Hi Lucas, While the Arturia KeyStep is great, its not something Ill use for playing complex parts like chords or piano pieces. The Casio S-series slim digital pianos made some changes to the pivot mechanism in order to achieve the slim form factor, and the black keys in particular take some getting use to, which makes it somewhat less ideal as a MIDI controller. They are more similar than different feel-wise. However, this is innovation the way we like it. Basically, semi-weighted keys feel somewhat like light piano keys, making them a happy medium between weighted and synth-action keys.
Chances are if youre looking into MIDI controllers, you already own the related VSTs and DAWs. Despite my love of MIDI keyboards, I still enjoy the physical sensation of hearing and feeling the vibrations of a digital piano, which adds to the realism factor. Just keep the buffer size settings as low as you can to avoid latency issues. The KeyLab series is split into the mainline series (KeyLab 49, 61, and 88 which is weighted) and the Essential series (KeyLab Essential 49 and 61). You mentioned outputting CV from the Mk3 to control modular. I personally favor the Impact LX over the other two, but Akai is known for making sturdy products that last a long time.
I completely understand wanting to get as much bang for your buck.
Many now write off Novation as just the Launchpad company, but their legacy speaks for itself. ), Novation discontinued V-Station & B-Station now Freeware, Balani From Everywhere : Impro on Novation Peak, Novation releases Launchkey 88 keyboard controller ;), Trouble with Pitch Innovations Fluid Pitch [FL Studio 20 x]. The button is used to select independent banks of continuous controllers. h. Akai MPK 249 or Roland A-500 Pro? But I would still like to know, if by getting the MP11SE I would be getting a better and more improved action than the VPC1?
Would studio monitors be able to produce a sound that is at par with the sound of a CSP or equivalent of other brands? But, the difference is not like day and night. Would you prefere the GX61 over the Keystation 61 Mk3? Best DAWs Today: How to Choose Your First DAW? Mine should arrive this Friday, so Ill post an update on how it goes. For instance, NI Massive from Komplete. The differences primarily regard the layout and the Essential lines reduced number of controls. These include the ring-based MIDI controller from Enhancia that reacts to movement dynamically, sending CC changes as you move your hands. Touch is the name of the game here, and Roli even designed their own software plugins to take full advantage of their keyboard.These come with every Seaboard model you can buy, and while theyre complicated, the sounds are worth the effort. If we did, wed be buying something else. These dodge the problem of mini keys, but I still give the KeyStep the edge in that regard. The setup is clunky as you have to set it up as HUI device and also setup a separate keyboard to get midi from the keyboard. MIDI keyboards are valid practice tools for budding pianists and keyboardists. This laser focus lends itself to specific DAW audiences but is not ideal for a general consumer. Of course, this is always a question of personal preference and habit. It just works. All in all, think hard about what you need before making these purchases. Kawai needs no introduction as prolific acoustic and digital piano makers, having been around since 1927. Devices can communicate in both directions with each other without any additional MIDI interface. Nice! ( nothing to do with Reason ). The width represents the horizontal dimension of the product. For MIDI keyboards and controllers, we are looking for: Thats a short list due to the important factors you need to consider. Arturia Keylab 61 MK2 (black) If you manage to snag a used FP-30 model, you might be able to save some cash (and it is also way more convenient for performing live once the pandemic ends). Build quality is also best-in-class here.
Size and weight must be kept at a minimum here. Arturia KeyStep Best Portable MIDI Keyboard (25- to 32-key), Nektar SE49 Best Budget MIDI Keyboard (below $200), Novation Impulse Best Semi-Weighted MIDI Controller. Luckily the integration is good with both of those as well. The DS-1H feels good, with a decent amount of resistance so you can rest atop it, but not so much that youll struggle to push downwards. I have not done a lot with Analog Lab V yet, but from what I have tried its a really nice addition. Response and playability are probably more important. How well does the Casiotone hold up for practising piano? The in port enables the MIDI keyboard to be controlled by an external device or sequencer. Casiotone CT-S300 (as Midi Controller during vacation and kids instrument at home), Thank you for your informative site! I was thinking about the modx8 because it has built in sounds, but its too expensive and doesnt have the same midi capabilities are the keylab 88 mk2. The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Digital Piano. I Have the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 MK2. Its hard to describe, but they way the keys return to the starting position just feels more realistic compared to the PHA-4 Standard action. For the price it was certainly a great keyboard. 8) Software Support: Some controllers are designed to integrate well with specific software, and this could push it up a few notches in your own personal lists.
