Hi folks, We've been busy researching MIDI Controllers to help you figure out what you
need to make your best audio and video content and stay on budget.
Links to all the products in the review are in the description box below, where you'll
find current pricing for your region wherever possible.
Now before I move on, we'd love to hear what MIDI Controller you're using right now and
what you think of it.
Let us know in the comments!
Okay, let's get into it!
Here are the top five best MIDI Controllers.
The fifth product on our list is the Arturia KeyStep 37.
The Arturia Keystep 37 is the perfect blend of a MIDI and modular setup.
The weighted keyboard keeps it from moving around your desk while working.
The left side of the front panel features controls for the sequencer and arpeggiator.
There are also division, tempo, and transport buttons to complete the selection.
For live performances, you can use the tap tempo buttons to match the sequence and arpeggios.
The LCD screen shows your current values, and on the right are the chords and strum
controls.
You can find the MIDI in, out, and the sustain pedal socket on the back panel.
There’s also the CV in and out and the 3.5 millimeter jack.
The Keystep 37 can be powered three ways.
You can use a USB connector to connect it to your computer which puts it in bus power
mode.
A USB charger can power it on standalone mode or a 12-volt power supply.
This MIDI Controller works great with software such as Logic Pro and Analog Lab.
The Arturia Keystep 37 is simple and intuitive to use.
It has handy features that you can use daily and its small body makes it perfect to jam
with.
It's a great and affordable option if you're looking for your first MIDI controller that
won't break the bank.
The fourth product on our list is the Novation Launchkey Mini Mk3.
The Novation Launchkey Mini Mk3 is a compact, plug-and-play controller keyboard.
It has a combined keyboard and pad design that is great with the Ableton Live, Reason,
and Logic software.
It is the size of a laptop in width and light enough to throw into your bag for on-the go
jam sessions.
The 25-note keyboard has a nicely made set of keys with the pitch and mod strips on the
top left.
It has 16 velocity-sensitive pads which you can use to tap out drum patterns.
Despite the compact design of this controller, the buttons aren't crowded and are sensibly
placed.
There are two main features that Novation has focussed on.
The onboard arp mode has a range of modes, rhythmic patterns, and timing divisions.
If you want to predefine chord shapes and control them using the keyboard, you can use
the fixed chord feature.
For added portability, the MK3 features a MIDI output port which allows you to use it
in standalone mode.
If you're in the market for an affordable and compact controller then the Novation Launchkey
Mini MK3 is a great buy.
The third product on our list is the Novation SL Mk III.
The Novation SL Mk III has an 8-track internal sequencer and built-in arpeggiator.
This is impressive for any MIDI controller, but Novation packs in some more great features.
The SL Mk III allows you to create your own templates.
You can split the keyboard into different zones where you can apply scales and key changes.
The color-coded lights above the keys will help you keep track of your current zones.
This controller offers drum pads, clip launching, transport controls, and parameter tweaking.
These are features that come in handy while you're creating music.
The standout addition of Novation however, is the 8-track pattern-based sequencer.
The sequencer lets you build real-time or step-based patterns right on your keyboard.
If you're considering external synthesizers into your setup, this is a great feature.
The design of this hardware is functional with 5 clear LCD screens.
There's an adjustable velocity curve with a fixed option as well, and solid pitch and
mod wheels.
The backlit controls look stylish against the matte black and make it easier to navigate.
If you're willing to invest in a functional and jam-packed MIDI controller then the Novation
SL MK III is a great investment.
The setup and use is hassle free and can make your workflow more versatile.
The second product on our list is the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25.
The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 is great for working on the move.
The 25-key model is the smallest option, weighing only 5 pounds or 2.4 kilograms.
This is an affordable model that integrates quality hardware.
On the back you'll find USB for power and MIDI, a foot pedal input and a Kensington
lock port.
The keys are full sized and semi-weighted to give you that sturdy keyboard feel.
There are the classic mod and pitch bend wheels, along with octave buttons on the left corner.
The A25's hardware is designed to work well with Native's Komplete Kontrol software.
This makes it easier for entry level musicians to get used to the controls.
You can slip it into MIDI mode to turn it into a MIDI controller or custom maps mode
using the Editor software.
You get 8 touch-sensitive controller knobs and a 4-way push encoder for sound browsing.
The Kontrol A25 works seamlessly with any plugins you have.
The features are reliable and easy to work with.
The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 is hard to ignore with its usability.
It is a MIDI Controller worth having, whether you're a pro or a beginner.
The first product on our list is the Arturia KeyStep Pro.
The Arturia KeyStep Pro was one of the most anticipated controllers and for good reason.
Arturia takes all the great features of the KeyStep and adds aftertouch.
It has 37 keys with a polyphonic 4-track sequencer.
The onboard 16-track drum sequencer gives you a lot of room to experiment.
There are 2 MIDI outs, 4 CV, gate, and mod outs as well as the option to control hardware
synthesizers.
The placement of the buttons and knobs are convenient to access, whether you're at a
studio or in a live gig.
The transport controls are on the top and bottom left area.
There are screens on top of each sequencer to help you keep track of your current settings.
If you enjoy performing live, you will love the Aftertouch feature.
The body of the Arturia Keystep Pro is durable, compact and lightweight.
The layout is intuitive to follow and you can use it without hooking it up to your DAW.
Over all, the Arturia Keystep Pro gives you great value for your money.
It's one of the best controllers out in the market and once you start using it, you can
produce some great content.
And there you have it folks, the five MIDI Controllers that got us excited this year.
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If you would like to see some more reviews from our team here at Gear Music Tech, here
are a couple that we think you’ll enjoy.
We look forward to seeing you back here on Gear Music Tech soon.
Bye for now.