MIDI controllers are a basic tool in music production.
Most of them look like a keyboard, but their particularity is that, unlike keyboards, they do not play any sound.
You will need a MIDI sound bank (in a DAW) to make it work.
Many producers use this tool because it allows us to introduce any sound (strings, percussion, winds, etc) that we can think of without the need to know how to play a piano.
In this article we will review the best MIDI controllers on the market, without spending a lot of money, but with all the power to unleash your imagination.
10. Korg NanoKey Studio
Main Features:
Chord Pad and Easy Scale
No faders and controllers
Compatibility with all DAWs
25 Low Profile Keys
This MIDI controller with 25 keys is one of the lightest and most portable on the market. Korg, a reference in audio, has created this tool with a very good quality-price ratio.
The Korg nanoKEY Studio combines 25 low-profile keys, eight velocity-sensitive pads, eight knobs and a KAOSS-style XY pad for selectable CC messages. And all this in a size smaller than an A4-size notebook.
Many producers or musicians who perform their musical pieces with their laptop or mobile device, live or in the studio, the last thing they want is to have a bunch of extra cables taking up space.
- USB/Bluetooth LE MIDI Instrument Controller with 25 Low-profile Keys
- 8 Velocity-sensitive Pads
- X-Y Touch Pad
- 8 Knobs
That’s where the nanoKEY Studio’s super-efficient Bluetooth LE connectivity will help, because it allows you to leave the USB cables at home without having to worry about battery life.
Included is a succulent software package that will make the nanoKEY Studio your inseparable companion for mobile music making.
This small but tough device is suitable for beginners in the MIDI world. So you can play, play, learn and enjoy the bus ride home by connecting it to your cell phone.
- Extremely lightweight
- Good internal arpeggiator
- It is so light that it seems fragile
9. Akai MPK 249
Main Features:
Q-Link controls: 8 control knobs, 8 faders and 8 backlit switches.
16 MPC pads with RGB backlit feedback 4 pad banks
Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0 and Akai Pro MPC Essentials
49 semi-weighted keys
This 49-key MIDI controller from AKAI is a great choice for all producers who like the feel of real pianos.
With an impeccable and sturdy construction, this controller gives a feeling of quality as soon as you see it. It comes with the best piano keys on the market equipped with aftertouch for dynamic playing.
Let's not forget the RGB LED backlit trigger pads borrowed from the MPC Renaissance, its own software package, faster LCD display for DAW-based work, 8 assignable faders and control knobs, USB-MIDI with 5-pin MIDI inputs and outputs, and sustain and expression pedal inputs. Of course, its signature pitch bend and mod wheels plus octave controls.
- Pro Keyboard Performance - 49 semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive full-size keys and a premium piano-style keybed for unprecedented response and natural feel
- Beat Making Essentials - 16 RGB-illuminated MPC-style pads each with 4 banks for 64 pads - the perfect solution for triggering samples, loops, one-shots, melodics and more
- Assignable Control - 24 assignable Q-Link controllers comprising 8 control knobs, faders and switches engineered for hassle-free DAW / virtual instrument mapping
- Your Studio Centerpiece - Take command of your peripheral MIDI equipment courtesy of an onboard USB-MIDI interface with 5-pin MIDI input and output
- Core MPC Tools - MPC mainstay controls included - MPC Note Repeat, arpeggiator, MPC Full Level, Tap Tempo and Time Division
Plug positions are marked on the top panel in nice, bold letters, making it simple to plug everything in. Its panel is intuitive and makes programming simple and fun for all users.
This is one hell of a MIDI controller folks, no small feat. A 49 note velocity sensitive and aftertouch controller that ranges from the beginner user who controls a little with the piano to the semi-professional user who needs to "feel" the keys.
- Robust and impeccable construction
- Has the best keys on the market
- High price
8. Novation LaunchPad Mini
Main Features:
No faders and controllers
Includes Ableton Live Lite
64 minipads and 16 buttons
No keys
Novation brings us an affordable, small and compact pad controller.
Despite its plastic construction, this controller is quite durable for its price. Another main advantage is its size, which makes it portable enough to carry around.
For home or studio use, the controller does not take up too much space on most users' desks or workstations.
Many users gave positive reviews about its intuitive controls when it comes to launching clips or making beats, especially when used with Ableton Live. Its drum pads also provide responsive and tactile feedback.
With a lighter and more compact design, it features 64 multi-colored mini pads and 16 programmable buttons for triggering clips, playing drum racks, controlling its mixer and different types of parameters.
