At last someone normal who recommends cheap and solid controller. Everyone else is like "why bother with 100$ midi controller? better add 2k or 3k $ and buy some real stuff" Simple and clear. Thanks a lot.
check the software you are using with your midi and have a look at the bank of sounds you have. The midi doesn't have control over the sound you play, your software does.
As a newbie to using a DAW i was carrying out research into what my first MIDI controller should be. I read a lot of articles and watched many videos but yours nailed it. Clear, consise and to the point...just what an old guy like me needed. I bought the AKAI MPK Mini today and it is everything that you said, I am so pleased with it and glad that you were there to point me in the right direction. Many thanks.
I am a piano 44 yr. old traditional piano player trying to make sense of starting to produce something. This vid totally makes sense, clears they sky and takes away the fear of not knowing where to start. Thanks man, keep up the solid work.
I agree with most of everything said, but from personal experience, even though the Launchkey line was originally designed with Ableton in mind, the entire line integrates amazingly with other DAWs as well. I personally have a Launchkey 49 paired with FL and would not trade it for any other midi controller due to how seamlessly it integrates with FL. The 'In Control' functions offer all sorts of productivity tools, beyond just simply performing, and have changed my workflow entirely in how I produce music. Basically, don't rule out the Launchkey line if you don't use Ableton. It functions seamlessly with other DAWs, and will likely enhance your experience with that DAW beyond what the average MIDI controller would. Also, it was suggested starting with the 'mini' model of the controller line you plan to go with, which can definitely be a good plan for some on a budget in some circumstances, but it all really depends on how you produce music and what sorts of music you produce. As someone who has a background in piano, I find that 25 keys simply isn't enough when it comes to my personal workflow and the sort of music I produce, so starting out with the 'mini' line of the controller I use would not have been a good choice. It all really comes down to how you work, and I feel like that should be taken into consideration when it comes to the specific model of midi controller you choose once you have decided on the line you are going for. Ultimately, the video offers quite a bit of great information, but I feel like it oversimplifies some of the decisions that need to be made when deciding what midi controller to buy. Everything really comes down to what you as a producer need when it comes to your personal workflow, I think, and while the tips explained in the video are generally fairly accurate, I feel as though you should also heavily take into consideration what you personally need from the midi controller based on your workflow.
Thanks for pointing that out about the compatibility with other DAWs - I don't have that personal experience and was skeptical about the integration. So glad to hear it is up to par! I do note that a 'mini' option is something to consider when making decisions based on budget. Hopefully someone with a background in piano such as yourself would have a clear enough idea what they need in a controller. This video is directed at the people who message me often. Usually these are people who are just starting and have very limited musical experience. I've come to realize that unfortunately not everyone grows up like you and me with some musical background. For us (I'm assuming we are similar), music came first and production came second. For many their love for music stems from watching producers and performers on UA-cam or within the EDM scene. So this is super simplified to get those with little-to-no musical experience creating music as quickly as possible. An easy way to capture most workflows (most I talk to have yet to develop their own workflow yet) are the two controllers I mention at the end of the vid. Thanks so much for watching and for your thoughtful input! I look forward to talking more about this!
I agree buddy.. i would say for us but he was trying to target beginners.. u need atleast a 49 key midi board. i have aka advance 49, and m audio oxygen 25 to bring around wherever arturia minicab mkII is nice too for small key version like 25 keys but if you go with a 49 or more they have pads and are not pricy at all for what they provide.
dude! your explanation was so to the point! I've subscribed then. Btw please keep posting about ableton tutorial. I starting to Ableton hope you can teach me dude! :)
Subscribed 2 minutes in. I write musical numbers for small local theater (lyricist) and want to throw together more polished demos before working with my composer. I picked up the launchkey after watching this even though I walked into guitar center with the mini mk2 in mind. Thank you for your very clear review.
before I watch this video I came to the same conclusions but since i'm a noob to this I wasnt too much confident. your video was reaaaallly easy to understand and just confirmed everything I was wondering. u got a new subscriber, fella.
MrBlommigGamer k dude it depends on your likes, i was saying something free because it could be a "waste of money" buying a DAW, because you may dislike making EDM or music
By music editing do you mean music production? You can try and download the free version of DAW like FL studio to try. Alternatively, you can download Reaper(a really cheap DAW that is really powerful) and you have a 60 day trial upon which you can buy the license for $40 I believe, or you don't need to buy the license at all(not really recommended).
lol the story there is...I once attempted to disassemble that controller to paint it - ended up being too much of a hassle and me being LAZY I didn't replace the screws. flash forward to me shooting this video and not remembering that. thanks so much for watching gale!
Keep doing what you're doing man! I've been led around in circles for too long reading useless, half-abandoned forums looking for basic, accurate information. A lot of bad, confusing and unintuitive material out there. Save us!!
I liked the way you explained the difference between MIDI controllers vs synthesizers and also the analogies for TV remote controllers, PS controller and how they're just simply controllers for their respective hardware.
I have a question. I want to play hip hop/electronic music live with ableton, so I think I need a launchpad, but I also use a lot of samples. I want to be able to trigger the samples whenever I want, not just at the start of a beat, make loops with them and modify them. Can you recommend some controllers that are more suitable for that?
you actually CAN do what you described with a launchpad. You can change how clips launch/trigger - by default they are quantized, but you can turn that off so as soon as you hit a pad you hear sound.
I've got the MPK mini II and ive got to say it's a great starter controller. Fits right in my laptop case and i can take it on the go for traveling. I love making music on flights and even when my laptop takes up the entire tray table, the MPK still fits just fine on my lap. Overall a great product, and especially happy with it because i got if on sale!
