Just last month, I bought the Arturia Keylab Mk Ii (61-key version, in black). It works well with Ableton (although I'm a bit new to the DAW/softsynth world and am learning), but I love, in particular, its integration with Analog Lab and Pigments (full downloads for Arturia's AL4 & Piano v2 came with the instrument, and I bought Pigments on sale) is what really did it for me. Really please with this aspect. Next step for me is learning how to use the "User" controls so that this can be a true master keyboard in all respects, so it can control via MIDI two hardware synths (Korg Minilogue XD and a classic Korg Wavestation EX). Would like to see videos on this aspect as well.
Sanjay, you are a true gem, I appreciate every one of your videos, well thought out, well done, well versed, you're what the world needs when it comes to looking for research and information on musical instruments of today's world and technologies, thank you for all that you do!
I appreciate that your abstracts are so compact and clear that I will never waste any time watching your videos unless I deliberately decide to do so... +2000 entertainment +1000 missing frustration over bad content =-------------------------------------------------------- +3000 respect
I go to your channel for making the right purchases on my music gear and thanks to you I got my new novation key49 and I knew exactly what I was getting.
Komplete Kontrol S best value, with native instruments regular updates it's a beast. Control Logic, Cubase, Ableton. If you want more control and drumpads you can couple it with Nektar Impakt Panorama or LX keyboards. Great review Sanjay, as usual 🙏
@@SanjayC the novation sl 49 seems pretty good. As a beginner though I'd probably try out the younger brothers i.e arturia keylab essential 49 and novation 49 mk2.
Hey I really enjoyed your videos man, they are very informative and straightforward. Which is way better than some videos that talks a lot about random things before doing the actual video. Subbed! Top choice is S61 MK2 Reason being is their Komplete kontrol integration. I own a lot of plug-ins many of which are NKS as well as their Komplete 12 and the way to preview the sounds before loading it saves a lot of time. Even though nowadays KK can be used to other controllers To find sounds and control the parameters, you still have to look at the computer screen to see what you are doing. The ability to see all that in the keyboard changes everything. And the knobs are closely positioned to the keybed. So controlling it is a lot more convenient than reaching all the way up like 49SL Mk3. That being said the lack of faders really sucks. Some of the controls, parameters like envelops, mixer controls makes way more sense using a fader than a knob. And the DAW integration is weak compared to other daws. Compared to things like nektar and novation, NI keyboard's integration is not on the same level. Pretty disappointing when they said more integration and you ended up with something that is just a bit better than standard MCU.
Well I haven't tried other premium keyboards extensively, just demo in the stores. The 49SL Mk3 looks really nice, fancy with all the colorful lights and the sequencer is a very nice feature. It also has a lot more controls over other keyboards. But I'd like a big screen instead of 5 small screens. While they are perfect for the knobs, all 8 faders parameters are only displayed by a single small screen. Which is pretty limiting. And I'd pay more money for a better screen solution than this. I am not Ableton user so I don't know if the faders are less used in ableton devices. Arturia Keylab Mk2, the visual feedback is not that great compared others. I feel like it is really good if you use Analog lab a lot. And the extra fader and knob feels more natural is an added bonus. Nektar Panorama P4 is probably the best if you are not Ableton user, (really nice integration with most DAWs and plug ins other than Ableton, pro tools) it has a nice center screen for all the information, and it also has integrations with the device in those daws like 49SL Mk3 does with Ableton. And It also feature a motorized fader for controlling the current track you are on. Though the keybad is their weak point. Many already pointed out the black and white keys have a different feeling that "can take a while to get used to" but I reckon a lot piano players will just hate it. I came up with an pretty expensive solution of getting a NI S series keyboard for most of the VSTs and plug-ins and get a nektar Panorama P1 for the enhanced DAW control.
I ordered a Arturia Keylab 49 mk2 after watching this video. For me it is important that the controller is build like a tank and has a great keybed. Thanks for your advice🙏🏻
Hi Sanjay, I'm new to your channel, which surprises me because I'm an avid watcher of UA-cam music-tech stuff and first heard of you the other day when I saw you on BoBeats' best gear of 2019 and thought I'd check out your stuff. I have really enjoyed what I have seen so far (only just scratching the surface!) but I wanted to say how much I have enjoyed what I have seen so far...and this video on controller keyboards has been really useful. Thanks loads...and you have a new subscriber to add to your list of many!
Hi Andrew. Thanks for coming over to my channel to check it out and glad to hear you found some useful stuff. I'm around here every day, so feel free to ask question. Big thanks to Bo for referring you to me :-) Love that guy!
I have the Arturia KeyLab 49, using the Logic template that’s included. It’s a pleasure to use. I could go into details, but I’ll say the integration with Logic is smooth, and the inclusion of Analog Lab is worth the price of the keyboard.
I have the black version of the Arturia Keylab shown in the video. It's a quality made keyboard. The body is made of Aluminum not cheap plastic. It's built way better than my 25 year old Korg X3! I'm a big fan of old 70's/80's synths so Analog Lab (which I upgraded to the V-Collection) along with the keyboard build quality made the choice fairly simple. Got mine on a Sweetwater sale for $405 a year or two ago. I enjoyed the video, comparing the best MIDI keyboards. Now I know I made the right choice. Thanks, subbed. :)
You understand the money they spent on the AL-Lu-Min-EM had to offset the Keybed quality. That is why the Arturia has a cheaper feeling keybed than the Novation or NI board. The aluminum is nothing but an aesthetic and the arturia is still using plastic as well. If they had used a better keybed I might have gone with Arturia as I love the look of the Keylab MKII. Nothing touches the Novation for the Price, period. They designed a killer product that is so incredibly versatile. Also with the new firmware update it has become even more feature rich.
@@paulj9821 I am a big fan of Arturia's AnalogLab and the Keylab has all the vst controls premapped, but I'm also a big fan of a good keybed, so I'm having a hard time deciding. What would you do? Thanks
Thank you Sanjay for such a great review and comparing these keyboards. I am just starting to dig into music production as a show director and your videos are gold to me! Also admire your energy and honesty! 🙏
I dig my Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2 keyboard. The NKS sound previews make it really compelling, as are the multitude of features as well as Logic and Maschine integration. It would have been great to have faders and pads, but for what it is it’s a fair trade off for less clutter. It goes really well with my Maschine Jam and my Mikro MK3. With the latest Komplete Kontrol software update, setup for Ableton LIve is way, way better; as easy as just choosing the device in Preferences, so no more of that complicated setup with moving and copying around files just to get it set up (works with Ableton Live 9 and 10). Great video comparing all three keyboards. Keep it up, Sanjay!