- MK2 version of Novation's compact USB grid controller designed for Ableton Live; 64 multi-colored backlit pads
- Software for Mac and PC, including Ableton Live Lite
- Integrates with your iPad via a Camera Connection Kit or Lightning -to-USB camera adapter (sold separately)
- Compact, lightweight and USB bus-powered
- Launchpad Arcade is an interactive demo that you can use with or without your Launchpad Mini for immediate playability, right out of the box. NOTE: Refer the User Manual before use. Novation now offers a 3-Year Warranty on this and all other Novation products.
It is class-compatible, allowing it to connect with any PC or Mac device and iOS devices via the Camera Connection Kit.
In addition to its automatic integration with Ableton, you can use the grid to control parameters in FL Studio's performance mode.
Novation has managed to create a perfect symbiosis of hardware and software, and professional results are available for any beginner. What is also important: there is no need for customization and training.
It is worth mentioning that the size of Novation Launchpad Mini is very hard to guess from the pictures. Actually, the size is not so small, it is a little bigger than iPad by dimensions, and it is comparable to iPad by surface area, so the package looks quite harmonious.
So if you're a beginner to MIDI controllers, the Launchpad is an easy to use and learn tool, geared more towards making live music with great response and optimal size.
- Ultra compact
- Rugged and portable
- Requires an iPad adapter
07. M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32
Main Features:
8 Pads and 8 rotary controllers.
Pitch, modulation and sustain controls
Compatibility with all daw
32 sensitive mini keys
The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 is a MIDI controller that is small in size and price but big on features. It has virtually the same features as the Aixom Pro 49.
Easily visible illuminated sustain, edit and octave/transpose buttons, 8 assignable percussion buttons (2 banks), 8 assignable knobs, pitch bend and modulation buttons, transport and navigation buttons for music software.
Hypercontrol system for assigning controls to the most popular applications; 10 memories to save your custom settings.
- Production and Beat Maker Essentials Program beats, loops, and grooves using 8 easily accessible pressure and velocity sensitive MIDI drum pads; 32 mini piano keys for programming synths and VIs
- Complete MIDI Control 8 encoders, 3 dedicated transport controls and 5 navigation buttons for comprehensive DAW, virtual instrument and virtual effect control
- Effortless Setup HyperControl unites your hardware and software by automatically mapping the controller’s parameters to popular, in demand music production software
- MIDI Keyboard Controller Must Haves On board pitch bend, sustain and modulation buttons for expressive performances and Octave/Transpose buttons to access the entire note range
- No Drivers, No Fuss Class compliant with Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8 and Mac OS X for simple, seamless setup
Vip 3.0 gives you access to your collection of virtual instruments and effects, allowing you to enjoy integration between hardware and software and guaranteeing creative freedom in a simple and intuitive format.
Portable midi keyboard with 32 velocity-sensitive keys, mini format, and velocity curves that adapt the keyboard's sensitivity to your playing. Includes ignite music creation software, Ableton live lite, with 275 instrument sounds from air music technology.
It is true that it is not a complex or powerful MIDI controller, but if you are looking for a lightweight, easy to use device or a tool for occasional tweaking, do not hesitate.
This device is not for pianists, that's for sure. But if you know a little bit about piano chords you will discover the multiple options that those 32 keys can give you. So we recommend it for newcomers to the MIDI world.
- Hypercontrol system
- Illuminated buttons
- No faders and aftertouch
6. Korg Triton Taktile 49
Main Features:
512 TRITON Classic Seri Preset sounds.
8 Faders and Arpeggiator with 6 types
Compatibility with all daw
49 keys (semi-weighted sensitive)
We take it up a notch with the Taktile 49, a lightweight, portable and powerful 49-key keyboard.
The Taktile 49 has a bank of eight faders and buttons. The keyboard is velocity but not touch sensitive.
It has the typical modulation/pitch wheel duo and octave transpose buttons for accessing the outer reaches of the pitch range.
Those trigger pads are also velocity sensitive but light up when you touch them.
In the center of the control panel is an X/Y touch pad with a strip of tape underneath, next to a small OEL (Organic Electroluminescent) display that shows crisp white text on a dark black background.
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A row of transport buttons control your DAW, and there are a handful of mode buttons scattered elsewhere on the panel.
The connection jacks are mounted on a recessed panel on the right cheek: a USB B port for connecting to your computer, five-pin DIN MIDI in/out, and a pair of switch and continuous-type jacks.