Hi. I want to begin to learn how to produce music using Ableton Live. Is this software recommended for beginners in comparison with others as ProTools, FL, etc.? ¿Which one do you recommend me to use?
they all have their different levels of complexity but the great thing about youtube is there are amazing tutorials for all of them. I use Ableton, so I am partial. If you watch my other videos and like what I do, Ableton may also be for you. thanks for watching John!
I was skeptical of the Akai MPK mini when I played with it a little at guitar center, but your video convinced me to try it out. I did, and I love it! It's brought out a ton of creativity because I can just chill in my living room with my laptop instead of having to be stuck in the studio. Thanks for the recommendation!
I want to start doing live performance and stuff like that for youtube like Alex Aiono and Conor Mayard. I think I am going to buy a AKAI MPK mini or a Novation launchkey mini. But what did you mean with "launching clips". And what do you recommend?
Ableton works really well for that. A lot of what he does is built around loops and it is really easy to set up in Ableton. Any program is going to come with some learning curve for sure.
Lol I recognized him from there too, but wasn't sure. I just moved back to Florida from Mass though. Lol that's such a crazy coincidence. I came across this video while looking for a midi controller to buy. Wow..What a small world haha.
I had a lot of doubts about MIDI controllers.I was even searching for it in the net for a whole day.This video got my job done.I should've watched this before.
About the best overall explanation I have seen on the basics of controllers thus far. How nice to hear from someone who is literate and speaks clearly. I now know it's either going to be the Novation or Akai mini... which has narrowed it down a great deal. THANK YOU!
You know what i last played a synthesizer 10 years ago but then life turned around and i got away with my music and sound capabilities. I felt old now but seriously u just updated me through this video and i am glad i watched it. Thanks a lot :::/\:::
I personally have the LaunchKey mini and yes, starting with a small midi controller is a great way to go. I first bought maschine and to this day I still barely use it because it had no use into my workflow, so I agree that keeping in mind what type of music you will make is very important! Great video!
Fantastic overview. But lots of people starting out, especially students, are using iPads. So there are other considerations, like iPad connectivity, wired vs wireless, powered by iPad vs wall-wart vs battery.
Insanely informative, did not expect to learn as much as I did in this video when searching for recommended mini midi controllers for a beginner. Love the format and the in-depth explanations. I think I'm gonna go with the Akai MKII to get me started on my journey. Thanks again, and definitely subscribing to see what all I can learn from your other videos.
something to consider..if you're wanting to add vocals or other mic recorded things..bongos, flute, etc and/or mic' ing a guitar amp or line in a hardware device such as a synth or drum machine than You would probably want a midi controller that also has midi in/midi out ports on the back of conroller as well so that you dont have to keep going back and forth in the 'preferences section in ableton.(in other words, you'd set your prefernces to the audio interface then plug your controller's midi ports into the audio interface midi ports) Make sure your audio interface also has the same midi in/ midi out ports on it (focusrite saphire for example) as well. This vastly improves workflow and would, for example, then allow you to play your software synths/beats and sing or rap at the same time or soon after without having to keep mucking about with the in/out preferences section.
MOST midi controllers now have USB, mostly the synth and drum machine world are still using traditional midi ports - but yes! this could be helpful for some I agree
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Taetro... Thank you for this video man. Juat bought the akai mpk25mini black. Been contemplating this buy for years and I almost didn't but I've been dying to make music for years so I did it. It'll be arriving in the next 2 weeks and your video has made me look forward to getting it.
Perfect! I just got the Akai mk2 mini for my husband for Christmas and was wondering if I bought a good product.. It had great reviews on the website, but still wasn't sure it was anything he would want..He is a guitar player but wants to start adding the rest of his songs with something like this.. So.. watching your video makes me super excited that I made the right choice! Thanks for the video!
Hello. I am just starting out with Garageband and production is new to me. This video is brilliant - I already sort of decided on the Akai MPK Mini but wasn't sure but you have explained so well the decision is now clear. You've also explained a lot of things I wasn't sure about. Great video. I cant wait to get started!
Veeeery good video that clarifies a lot of things. Especially (for me) that notion of pads that are rather dedicated to Ableton. But still, I think that the best part is that guilty look at 3:10 when the controller falls in parts. Huge!
I basically did hours of research today to come to the conclusion you made in this 5 minute video. Wish I found this first, but thanks for validating what I was thinking!
Midi controllers can be useful for many things. I use one to control my Video production and editing. However I use another piece of software with it that translates MIDI into keystrokes for programs that don't understand MIDI. I can control Video Studio 8. Adobe Premier Pro. I can also use it for some picture editing software to control brightness, contrast etc. There are SOO many controllers out there and many with different features, so it is good to do your homework before buying one otherwise, you will end up with lots of them like me. A feature I also like is having the controller "programmable" so you can change what a given button, slider or knob sends. If your controller is not programmable, you can buy software to translate what it sends to something else. I use Bome MIDI Translator pro for some of my non-programmable controllers. After I bought the software I found new life for some of my non-programmable ones. I like your overview so subscribed to your channel. I'm always looking for the next "best" MIDI controller.
Pads aren't a must for playing drums, drum kits also work on the keyboard too. But the nice thing about pads is it's easy to arrange the drums in a way that's more comfortable to use.
Launchkey Mini works well for me. It's also a great controller for the Novation apps on iOS if you're into that kind of thing. Very tightly integrated with those but flexible enough to control anything AND works on USB power alone, no need to carry a powered hub for your iPad like some USB controllers (which draw more power). Nicely explained btw.