@@SanjayC I personally use Ableton, I would've got the minilab but the Akai is so light, and I didn't get the launchkey mini because of the missing pitch and mod change
I was set on a Luanchkey 49 until this video. I like the 49SL lighted keys for the scales to help me memorize and/or stay on key.. I can read treble clef but it’ been decades since I’ve touched a piano. I love to sing and want to compose on my own. I have a lot to learn but all these videos I’ve watched and it’s integration with Ableton I’ll be learning pretty fast. Your videos have helped me sit.
Sanjay C yes, and it’s on sale for $100. I think out of the three you looked at this, might be the best one for me. I want to get all the sounds and songs out of my head, and into composition, and I didn’t know how to do it until now. I had been pondering putting together a band, but at 42 that’s exhausting, and a lot of time and effort for people to keep jumping off and on the boat. My wife can sing too and we’ve been talking about making compositions together. she likes a lot electronica and progressive metal. I like funk, rhythm and blues, soul, etc. I’m pretty good with percussion, I can play a little bass, and I friends that play guitars if I ever want to do cameo’s. But I think a lot of the stuff I want to do, almost all of it can be done with this, and may be a vocoder. I may get the mini nova next. Any suggestions? I think the biggest thing I’m really attracted is the lighted key guides, and the best integration with ableton,since I’m very new at this.
Also have the Scarlett 212 in my cart. I have a desktop PC and sit/stand desk where I work from home and game. I just need some budget monitors and an extra set of headphones
Great channel. Keep up the great work. Ironically just a few weeks ago ,I just invested in the Arturia Keylab 49MKII & fell in love with it. The feel of it ,the keybed is awesome. !!!!! The software that comes with it,is phenomenal ..Thx much
I love this keyboard but man I had to return it because of those sliders. I opened it out the box and right away one of the slider knobs popped off. They sent me a replacement but the replacement were worse than the originals being that they didnt even go on at all. They went on loose and I couldnt beleive this was what was used to fix it. That killed it for me. I know its a very minor defect but it made me very nervous on the longevity considering this is a premium unit. I think im just going to get what my heart first wanted which is the novation sL mk3 61. The arturia needs to make all those knobs extremely solid and not plasticy and cheap feeling. I need to be inspired by my board and the cheap feels really dissapointed me. I know you said the sliders feel really good, but i may be a little more of a stickler when it comes to quality on these small parts that can kill a deal for me. Arturia if youre seeing this, when you build a metal controller try to stay away from the plastic parts. I would of kept it but it was a no go. Cheers !!
So true. My unit was sending random values after a few month. And I didn't used it much often. As I told this to the support, they said "they have a near zero return-rate of the keylabs" 😂 But forums are full of this problem and I think they ignore it. Same problem with Minilab MK2. Nice wood panels and metal bodies is what they think makes a great keyboard 🙈
@Axoplanet I will admit that the metal build is what had me sold, but unfortunately the parts were very cheap. Maybe it was just my board but I was not taking a chance exchanging for same model. I went with the novation SL mk3 61 and I love it. Build quality is way better than the arturia. I have zero experience with keyboards so I can't comment on the software side as I'm still learning to use this thing with my MPC one. But the hardware of it is very impressive. Cheers !!
For me it was also the metal body, plus the Analog Lab integration. I have the Arturia collection and to see the presets on the board was a nice workflow. But the knobs and sliders are damn cheap. Thanks for your info about the Novation. I will buy one too. How is the keybed feel against the Arturia?
I have been using the Akai MPK249 for 8 years and opened up to fix it 3 times. For DAW control, I see it similar to the Arturia KeyLab as the above review. You can choose which DAW to control in the menu. I use Ableton Live with the basic control function it provides. The keybed is just fine. Drum pads feel hard compare to Novation. Buttons have plastic feel as the price is a lot cheaper anyway. The reasons why I open it up to fix are dead keys and pitch wheel glitching, which I see a lot of people are facing as well. But it still survives and working fine after 8 years, so not bad at all. Hope this help!
Love your videos, I am a 67 year old man, who can play guitar, keyboards, and drums, self taught and not very good at all, but I am trying to set up a small recording kit, I have a zoom H2n mic that came with cubase LE, and I just want to mess around and maybe record myself , like this video on keyboards , love good strings so wondering which of these keyboards would suit me, thanks for posting gfrom Garry in the UK
Yayyyyy i have arturia collection 8. Keylab essentials 61, and just put in the order for a black mk2. (Whites backordered and i got the last black on the market 😁) . great to know keylab works so well with analog lab. I have 10k plus presets under my control lol
These are AMAZING 49 key workstations!! Maybe you can recommend a budget friendly 49 key controller with full sized keys? Was debating between M Audio keystation 49 and The Nectar 49 to replace my iRig keys IO 25... I’ve outgrown 25 keys and need more but love the feel of the iRig keys. It doesn’t feel like a toy lol
I use the first version of launchkey 49 and its doing increadibily well with almost all DAWs not to mention ableton live. The clip launch buttons are awsome and it makes ableton more like a real instrument. With additional features like control information and standalone midi operations makes the launchkey mk3 my favorite.
@Caleb Fredrick I havent used it with studio one yet. But it must work well with all DAWs equally as a generic controller just that you might need to assign the controllers with desired parameters manually.
Native Instruments insistence on not putting pads on these controllers just so people are forced to buy a standalone maschine unit is why I will never buy their products. There is no reason the s49 doesn't have a bank of 8 or 9 pads other than their greed.
cierto La semana pasada vendí mi MK2 y en dos días recibí el Novation SL forces you to work with komplete kontrol vst and you lose workflow and time, without KK vst it's worth nothing and the screens you never use them, 2 years with the
NI is pretty much like Apple, they have a complete eco system to sell. You realize that if you take a closer look at their hardware offerings in terms of feastures, their bundles, how the sw upgrade paths are designed in terms of price and content. I consider the whole package as very attractive, as long you keep tied to this eco system you will be happy, given you you have deep pockets. It's not my choice, but don't underestimate the amount of money many hobbyists are willing to spend. I mean, just look at the prices for good pianos.
Hey Sanjay, great video, really informative. I see that the novation has various ways of changing instruments while playing (Track arrows or even with the arm buttons where the solo and mute are),but, When it comes to arturia and the native instruments, is there a easy way to change instruments while playing, without the need to use your computer? For live performing this is really a must have for me. Thanks!