Thanks for the great article. Sadly, they dont come close. Its also important to remember that these are meant to fit into laptop bags.
Unlike our usual lists, well be a bit more lenient with our choices. Many thanks for your insights. Novation is another veteran MIDI controller. However, it does not have aftertouch. Any advice here is very welcome. July 18, 2020 in Logic Pro. Then again, Im also someone who loved Yamahas old CLP action, which many considered to be realistic but overly heavy, so my preferences might not match up with the general consensus. These are all well-praised options that justify the extra price, giving you aftertouch, semi-weighted keys, and so on. The keybed is high quality. Id say I am an intermediate piano player and would really like a weighted keyboard (maybe the M-Audio 88?) But lets see what it will do to all prices. I havent actually done a full-on test of the Kurzweil Forte SE or the PC4-88 (curse regional availability), so I cant really comment on those. Navigation buttons allows users to navigate through their files/data.
The M-Audio SP-2 is a good alternative as well.
Speaking of DAWs, you wont need to worry about DAW compatibility. For what its worth, I liked it.
Though, I will say that these faders are geared towards mixing and DJs, so they arent as good with performances. What I find intriguing about the CSP series is the real-time backing band accompaniment (with the Smart Pianist app). Buttons will light up when pressed, resulting in better visibility to users. Host Transport Control doesn't work with Komplete Kontrol MK2 due to NI removing MCU support | NI Community Forum. The pitch bend and mod wheel exist as touch strips, which I feel is much better than the MPK Minis joystick and the Launchkey Minis nothing (though the new MK3 includes touch strips as well). Ill admit that I havent used this since 2012, but it was quite impressive even at the time. Im taking notes! I just received mine today. They then moved onto hardware with their highly successful Minibrute synthesizer, praised for its solid build quality and excellent sounds. The only thing that would have made the SE49s keys perfect would be aftertouch, but it straight up doesnt exist with the competitors at this price point, so I wont hold it against Nektar. You get the same robust build quality with bonus wooden sides, a full-sized keybed, and actual controls beyond the transport buttons. Thats no small investment. Hi, I cowrote this article alongside Lucas, so Ill give my two cents here.
Hence, youll need to judge the following on your own merits: 1) Number of Keys: More keys mean a higher price and more bulk, which might be unnecessary if youre not playing classical pieces. The cool thing about software is that you can always dabble with it later on, using your Clavinova (or any other keyboard with USB connectivity) as a MIDI controller and speaker. Does your statement that the Nektar GX61 is more playable than the Keystation Mk3 refer to the 49 or the 61 key variant? Pasted as rich text. but IS he still a big fan?
A lower weight is also an advantage for home appliances, as it makes transportation easier, and for many other types of products. Oh, regarding the monitors. Now that I cant try out anything due to covid and shipping difficulties, please help me make a decision. A controller with a mixed (analog and digital) signal path. As our website name implies, we focus mainly on pianos, specifically the electronic variants that serve as viable learning and practice tools for all skill levels. Your previous content has been restored. In the Arturia KeyStep review, you said 25 keys is a bummer and yes while you put the KeyStep in the 25-32 key class, you failed to mention that the KeyStep is actually 32 keys. Hi!
I havent been able to find much info on its abilities to control hardware.
Dedicated expression pedals let you have a hands-free control over your keyboard's volume, vibrato, and more. With that said, your point of comparison was the Yamaha CSP series, which is one of the better sounding digital pianos out there. I have now ordered and tried the Nektar GX61. Finger drumming is something many prefer, but I find keyboard-drumming more precise. But what about the sound reproduction? Since you use Ableton, you can easily assign any parameter to a MIDI keyboards control using the built-in MIDI Learn feature, so any MIDI keyboard can work, and you dont necessarily need to shell out for the Keylab 88, which might be overkill unless youre planning on performing one-man electronica shows in the future. Others say the new Mk3 61 keystation would be the best light piano replacement because of the half weighted resistence it offers, allowing better expression playing piano. I want piano feel, but it doesnt have to be the best keybed. Looking to use amplify loud enough to play in a live setting. The StudioLogic SL88 Studio and Arturia Keylab 88 MKII share the same key action, the Fatar TP/100LR, which Im not a big fan of if realistic feel is important. When I first touched the keys they felt a little lighter than expected (like most people say). On the subject of automapping, its a bit unfortunate that you use Logic, as thats one of the few DAWs that dont have convenient assignable MIDI Learn capabilities. Thanks for the great article! However, Ive heard good things about their DAW integration via its multi-mode. Something worth considering when purchasing pedals for MIDI controllers is whether you require half-pedaling. Question though. The Roli Seaboard requires you to significantly alter your playstyle, so what if you like your current keyboard? Nice. Help us by suggesting a value. Novation is most well-known for its Launchpad line, which featured simple 88 pad controllers made for sample triggering, and these were surprisingly successful for performance purposes. The biggest advantage of the Novation is the CV channels (for non-MIDI hardware) and onboard step sequencer.