Its plastic construction doesn't look poor or flimsy; on the contrary, it feels sturdy to the touch and looks like it will have a long working life.
The Taktiles are pleasant keyboards, with good build quality and appearance, flexible control options, easy programming associated with a good display and an unexpected bonus in the form of the various uses of the X/Y pad.
The Taktiles feel like fully upgraded products and could well be studio workhorses.
We could safely say that a production pro or seasoned pianist would stick with this model from the entire list we have.
True, it is the most expensive on the list, but even James Rhodes himself would be happy to play with it.
- Excellent control options and a fast and clear programming system
- Clear and informative OEL display
- DAW control functions could be better
5. Keith McMillen Qunexus
Main Features:
Polyphonic aftertouch
No faders and controllers
Compatibility with all daw
25 velocity sensitive touch pads
QuNexus is the next generation of portable keyboards. The easiest, most portable and powerful MIDI keyboard controller on the market.
The 25 pressure-sensitive silicone keys and LED lighting make QuNexus especially interactive and fun to play.
QuNexus' smart sensor keys detect finger pressure, tilt and velocity.
Its blue and white LEDs have 16 brightness levels to help you while playing with it.
The toggle/hold function to help you build chords and create your own step sequencer or arpeggiator with LED feedback are the ultimate.
- 25 Smart Sensor Keys detect Pressure, Tilt & Velocity
- Polyphonic Aftertouch
- Channel Rotation & Poly Pitch Bend
- Octave Selector Buttons & 7 Octave Range
- Pitch Bend Pad
QuNexus is your hub for new and vintage technology.
Connect it to your computer easily via USB, directly to your iPad with the Apple camera connector or Android tablet, control hardware via 5 PIN MIDI or your modular synths with the included CV inputs and outputs.
Take control of your analog synthesizers.
Use the pressure and tilt of your fingers to manipulate parameters like filter, pitch and much more.
QuNexus is a great instrument, very powerful, fun for beginners, but also very capable of meeting the demands of professionals.
Knock everyone's socks off with Keith McMillen's new generation of MIDI controllers and you'll be able to work wonders with this device that leaves no one indifferent.
- Its sound character is surprising
- Attractive construction and well thought out linking system
- Does not store all your settings
4. Native Instruments Maschine Mikro
Main Features:
16 Velocity Levels, Swing, Pad-Link, Note Repeat, as well as MPC 60 and SP-1200 Sampling, Emulation, import of REX2 files and MPC programs, MIDI and Audio export by Drag&Drop.
No faders and controllers
Compatibility with all daw
16 multicolor illuminated pads with Velocity and After-Touch functions
Maschine Mikro is the smaller version of your Maschine. Despite the reduction in size, the Mikro hardware retains much of the charm of the original.
In large part, this is due to the 16 highly playable pads, responsive to both velocity and after-touch and nicely designed, backlit in orange.
MIKRO gives you four different ways to make music with the 16 keys. Play rhythms in Pad mode, with different colors for drums, snare drums and other sounds.
Switch to Keyboard mode to play melodies with the keys.
In Chord mode, it's easy to assemble inspiring chord progressions.
And in Step mode, program beats and patterns visually in the classic style of a step sequencer displayed on the 16 keys, and get impressive results quickly.
- Compact, music production instrument that integrates powerful software with tactile, responsive hardware
- Four ways to input sound using the 16 pads – drum in pad mode, play melodies in Keyboard mode, create chord progressions in Chord mode, and program in a classic step-sequencer style from Step mode
- Software - use on its own or as a VST, Audio Unit, or AAX plug-in in all major DAWs (including Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and FL Studio).An Internet connection and a graphics card which supports OpenGL 2.1 or higher are required to download and activate MASCHINE software. Once installed and activated, all products can be used offline
- 1.6 GB MASCHINE Factory Selection with samples, one-shots, loops, sample instruments, presets, patterns, drum kits, and songs
- Powered via USB 2.0. System Requirements- macOS 10.12, 10.13, 10.14 (latest update), Intel Core i5, 4 GB RAM. Windows 10 (latest Service Pack, 64-bit only), Intel Core i5 or equivalent CPU, 4GB RAM. USB 2.0 Port, 3 GB free disk space for Maschine Essentials (full Maschine software plus 1.6 GB Maschine Factory Selection), 1 GB free disk space for Massive, Monark and Reaktor Prism
Each track can consist of drums, instruments or samples, all four sources are routed through a simple mixer.
