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.
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
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!
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 🙏
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 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!
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!
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.
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 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
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 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!
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🙏🏻
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!
Dear Sanjay, Great video, I am thinking of buying the S49 from NI as a beginning producer, I was a pianist before but now I would like to make electronic music. Should I connect this keyboard to a sound interface or just USB to the computer? What is recommended? Thanks!
Nice choice. You should connect it by USB. BTW, I'm a pianist and I missed having the fully weighted keys, so I primarily use the S88 by NI. If you have the space and some extra cash, you won't be disappointed.
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?
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!
Hi Sanjay. Great vid as usual. Im really down on Arturia. Really difficult to set up. too many log ins. and mine never worked. their tech support is horrible as well. I bought NI and it has been great. Have you heard similar things about arturia?
i'm the same way, about six months ago i landed on a keylab and it had stuck notes, barely worked right in ableton, and i actually laughed out loud at how terrible the keybed felt. my novation 61SL arrived like 20 minutes ago and i can already tell these keys are way nicer
Still worth buying at the end of 2022 or should I wait for a MK4 to be released? Will they even release a MK4 anytime soon and do you think it would be worth it over just buying a used MK3? Anyone who can help I appreciate
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.
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!!
Oof, I just bought a Novation Sl Mk2 but wish I could just go for the Mk3. Couldn’t pass up finding a 61 key Sl Mk2 for $200 in great condition though. Those fatar keys for $200 seems like a steal, but the features on this Mk3 seem so nice! Man oh man.
@@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
9:48 And yet, most of Arturia's plugins are NKS-compatible. In fact, on the V-Collection 8 page under the NKS they state: "NKS compatibility ___currently___ unavailable for Analog Lab V, Vocoder V, Emulator II V, Jun-6 V, Jup-8 V4 and Stage-73 V2". Seems to me they are trying to make all their software NKS-combatible. In fact, they might be even in talks since Analog Lab & Komplete Kontrol share much in common, ey? I for one hope they can work something out. But until then, you can use Native Instruments NKS with most Arturia VST's and if not, soon!
Hey do you have any thoughts on the M Audio CTLR 49 with VIP software are they good or bad I don’t hear many people talking bout but it seams to have mostly everything you need. I’m really trying to decide between that and the Akai Advance any answers???
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
Please, would you do a comparison between Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3 Vs Native Instruments S49 mk3? If possible, reviewing its uses with Cubase 13 😊😇 Thank you!
@@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 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.
Hey man, enjoying your videos!! I am a (hip-hop/reggae style producer) what do you suggest is the best keyboard controller for (the best drumming work) & What DAW would you say has the most (SOUNDS/INSTRUMENTS) I want to be able to get (a keyboard controller, many are coming with FL & Ableton included, for no more than (350$) can you point me to the right keys for a HIP-HOP heavy, (largest sound bank of all the daws is ??what??) If u can help answer these few questions you will be helping me out BIG TIME! (I am going back n forth between (Arturia keylab essential 49 key, but now I've seen the "Arturia keylab essential (MK2) & that one has the drum pads, I just don't know how much more $$$$ the (MK2 costs??) -& the other one is the (Akai MPK mini plus) shows it comes with FL, & another one comes with Ableton, (I figure I can't go wrong getting a DAW & new Keyboard for about) (170$) (So if this where your decision witch one would you go with??) Last question (I've bought a bran new laptop 💻 & I will only use said laptop for running my DAW & for recording music, now the guy at guitar center told me that my new laptop "WILL" run a DAW & my new Akai, or Arturia?? Is what he says true? Or will I need external hard drives? Thank you so much for your time!! I'm a first timer & instant fan & I followed, & will share your stuff with my music buddy's!!!! Thx for your help🙏🏼🪬🙏🏼
Sanjay - your videos are so well -produced and professional, they seem like an oasis in a desert of poorly-produced demos. Thank you!! Although a little frustrated with the GUI and workflow, I am going to stick with Studio One Pro 5 for now. Is the Arturia my best choice? Any feedback would be helpful.
