPK mini plus. good choice?
Analog lab pro comes with Arturia Minilab? Or is it a lite version
I'm looking for a new one.. and I know you're my man on YT when it comes to MIDI Controllers👌
You should the alesis vi series (specific ly the alesis vi49) its very simple but the best one i have ever tried it integrates very well with ableton live
5:18 could I ask what that small thing is on the right hand side with buttons and knobs
That one sounded awesome till you got to that loud ass clicking. I was sold until I heard that big ass "chonk" of a button press and instantly said "HEEELLLLLL NAWWW!". Thanks for this video!
If you taking about the m-audio i can confirm the buttons are very loud, and they really feel like buttons from a toy..
Same with the pitch wheel which i feel has to hard springs with a hard center stop, it's hard to pitch max to minimum without a little noticeable stop in the mid position.
I have the oxygen pro 61 but it looks so identical.
@@jada1173 that sounds clonky AF, 😂
How are the drum pads on M-Audio oxygen? Are they same in quality to those from Akai since it's under same company?
First of all, I am a real fan of your Videos and always look forward to the one on a Saturday, it's sort of in my routine now when I sit down on a Saturday evening. I have a quick, probably troll worthy question, but I am torn on which one of these to get still. I also see benefits to at least two of them but there isn't a single one that does it all. So my question; If I choose the Arturia with only 8x pads, I take it there is a way to play all 16x allocated sounds from things like Maschine etc? I have searched through the manual for it but I can't find any confirmation. I am confident the other keyboards with 16x pads will auto assign to all 16x drum sounds, but I don't want to buy the Arturia if I have to re-map all my kits to the first 8x pads. I hope you see what I am getting at? :) If you can, I can see me buying the Arturia + the NI so I get best of both worlds on my desk while my 88 key keyboard is only brought out when needed. thanks again !!!
I'm an FLstudio user and I'm trying to decide between the FLkey 37 and the Akai Midi Plus, any suggestions?
What did u get ?
@@NOOB-nz9kc FLkey37
@@NOOB-nz9kc I like it
I already had a maschine mk3 mikro, so the m32 was the perfect addition, and in that time NI had a deal + komplete 14 select with the purchase of a m32, thank you for your past review on this. Best buy ever, now I feel komplete.
Do they still have that deal?
@@Prod.Xido1 yes! right now, Black Friday deals, hit it!
My novation randomly activates clips in my session view on Ableton or it will sustain a note from a vst endlessly. I wouldn’t recommend
How would you rank these 6 keyboards?
The only thing I cared about
How come there is no answer?
Hi and thanks a lot for your amazing videos. Newbie here, i would like to ask you which one will work with Amplitube 5 max and which one offers straight away virtual instruments?
Thanks for the video, Sanjay
Still cant decide. A very noob question here: what do you think the best for a newbie who also is starting to learn using Ableton?
I have a hard time figure out those on-screen controls and parameters, yet I dont really know what really helps for that.
Thanks!
Excellent vid! is it possible connect any of these midi controllers to a Midiplus Mini engine instead of a computer?
Any of these work with omnisphere 2?
Love the shirt 👍🏽. Haha! I like how you measured the down weight of the keys. Very important
you are so amazing, thank you so much for making this review!
Wish you would have included some that are full size. I’m interested in finding a midi controller as close to a piano feel as possible.
Hi Sanjay. My little boy wants a Midi controller with keys and finger drum pads. He is too young for production software on a PC. Is there a stand-alone machine that will loop, record but does not need a pc.
It would be so nice if the Akai Plus as a play variable to play too without pc or extra stuff like the mini play. Problem at the mini play, it have no pitchwheels and no steprecording, too smal ... .
As an play variant it would be a synth + midi as an full transportable Play version.
Are there any midi controllers that have medium sized keys? Tried the Minilab mk3, and while I really like it, the actual keys are just to little for me... I already have a larger controller with regular sized keys, but my hands are small, and playing octaves on the left hand is a bit of a stretch...arthritis doesn't help either... I'm looking for something in between but I haven't seen anything available... Thanks for any suggestions!
Sounds like the intro of Cleveland Is The Reason by Kid Cudi 1:29
If you have Komplete no mini keyboard is better than the M32. It’s just a tad too long for some backpacks but the extra keys come in handy
Hi!
An audio interface is needed for this midi? Or is just plug into my computer and play? Thanks!
If you don't have Audio Interface, then ASIO for All is a way to get started but yes, good to have Audio Interface and also DAW software of which these will come bundled with cut down versions. You can also try Reaper which is cheap and has a generous trial period. Works well with the M32 and ReaKontrol (thing that drives Reaper DAW functions from the M32 and is quite good).
Couldn't you take the m32 and pair it with a launchpad x? If so i might go that route. Still undecided about my first midi
Hi and thank you for this amazing video!
What would you suggest to a beginner?
not using AL! Can there be any that are AP Agnostic?
do you have or can you do a similar video with regards to larger keyboards? I want a more full length piano to use, but I'm having a hard time finding one.
At the time the Novation SL MKII was the top midi controller. It still works perfectly today. Although I always played the drums on the keys. And faders when it comes to mixing. But you have to have something to mix, you have to get to that stage. I want to say, today there is a lack of talent. All you need is 61 keys and 2 knobs. Preferably separate pitch and modulation. As little as possible of vst, today it is a sea in which people are suffocating in general. And if possible, play an acoustic instrument, go out with friends and have fun together with acoustic music. Everything has already been played anyway. Life is short to be alone in a small room making a déjà vu
How about fine tunning in each?
No midi 2.0 option?
Hey Sanjay! Im a beginner at producing music but I really enjoy trying to make songs on my midi keyboard. I would really like to find some type of online training course that would help broaden my skills at producing music. Do you have any suggestions?