This has two send effects including delay, flanger, chorus and the like.
If we're iPhone users we're in luck, as the app comes with 170MB of sampled kits and instruments to start with (26 kits and 466 individual samples) and more drum kits and instrument sounds can be purchased from within the app.
Alternatively, it's easy to record samples via the iPad's built-in microphone and start your own collection.
It's initially geared towards DJ's or live music, but responds positively to any kind of use.
- Integration with Apple
- Full version of Maschine
- No master tempo bend controls in hardware or software
- Slightly limited software
3. Roli Seaboard Block
Main Features:
No Faders and controllers.
Roli Studio (includes Roli Studio Player and Roli Studio Drums), Strobe2 Full, Ableton Live Lite 9, Max MSP 8 (6-month free trial), Roli Dashboard and Roli Connect
24 Keywaves with 5D-Touch technology: Press, press, rub, slide and lift.
It is not strictly accurate to call Seaboard Block a keyboard or a MIDI controller, because although it resembles the design of a piano, it works in a completely different way.
The surface works with what ROLI calls 5D Touch, which has five components: the stroke is essentially the velocity, the pressure deals with the pressure applied after the initial stroke, and allows for swells, fades, and other musical expressions. The ROLI uses MIDI with the following data:
Glide allows you to swipe your fingers back and forth to simulate vibrato and glissando.
Slide works up and down, it is assigned various expressive parameters in NOISE and Equator Player, for example, transforming the sound into a different one as you slide your finger.
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Finally, Lift is the release speed when releasing a note and this is used again in NOISE and Equator Player to add expression to certain sounds.
It charges via the supplied USB C cable and has 2 octave switch buttons, a power button, a mode button, a USB-C port, 4 DNA connectors and Bluetooth wireless connectivity that it uses to communicate with your iPhone 6 or higher, iPad Air or newer, or your computer.
Incredibly expressive 2-octave multi-touch system available. Its 5D Touch is very powerful. It has a good software package. It works with third party applications (DAW) as well as your computer. But both its price and learning curve put it in the semi-professional or professional range.
Let's see, as a design it is the best without a doubt. It's beautiful no matter where you look at it.
And the touch technology leaves you speechless.
But, and it's a small but, learning to get the most out of it can take you a long time. I'm sure you'll have a lot of fun along the way, but if you're looking for results fast, read on.
- The future of MIDI controllers
- Impeccable design
- Difficult learning curve at first
- High price
2. Alesis VI 61
Main Features:
Software Xpand! 2
Pitch and modulation wheels
USB cable, Ableton Live Lite software included
61 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch
Silver medal for the Alesis VI 61 MIDI controller.
The keyboard is a follow-up to the popular VI 61 MIDI controller, which was a great keyboard overall, but lacked pads.
The new pads are very pleasant to the touch and light up when we play.
The color of the pads change depending on how hard you press them, which is a nice touch.
The semi-weighted action is very well achieved and the construction is impeccable.
Even playing pianistically feels natural and fluid on this device, which is something that rarely happens on a MIDI controller.
- MIDI Keyboard with 61 full-sized, square-front, semi-weighted keys with after touch. USB MIDI and 5-pin MIDI Out offer flexible MIDI connectivity
- Manipulate plugins and virtual instruments with hands-on controls. With VI61, you can open and close filters on virtual synthesizers, adjust volume levels in your mix, activate effects, and much more
- 16 velocity-sensitive trigger pads with illuminated RGB feedback for beat production and clip launching. Pitch and modulation wheels deliver expressive, creative control
- 48 assignable buttons and 16 assignable knobs interface with your music software. Seamless visual feedback via LED screen and illuminated buttons and knobs
- Production software included - MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite and Xpand!2 by AIR Music Tech (downloads). USB-powered and plug-and-play support for Mac and PC
It has 48 buttons in total and 16 sliders, which is crazy. But what's even crazier is the fact that you can also use all 16 pads as effects triggers, which makes it completely full of options.
I'd go so far as to say it's one of the best keyboards in the price range it's in.
- Fantastic semi-weighted keys feel great and are fun to play
- 64 assignable buttons, knobs and knobs in total
- Semi-fragile connections
- Lack of pad sensitivity
1. AKAI Professional MPK mini MK3
Main Features:
4-way joystick for dynamic Pitch/Modulation adjustments.
8 assignable faders for Mixing, PlugIn functionality
Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Wobble and Akai Pro MPC Essentials
25 Synth-Action keys
At number 1 we have the MIDI controller with the most positive reviews on the internet. And no wonder.