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
The Native Instruments controller doesn't just integrate with their software, it REQUIRES it for 99% of the functions. Who can afford to dedicatre a $1000 laptop to a $500 controller???
Hi Sanjay. Have you had any experience with Nektar stuff? Specifically their Panorama T4 & T6? I'm looking for something cheaper than what you recommended, but that (the keybed) doesn't feel too cheap.
@@SanjayC Appreciate the reply Sanjay! Problem is, the Nektar T6 might be my best choice at this price range if I want synth-action keys with aftertouch. Some other potential options are the M-Audio Code 61 (too many reports of build-quality issues), the Alesis VI61 (unintuitive extra knobs & buttons, weaker software integration), & the Roland A-800 Pro (better keys, but drum pads are not as good & too small). Your thoughts?
Arturia then... its a pity that it don’t came with lights in the keyboard for those who want to exactly know the key... but, I think its the best keyboard
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.
Old video, but what about Nektar Panorama P4? The keybed isn't the best, but lets face it, if you're buying a 49 key keyboard it's highly likely that you don't need an ultra precise/responsive keybed to play intricate piano parts. I would imagine that if you're buying a 49 key keyboard then you're looking for decent keys, but DAW integration. If that's the case, i don't think either of the top 3 boards in the video beat the Panorama P4.
Why the fuck do 2 out of 3 keyboards have this tacky per key RGB led? I don’t want my studio to look like a streamers video game dungeon with lots and lots of stupid blinky lights in lots and lots of colors. What’s next? RGB Studio Monitors? RGB XLR Cables? RGB acoustic panels? RGB VSTs? The Roland Aira Series was a huge eye sore when it came out but this is ten times worse! I really hope the people responsible step on a lego or something
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
Hi which of these has the best Keybed? First of all I need to play music live and use the controls only 10% in a live concert. Do u have some indication for me? Regards
New to keyboards / MIDI controller's. I'm a guitarist / instrumentalist wanting to integrate drum's, bass, keys.. into my recording sessions on Reaper. I use Bias FX and a number of other plugins. Any suggestions of the three keyboards demoed that would be best suited for my needs?
Hello, is it possible to play thé bass notes of à piano with thé pads and thé other with thé keys ? I awnsear me if i should tape à 88 mkII but i think i World probable do thé same with a 61 an thé pads because i am not à great piano player... tank you.
What would you recommend if I am just looking for a nice feeling keyboard? Something with light keys, I don't really need too many dials. I have the mpk25. but it just broke and the keys were very stiff. I'm looking for keys that are less stiff.
Most of these keyboard sounds are synthesized sampled sounds, and some keyboards comes with the best sounding synthesized sounds, and some kebords comes with not so good sounding synthethesized sounds and I will not waste money on trashed keyboards, its like late 60s and 70s not so good technology packaged and using it for todays music thats going backwards in a way.
I'm so torn on all 3 of these, what would you recommend for an ableton user, genre edm-melodic house. I keep leaning towards arturia and native instruments for the preset software but worried that there aren't many sounds in there for this genre 😬
Small question from my side: Since this video is three years old by now, I'd like to know whether it still holds up today? I watched your mini midi keyboard just a couple of minutes before but I'm more intrigued by the bigger ones and a more stationary set up (for now).
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
Hi Sanjay ! I am really confused between 3 of these. I need great keybed Premium feel Pads and faders and should work with native instruments Komplete 12 .. What do you think will help me best ?
All of these will play the sounds in Komplete 12. Of course, the mot integrated controller for Komplete is the Native Instruments one. The keybeds are very similar for all these keyboards. If you need more faders/knobs, then you may want to go with the Novation or Arturia. If you use Ableton, the Novation is excellent!!
![[UA] NAVI проти G2 Esports | Blast Premier Fall Final](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/QWlIm4FGESQ/mqdefault.jpg)
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
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
In the jungle of choice in buying a new midi keyboard and then you sanjay appear. Blessed!
🐅 🐘 🐆 🦁
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.
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.
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
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
I'm not a musician but I'm liking my M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49.
I think it's about time those companies takes FL-Studio more seriously...... next models maybe ?