Hi dude! Im a russian viewer and frankly my English isn't very good (at aspect of understandig speech). And I'd like to thank you for your clear pronuonciation which makes your followers understand every single word as well as the whole idea of your speech :)
very helpful. i actually got the novation launch pad 49 key and the akai mini limited edtion. i wasnt sure i made the right choce since i dont know much about anything yet. after watching this and i saw you recommend the two controllers i adready had it made me feel like i made the right choice. after using them i agree, they are great starter pieces. thumbs up!!! thanks
I am so glad you recommended the Akai MPK Mini. I bought the mark 2 version before I saw this video and thought it was amazing, so glad you found it good enough to recommend!
Actually have been using it every time I sit down and record. It is my first midi controller and I would recommend it to anyone. It was worth the money. Only complaint is the keys are fairly small, but I shouldn't complain because of the great price it sits at
man you're great. very intelligent and personable!i'm a music nut and i just came across your vids about seaboard blocks and subscribed right away. thanks for the informative videos!
Bravo on the explanation. I have had controllers in the past and there were definitely some that I didn't need because they had too much stuff in them. Thank you for this video.
Thanks for the concise description. Just subscribed. I'm getting back into electronic music again and really glad I found this channel. Great video and exactly the info I was looking for.
That was a machine I looked at. The Akai Pro Mini, with all the plug-ins. Different outfits making them. I just got into this. I got the Novation LaunchKey 25. it has the regular size keys for my big hands. I didn't need the Mini. I play bass guitar. That keeps me busy. LaunchKey has Abeton live with it. The soft ware screen has a small screen bottom left, when you put your cursor on top of something it tell you what it is or for. The right side slide out has a pop out with A tour/lessons how to operate it. Good learning tools. It's a great machine. I was impressed with the Ableton Live allot of good riffs and sounds, drums, ect. Great to work with or for a beginner. Thanks, Bro
Arturia Minilab mkII is awesome for the price. Comes with good software, 8 velocity and pressure sensitive pads, 16 encoders, touch mod and pitch, good keys, good build. Really nice piece of kit and really good price. I would easily recommend it as the first MIDI controller for a new computer musician.
I need a controller for my PSR-47 vintage synthesizer, its keyboard doesn't have velocity but it supports velocity AND drums and every single instrument can be applied to any MIDI channel. This 1988 synthesizer is still really f'ing good!
This is amazing, Taetro. I was really interested in midi keyboards theory, but almost no one on youtube couldn't describe what this thing really is. Thanks for a really good review and advice. Subbed.
This is an excellent presentation. Ironically I purchased a controller before I watched this video. The controller I purchased is a Novation Launchkey mini. I agree 100% with your recommendation of that controller. I have been playing piano for nearly 50 years (yes, I am ancient) and the Launchkey Mini was great right out of the box. I use it with Ableton Live 9 Lite and it works perfectly with that software. (Note: The Ableton Live 9 Lite is included with the Novation Launchkey Mini as are ALOT of loops and samples included for free.)
I am not into music production and I dont know how I got here but I have to admit I have really enjoyed watching this video and feel like I have learnt a lot from such a short video
You are really awesome man.., I would say this is a mini advice packed video for all of 'em around who is confusing selecting between Controller Vs. Synthesizer. Liked & Subscribed because you deserve that buddy
My first midi controler was the Apc key25 / I went from struggling to make any sounds on Abelton to making whole tracks in about 45 minutes ( plug and play - no setup ) / moved on to bigger and more exspendsive controlers and hardware / still keep it on a table in my room like a trophy / never dreamed a little plastic 100.00 midi controler would be so important / it was and will alway be the best ( to me )
Sound recommendations with good qualifiers and gets to the point! Both Akai and Novation are makimng great fun these days. Expanding a bit: for anyone who wants to play soft instruments like piano, keys or maybe strings, you should be looking at 49 key controllers at minimum (strings less so because you will likely not be two-handing, say, both a cello part and a violin part - so using the octave shift keys work well to play/record them in different registers in different sessions). But, if you are playing piano, you really need to start thinking about 61 keys or more.
A little tip (from a beginner) if you can spring the extra £, go for a bundle deal. I got the Akai mini mk3 with a shedload of software and resources, you get MPC beats so you have a great DAW straight out of the box. To get Ableton (on my budget) I waited for Presonus to discount their Audiobox96, a great little audio interface (it healed my deafness! - well that's what it sounded like when I used it!) this came with a ton of stuff, Ableton 11 Live Lite and Studio One v5 Artist. So for a modest budget), I have a great little controller, a super 2+2 audio interface and MPC Beats, Ableton and Studio One plus tons of resources and samples - Sorted!.Thanks for inspiring me to buy one Taetro 😎
Personally, I recommend the Launchkey, because it costs less, has enough pads to sample a whole 808, and have room for good set of clips/pads, and many DAWs, including fl studio have adapted to use them
I would generally agree (hell, I have the Akai MPK Mini II), BUT if you're super-duper on a budget, you don't actually need any controller at all, especially at first. AND if you're primarily a piano player, get a two- or three-octave keyboard and don't worry about the drum pads. I wouldn't recommend the Mini for live performances, nor if you already have some kind of controller -- it does everything fine, but nothing great.
yes, I agree! But it always depend on what you specific will do with Ableton. I use Ableton on the stage live and need a good live controller for volume and scene selection (I already have a midi Piano).... but for the first time controller your recommended ones are fine!
great overview Taetro and you went over some 'key' stuff particularly for people new to the technology really well. Thanks too for comparing the Akai and the Novation mini's. I subscribed.