The Akai MPK Mini MK2 is fantastic when you consider how many different uses and styles it can give you.
It's small, portable and comes with drum pads that are perfect for both the perfectionist DJ and a local producer who simply wants a high quality MIDI controller that is capable of playing percussion and instruments.
- Music Production and Beat Maker Essential – USB powered MIDI controller with 25 mini MIDI keyboard velocity-sensitive keys for studio production, virtual synthesizer control and beat production
- Total Control of your Production - Innovative 4-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch and modulation control, plus a built-in arpeggiator with adjustable resolution, range and modes
- The MPC Experience - 8 backlit velocity-sensitive MPC-style MIDI beat pads with Note Repeat & Full Level for programming drums, triggering samples and controlling virtual synthesizer / DAW controls
- Complete Command of your Virtual Instruments and FX - 8 360-degree knobs assign to all your music studio plugins for mixing, tweaking synth controls and more
- 1500+ Sounds and Everything You Need for Pro Production – Complete Music Production Starter Kit including MPC Beats, 3 Virtual Instruments and 2GB of sound content
The fact that there is no power supply might annoy some, but for others it can be an advantage.
You can plug it in and start working right away, no problem.
It's integrated with VIP, so you have access to many virtual instruments and effects.
Let your loved ones know that you won't be seeing them for a while because you have hours and hours of experiments you can do with the package that comes with this MIDI controller.
There is no specific software or controller that you have to use with this controller. In other words, you can use this controller with almost any software that allows you to use MIDI controllers.
Best of all, each of the buttons can be used in an infinite number of ways, making it an excellent controller for the DJ or producer to constantly try new things.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymBXoww1hJ8&ab_channel=VILARCORP%E2%9C%93
The easy-to-use interface also makes it a fantastic choice for beginners, but professionals can also use it to its full potential. It will be a powerful tool for your studio if you need something practical for everyday use.
- 25 keys, 8 drum pads and 8 assignable knobs
- Best price/performance ratio on the market
- Velocity cannot be adjusted
Our final recommendations
These are our recommendations when buying your new MIDI controller for your studio or for live music. Read carefully to find out which one best suits your needs.
The cheapest MIDI pad controller: Akai LPD 8
This is the cheapest option on this list for a MIDI pad controller.
It will give us everything we need to introduce DJ's and producers to the world of MIDI controllers.
- 13-inch, slim-line ultra-portable pad controller with 8 backlit velocity-sensitive drum pads for triggering samples, loops, controlling virtual instruments and more
- 8 MPC Q-Link knobs for seamless mapping to DAW parameters, virtual instruments and effect parameters for hands-on control and expressive performances
- 4 programmable memory banks provide instant recall of mappings for DAWs, virtual instruments, effects and more
- Lightweight, ultra-portable design stows easily in a laptop bag for production capability everywhere
- USB-powered and plug-and-play setup for Mac and PC
As you would expect from AKAI it is a very robust, quality built controller that will make you shine in every performance or recording.
Compatible with most DAWs on the market, although it works especially well with Ableton, it is suitable for all those who want to fatten up their creations.
The cheapest key MIDI controller: Akai LPK 25
Cheaper yes. But beware music lovers, this is a real bargain if you want to shine on stage.
It is oriented for beginners or semi-professionals looking for a device to help them with live performances or small modifications to their creations.
- Made To Move - Sequence MIDI over Bluetooth to iOS and Mac OS X (Bluetooth LE4); MIDI over USB to Mac OS X and Windows; USB- or battery-powered (3 AA, not included)
- Universal Compatibility - Works with virtually all audio software – perfect for controlling soft-synths and sequencing MIDI Data
- Capture Every Detail - 25 velocity-sensitive mini-keyboard keys capture every subtlety and nuance of your performance
- Feature Packed - Arpeggiator, sustain pedal input, octave up and down and tap tempo controls for instant generation of melodic ideas on the fly
- Effortless Setup - Plug-and-play USB connection for Mac and PC requires no driver installation
It's true that it lacks faders and aftertouch, but the arpeggiator works very cool; you can enter the tempo by repeatedly pressing the "tap tempo" key or by configuring it from your computer.
If you are looking for a first MIDI controller or an add-on for your gear, don't hesitate, this device will help you.
Best value for money MIDI controller: Akai MPK Mini MKIII
It's our number 1, our gold medal, the pretty girl. But it's also the best value for money option on the list.