What do you think of the Akai MPK249? Can it be a slightly cheaper alternative?
Want also to know it!
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.
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).
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.
A keyboard that has lights that coresspond with the scale?
WHAT? WHAT A TIME TO BE ALIVE
Yup! No excuse for not making music!
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.
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
First time in my life i deliver like when some one asking. Keep going man.
Thanks, man! I appreciate that
same lmao
My Novation sl 61 is arriving tomorrow, Sanjay you review did helped me to choose. Thanks a ton.......
Congrats! And you're welcome!
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 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
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!
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.
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 am a beginner looking for 49 key midi keyboard to use for garageband as a good easy to use starter.
Thanks a lot Sanjay C for your excellent helpful video 👏👍👌❤️
😊
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 💖
Novation all day...
I’m just watching the way you film and the music you create!!! Wooooowwwww SO GOOD!
Aw thanks! :-D
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!
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
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!
Dear Sanjay, Great video, I am thinking of buying the S49 from NI as a beginning producer, I was a pianist before but now I would like to make electronic music. Should I connect this keyboard to a sound interface or just USB to the computer? What is recommended? Thanks!
Nice choice. You should connect it by USB. BTW, I'm a pianist and I missed having the fully weighted keys, so I primarily use the S88 by NI. If you have the space and some extra cash, you won't be disappointed.
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?
Seriously informative & thorough. Are these compatible with Big Sur / M1 ? Not much info out there on what works. Cheers
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!
Hi Sanjay. Great vid as usual. Im really down on Arturia. Really difficult to set up. too many log ins. and mine never worked. their tech support is horrible as well. I bought NI and it has been great. Have you heard similar things about arturia?
i'm the same way, about six months ago i landed on a keylab and it had stuck notes, barely worked right in ableton, and i actually laughed out loud at how terrible the keybed felt. my novation 61SL arrived like 20 minutes ago and i can already tell these keys are way nicer
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.
Trust me when i say this.... If you're an Ableton user go with the MK2!! HANDS DOWN THE BEST! The MK2 is also user friendly with Logic and FL
Friendly with all main daws except reason in my experience
Still worth buying at the end of 2022 or should I wait for a MK4 to be released? Will they even release a MK4 anytime soon and do you think it would be worth it over just buying a used MK3? Anyone who can help I appreciate
came for the review ... stayed for the great work done all around
Thanks, Christopher! I appreciate that!
I currently have an Arturia KeyLab Essential 61. Think I'm gonna upgrade to the KeyLab 61 MkII.
The Keyboards I been waiting for comparison video & viola! Wonderful :)
Yes! Glad I could help!
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?
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.
Which keyboard would you suggest for FL users?
That's a complicated question. I feel everything is complicated with FL STUDIO
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!
Oof, I just bought a Novation Sl Mk2 but wish I could just go for the Mk3. Couldn’t pass up finding a 61 key Sl Mk2 for $200 in great condition though. Those fatar keys for $200 seems like a steal, but the features on this Mk3 seem so nice! Man oh man.
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.
9:48 And yet, most of Arturia's plugins are NKS-compatible. In fact, on the V-Collection 8 page under the NKS they state: "NKS compatibility ___currently___ unavailable for Analog Lab V, Vocoder V, Emulator II V, Jun-6 V, Jup-8 V4 and Stage-73 V2". Seems to me they are trying to make all their software NKS-combatible. In fact, they might be even in talks since Analog Lab & Komplete Kontrol share much in common, ey? I for one hope they can work something out. But until then, you can use Native Instruments NKS with most Arturia VST's and if not, soon!
KOMPLETE KONTROL S49 is very attractive.
Yeah, love it.
Hey do you have any thoughts on the M Audio CTLR 49 with VIP software are they good or bad I don’t hear many people talking bout but it seams to have mostly everything you need. I’m really trying to decide between that and the Akai Advance any answers???
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've seen that the Native Instruments keyboards don't integrate with FL Studio. Is this still true or have they fixed it??
They don't have FL integration, but I think you can do some manual workarounds to get some functionality
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!