I want to make my own music, with lyrics and I can play piano/keyboard pretty well. I want to add beats and piano to make songs live. Would be handy to not have to use a computer to make music, not record but to just freestyle and try out loops and stuff
A midi controller can control anything that can be controlled by midi, software or hardware. You can use one for your synthesizer if you don't like the keyboard on that synth or just want to switch sounds but not switch keyboards or pads. Again that can be software or hardware.
Something about that launchkey 49 pulls at me. I think it would work best for me. I like having the larger octave range without having to adjust, and having dedicated knobs really interest me. It can also be used for launching and having the velocity senstive confirmed what I was hoping. Thanks for the review man!
Thanks for your advice and quick response. I subscribed yesterday. I'm just two hours from "Sweetwater" and will make the drive tomorrow to pick up the MPKll and take a peek at the Yeti- keep up the great work!
Get whatever will make you most productive. I got the LPK25 because it is so small and uncomplicated. That makes me use it more and focus more. Anything else would be distracting for me. But people are different.
Excellent video. You speak with brilliant clarity on a subject about which you clearly know a lot. I'm a Linux LMMS user looking for a first MIDI keyboard, so your binary recommendation definitely had me veering the way of the Akai, but now the comments are nudging me in the way of the Arturia MiniLab Mk II. I especially like the touch-sensitive pitch-bend over the joystick. Have you had a look at the Arturia yet?
At last someone normal who recommends cheap and solid controller. Everyone else is like "why bother with 100$ midi controller? better add 2k or 3k $ and buy some real stuff"
Simple and clear. Thanks a lot.
got you covered Dotson!!
Bro don't listen to anyone like that. Talent/a good ear trumps all. You can buy $1M equipment but still make $5 beats.
lmao Very true Joseph!
You are SO good at this: clear, intelligent, interesting, dynamite production... Of course I've subscribed!
Thank you so much Darren that really means a lot. Thank you for the sub!
Taetro which MIDI controller do you recommend for making trap beats
Darren Stephens Do all the MIDI'S play every instrument. strings,trumpets,drums,piano,guitar
check the software you are using with your midi and have a look at the bank of sounds you have. The midi doesn't have control over the sound you play, your software does.
Seth Chohan Alright thanks. well i havnt got the music softwear yet. does protools or flstudio 12 have those instrumenfs
Everything seems so cristal clear suddenly!
+Bilal Hassani glad I could help Bilal!
As a newbie to using a DAW i was carrying out research into what my first MIDI controller should be. I read a lot of articles and watched many videos but yours nailed it. Clear, consise and to the point...just what an old guy like me needed. I bought the AKAI MPK Mini today and it is everything that you said, I am so pleased with it and glad that you were there to point me in the right direction. Many thanks.
I am a piano 44 yr. old traditional piano player trying to make sense of starting to produce something. This vid totally makes sense, clears they sky and takes away the fear of not knowing where to start. Thanks man, keep up the solid work.
fantastic Mark! stoked I could help :)
U have a nice style as a reviewer and I definetly think you should continue reviewing and making videos :)
Thank you so much Howard! I plan to continue, this kind of feedback makes it a super easy to keep on going.
true
Krzysiek Staniewski Thanks Krzysiek!
Taetro please read my previous comment I really need the help
It's true u r such a gud reviewer I have never seen like u keep going bro.....
I agree with most of everything said, but from personal experience, even though the Launchkey line was originally designed with Ableton in mind, the entire line integrates amazingly with other DAWs as well. I personally have a Launchkey 49 paired with FL and would not trade it for any other midi controller due to how seamlessly it integrates with FL. The 'In Control' functions offer all sorts of productivity tools, beyond just simply performing, and have changed my workflow entirely in how I produce music. Basically, don't rule out the Launchkey line if you don't use Ableton. It functions seamlessly with other DAWs, and will likely enhance your experience with that DAW beyond what the average MIDI controller would.
Also, it was suggested starting with the 'mini' model of the controller line you plan to go with, which can definitely be a good plan for some on a budget in some circumstances, but it all really depends on how you produce music and what sorts of music you produce. As someone who has a background in piano, I find that 25 keys simply isn't enough when it comes to my personal workflow and the sort of music I produce, so starting out with the 'mini' line of the controller I use would not have been a good choice. It all really comes down to how you work, and I feel like that should be taken into consideration when it comes to the specific model of midi controller you choose once you have decided on the line you are going for.
Ultimately, the video offers quite a bit of great information, but I feel like it oversimplifies some of the decisions that need to be made when deciding what midi controller to buy. Everything really comes down to what you as a producer need when it comes to your personal workflow, I think, and while the tips explained in the video are generally fairly accurate, I feel as though you should also heavily take into consideration what you personally need from the midi controller based on your workflow.
Thanks for pointing that out about the compatibility with other DAWs - I don't have that personal experience and was skeptical about the integration. So glad to hear it is up to par!
I do note that a 'mini' option is something to consider when making decisions based on budget. Hopefully someone with a background in piano such as yourself would have a clear enough idea what they need in a controller.
This video is directed at the people who message me often. Usually these are people who are just starting and have very limited musical experience. I've come to realize that unfortunately not everyone grows up like you and me with some musical background. For us (I'm assuming we are similar), music came first and production came second. For many their love for music stems from watching producers and performers on UA-cam or within the EDM scene.
So this is super simplified to get those with little-to-no musical experience creating music as quickly as possible. An easy way to capture most workflows (most I talk to have yet to develop their own workflow yet) are the two controllers I mention at the end of the vid.
Thanks so much for watching and for your thoughtful input! I look forward to talking more about this!
how would the launch key mini react to using mainstage 3?