However, we stand by the fact that keys are the most important aspect of any keyboard. Mini Grand and Velvet are plugins I use in my production work (they sound great, and are CPU efficient), and their standalone prices arent cheap. Has an input/connector for the sustain pedal, Novation 61SL MkIII, Midi & CV equipped Keyboard Controller with 8 Track Sequencer, Novation Launchkey 61 [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller for Ableton Live, Novation AMS-IMPULSE-61 Impulse 61 with On Stage Sustain Pedal and Knox Adjustable Keyboard Stand, Has an input/connector for the expression pedal, MIDI device works and communicates via USB. This is something slab-based pianos just fail to recreate. Wanted this keyboard for awhile and the day I bought it, i get home, hook it up, and cant get the transports to work in Sonar.
Either way, keys arent the Impulses only advantage. Loving the sequencer. However if you are looking for some kind of S1 integration then no. I am starting a home recording studio and am quite overwhelmed with all the midi keyboard options. Already have an account? Im open to using other programs as well, but I would love to get a pretty decent Midi Controller with keys to learn the program rather than learning without it getting used to it and then having to start over by learning to use a Midi controller. Alternatively, you could consider a MIDI mixer controller, like Novations LaunchControl or the Akai MIDImix. If youre starting out, most MIDI controllers include stripped-down versions of DAWs, like Ableton Live Lite and Bitwig 8-track. On the other hand, if youre more like me and use knobs or buttons to morph between synthesizer presets, then the FA-08 will suffice, and you get Rolands incredible sounds as a good bonus. Komplete 10 and "new" Kontrol S keyboards from Native Instruments soon??? Im a beginner piano player and Im into piano and synthesizer sounds, so I want the ability to play both. I am a teenager so am sorta limited by price so ideally wouldnt spend too, too much XD Any suggestions? It depends on what youre looking for. Effectively, this allows you to control more independent parameters with the knobs, faders and buttons. While certain MIDI controllers, like the Novation Launchkey series for Ableton Live, have a clearly targeted DAW audience, it doesnt mean they wont work with other DAWs. in Logic Pro, Copyright 2022 Logic Pro Help It is compatible with PCs and laptops running the Windows operating system. Hi, Id recommend getting an audio interface to route the VST outputs to your tube amp. 6) Pads: Pads are fun, but theyre not a must. But I do not really know what is on the market in this field. The 49- and 61-key variants of the Komplete Control (henceforth known as the S49 and S61) are virtual carbon-copies of the Nord Stage 3 73s semi-weighted keyboard, and I have to say theyre hard to beat. Hi Sergio, I might not be Lucas, but I did write this article, so Ill try answering your question.
The Launchkey Mini might be worth it if youre using Ableton Live as your main DAW. Many keyboard players, producers and students are buying these controllers to use on the road or take anywhere and play: you can use phones with smartphones or tablets, they are light and smaller and all you need is a good app with no latency / delay!
This is a purely computer-based solution, but it still feels far superior to the competition. Calling them semi-weighted seems a bit misleading based on raw feel, as they feel similar to the pseudo-waterfall keys on the Yamaha NP-12 and NP-32, which are just unweighted synth-action keys. Though it is quite a hassle compared to other DAWs like Reason or Live where a simple right click handles everything.
It seems more limited than Id want. Never been able to find if possible and what additional equipment, cables etc are need to do this, Id like to play Rhodes/Wurlitzer sounds amplified enough to keep up with a drummer? Youre operating strictly on USB MIDI here. You helped save me from buying and returning multiple keyboards. Your own personal mileage may vary. Well consider the series, but our opinions will be based on the KeyLab 49 MKII, which we believe is a better option. Thank you for a great article.
However, youll need to make a few decisions yourself.
And thanks for bringing the FP series update to my attention.
The competition (especially the Akai Road) comes close, but its not worth saving if you want the closest to the real deal. While we stand by our stance that keys are the most important aspect, there are other factors to consider.