While it shouldn't be used by a live pianist because of its obvious limitations, it's a wonderful MIDI controller for those who want to pair it with recording or DJ software.
- Music Production and Beat Maker Essential – USB powered MIDI controller with 25 mini MIDI keyboard velocity-sensitive keys for studio production, virtual synthesizer control and beat production
- Total Control of your Production - Innovative 4-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch and modulation control, plus a built-in arpeggiator with adjustable resolution, range and modes
- The MPC Experience - 8 backlit velocity-sensitive MPC-style MIDI beat pads with Note Repeat & Full Level for programming drums, triggering samples and controlling virtual synthesizer / DAW controls
- Complete Command of your Virtual Instruments and FX - 8 360-degree knobs assign to all your music studio plugins for mixing, tweaking synth controls and more
- 1500+ Sounds and Everything You Need for Pro Production – Complete Music Production Starter Kit including MPC Beats, 3 Virtual Instruments and 2GB of sound content
It's small and versatile enough to take along to your live performances.
For its ridiculously low price you will have a very powerful tool for your musical creations.
Best MIDI Controller for Professional Use: Novation Impulse 49
When we say professional, we don't just mean production professionals, but also pianists.
Because this MIDI controller has keys exactly like a keyboard. Its weight, touch, pressure and "feeling" are brutal.
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It has all the options to make quality creations that would make even the most squeamish of producers happy.
Mind you, it's worth a bundle. But it is worth its price in gold.
The craziest MIDI controller: Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Red
It's clear that if you take this to a live show, at least one spotlight, you're going to have it in your mouth all the time. Because this MIDI controller leaves no one indifferent.
But it's not just cool on the outside! It's a very well made keyboard with a lot of features like MIDI assignable accelerometer, 37 touch-sensitive keys with aftertouch and 8 touch-sensitive RGB illuminated pads.
- Command the Stage - 37 velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch for compact size with complete melodic range
- Get Creative - Eight RGB backlit velocity-sensitive trigger pads enable you to create beats or trigger clips and eight back-lit faders control volume or any other assignable virtual instrument parameters
- Express Yourself - Embedded MIDI-assignable tilt sensor performance control with on/off button and Thumb-controlled volume slider and reversible pitch-bend wheel
- Connectivity Covered - Included USB receiver creates a wireless connection to any Mac or PC with a USB host port. Standard guitar strap pegs on neck and body
- World-class production software package included - MPC Beats and Ableton Live Lite, plus DB-33, Mini Grand, Hybrid 3, Loom, Vacuum Pro, and Xpand!2 by AIR Music Tech and TimewARP 2600 by Way Out Ware
If your purchase goal is to buy yourself a small, handy, transportable and above all unique instrument; this bug will be a complete success.
Buying Guide for the best MIDI controller
If you have come this far you already know which are the best midi controllers on the market today.
What is probable is that we don't have the most remote idea of what a midi controller does, nor what it is for, nor the need to have one, nor what it is for, nor what it does and even if you need one.
All these doubts will have answers and I will stop repeating doubts in order not to have so many answers.
What does a midi controller do?
The world of production is huge, there are so many tools and technology to learn and so many more to come.
To be terribly honest, it is not important to learn everything to be a professional music producer.
I mean, you don't need to be a pan flute virtuoso to produce techno music.
But there is one fundamental thing that every music producer should know what the hell it is, that is MIDI and why having a MIDI controller can be a super useful tool in your studio.
What is MIDI?
MIDI was developed in the early 80's in order to standardize communication between different pieces of musical hardware.
MIDI stands for Musical Instrument Digital Interface. It is a language that allows computers, musical instruments and hardware to communicate with each other.
In other words, it is a code of zeros and ones that transmits information to different devices, but there must always be a sender and a receiver.
That is to say, if you have a midi keyboard you can send midi information but if you don't have a device that interprets that information into music, it will not play anything, and the same on the other hand, if you have a musical device, like a drum machine, but you don't send it any kind of midi information, it will not play anything.
I know it sounds complex, but imagine it like the hammer that connects the key and the string of a piano, the key defines the note you want to play and its intensity and the hammer reproduces that information hitting the string creating the sound.
When you use a MIDI instrument, every time you press a key a MIDI note (sometimes called a MIDI event) is created.
Each MIDI event carries with it instructions that determine:
ON/OFF: when the key is pressed and when it is released.