Nocct Music I'm about to go get my launchkey 49 today, as a FL user your comment really made me look towards it even more.
Nocct Music yeah that is true but he did mention most of the viewers will be beat makers where 88 keys isn't necessary.
I agree buddy.. i would say for us but he was trying to target beginners.. u need atleast a 49 key midi board. i have aka advance 49, and m audio oxygen 25 to bring around wherever arturia minicab mkII is nice too for small key version like 25 keys but if you go with a 49 or more they have pads and are not pricy at all for what they provide.
This was a particularly helpful video for a beginner. Thanks a lot, Taetro.
3:08 The sheer terror in his eyes. Lol overall good information, super helpful.
The camera angle is weirding me out.
+Guitarist8636 just pretend you are really tall.
True, but I'm like the average height for a male so I'm never really that much taller than anyone lol.
Guitarist8636 that’s why he said pretend?😅
i got dizzy
I had to hold my phone further away than usual.
dude! your explanation was so to the point! I've subscribed then. Btw please keep posting about ableton tutorial. I starting to Ableton hope you can teach me dude! :)
glad you are enjoying!
3:08 that look 😂
😂😂😂😂😂
Subscribed 2 minutes in. I write musical numbers for small local theater (lyricist) and want to throw together more polished demos before working with my composer. I picked up the launchkey after watching this even though I walked into guitar center with the mini mk2 in mind. Thank you for your very clear review.
before I watch this video I came to the same conclusions but since i'm a noob to this I wasnt too much confident. your video was reaaaallly easy to understand and just confirmed everything I was wondering. u got a new subscriber, fella.
so stoked I could confirm your conclusions. thanks for watching and for the sub Valter!
also i have no experience with music editing but want to get into it
MrBlommigGamer start with something free then, I personally use lmms but maybe you'll prefer another
Solartic thx for the help I have lmms but to be honest I really don't like it
MrBlommigGamer k dude it depends on your likes, i was saying something free because it could be a "waste of money" buying a DAW, because you may dislike making EDM or music
Solartic you're right thx
By music editing do you mean music production? You can try and download the free version of DAW like FL studio to try. Alternatively, you can download Reaper(a really cheap DAW that is really powerful) and you have a 60 day trial upon which you can buy the license for $40 I believe, or you don't need to buy the license at all(not really recommended).
Taetro: “I would recommend one of these”
3:09
3:08 killed me
lol the story there is...I once attempted to disassemble that controller to paint it - ended up being too much of a hassle and me being LAZY I didn't replace the screws. flash forward to me shooting this video and not remembering that. thanks so much for watching gale!
Taetro lmfao
gale :]
gale you
yes! best part!
Keep doing what you're doing man! I've been led around in circles for too long reading useless, half-abandoned forums looking for basic, accurate information. A lot of bad, confusing and unintuitive material out there. Save us!!
This is why I do it. Thank you Kevin! Going to keep it coming!!
I liked the way you explained the difference between MIDI controllers vs synthesizers and also the analogies for TV remote controllers, PS controller and how they're just simply controllers for their respective hardware.
thank you for that specific compliment!
3:08 Nobody saw that, dude... Please continue.
haha pay no attention...
Thank you dude for ur information.....
Hope you find it helpful!!
I have a question. I want to play hip hop/electronic music live with ableton, so I think I need a launchpad, but I also use a lot of samples. I want to be able to trigger the samples whenever I want, not just at the start of a beat, make loops with them and modify them. Can you recommend some controllers that are more suitable for that?
you actually CAN do what you described with a launchpad. You can change how clips launch/trigger - by default they are quantized, but you can turn that off so as soon as you hit a pad you hear sound.
I've got the MPK mini II and ive got to say it's a great starter controller. Fits right in my laptop case and i can take it on the go for traveling. I love making music on flights and even when my laptop takes up the entire tray table, the MPK still fits just fine on my lap. Overall a great product, and especially happy with it because i got if on sale!
awesome Joel! It is a great controller
I got the Akai MPK mini 3 and I love it. Can even use in Famistudio and Famitracker. Having a controller definitely improves your flow and production.
Hi. I want to begin to learn how to produce music using Ableton Live. Is this software recommended for beginners in comparison with others as ProTools, FL, etc.? ¿Which one do you recommend me to use?
they all have their different levels of complexity but the great thing about youtube is there are amazing tutorials for all of them. I use Ableton, so I am partial. If you watch my other videos and like what I do, Ableton may also be for you. thanks for watching John!
Thank you for answering.
John Edward Cortes Loboa Depends on what kind of music youre looking to produce!
Eemeli Lindqvist I want to produce reggaeton, trap, dancehall, hip hop and pop music.
what about Akai LPK 25?
Hey! I had one of those keyboards :) 1:35
😂😂😂
Backgammon 88 same
I was skeptical of the Akai MPK mini when I played with it a little at guitar center, but your video convinced me to try it out. I did, and I love it! It's brought out a ton of creativity because I can just chill in my living room with my laptop instead of having to be stuck in the studio. Thanks for the recommendation!
Finally someone who explains things clearly! I'm a complete beginner in digital music so I'm completely lost!
I want to start doing live performance and stuff like that for youtube like Alex Aiono and Conor Mayard. I think I am going to buy a AKAI MPK mini or a Novation launchkey mini. But what did you mean with "launching clips". And what do you recommend?
Clips are little loops you create in ableton, launching/recording them allows you to create the loops on the play. Launchkey mini is great for that!