The Akai MPK249 and the Nektar Panorama P4 are worth considering
Arturia love ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Gotta try novation stuff!
@@SanjayC yeah true 😹
Please, would you do a comparison between Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3 Vs Native Instruments S49 mk3? If possible, reviewing its uses with Cubase 13 😊😇 Thank you!
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
You have absolutely the best 3 Keyboards in your video. I have the Native Instrument (my favorite) and the Arturia...really good Boards!
For the novation were you pressing the sustain pedal while showing the demo
Hi Sanjay, do you have any experience with the akai advance series?
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.
Are any of these multitimbral so I can stack 4+ sounds together and play the keys and they will all use 4 sounds together at once?
You can layer multiple sounds in the Analog Lab software or in a DAW to do this
Thanks, does the notavation work well with reaper ?
novation*
strange all the keyboard you put on top are all you get for free. Sounds like an ad to me
i wish nektar made a quality version of the gx49. Cuz people say its floppy.
Thats all i want in a midi keyboard
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
Hey man, enjoying your videos!! I am a (hip-hop/reggae style producer) what do you suggest is the best keyboard controller for (the best drumming work)
& What DAW would you say has the most (SOUNDS/INSTRUMENTS) I want to be able to get (a keyboard controller, many are coming with FL & Ableton included, for no more than (350$) can you point me to the right keys for a HIP-HOP heavy, (largest sound bank of all the daws is ??what??) If u can help answer these few questions you will be helping me out BIG TIME! (I am going back n forth between (Arturia keylab essential 49 key, but now I've seen the "Arturia keylab essential (MK2) & that one has the drum pads, I just don't know how much more $$$$ the (MK2 costs??)
-& the other one is the (Akai MPK mini plus) shows it comes with FL, & another one comes with Ableton, (I figure I can't go wrong getting a DAW & new Keyboard for about) (170$) (So if this where your decision witch one would you go with??)
Last question (I've bought a bran new laptop 💻 & I will only use said laptop for running my DAW & for recording music, now the guy at guitar center told me that my new laptop "WILL" run a DAW & my new Akai, or Arturia?? Is what he says true? Or will I need external hard drives?
Thank you so much for your time!! I'm a first timer & instant fan & I followed, & will share your stuff with my music buddy's!!!! Thx for your help🙏🏼🪬🙏🏼
Sanjay - your videos are so well -produced and professional, they seem like an oasis in a desert of poorly-produced demos. Thank you!!
Although a little frustrated with the GUI and workflow, I am going to stick with Studio One Pro 5 for now. Is the Arturia my best choice? Any feedback would be helpful.
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
The Native Instruments controller doesn't just integrate with their software, it REQUIRES it for 99% of the functions. Who can afford to dedicatre a $1000 laptop to a $500 controller???
Hi Sanjay. Have you had any experience with Nektar stuff? Specifically their Panorama T4 & T6? I'm looking for something cheaper than what you recommended, but that (the keybed) doesn't feel too cheap.
Nektar keyboards are good for FL Studio if that's what you use. Otherwise I prefer the key feel of other keyboards
@@SanjayC Appreciate the reply Sanjay! Problem is, the Nektar T6 might be my best choice at this price range if I want synth-action keys with aftertouch. Some other potential options are the M-Audio Code 61 (too many reports of build-quality issues), the Alesis VI61 (unintuitive extra knobs & buttons, weaker software integration), & the Roland A-800 Pro (better keys, but drum pads are not as good & too small). Your thoughts?
Arturia then... its a pity that it don’t came with lights in the keyboard for those who want to exactly know the key... but, I think its the best keyboard
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!
Arturia keylab essential 49, and M Audio Oxygen 49 are also great budget Midi Keyboards
Yes, that's true!
Old video, but what about Nektar Panorama P4? The keybed isn't the best, but lets face it, if you're buying a 49 key keyboard it's highly likely that you don't need an ultra precise/responsive keybed to play intricate piano parts.
I would imagine that if you're buying a 49 key keyboard then you're looking for decent keys, but DAW integration. If that's the case, i don't think either of the top 3 boards in the video beat the Panorama P4.