Thanks for this overview. I’ve been looking at the 49SL MkIII and knowing about the key “feel”/weight helps me to make up my mind. When they find this usability in Ableton AND have a nice weighted key, then I’ll bite.
Awesome Sanjay! Really like those displays on the novation so you know what you're controlling cuz on my keyboards I have to guess what each knob controls or which effect I have selected haha
Thats a nice compliment! If you're looking for a cool chord progression tool, check out Cthulhu by Xfer Records. And you can download some presets for Cthulhu from ADSR Sounds website.
@@SanjayC Wow, that's a reasonable price for a tool like that! Cthulhu plugin is so cool! Oh and that company also makes Serum the synth plugin. Interesting. Thanks for the recommend. I feel like I could just sit for hours memorizing chord progressions from this plugin. This plus Analog Lab = synthwave gold.
Hey Sanjay! Just wanted to say thank you for all of the time that you put in making these videos. They truly help a lot. I also have a quick question for you...I have Komplete 10 Ultimate and the entire Arturia V collection and I’m looking to upgrade my MIDI controller to either the NI S61 or the Keylab 61 and my DAW is Logic Pro X. If you could pick between the two which one would you choose for a main keyboard controller? Thanks a bunch and God Bless you!!
I have watched virtually all your keyboard videos countless times, got an arturia minilab and instantly regretted it. I'm still having trouble deciding between a 49 or 61 key controller. Thanks for all the content, always nicely done
Sanjay C I like the minilab for what it is. But I also want to learn piano more than just play a few notes. And after doing some practices I realized I need more keys. Thus my dilemma of 49 vs 61 keys. Thanks for your response. I may actually keep the minilab for its function lol
Paul J thanks for the advice. I ended up getting an arturia keylab essential. Def not the best keys but I think good for the price. If I really begin to enjoy playing I’ll get the NI for sure
Hey, really an informative comparison! How would you compare just the KEYBED quality and feel of Arturia KeyLab mk2 and Native instruments S series? please help!
Hello Sanjay. I like this video talking about the Top 3 Best 49-Key MIDI Keyboards. My dream is to be a VGM Remixer & Original Composer one day, But i need a bunch of equipment for that dream to come true. Heres a list of equipment i need: MIDI Keyboards: Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 MK2, Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 and Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 Gear: Focusrite Scarlett Solo, Alesis SamplePad Pro, Korg KP3 and Yamaha Pacifica VST: East West Quantum Leap Symphonic Orchestra, EZDrummer and Stormdrum DAW: Waveform Free
Hey there, I have been watching a lot of your videos lately and I need your help in choosing a Mid Range Midi . I am confused amongst these three. 1.) Novation Launchkey MkII 49 2.) M-Audio Oxygen 49 3.) Arturia Keylab 49 . not the pro versions of these but the mid range. Expecting a reply. Thanks
I use a condenser microphone to record to clips/tracks in Ableton live. Works really well. I use it with a Focusrite Scarlett interface or a UAD Apollo interface.
Congratulations for the videos, for the quality of the contents and for the passion that shines through your work. Thank you. just a simple question, among the 49/61 keys (excluding the native instruments which I'm not interested in), which is the best in terms of key feel? I ask this as a pianist. Thanks in advance
I’m just beginning computer assisted music, I’m currently using my iPad and Garage Band, projecting to buy something like an Akai mpk or Arturia mini lab to get started, and this video is litteraly the one I was wondering about this morning for the day I will step up my game. Thank you for what you do, it motivates me so much to see channels like yours and people who help out beginners like me. I have a lot of work to become good, but I’ll continue to play the music that I love !
I know, there may be very different opinions about it, but what keyboard would you as a pianist prefer from the four ones below? What is for you the best keybed? The keyboard should also have basic functions for controlling Cubase: M-Audio Oxygen Pro 61 Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61 Arturia KeyLab Essential 61 Novation Launchkey 61 MK3 Is there any definite winner here for you?
After much research, I bought sl mk iii due to the sequencing capabilities. Right of the box, it was defective. It wouldn’t upgrade the firmware and there was an LED error on the screen so there were no lights at all. Contacted novation & returned the keyboard. I’m leaning now on getting keylab but still wanting a sequencer.. on to more research
Great video as always! The conclusion is a little weak though. It’s vague “depends on which features you utilizes the most” and to have a look at the other brands also. I quick rundown of strength and weaknesses would have been more informative as this info can get confusing after watching details on all the presented keyboards. Hope this helps and doesnt offend! You are awesome!
Hello Sanjay, can I first say I love your channel! Only discovered it today, to my chagrin, and have already watched a small number of your presentations; I am thinking of getting a 61-key MK II Arturia MIDI controller, and my decision will probably be based on already having the Arturia V Collection 7 to go with it (my primary interest, rather than Ableton-Live and the other features), but I know how rated the other pair of MIDI controllers are, and you have aligned their features superbly.
i use a korg m3 workstation as my main keyboard, yamaha kx8 as my 88 key controller and a yamaha xf as back up...for backpack i use artutia keystep with vsts on a macbook.
Really great video. It's clear you put a lot of effort into this and it was very informative and interesting to watch even 2 years later. I'm really just starting out using Live, and I'm very rusty on both piano and clarinet, but from playing physical instruments I have to say I'm pretty nervous trying to pick a controller, because I don't want to find myself in tight spot down the line when my fingers are starting to come into their own okay again but the controller doesn't feel expressive enough for further growth. I also wonder if aftertouch can be a nice proximity to how on a wind instrument I can alter the character of a note after the attack, without having to take one hand and reach for a control, just altering pressure instead. It seems like a nice, intuitive enhancement for keyboards. But that's assuming it works perfectly with a nice range of finger pressures.
Sanjaybhai Namaste... I watched your video of Arturia Minilab 3... And felt it has too few keys and I should go for a 49 key ... This ia an amazing video...Thanks for the valuable insights...
Still rocking a first-gen MPK 61 which has worked fine for 7-8 years now. However if buying a keyboard now I'd probably go with the Arturia. It seems to be the best, no-frills keyboard. I don't need all those extra screens and complicated menu systems, my computer is equipped with a mouse and 27" screen.