The note or pitch pressed
Velocity: how fast and how hard the key is struck
Aftertouch: how hard the key is held down
Tempo (or BPM)
Panning
Modulations
Volume
Parts of a controller
Of course we could say that a midi controller is like a snowflake, beautiful and unique, but we would be lying.
Although they all have specific functions, software or specific tools, almost all of them share some of these things:
Keys
This is the classic normal piano key, but because it doesn't have the normal keyboard mechanism, there are different types of keys with different types of action.
When I talk about action I don't mean the action you can find in a Fast&Furious movie, I mean the response of the key to the level of pressure you give it, the path it makes between playing and sounding, the sensitivity it can give, the way it sounds looser or louder depending on how you play.
Being comfortable playing your keyboard is as important as being comfortable making love. Whether it's live on stage or in your composition or recording studio, don't underestimate the impact of having a less-than-ideal keyboard on your creativity and productivity!
The type of action you need is generally determined primarily by what you're used to, and also by the style of music you play, which may require one type of action over another. You can choose from three basic types of keyboard action:
Counterweighted action
This type of action can be found on 88-key controllers that attempt to reproduce the same mechanical action of a conventional piano keyboard.
Which is very complicated to imitate, since inside a controller there are no strings or hammers or magic goblins, there are chips, plates and mini killer robots.
This type of key is focused and intended more for people who want to compose and create material that orbits around piano sounds, as it gives a more organic feel and closer to the action of a real piano.
Semi-weighted action
Similar to a weighted action, but with less resistance and a slightly more springy release, but not the flubber snot that was in a movie with Robin Williams.
Semi-weighted actions are popular with many producers.
If you don't need realistic piano response, but don't care for spring-loaded synth-type actions (next, in this very article, right after this very thing I'm writing), try a semi-weighted keyboard.
Synth action
Last but certainly not least is the action of a synth-action keyboard, similar to that of an electronic organ. The spring-loaded keys are light and can be moved very quickly. They also tend to return to their rest position much faster.
This can be an important advantage when it comes to playing very fast parts, such as main lines or fast arpeggios. Synth action keys are perfect for musicians who are not pianists by nature, such as guitarists who want to add MIDI functionality to their setup.
Pads
Some keyboard players have no problem using the black and white keys to play percussive effects. Others hate it, like me, preferring the flexible feel of velocity-sensing performance pads, also known as Pads.
Many of today's keyboard controllers have eight or more pads that you can use to play drums and trigger loops.
Some pads even have aftertouch.
A bank of pads (along with wheels, faders, buttons, and LCD display) takes up space on the top deck of the keyboard, making it a larger (and heavier) controller, so get out the tape measure and figure out how much space it would take up on your desk.
Wheels, Buttons and Faders
In addition to the piano-style keys found on keyboard controllers, many also include a variety of wheels, sliders, and buttons on their top panels.
These are capable of transmitting MIDI data and can increase your hands-on control over your software or any modules you have connected to your controller.
Here's a specific example: you have your controller connected to your computer with whatever DAW you're raging about at the moment in your life, and you open a virtual synthesizer instrument.
The controller's wheels, sliders and modulation wheel will give you hands-on, real-time control over how to adjust the synth's filter cutoff and resonance, the amp's envelope, and so on.
This provides a much more "authentic analog" feel over the use of the keyboard and mouse.
Some controllers now include automatic mapping technology that configures the knobs and faders to match your specific software applications.
Need Aftertouch?
I'm sure you've always wondered how professional realists get that tasty vibrato at the end of each synth line.
Well, if you look at their hands you will notice that after touching the key they apply a little more force thus activating the Aftertouch effect.
Aftertouch is an ideal and ergonomic way to add expressiveness to your playing.
The alternative, of course, is to have the left hand move the control wheel or joystick on your controller, but then we are no better than primates.
It's usually found on high-end controllers. Aftertouch is one of those features you don't know you need until you use it.
Aftertouch comes in two flavors: vanilla and chocolate, also known as monophonic (channel aftertouch) and polyphonic.
Channel aftertouch generally employs a "rail" that can be pressed with any key, and sends an average MIDI value for all held keys.
Polyphonic aftertouch allows you to vary a parameter on each note independently, depending on the pressure on the key after the note is played.
Because it costs a pretty penny to design and manufacture, generates a large amount of MIDI information, and requires some skill on the part of the performer to get the most out of it, polyphonic aftertouch is found on relatively few keyboards.
Ok, but how do I choose the best one?