Thank you so much!!!
what program should i use if i'am going to make covers like alex aiono? im also using a worlde panda mini
btw im a beginner
Ableton works really well for that. A lot of what he does is built around loops and it is really easy to set up in Ableton. Any program is going to come with some learning curve for sure.
Taetro you look familiar did u work at a boys and girls club
+james alphonse indeed! Still do
Taetro i was that kid who went with Maikai I'm in a rap group now can you tell makai Alejandro said hi
haha doooope! come by the club again!
Taetro I don't go to bga anymore I live farther away down by Roxbury and mattapan
Lol I recognized him from there too, but wasn't sure. I just moved back to Florida from Mass though. Lol that's such a crazy coincidence. I came across this video while looking for a midi controller to buy. Wow..What a small world haha.
I had a lot of doubts about MIDI controllers.I was even searching for it in the net for a whole day.This video got my job done.I should've watched this before.
Amal Satheesh yo iOS
About the best overall explanation I have seen on the basics of controllers thus far. How nice to hear from someone who is literate and speaks clearly. I now know it's either going to be the Novation or Akai mini... which has narrowed it down a great deal. THANK YOU!
Just posted a new vid parsing out the differences between those two!
Just ordered the Nektar xl25 mini ... your vids have been very helpful in choosing this controller. Thanks again!
R.I.P Piano 🎹......Let’s Have a moment of silence......
lollllll
lol not worth of that its m-audio
Lol.
I think my dad’s piano is crying.
You know what i last played a synthesizer 10 years ago but then life turned around and i got away with my music and sound capabilities. I felt old now but seriously u just updated me through this video and i am glad i watched it.
Thanks a lot :::/\:::
so glad you found it Aseem. Thanks for listening!
I personally have the LaunchKey mini and yes, starting with a small midi controller is a great way to go. I first bought maschine and to this day I still barely use it because it had no use into my workflow, so I agree that keeping in mind what type of music you will make is very important! Great video!
thanks so much, glad you are enjoying your Launchkey Mini!
Fantastic overview. But lots of people starting out, especially students, are using iPads. So there are other considerations, like iPad connectivity, wired vs wireless, powered by iPad vs wall-wart vs battery.
Insanely informative, did not expect to learn as much as I did in this video when searching for recommended mini midi controllers for a beginner. Love the format and the in-depth explanations.
I think I'm gonna go with the Akai MKII to get me started on my journey.
Thanks again, and definitely subscribing to see what all I can learn from your other videos.
awesome!! so glad I could help!
I like how the bold headings and descriptions are touching. Very cool aesthetic detail. Subscribed
something to consider..if you're wanting to add vocals or other mic recorded things..bongos, flute, etc and/or mic' ing a guitar amp or line in a hardware device such as a synth or drum machine than You would probably want a midi controller that also has midi in/midi out ports on the back of conroller as well so that you dont have to keep going back and forth in the 'preferences section in ableton.(in other words, you'd set your prefernces to the audio interface then plug your controller's midi ports into the audio interface midi ports) Make sure your audio interface also has the same midi in/ midi out ports on it (focusrite saphire for example) as well. This vastly improves workflow and would, for example, then allow you to play your software synths/beats and sing or rap at the same time or soon after without having to keep mucking about with the in/out preferences section.
MOST midi controllers now have USB, mostly the synth and drum machine world are still using traditional midi ports - but yes! this could be helpful for some I agree
I bought the MPK Mini MKII a couple of years ago and I agree it is a great controller if you are on a budget.
I have the Akai MPK Mini 2 and I love it. I don't use it as much as I used to but for a beginner it's a great choice
"something you can throw in a bag, access easily, and start making music"
exactly bro. human beings were born to create. youre doing gods work
Technically god made a mistake if you think about porn,snuff videos,the dark web, drugs, public guns, poverty, capitalism , global warming , guns , human trafficking , cannibalism and so much more
Man is so diligently destroying itself
Taetro... Thank you for this video man. Juat bought the akai mpk25mini black. Been contemplating this buy for years and I almost didn't but I've been dying to make music for years so I did it. It'll be arriving in the next 2 weeks and your video has made me look forward to getting it.
Perfect! I just got the Akai mk2 mini for my husband for Christmas and was wondering if I bought a good product.. It had great reviews on the website, but still wasn't sure it was anything he would want..He is a guitar player but wants to start adding the rest of his songs with something like this.. So.. watching your video makes me super excited that I made the right choice! Thanks for the video!
Good choice! And what a kind partner you are!!
MPK mini all day. Was my first ever controller, it fell down a million times during sets and still works years later.
so durable!
Hello. I am just starting out with Garageband and production is new to me. This video is brilliant - I already sort of decided on the Akai MPK Mini but wasn't sure but you have explained so well the decision is now clear. You've also explained a lot of things I wasn't sure about. Great video. I cant wait to get started!
very glad I could help! keep me posted on your journey Taucher!
Veeeery good video that clarifies a lot of things. Especially (for me) that notion of pads that are rather dedicated to Ableton. But still, I think that the best part is that guilty look at 3:10 when the controller falls in parts. Huge!
I basically did hours of research today to come to the conclusion you made in this 5 minute video. Wish I found this first, but thanks for validating what I was thinking!
haha, the video and thought process behind it had been in my head for so long - I had to make it simple for people! thanks for watching!
Midi controllers can be useful for many things. I use one to control my Video production and editing. However I use another piece of software with it that translates MIDI into keystrokes for programs that don't understand MIDI. I can control Video Studio 8. Adobe Premier Pro. I can also use it for some picture editing software to control brightness, contrast etc.
There are SOO many controllers out there and many with different features, so it is good to do your homework before buying one otherwise, you will end up with lots of them like me.