I think its worth thinking a bit more about what you intend to use as your main sound source. (KeyLab 61 MK2 - Black). Now I am thinking i need semi-weighted keys with a nice feel. The keys themselves are also pretty good. Where it falters is in the lack of controls.
The KeyLab is slightly ahead when it comes to playability and integration. This is a portable MIDI controller geared towards laptop-based users who are consistently on the go. I found the keys to be super heavy and noisy so sending it back. The issue with keylab 88 mk2 is I heard it doesnt have graded hammer action.
Really great controller. Anyway, really digging it so far, and if anyone is like me and looking for a 61 key midi controller, I highly recommend checking out the keylab. These arent long-term solutions due to their limitations, but they can help you learn the basics. Its held up great actually, and is a key part of my setup (bad pun intended). However, those feel more like an engineers tool, as opposed to that of a musician. Powered by Invision Community. I don't actually use that feature much. What would be your first choice 88 keys wise semi and weighted keys? 7) Pedal Support: Much like digital pianos, it features a pedal jack. It doesnt have as much weight as the CLP, so dont worry. The keybed felt nice, and it has oodles of features. Great lightweight controller (esp for the price). Ive played on them before, and they are quite fatiguing. These options arent exactly excellent, but they offer a good amount of controls for the price. Their products, from the Roli Lightpad Block to the Roli Seaboard, dont have knobs or buttons. Regardless, better safe than sorry, and its always better to ensure that youre getting pedal support, proprietary or otherwise. The Roland FP-30X is quite popular, and I personally think it feels better than M-Audios weighted keys. They are essentially better buttons, though, due to their larger size, especially if youre playing on another main keyboard. In the market for a 61 key thingamabob. Thanks! Hi! Weve tried our best to provide general recommendations that work well regardless of your DAW or hardware preferences, but certain other options might be preferable because of their close integration. As with Kawais digital pianos, these feel realistic and support half-damper functionality. The arpeggiator is the main tool used by computer musicians to generate looped material. Who the hell takes away features from a MK revision..SMFH..I have 6 useless buttons just sitting thereand come to find out, NI sucks as a company and does not listen to the hundreds of users requesting for it in their forum. 4) Aftertouch: Typical pressure sensitivity tracks the pressure on the down press, but aftertouch continues to detect how hard youre pushing down until you let go. But taking the Kawai VPC1 plus around 1000 for monitors, we already reach the price of a CSP-150 and still need to add the piano VST, keyboard stand and monitor fixtures/stands and cables. Its newer RealBand features seem to do what Yamahas backing band does, but you might need to check out its demo to see if it matches the sound quality of Yamaha. However, you can still assign different knobs (that send MIDI CC signals) to different instrument parameters, its just a hassle.
Hopefully I could find a place to test these out in the midst of the pandemic. No problem, glad it was useful.
As youve probably noted throughout this article, controls take a back seat to good keys for us. You cannot paste images directly.
With good monitor speakers (set up correctly in a good room), youll have a setup that rivals top tier digital pianos. Hi, Im trying to find the best way to amplify vsts through a tube amp? Our favorite damper pedal that supports half-pedaling (and our favorite sustain pedal in general) is Korgs DS-1H. I would encourage you to play a few other models in the same price range to see if theres something you like even better. The good controls are even more prominent here though and might just push you over the edge. They provide a more natural audio experience, as the pitch depends on your movement, just like when playing the drums live. The pads section is ideal to trigger loops and samples, using your finger drum skills. The Kawai VPC1 was a surprise when released in 2014, but its gone on to become a top option for people who want an acoustic piano-style experience that integrates with their software and hardware modules. Hey, just wanted to chime in to say that its definitely a matter of taste. Theres a better option if youre willing to sacrifice a lot of controls and pay a lot more. I am looking for one that can be the centerpiece and mostly be used for songwriting and production (mostly with Logic Pro X) and was hoping for your opinion on which I should get. Itd be nice to have a reference budget to know what types of monitors to recommend. I am also thinking about some absorbers and diffusers to treat the room. I do have a question though, do you know the key action is for the arturia keylab 88 mk2? Very helpful.
Im not excessively picky, but I would like it to be something I can stick with. USB MIDI is the obvious one, but 5-pin MIDI and even CV/Gate voltage signals are provided.