Hi Sanjay, Thanks a lot for the great intros and reviews made me came up with only two choices for my upgrade - Native Instrument MKII 61 or Novation SL Mk3 61, I'm an Ableton user, I compose all the way and play live through LIVE11, no other DAW was installed in my Mac, Also I owned a Push 2 myself, but to me it's hard to play my ideas out through the pads on it, that's why I'm considering to get on of these keyboards, but still I want it to work as my drum machine controller or slicing tracks & channels...etc. Don't wanna waste it, useful or not the Push 2 will still always on the desk :) After watching the videos of you introduced about the SL Mk3, I would love to have one because it's the most compatible keyboard with Ableton, but it seems WAY TO MANY PADS to play with lol Novation + Push 2's Pads, plus, NI S61MK2 got an individual software / plugins makes me wanna reconsider my next purchase, and the price between them are so closed! It would be so great if I can hear from you about which way to go! Thank you so much again Sanjay!
my favorite thus far is the M Audio oxygen 49 3rd gen ,it's the only one i own and need right now , i had to open it all the way up to clean it cause i was getting random numbers on the display screen but that's fixed with a good ole clean out ,the keys is faded i wanna spary paint them but i love this thing
I used to have a cheap MAudio keyboard long ago. But I think it left a bad impression on me because it was their low range keyboard - mediocre quality.
The set design, lighting, audio, and video are better on this channel than on some Hollywood movies I've watched! I really enjoy your reviews, Sanjay.
Wow!!! What a nice compliment! 🙏🏼 maybe I need to make movies instead of music 😊
Hahaha
Sanjay C yah sure go ahead :) 😜
@@SanjayC we’ll compose soundtrack... on that 88 🤩
1) Novation SL MkIII 49 0:01:06
2) Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 0:07:18
3) Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MkII 0:11:56
You a hero ma G
What‘s your favorite keyboard? Reply here!
I like to beat my servant till he makes the right sounds and tones :)
Native Instruments M32
Just last month, I bought the Arturia Keylab Mk Ii (61-key version, in black). It works well with Ableton (although I'm a bit new to the DAW/softsynth world and am learning), but I love, in particular, its integration with Analog Lab and Pigments (full downloads for Arturia's AL4 & Piano v2 came with the instrument, and I bought Pigments on sale) is what really did it for me. Really please with this aspect. Next step for me is learning how to use the "User" controls so that this can be a true master keyboard in all respects, so it can control via MIDI two hardware synths (Korg Minilogue XD and a classic Korg Wavestation EX). Would like to see videos on this aspect as well.
@@chrisbasmati3177 Don't mind the M32 to be frank.
Arturia, build quality is amazing
Sanjay, you are a true gem, I appreciate every one of your videos, well thought out, well done, well versed, you're what the world needs when it comes to looking for research and information on musical instruments of today's world and technologies, thank you for all that you do!
Thank you so much for the kind words. It means a lot when someone recognizes the work that goes into making these videos. Have a great week, Chris!
@@SanjayC looking forward to the next video! Whatever subject that might be.
In the jungle of choice in buying a new midi keyboard and then you sanjay appear. Blessed!
🐅 🐘 🐆 🦁
I appreciate that your abstracts are so compact and clear that I will never waste any time watching your videos unless I deliberately decide to do so...
+2000 entertainment
+1000 missing frustration over bad content
=--------------------------------------------------------
+3000 respect
The formula to success! Thanks so much, buddy!
First time in my life i deliver like when some one asking. Keep going man.
Thanks, man! I appreciate that
same lmao
I go to your channel for making the right purchases on my music gear and thanks to you I got my new novation key49 and I knew exactly what I was getting.
Fantastic! SO happy to hear that!
Komplete Kontrol S best value, with native instruments regular updates it's a beast. Control Logic, Cubase, Ableton. If you want more control and drumpads you can couple it with Nektar Impakt Panorama or LX keyboards. Great review Sanjay, as usual 🙏
Thanks, Lionel! Is the Panorama good with Ableton?
or just use presonus Atom with it
But u have to launch komplete kontrol software on every track
Returned my novation sl because of this video. Keylab all day. Sanjay you are the man with a plan thank you!
Wow! Glad I could help
My Novation sl 61 is arriving tomorrow, Sanjay you review did helped me to choose. Thanks a ton.......
Congrats! And you're welcome!
This was just the video I needed !! Thanks so much Sanjay !!!
You’re welcome buddy! Which one do you like most?
@@SanjayC the novation sl 49 seems pretty good. As a beginner though I'd probably try out the younger brothers i.e arturia keylab essential 49 and novation 49 mk2.
Especially if you use Ableton, Novations are aweseome
I’m just watching the way you film and the music you create!!! Wooooowwwww SO GOOD!
Aw thanks! :-D
After months of thinking I will upgrade to the Arturia. I was happy enough to try it and it looks and feels amazing.
Thank you Sanjay 💖
Your videos are very profesional. The way they are filmed, edited and the way you talk. it´s like a TV... Super profesional. Congratulations.
Wow, thank you!
Hey I really enjoyed your videos man, they are very informative and straightforward. Which is way better than some videos that talks a lot about random things before doing the actual video.
Subbed!
Top choice is S61 MK2
Reason being is their Komplete kontrol integration. I own a lot of plug-ins many of which are NKS as well as their Komplete 12 and the way to preview the sounds before loading it saves a lot of time.
Even though nowadays KK can be used to other controllers
To find sounds and control the parameters, you still have to look at the computer screen to see what you are doing.
The ability to see all that in the keyboard changes everything. And the knobs are closely positioned to the keybed. So controlling it is a lot more convenient than reaching all the way up like 49SL Mk3.
That being said the lack of faders really sucks. Some of the controls, parameters like envelops, mixer controls makes way more sense using a fader than a knob. And the DAW integration is weak compared to other daws. Compared to things like nektar and novation, NI keyboard's integration is not on the same level. Pretty disappointing when they said more integration and you ended up with something that is just a bit better than standard MCU.
Good summary of the S series keyboards. I couldn't agree more. Have you tried out any of the other premium 49-key keyboards? Thanks for subbing! :-D
Well I haven't tried other premium keyboards extensively, just demo in the stores.
The 49SL Mk3 looks really nice, fancy with all the colorful lights and the sequencer is a very nice feature. It also has a lot more controls over other keyboards. But I'd like a big screen instead of 5 small screens. While they are perfect for the knobs, all 8 faders parameters are only displayed by a single small screen. Which is pretty limiting. And I'd pay more money for a better screen solution than this. I am not Ableton user so I don't know if the faders are less used in ableton devices.
Arturia Keylab Mk2, the visual feedback is not that great compared others. I feel like it is really good if you use Analog lab a lot. And the extra fader and knob feels more natural is an added bonus.