A feature I also like is having the controller "programmable" so you can change what a given button, slider or knob sends. If your controller is not programmable, you can buy software to translate what it sends to something else. I use Bome MIDI Translator pro for some of my non-programmable controllers. After I bought the software I found new life for some of my non-programmable ones. I like your overview so subscribed to your channel. I'm always looking for the next "best" MIDI controller.
Great info thanks Steven!
Pads aren't a must for playing drums, drum kits also work on the keyboard too. But the nice thing about pads is it's easy to arrange the drums in a way that's more comfortable to use.
Launchkey Mini works well for me. It's also a great controller for the Novation apps on iOS if you're into that kind of thing. Very tightly integrated with those but flexible enough to control anything AND works on USB power alone, no need to carry a powered hub for your iPad like some USB controllers (which draw more power). Nicely explained btw.
agree agree agree!
Hi dude! Im a russian viewer and frankly my English isn't very good (at aspect of understandig speech). And I'd like to thank you for your clear pronuonciation which makes your followers understand every single word as well as the whole idea of your speech :)
+Piano Hands I appreciate this so much 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
very helpful. i actually got the novation launch pad 49 key and the akai mini limited edtion. i wasnt sure i made the right choce since i dont know much about anything yet. after watching this and i saw you recommend the two controllers i adready had it made me feel like i made the right choice. after using them i agree, they are great starter pieces. thumbs up!!! thanks
I am so glad you recommended the Akai MPK Mini. I bought the mark 2 version before I saw this video and thought it was amazing, so glad you found it good enough to recommend!
wooooo! How do you like it so far?
Actually have been using it every time I sit down and record. It is my first midi controller and I would recommend it to anyone. It was worth the money. Only complaint is the keys are fairly small, but I shouldn't complain because of the great price it sits at
man you're great. very intelligent and personable!i'm a music nut and i just came across your vids about seaboard blocks and subscribed right away. thanks for the informative videos!
+joe katz thanks so much for the sub!!
Excellent advice. Thanks for keeping it straightforward for those just starting out on making their own music on a budget.
Bravo on the explanation. I have had controllers in the past and there were definitely some that I didn't need because they had too much stuff in them. Thank you for this video.
thanks for watching Javier!
Thanks for the concise description. Just subscribed. I'm getting back into electronic music again and really glad I found this channel. Great video and exactly the info I was looking for.
thanks for the sub Nathan!
Great video. Came wondering which controller to buy and had a few in mind but everyone always said the AKAI MPK Mini mkII. Thank you!
That was a machine I looked at. The Akai Pro Mini, with all the plug-ins. Different outfits making them. I just got into this. I got the Novation LaunchKey 25. it has the regular size keys for my big hands. I didn't need the Mini.
I play bass guitar. That keeps me busy.
LaunchKey has Abeton live with it. The soft ware screen has a small screen bottom left, when you put your cursor on top of something it tell you what it is or for. The right side slide out has a pop out with A tour/lessons how to operate it. Good learning tools. It's a great machine. I was impressed with the Ableton Live allot of good riffs and sounds, drums, ect.
Great to work with or for a beginner.
Thanks, Bro
great points and insight. thanks for watching eddie!
Arturia Minilab mkII is awesome for the price. Comes with good software, 8 velocity and pressure sensitive pads, 16 encoders, touch mod and pitch, good keys, good build. Really nice piece of kit and really good price. I would easily recommend it as the first MIDI controller for a new computer musician.
+plavskihasajet you are right! Definitely a contender.
This is like asmr, blair witch project and midi controller review in one!
I've had the mpk mini MK2 for a year and a half now, and it's never failed me
litttttt!
I need a controller for my PSR-47 vintage synthesizer, its keyboard doesn't have velocity but it supports velocity AND drums and every single instrument can be applied to any MIDI channel. This 1988 synthesizer is still really f'ing good!
I got the launchkey mini mk2 for use in Flstudio pretty much because of this video and it's been GREAT! I LOVE IT THANK YOU
+Unidrw awesomeeeee!!! Congrats :)
This reminds me of my trip down memory lane, i started with an m-audio oxygen and years later, jumped into an akai max49
This is amazing, Taetro. I was really interested in midi keyboards theory, but almost no one on youtube couldn't describe what this thing really is. Thanks for a really good review and advice.
Subbed.
glad it could help! thats the exact reason I made the video. Thanks for the sub!!
This is an excellent presentation. Ironically I purchased a controller before I watched this video. The controller I purchased is a Novation Launchkey mini. I agree 100% with your recommendation of that controller. I have been playing piano for nearly 50 years (yes, I am ancient) and the Launchkey Mini was great right out of the box. I use it with Ableton Live 9 Lite and it works perfectly with that software. (Note: The Ableton Live 9 Lite is included with the Novation Launchkey Mini as are ALOT of loops and samples included for free.)
awesome Bryan glad you are digging the controller. Thanks for watching!
I am not into music production and I dont know how I got here but I have to admit I have really enjoyed watching this video and feel like I have learnt a lot from such a short video
wow awesome, haha that really means a lot! glad you enjoyed :)
Nice advice. You're right. It's important to buy the controller that suits your needs.
thanks Mike!
Great video bro. Very clear, concise, and informative. We need more videos like this on UA-cam
got you covered ! thanks for watching!!
you were so straight to the point, best review or recommendation video i think i've ever seen
thanks Ethan!
good thing I was in the right track for my workflow. I use the Akai MPK 249 it is my biggest invest so far. love the channel!
definitely a dope controller! Thanks for watching
You are really awesome man.., I would say this is a mini advice packed video for all of 'em around who is confusing selecting between Controller Vs. Synthesizer. Liked & Subscribed because you deserve that buddy
thanks so much man! I really appreciate it.