I did use that in the past, but only ever as a last resort. I would love it if you have any suggestions. No matter what DAW you use (apart from FL Studio, which feels like a weird omission considering its popularity), theres a default setup you can use and modify to taste. Pads are also notably absent, though neither the Launchkey nor the MPK Minis pads feel especially good. I regard experimenting with a setup as part of the fun of making music. if anyone has a keylab and wants to comment on it, please feel free. On my shortlist are: Thankfully, Nektar excels at good keyboards, and that same level of quality is seen with the SE49. So, if your goal is to become a pianist, Id suggest going with some of the selections from our other lists.
Ive tried the p125, fp-30, some casios, modx8, mx88, but havent tried the midi controllers such as keylab 88 mk2 or sl88 studio.
If you look up the price, breathe deeply. Help us by suggesting a value. Since I co-wrote the RD-88 review, I can also confirm that it does indeed work as a MIDI controller through its DAW Control mode. When I could not get the transport controls to work in my setup how I liked, I decided to keep looking. Unless the keyboard you get has a dedicated MIDI mode, you wont be able to assign the knobs to control certain parameters. We wont get detailed here, but you can make it work. I think Ill give it a go.
Create a username and password below and an account will be created and your post entered. The shortcut magnet for Live just happens to have Cubase on the flip side too, Powered by Discourse, best viewed with JavaScript enabled, [ The BITWIG Thread ] bitwig 4, survey in progress "features you miss the most". In fact part of me almost likes them better than the Fatar keys I have. The "thru" port, emits a copy of everything received at the input port, allowing data to be forwarded to another instrument in a daisy chain arrangement. I cant test it in person unfortunately. So I ordered the Keystation 61 MK3 after all. And yeah, Im not sure if the sequencer is a selling point for me or not. However, the KeyStep wins simply because of how good it feels.
MIDI controllers you mentioned are great controllers, but when it comes to piano feel, I wouldnt expect too much realism from them. In fact, thats the first blow against the SE49. Transpose buttons are used for moving a collection of notes (pitches or pitch classes) up or down in pitch by a constant interval, usually in semitone increments. In my opinion, this beats out other options in this price range by simply feeling the best. The problem here is the price. If youve gotten this far, I want to strongly recommend you consider your main purposes. The device is set up and ready to be used with the included software. With that said, the M-Audio Hammer does come with a lot of great bundled software. At home I have a Casio PX-S1000. The pads are less Akai MPC-style resistant, and more like the Native Instruments Maschine-style responsiveness. Do you think I should just go for the keylab 88 mk2? The other option I considered was to get a Nektar Impact LX 88 to work with Logic, but I know I will miss the sounds a full keyboard offers. If you manage to find one, the last-generation Akai MPK49/61 is also good and features what I consider to be the better faders. The bank selector button is used to switch among the available banks. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Shares useful info and actionable insights in the form of reviews, guides, tips and tricks that will help make your musical journey a success story.
They know what people want and theyre good at making things that work well. 5) 5-Pin MIDI Support: MIDI controllers are sometimes marketed as USB only, which means the manufacturers dont offer MIDI connections. Display as a link instead, Near the end of the article, around the Kawai VPC1 alternatives, the Studiologic SL88 Grand was mentioned, with its Fatar TP40WOOD action. We find that 49 keys are good enough for synthesizer-focused players, whereas 61 keys are a good amount for keyboardists who need organ-style keys. Adding a quick update, as I LOVE this controller so far. Crossow, June 30 Good that you mentioned Keyscape, which might better fit my interest in Jazz, Latin, Blues, Rock, Pop, etc. However, I still put the GX61 a step above in terms of feel. Overall, Id say the KeyLab is the best in its class. Good luck on your musical journey! The KeyLab 88 is the only exception, featuring an ungraded piano-style weighted keyboard. Id love to also hear the other co-auther, Lucas and his opinions, if possible. It is used to allow musicians the flexibility of playing at any desired tempo based on their musical input.
Considering Arturia managed to make good on a mini-sized keyboard, Im not surprised that their fully-grown brethren excel, too. It is compatible with Mac OS X devices such as MacBooks and iMacs. https://www.pianodreamers.com/how-to-write-song/.
If that name sounds familiar, its because theyre responsible for the keys on all Nord keyboards, as well as the new up and coming company Dexibell.
These keys are far from plastic blocks and compare to the Grand Feel key actions featured on Kawais flagship console-style digital pianos (which cost many times more). The biggest advantage is that the USB connection can be used for everything; power supply, MIDI-in and MIDI-out. The MP11SE has a newer key action of a similar design (you can think of it as the successor to the VPC1s action).