Nektar Panorama P4 is probably the best if you are not Ableton user, (really nice integration with most DAWs and plug ins other than Ableton, pro tools) it has a nice center screen for all the information, and it also has integrations with the device in those daws like 49SL Mk3 does with Ableton. And It also feature a motorized fader for controlling the current track you are on. Though the keybad is their weak point. Many already pointed out the black and white keys have a different feeling that "can take a while to get used to" but I reckon a lot piano players will just hate it.
I came up with an pretty expensive solution of getting a NI S series keyboard for most of the VSTs and plug-ins and get a nektar Panorama P1 for the enhanced DAW control.
I ordered a Arturia Keylab 49 mk2 after watching this video. For me it is important that the controller is build like a tank and has a great keybed. Thanks for your advice🙏🏻
Glad I could help
Hi Sanjay, I'm new to your channel, which surprises me because I'm an avid watcher of UA-cam music-tech stuff and first heard of you the other day when I saw you on BoBeats' best gear of 2019 and thought I'd check out your stuff. I have really enjoyed what I have seen so far (only just scratching the surface!) but I wanted to say how much I have enjoyed what I have seen so far...and this video on controller keyboards has been really useful. Thanks loads...and you have a new subscriber to add to your list of many!
Hi Andrew. Thanks for coming over to my channel to check it out and glad to hear you found some useful stuff. I'm around here every day, so feel free to ask question. Big thanks to Bo for referring you to me :-) Love that guy!
Hey, Sanjay which keyboard would you recommend as in currently in 2021 as a beginner? And the best pad machines
I have the Arturia KeyLab 49, using the Logic template that’s included. It’s a pleasure to use. I could go into details, but I’ll say the integration with Logic is smooth, and the inclusion of Analog Lab is worth the price of the keyboard.
Thanks for sharing!
What was the price of it?☺️
Thanks for your review man!
your reviews have helped me so much and given me confidence in my purchases! thank you! also...your intro song for this video is sweeeeeet
Thank you so much. I really appreciate that!
Which did you decide?
I have the black version of the Arturia Keylab shown in the video. It's a quality made keyboard. The body is made of Aluminum not cheap plastic. It's built way better than my 25 year old Korg X3!
I'm a big fan of old 70's/80's synths so Analog Lab (which I upgraded to the V-Collection) along with the keyboard build quality made the choice fairly simple. Got mine on a Sweetwater sale for $405 a year or two ago.
I enjoyed the video, comparing the best MIDI keyboards. Now I know I made the right choice. Thanks, subbed. :)
Thanks for the comment. Since you like the 70's and 80's synths, I think you've made a great choice too!
You understand the money they spent on the AL-Lu-Min-EM had to offset the Keybed quality. That is why the Arturia has a cheaper feeling keybed than the Novation or NI board. The aluminum is nothing but an aesthetic and the arturia is still using plastic as well. If they had used a better keybed I might have gone with Arturia as I love the look of the Keylab MKII. Nothing touches the Novation for the Price, period. They designed a killer product that is so incredibly versatile. Also with the new firmware update it has become even more feature rich.
@@paulj9821 I am a big fan of Arturia's AnalogLab and the Keylab has all the vst controls premapped, but I'm also a big fan of a good keybed, so I'm having a hard time deciding. What would you do? Thanks
You have absolutely the best 3 Keyboards in your video. I have the Native Instrument (my favorite) and the Arturia...really good Boards!
I went with the Arturia. I am more than happy. This thing is a beast, and Reaper DAW integration is on point.
Nice! Great value with Arturia for sure!
Thank you Sanjay for such a great review and comparing these keyboards. I am just starting to dig into music production as a show director and your videos are gold to me! Also admire your energy and honesty! 🙏
Hi Marek. Thanks so much for that kind comment!
The Keyboards I been waiting for comparison video & viola! Wonderful :)
Yes! Glad I could help!
The video quality the sound the back ground music the video editing all is perfect . Thanks for helping all of us You Deserve more subscribers man
Thank you Stab Music!
I dig my Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2 keyboard. The NKS sound previews make it really compelling, as are the multitude of features as well as Logic and Maschine integration. It would have been great to have faders and pads, but for what it is it’s a fair trade off for less clutter. It goes really well with my Maschine Jam and my Mikro MK3. With the latest Komplete Kontrol software update, setup for Ableton LIve is way, way better; as easy as just choosing the device in Preferences, so no more of that complicated setup with moving and copying around files just to get it set up (works with Ableton Live 9 and 10). Great video comparing all three keyboards. Keep it up, Sanjay!
Thanks Velanche! Yeah if NI added some extra features it would be a killer keyboard.
The presentation of your videos is so good, I want to hit the like button straight away!
Amazing! I'm very happy with my mpk mini (which I bought thanks to your vids) but the novation looks Soo clean
Yeah it’s pretty cool. So many features. What daw are you using?
@@SanjayC I personally use Ableton, I would've got the minilab but the Akai is so light, and I didn't get the launchkey mini because of the missing pitch and mod change
Its really nice to have Ableton integration like on the Novation. It helps workflow a lot.
I was set on a Luanchkey 49 until this video. I like the 49SL lighted keys for the scales to help me memorize and/or stay on key.. I can read treble clef but it’ been decades since I’ve touched a piano. I love to sing and want to compose on my own. I have a lot to learn but all these videos I’ve watched and it’s integration with Ableton I’ll be learning pretty fast. Your videos have helped me sit.
Thanks for the comment. happy that I could help you out! Are you thinking about getting the SL?
Sanjay C yes, and it’s on sale for $100. I think out of the three you looked at this, might be the best one for me. I want to get all the sounds and songs out of my head, and into composition, and I didn’t know how to do it until now. I had been pondering putting together a band, but at 42 that’s exhausting, and a lot of time and effort for people to keep jumping off and on the boat. My wife can sing too and we’ve been talking about making compositions together. she likes a lot electronica and progressive metal. I like funk, rhythm and blues, soul, etc. I’m pretty good with percussion, I can play a little bass, and I friends that play guitars if I ever want to do cameo’s. But I think a lot of the stuff I want to do, almost all of it can be done with this, and may be a vocoder. I may get the mini nova next. Any suggestions? I think the biggest thing I’m really attracted is the lighted key guides, and the best integration with ableton,since I’m very new at this.
Also have the Scarlett 212 in my cart. I have a desktop PC and sit/stand desk where I work from home and game. I just need some budget monitors and an extra set of headphones
came for the review ... stayed for the great work done all around
Thanks, Christopher! I appreciate that!