My first midi controler was the Apc key25 / I went from struggling to make any sounds on Abelton to making whole tracks in about 45 minutes ( plug and play - no setup ) / moved on to bigger and more exspendsive controlers and hardware / still keep it on a table in my room like a trophy / never dreamed a little plastic 100.00 midi controler would be so important / it was and will alway be the best ( to me )
exactly!!! Here's to the journey!
I started with a launchkey mini too. Great choice to get introduced to midi and daws in general.
for sure! Thanks for watching Pid!
Plus most midi controllers come with a licence for ableton
true!
Thank you you have explained your video perfectly. about the differences between Midi Controller and a synthesizer
thanks Aron!
Sound recommendations with good qualifiers and gets to the point! Both Akai and Novation are makimng great fun these days. Expanding a bit: for anyone who wants to play soft instruments like piano, keys or maybe strings, you should be looking at 49 key controllers at minimum (strings less so because you will likely not be two-handing, say, both a cello part and a violin part - so using the octave shift keys work well to play/record them in different registers in different sessions). But, if you are playing piano, you really need to start thinking about 61 keys or more.
good input! Thanks for watching Scott
I'm a complete novice to keyboards - this was a very helpful video for me! Thanks, bro!
glad I could help Ben!
A little tip (from a beginner) if you can spring the extra £, go for a bundle deal. I got the Akai mini mk3 with a shedload of software and resources, you get MPC beats so you have a great DAW straight out of the box. To get Ableton (on my budget) I waited for Presonus to discount their Audiobox96, a great little audio interface (it healed my deafness! - well that's what it sounded like when I used it!) this came with a ton of stuff, Ableton 11 Live Lite and Studio One v5 Artist. So for a modest budget), I have a great little controller, a super 2+2 audio interface and MPC Beats, Ableton and Studio One plus tons of resources and samples - Sorted!.Thanks for inspiring me to buy one Taetro 😎
Personally, I recommend the Launchkey, because it costs less, has enough pads to sample a whole 808, and have room for good set of clips/pads, and many DAWs, including fl studio have adapted to use them
good points!
I would generally agree (hell, I have the Akai MPK Mini II), BUT if you're super-duper on a budget, you don't actually need any controller at all, especially at first. AND if you're primarily a piano player, get a two- or three-octave keyboard and don't worry about the drum pads. I wouldn't recommend the Mini for live performances, nor if you already have some kind of controller -- it does everything fine, but nothing great.
yes, I agree! But it always depend on what you specific will do with Ableton. I use Ableton on the stage live and need a good live controller for volume and scene selection (I already have a midi Piano).... but for the first time controller your recommended ones are fine!
great overview Taetro and you went over some 'key' stuff particularly for people new to the technology really well. Thanks too for comparing the Akai and the Novation mini's. I subscribed.
thanks for the sub, glad you enjoyed the video Jim!
You are superb with reviewing, your design is better than the other UA-camrs who have more subs than you. Of course I have subscribed. Love! X
thanks so much for the sub and love Ahmad!
I want to make my own music, with lyrics and I can play piano/keyboard pretty well. I want to add beats and piano to make songs live. Would be handy to not have to use a computer to make music, not record but to just freestyle and try out loops and stuff
Brilliant. I've seldom seen such a concise and lucid presentation.
thanks so much!
A midi controller can control anything that can be controlled by midi, software or hardware. You can use one for your synthesizer if you don't like the keyboard on that synth or just want to switch sounds but not switch keyboards or pads. Again that can be software or hardware.
Good video. Very clear for me. I find that I still needed information about this while I already play music for ten years.
We are always learning. It never stops.
Something about that launchkey 49 pulls at me. I think it would work best for me. I like having the larger octave range without having to adjust, and having dedicated knobs really interest me. It can also be used for launching and having the velocity senstive confirmed what I was hoping. Thanks for the review man!
lk 49 is great! I've got one and I love it.
Thanks for your advice and quick response. I subscribed yesterday. I'm just two hours from "Sweetwater" and will make the drive tomorrow to pick up the MPKll and take a peek at the Yeti- keep up the great work!
awesome! Let me know how it goes :)
watch your vids few day ago and just got Akai MPK Mini MK2 and really enjoy it. Thank for really good advice.
Glad I could help. Thanks for watching!
Get whatever will make you most productive. I got the LPK25 because it is so small and uncomplicated. That makes me use it more and focus more. Anything else would be distracting for me. But people are different.
Great presentation, clear thoughts, easy to understand. Useful information. Nice job!
glad it could help!
Subscribed!
Thank you, you've made my mind up. I was actually deciding whether to get Akai MPK Mini MKII or Alesis QX25. Will get Akai :)
thanks for the sub Goran!
Thank you for being so clear, yet concise, and you explained everything i you spoke about. Great content!
happy to help Rebecca. Thanks for the kind words :D
Best video I've seen in a while about a product that I didn't know much about but none the less needed to know. :)
+Johan Jimenez thanks Johan! Glad I could help :)
Excellent video. You speak with brilliant clarity on a subject about which you clearly know a lot. I'm a Linux LMMS user looking for a first MIDI keyboard, so your binary recommendation definitely had me veering the way of the Akai, but now the comments are nudging me in the way of the Arturia MiniLab Mk II. I especially like the touch-sensitive pitch-bend over the joystick. Have you had a look at the Arturia yet?
+the8ctagon just posted a new video with it and will have more soon! Thanks for watching :)