Well, now that we know a bit more about midi controllers, it's time to ask ourselves a couple of key questions to make our search for the best midi controller more concrete.
Do you want a controller as big as a truck or do you prefer something that takes up as little space as possible?
This in my opinion boils down to two key decisions, the portability of your controller and the keys, pads or controls your controller will have.
Do you prefer to play with pads or keys? Not everything has to be keys, there are a multitude of midi controllers focused exclusively on pad operation.
Which software appeals to you or which one are you more familiar with? Almost all controllers come with or have mapped controls with software to make your life easier.
Do you need multiple I/O to do a more complex setup? If you already have more gear, you might want to connect it all through your controller so you can control both your DAW and your favorite analog synth.
1. Controller size
You see, I'm a very simple person, and whenever there is an opportunity to say that size matters, I take it, maybe it's because I have a complex about something and I try to cover with humor a personal and human weakness.
But let's get back to the world of music production. If I buy a controller with 88 keys and I have no idea how to play a keyboard I will be intimidated by my controller, maybe I won't even play it and it will kill the purpose of having a keyboard.
On the other hand, maybe I'm an adventurer who carries a laptop with me because I never know when inspiration will strike.
If in addition to the laptop I can carry a mini controller to make songs on the fly, I'll be adventurous and productive, and everyone knows that the coolest thing about Indiana Jones was how productive he was.
So carefully consider how many keys fit your level as a pianist and the portability of your midi controller, in case you have to take it with you at any given time.
Personally, I would start with a relatively small one, and perhaps buy a large professional one that I would always have in the studio.
2. Keys or pads
When I said that 88 can be a bit intimidating, you may have thought that only 8 keys intimidate you. That's why there are lines of midi controllers focused on pad operation, such as the Aveleton Push, which controls both the DAW and the virtual instruments on your computer.
However, if you have even the slightest musical notions you might get confused about how to place musical notes on pads and end up having to relearn something you already know.
Personally, I prefer a combination of both, I like to have easy access to a keyboard because it awakens more musical creativity and to have a pad section to be able to do percussions in a more organic way than with keys, but to each his own.
3. Ports and connections
While all modern controller keyboards transmit MIDI via USB, for more complex setups, there are two other types of connectors that can make your life easier.
Having conventional 5-pin DIN MIDI jacks on the controller allows you to connect and control external MIDI instruments such as hardware synthesizers, while the CV and Gate outputs will even allow you to play and modulate classic (non-MIDI) synthesizer equipment.
4. Software
In this wonderful era of software, we can find everything we can imagine and things that other people imagine, and as far as sound is concerned that suits us very, very well.
There are companies with sound libraries and virtual instruments of absurd sizes, and fortunately there are quite a few of those sounds and instruments that offer a free version, maybe you can not record presets, or you can not write midi or only let you use x number of sounds, however it is a way to know how each company designs the software.
My recommendation is that you buy the midi controller from the company you like the most, whether it is Arturia or Native Instruments, they will have a controller for you and perfectly matched with their software, so that your work rhythm will be very lively.
3 steps to buy the best MIDI controller
Now that we know almost everything there is to know about midi controllers, let's make three simple steps that will illuminate the leafy path of the search for the best midi controller and the one that best suits our needs.
Budget
Obviously if the budget you had in mind for your new midi controller is zero, that midi controller will look like a vacuum on your desk.
There are products in music production where it is very important to have the best budget to get the best value for money.
However, in the midi controller world, I think that the budget models are of high quality and considering all the features it opens up, it's silly not to have one.
I think that the higher end controllers are focused on very specific jobs or have a special synergy with x software.
Software
If on the other hand the budget is not a problem, maybe what you are interested in is to have a controller with a good pack of virtual instruments and plugins.
Practically everyone includes software with their controllers, but my recommendation would be a fairly complete pack or one with which you are already minimally familiar.
For example, Native Instruments has a couple of plugins with free version to give you an idea if you are into it.
Functionality
Here comes the point of recognizing what kind of producer we want to be or are.
Maybe you're comfortable with a key controller to make use of your harmonic knowledge, or maybe you're looking for something with pads for loops and improvisations. Maybe we just want something that allows us to control the mix with faders and wheels.
If you are not sure what you are going to use your midi controller for, the best thing to do is to buy one that has all the functions, the truth is that there are some models on the list that have all kinds of controls and are not offensively expensive.
That's why I recommend something that does all kinds of functions, because even if it's not high-end, it will help you understand what your work rhythm is and what tools you use most often in the studio.