Why the fuck do 2 out of 3 keyboards have this tacky per key RGB led? I don’t want my studio to look like a streamers video game dungeon with lots and lots of stupid blinky lights in lots and lots of colors. What’s next? RGB Studio Monitors? RGB XLR Cables? RGB acoustic panels? RGB VSTs? The Roland Aira Series was a huge eye sore when it came out but this is ten times worse! I really hope the people responsible step on a lego or something
I like Novation I hate Abelton...so I guess Arturia is getting my money because Logic already has my money.
The Arturia and NI keyboards work well with Logic. Did you end up buying the Arturia?
Sanjay C dear Sanjay! I just bought and refund a NI A49, because read a lot article it can’t transpose semitone easily! Is this true?
@@finechordmusicsingapore The a49 is their cheap budget board. The one here is the S49 which is 3x more expensive.
Paul J yes, exactly
Arturia keylab vs m audio code which is best please tell me ???
Mannnn I wish you stayed near by. I would love for you to teach me. I just bought 49SL but have Arturia Keylab 2
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!
is there any midi-keyboard controllers that have Cakewalk DAW as a preset?! I haven´t found any (2022).
Hi which of these has the best Keybed? First of all I need to play music live and use the controls only 10% in a live concert. Do u have some indication for me? Regards
Which is best for cubase...
Please answer sanjay sir...
61 key controller...
New to keyboards / MIDI controller's. I'm a guitarist / instrumentalist wanting to integrate drum's, bass, keys.. into my recording sessions on Reaper. I use Bias FX and a number of other plugins.
Any suggestions of the three keyboards demoed that would be best suited for my needs?
Arturia Keylab mkII has the best integration with Reaper among the three.
Hello, is it possible to play thé bass notes of à piano with thé pads and thé other with thé keys ? I awnsear me if i should tape à 88 mkII but i think i World probable do thé same with a 61 an thé pads because i am not à great piano player... tank you.
What would you recommend if I am just looking for a nice feeling keyboard? Something with light keys, I don't really need too many dials. I have the mpk25. but it just broke and the keys were very stiff. I'm looking for keys that are less stiff.
Get the arturia keystep
Most of these keyboard sounds are synthesized sampled sounds, and some keyboards comes with the best sounding synthesized sounds, and some kebords comes with not so good sounding synthethesized sounds and I will not waste money on trashed keyboards, its like late 60s and 70s not so good technology packaged and using it for todays music thats going backwards in a way.
I'm so torn on all 3 of these, what would you recommend for an ableton user, genre edm-melodic house. I keep leaning towards arturia and native instruments for the preset software but worried that there aren't many sounds in there for this genre 😬
Small question from my side:
Since this video is three years old by now, I'd like to know whether it still holds up today?
I watched your mini midi keyboard just a couple of minutes before but I'm more intrigued by the bigger ones and a more stationary set up (for now).
you read my mind bro
The NI S49 can work with fl studio to ?
Do you think the novation will drop a 61 or 88 key version of the fl key or not??? I need a 61 fl controller so badly
Please Review the Nektar impact lx49+
Hey Sanjay, Thanks for the wonderful video. For someone looking to learn playing keys and learning music production, Which one would you recommend?
If you're learning, the Native Instruments has those lights on the keys that will help you with music theory as you learn.
I change my total mind set in will not going buy a 25 key midi any more I will take it 1 year ,2year,5year later but I will buy a premium midi
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.
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.
Hi Sanjay !
I am really confused between 3 of these.
I need great keybed
Premium feel
Pads and faders and should work with native instruments Komplete 12 ..
What do you think will help me best ?
All of these will play the sounds in Komplete 12. Of course, the mot integrated controller for Komplete is the Native Instruments one. The keybeds are very similar for all these keyboards. If you need more faders/knobs, then you may want to go with the Novation or Arturia. If you use Ableton, the Novation is excellent!!
What mic are you using? It's peaking a lot and harsh in the upper mids, it's really annoying.
the beat at 1:35, is it on any platform or something, i need to hear the full thing!!!!!!!! 🙏