Dude I'm so grateful to have found you. A million times thank you!
Thanks so much. Happy you find my videos helpful!
A keyboard that has lights that coresspond with the scale?
WHAT? WHAT A TIME TO BE ALIVE
Yup! No excuse for not making music!
Great channel. Keep up the great work. Ironically just a few weeks ago ,I just invested in the Arturia Keylab 49MKII & fell in love with it. The feel of it ,the keybed is awesome. !!!!! The software that comes with it,is phenomenal ..Thx much
Totally agree. The Arturia software is really awesome!
Thanks a lot Sanjay C for your excellent helpful video 👏👍👌❤️
😊
this was really helpful, ive been looking for this information. Ill keep browsing through your channel, thanks for the help!!!!
You're welcome! 🙏
I love this keyboard but man I had to return it because of those sliders. I opened it out the box and right away one of the slider knobs popped off. They sent me a replacement but the replacement were worse than the originals being that they didnt even go on at all. They went on loose and I couldnt beleive this was what was used to fix it. That killed it for me. I know its a very minor defect but it made me very nervous on the longevity considering this is a premium unit. I think im just going to get what my heart first wanted which is the novation sL mk3 61. The arturia needs to make all those knobs extremely solid and not plasticy and cheap feeling. I need to be inspired by my board and the cheap feels really dissapointed me. I know you said the sliders feel really good, but i may be a little more of a stickler when it comes to quality on these small parts that can kill a deal for me. Arturia if youre seeing this, when you build a metal controller try to stay away from the plastic parts. I would of kept it but it was a no go.
Cheers !!
By the way the keyboard that was having the slider isues is the arturia keylab mk2 61. Forgot to mention.
So true. My unit was sending random values after a few month. And I didn't used it much often. As I told this to the support, they said "they have a near zero return-rate of the keylabs" 😂 But forums are full of this problem and I think they ignore it. Same problem with Minilab MK2. Nice wood panels and metal bodies is what they think makes a great keyboard 🙈
If you have the Novation MK3...how is it?
@Axoplanet I will admit that the metal build is what had me sold, but unfortunately the parts were very cheap. Maybe it was just my board but I was not taking a chance exchanging for same model.
I went with the novation SL mk3 61 and I love it.
Build quality is way better than the arturia.
I have zero experience with keyboards so I can't comment on the software side as I'm still learning to use this thing with my MPC one. But the hardware of it is very impressive.
Cheers !!
For me it was also the metal body, plus the Analog Lab integration. I have the Arturia collection and to see the presets on the board was a nice workflow. But the knobs and sliders are damn cheap.
Thanks for your info about the Novation. I will buy one too. How is the keybed feel against the Arturia?
I’ve been waiting for this Video! Thank you.
Thanks!
Ha! I'm evaluating this keyboard as a replacement for my main controller and appreciated the reassurance that Reason works well with it. :) /ryan
Ryan, which keyboard specifically were you evaluating? Cheers!
@@xmc3060 Ah right. I didn't specify, did I? The Novation.
@@ReasonStudios I don't own the keyboard
But from what I've heard about it
It's mainly focused on Ableton Live
Which integrates best with Logic Pro X?
@@earlmonroe98 Native Instruments imo.
Thank you so much. Your video really went a long way towards helping me make a decision. Keep up the good work!
You’re very welcome
My arturia mk2 61 key is on the way
YES!!! Christmas is coming early this year!! What DAW are you going to use it with?
@@SanjayC Ableton
Nice...my choice
My Moog Grandmother (2nd edition) is on it's way (I have the original still).
Thanks for your knowledge and contributions to the gear reviews.
You’re welcome
I'm not a musician but I'm liking my M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49.
The video I've been waiting for. Love your videos!
Thanks 🙏🏽
I'm considering the Akai MPK249, was wondering how it stacked up against these! Thanks for the great video.
did you get it? i want that too
I have been using the Akai MPK249 for 8 years and opened up to fix it 3 times.
For DAW control, I see it similar to the Arturia KeyLab as the above review. You can choose which DAW to control in the menu. I use Ableton Live with the basic control function it provides.
The keybed is just fine. Drum pads feel hard compare to Novation. Buttons have plastic feel as the price is a lot cheaper anyway.
The reasons why I open it up to fix are dead keys and pitch wheel glitching, which I see a lot of people are facing as well.
But it still survives and working fine after 8 years, so not bad at all.
Hope this help!
@@HaikiMike Arturia KeyLab MKII 49 vs Akai mpk 249? Who win?
@@SergioVinogradov If you are using Apple Mac with Big Sur avoid MPK 2! After one year still no update on the drivers.
Great stuff thanks. Answered so many questions I had running thru my mind
Awesome! Hope you subscribed! :-D
Love your videos, I am a 67 year old man, who can play guitar, keyboards, and drums, self taught and not very good at all, but I am trying to set up a small recording kit, I have a zoom H2n mic that came with cubase LE, and I just want to mess around and maybe record myself , like this video on keyboards , love good strings so wondering which of these keyboards would suit me, thanks for posting gfrom Garry in the UK
You can play strings with any of these actually. Native Instruments has some excellent strings sounds with its Komplete 12 bundle.
Thank you soon much! I'm a beginner producer looking to upgrade and this guide help me decide on the sl mk3. Thank you man and keep up the good work.
What do you think of the Akai MPK249? Can it be a slightly cheaper alternative?
Want also to know it!
I have the Arturia V Collection 8 and I use Cubase so the Arturia Key lab mkii was the clear choice. Analog Lab is superb.
Arturia love ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Gotta try novation stuff!
@@SanjayC yeah true 😹
Yayyyyy i have arturia collection 8. Keylab essentials 61, and just put in the order for a black mk2. (Whites backordered and i got the last black on the market 😁) . great to know keylab works so well with analog lab. I have 10k plus presets under my control lol
These are AMAZING 49 key workstations!! Maybe you can recommend a budget friendly 49 key controller with full sized keys? Was debating between M Audio keystation 49 and The Nectar 49 to replace my iRig keys IO 25... I’ve outgrown 25 keys and need more but love the feel of the iRig keys. It doesn’t feel like a toy lol
I love the M-Audio Oxygen 49. the software included really got me to buy it.
Checking in late due to oversleeping due to a migraine. But I’m here now LOL!! 😊
Always lovely to see you here!
Sanjay C thank you.
I use the first version of launchkey 49 and its doing increadibily well with almost all DAWs not to mention ableton live. The clip launch buttons are awsome and it makes ableton more like a real instrument. With additional features like control information and standalone midi operations makes the launchkey mk3 my favorite.
@Caleb Fredrick I havent used it with studio one yet. But it must work well with all DAWs equally as a generic controller just that you might need to assign the controllers with desired parameters manually.
Does it work well with Cubase?
Native Instruments insistence on not putting pads on these controllers just so people are forced to buy a standalone maschine unit is why I will never buy their products.
There is no reason the s49 doesn't have a bank of 8 or 9 pads other than their greed.
cierto La semana pasada vendí mi MK2 y en dos días recibí el Novation SL forces you to work with komplete kontrol vst and you lose workflow and time, without KK vst it's worth nothing and the screens you never use them, 2 years with the
NI is pretty much like Apple, they have a complete eco system to sell. You realize that if you take a closer look at their hardware offerings in terms of feastures, their bundles, how the sw upgrade paths are designed in terms of price and content.
I consider the whole package as very attractive, as long you keep tied to this eco system you will be happy, given you you have deep pockets.
It's not my choice, but don't underestimate the amount of money many hobbyists are willing to spend.
I mean, just look at the prices for good pianos.
STFU
true.... but for me i dont need/use the.. i found arturia tech support horrible...the worse I've ever encountered
You always have great information
Thank you Chriss1152! You getting one of these?
Hey Sanjay, great video, really informative. I see that the novation has various ways of changing instruments while playing (Track arrows or even with the arm buttons where the solo and mute are),but, When it comes to arturia and the native instruments, is there a easy way to change instruments while playing, without the need to use your computer? For live performing this is really a must have for me. Thanks!
Thanks for this overview. I’ve been looking at the 49SL MkIII and knowing about the key “feel”/weight helps me to make up my mind. When they find this usability in Ableton AND have a nice weighted key, then I’ll bite.
Awesome Sanjay! Really like those displays on the novation so you know what you're controlling cuz on my keyboards I have to guess what each knob controls or which effect I have selected haha
Yeah, that's true. Everything on the Novation is super useful.
@@SanjayC and those LEDs are great lol 😂
I find myself stopping your videos to analyze your chord progressions because they're just so soothing. Where can I learn to make music like that?
Thats a nice compliment! If you're looking for a cool chord progression tool, check out Cthulhu by Xfer Records. And you can download some presets for Cthulhu from ADSR Sounds website.
@@SanjayC Wow, that's a reasonable price for a tool like that! Cthulhu plugin is so cool! Oh and that company also makes Serum the synth plugin. Interesting. Thanks for the recommend. I feel like I could just sit for hours memorizing chord progressions from this plugin. This plus Analog Lab = synthwave gold.
Hey Sanjay! Just wanted to say thank you for all of the time that you put in making these videos. They truly help a lot. I also have a quick question for you...I have Komplete 10 Ultimate and the entire Arturia V collection and I’m looking to upgrade my MIDI controller to either the NI S61 or the Keylab 61 and my DAW is Logic Pro X. If you could pick between the two which one would you choose for a main keyboard controller? Thanks a bunch and God Bless you!!
Thanks so much, Kevin! I love the NI keyboards a lot, but if you want more DAW control, go with the Arturia.
I have watched virtually all your keyboard videos countless times, got an arturia minilab and instantly regretted it. I'm still having trouble deciding between a 49 or 61 key controller. Thanks for all the content, always nicely done
What didn't you like about the Minilab?
Sanjay C I like the minilab for what it is. But I also want to learn piano more than just play a few notes. And after doing some practices I realized I need more keys. Thus my dilemma of 49 vs 61 keys. Thanks for your response. I may actually keep the minilab for its function lol
@@youngvet1993 Then get the NI S49 it has the best Keybed and is ideal aside from full on Hammer action for learning to play.
Paul J thanks for the advice. I ended up getting an arturia keylab essential. Def not the best keys but I think good for the price. If I really begin to enjoy playing I’ll get the NI for sure
@@youngvet1993 sounds like a plan.
Is that your music I hear in the intro and outro...it's beautiful.
Yes it is. Thank you. I make all the music on my channel! 😊
@@SanjayC Do you have a place where you sell your music? I would buy it.
I have a lot of stuff on SoundCloud. I have one single on Spotify and Apple Music too
@@SanjayC Great I will check it out.
I always refer to your videos before I go ahead and buy. Thanks for all the information.
Thanks! Are you liking one of these more than the others?
Hey, really an informative comparison! How would you compare just the KEYBED quality and feel of Arturia KeyLab mk2 and Native instruments S series? please help!
"For the 49 or 61 keys"
Same question!
Same question!
Just ordered an SL MK3 61!
Nice! 👍
For the novation were you pressing the sustain pedal while showing the demo
what would you suggest for me who only uses logic pro x, something that can help produce and also help mix
Any of these will be good for Logic - and all will give you mixing control. Think about whether you want drum pads (no drum pads on NI).
@@SanjayC got it... thanks
KOMPLETE KONTROL S49 is very attractive.
Yeah, love it.
Ridiculous Quality in these videos of yours! 👏🙌
Novation all day...
This was really helpful 😊 thank you so much !
You're welcome! :-)
What watch are you wearing? Looks like an omega speedmaster
You’re exactly right. It is! Good eye!
@@SanjayC Is it the reduced version? Looks really nice!
Hello Sanjay. I like this video talking about the Top 3 Best 49-Key MIDI Keyboards. My dream is to be a VGM Remixer & Original Composer one day, But i need a bunch of equipment for that dream to come true. Heres a list of equipment i need:
MIDI Keyboards: Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 MK2, Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 and Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25
Gear: Focusrite Scarlett Solo, Alesis SamplePad Pro, Korg KP3 and Yamaha Pacifica
VST: East West Quantum Leap Symphonic Orchestra, EZDrummer and Stormdrum
DAW: Waveform Free
Nice list. I like the M-Audio Air 192
Hey there, I have been watching a lot of your videos lately and I need your help in choosing a Mid Range Midi . I am confused amongst these three.
1.) Novation Launchkey MkII 49
2.) M-Audio Oxygen 49
3.) Arturia Keylab 49 . not the pro versions of these but the mid range.
Expecting a reply. Thanks
I think you’ll be fine with any of those. You should consider the software that is included and integrated as well. I prefer Arturia for that.
Exceptional review! Thank you!
hey guys :)
i've got a question:
does singing into a clip on condenser instument microphone work/sound ok?
I use a condenser microphone to record to clips/tracks in Ableton live. Works really well. I use it with a Focusrite Scarlett interface or a UAD Apollo interface.
@@SanjayC so there's no difference between an small instrument condenser microphone and a normal condenser microphone?
Microphones will sound different from each other, but the technology is the same. You'll have to try it to see if it works for you.
@@SanjayC all right, thanks man :D
Love your review man
Thanks
strange all the keyboard you put on top are all you get for free. Sounds like an ad to me
Congratulations for the videos, for the quality of the contents and for the passion that shines through your work. Thank you.
just a simple question, among the 49/61 keys (excluding the native instruments which I'm not interested in), which is the best in terms of key feel? I ask this as a pianist.
Thanks in advance
I’m just beginning computer assisted music, I’m currently using my iPad and Garage Band, projecting to buy something like an Akai mpk or Arturia mini lab to get started, and this video is litteraly the one I was wondering about this morning for the day I will step up my game. Thank you for what you do, it motivates me so much to see channels like yours and people who help out beginners like me. I have a lot of work to become good, but I’ll continue to play the music that I love !
Such a nice message. Thank you. I love when I can help someone learn or just inspire them. Its what I love most! Come back here anytime for advice.
I know, there may be very different opinions about it, but what keyboard would you as a pianist prefer from the four ones below? What is for you the best keybed? The keyboard should also have basic functions for controlling Cubase:
M-Audio Oxygen Pro 61
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61
Arturia KeyLab Essential 61
Novation Launchkey 61 MK3
Is there any definite winner here for you?
After much research, I bought sl mk iii due to the sequencing capabilities. Right of the box, it was defective. It wouldn’t upgrade the firmware and there was an LED error on the screen so there were no lights at all. Contacted novation & returned the keyboard. I’m leaning now on getting keylab but still wanting a sequencer.. on to more research
Same boat. So hard to find a sequencer and Midi controller and to find all the relevant details about both sides of features.
Great video as always! The conclusion is a little weak though. It’s vague “depends on which features you utilizes the most” and to have a look at the other brands also. I quick rundown of strength and weaknesses would have been more informative as this info can get confusing after watching details on all the presented keyboards. Hope this helps and doesnt offend! You are awesome!
Excellent comparison! Best on youtube!
Thank you!
Yes a true review not a promoted review which is nice
Hello Sanjay, can I first say I love your channel! Only discovered it today, to my chagrin, and have already watched a small number of your presentations; I am thinking of getting a 61-key MK II Arturia MIDI controller, and my decision will probably be based on already having the Arturia V Collection 7 to go with it (my primary interest, rather than Ableton-Live and the other features), but I know how rated the other pair of MIDI controllers are, and you have aligned their features superbly.
Thanks so much. The Arturia is a great keyboard so you've made a good choice
the beat at 1:35, is it on any platform or something, i need to hear the full thing!!!!!!!! 🙏
Got the Arturia Keylab Essential 49. It's fantastic for the price.
Cool! did you get the free V Collection 6 with it?
@@SanjayC What? VC6 is free? It just came with Ableton Lite, UVI Model D Piano and Analog Lab. Ok now I have to go look...oh and I use Logic Pro 10.5.
Great reviews! Thanks so much!
You're welcome :-)
i use a korg m3 workstation as my main keyboard, yamaha kx8 as my 88 key controller and a yamaha xf as back up...for backpack i use artutia keystep with vsts on a macbook.
Nice setup. Are you looking at one of these now?
Really great video. It's clear you put a lot of effort into this and it was very informative and interesting to watch even 2 years later. I'm really just starting out using Live, and I'm very rusty on both piano and clarinet, but from playing physical instruments I have to say I'm pretty nervous trying to pick a controller, because I don't want to find myself in tight spot down the line when my fingers are starting to come into their own okay again but the controller doesn't feel expressive enough for further growth. I also wonder if aftertouch can be a nice proximity to how on a wind instrument I can alter the character of a note after the attack, without having to take one hand and reach for a control, just altering pressure instead. It seems like a nice, intuitive enhancement for keyboards. But that's assuming it works perfectly with a nice range of finger pressures.
Hi !:) Thank you for the review . Which one is the best for Cubase ?
Arturia and Native Instruments will both be compatible with Cubase out of the box.
Sanjay C thank you 🙂🙂
Sanjaybhai Namaste...
I watched your video of Arturia Minilab 3...
And felt it has too few keys and I should go for a 49 key ...
This ia an amazing video...Thanks for the valuable insights...
Still rocking a first-gen MPK 61 which has worked fine for 7-8 years now. However if buying a keyboard now I'd probably go with the Arturia. It seems to be the best, no-frills keyboard. I don't need all those extra screens and complicated menu systems, my computer is equipped with a mouse and 27" screen.
Nice. What daw are you using?
I Love three of them but native total control is most loved one
Nice! Do you have one?
@@SanjayC no sir not yet but my friend have total control midi
Hi Sanjay,
Thanks a lot for the great intros and reviews made me came up with only two choices for my upgrade - Native Instrument MKII 61 or Novation SL Mk3 61,
I'm an Ableton user, I compose all the way and play live through LIVE11, no other DAW was installed in my Mac,
Also I owned a Push 2 myself, but to me it's hard to play my ideas out through the pads on it, that's why I'm considering to get on of these keyboards,
but still I want it to work as my drum machine controller or slicing tracks & channels...etc. Don't wanna waste it, useful or not the Push 2 will still always on the desk :)
After watching the videos of you introduced about the SL Mk3, I would love to have one because it's the most compatible keyboard with Ableton, but it seems WAY TO MANY PADS to play with lol Novation + Push 2's Pads, plus, NI S61MK2 got an individual software / plugins makes me wanna reconsider my next purchase, and the price between them are so closed!
It would be so great if I can hear from you about which way to go! Thank you so much again Sanjay!
my favorite thus far is the M Audio oxygen 49 3rd gen ,it's the only one i own and need right now , i had to open it all the way up to clean it cause i was getting random numbers on the display screen but that's fixed with a good ole clean out ,the keys is faded i wanna spary paint them but i love this thing
I used to have a cheap MAudio keyboard long ago. But I think it left a bad impression on me because it was their low range keyboard - mediocre quality.
I need to upgrade too from that one looking at the Arturia key lab 49 or 61.
I currently have an Arturia KeyLab Essential 61. Think I'm gonna upgrade to the KeyLab 61 MkII.