A big deal for someone like me is having a midi-out port. Small keyboards are great, but when you have a lot of outboard gear the inclusion of a midi port is the difference between whether or not you can make use of it in a lot of situations. Glad to see them showing up more in this price range/product focus
Hobbytronics is once again selling their USB MIDI host to DIN adapter, which for around 50 bucks solves the problem. You can also cobble something similar up from a RasPI or an Arduino and a DIN daughter card, but I'm willing to front a few bucks for the convenience of someone else building it for me.
Thanks for making this video! I found it very useful in picking out a mini midi controller. Ended up with both the MPK Mini 3 and Minilab 3. One update for your video is that the MPK Mini 3 can be configured to match the Minilab 3's encoders when using Analog Lab via Akai's MPK Mini Editor app. The parameter name can also be assigned to the same encoders for display. For the lower four encoders use cc# 93-Chorus, 18-Phaser, 19-Delay, 16-Reverb going left to right. For the upper four encoders use cc# 74-Brightness, 71-Timbre, 76-Time, and 77-Movement. Once you do this, the MPK Mini 3 encoders match the Minilab 3 and display the correct variable on the screen. Of course, there are no sliders in the MPK Mini 3 to match the Minilab 3. Hope this helps!
@@LS95774 the Akai, once I matched the knobs to the Arturia encoders, I use the Akai more because it takes up a lot less space. Not sure if they improved the build since Sanjay reviewed it but the Akai I got feels as solid as the Arturia.
Very helpful comment! I assume same things apply to the MPK Mini Plus. I use the Arturia Collection a lot and even though the Minilab 3 is amazing, I find the 2 octaves very limiting. I was intrigued by the MPK Mini Plus's 3 octaves plus the CV outputs but I was hesitant as to how compatible it will be with Arturia's plug-ins. So you have answered exactly that. Big thanks!
Great video Sanjay! There's something about MIDI keyboards that are just so fun to watch and hear about. I got the AKAI Mini Plus recently and haven't looked back, and paired with my AKAI Fire, I have fantastic control over FL Studios. It's always nice to see these in depth reviews on what else is out there, so thank you!
I truly appreciate your videos. You are truly the man and very professional. I am a new piano player at the young age of 50. As a disabled US Marine, learning to play the piano has been a phenomenal tool for stress release. My love for piano began with my passion for praise and worship. I would like to know if you would consider doing a review of the Sunday Sounds Appropriate and software. It's idea is fantastic, but I am starting to wonder if it is my keyboard (SL88 studio), my playing, or the quality of the piano VSTs. I would love to get the grandeur, but the cost wow. I love the Sunday sounds pads and pianos, they just don't seem to sound great. What would you suggest for someone that wants pads, ambience sounds and praise and worship type piano sounds..? Thank you again for your time sir...
I'm between the m32, the m-audio, and the mpk mini plus. I really like the extra keys on the mpk mini plus, but it sounds like the keybed is not as good, and as someone who used to play piano, that sounds offputting. The m-audio seems like a good choice, but I don't like the lack of endless knobs. Finally the m32 seems super sleek, which I like, but it's lacking drum pads. It's not a make or break for me, but it would be the easy choice if it had some.
I own the MPK Mini Plus, honestly there is nothing wrong with it's keyboard. It's responsive and feels nice. It's also only slightly larger than a traditional pc keyboard so it sits nicely in small spaces.
Just wondering which one you recommend for a beginner? I want to learn how to make music as I can sing and song write but can’t play any instruments.. yet! Thanks for your video even if I don’t get a reply I will decide on one of them!
I bought the Akai MPK Mini Plus as a rank beginner. Here is why I bought it. Hardware ports, you can control hardware synths and other midi items with it. Sequencer (few have that feature), larger key set, it's difficult to play 2 handed with 25 keys. The mod and pitch wheels. I bought mine to integrate with Reaper and Linux. It works very well with both. You can always map the knobs and drumpads yourself, you don't need the manufacturer software to do it. The software integration is tbh a secondary consideration. After having it a few months it really was the best value for me.
None of them have aftertouch. That's a showstopper for me. One that does is in this price range the Arturia Keystep, which sadly mostly only ever gets reviewed in the context of being a sequencer and not a regular midi controller.
@@AlexanderPochertPiano It was mainly for portability and key-feel. BUT... Since I posted this comment, I got hold of a used Roli Lumi Keys and it's my new fave. The keys are so comfortable, and make far less noise. It's smaller than the minilab and it can do bluetooth.
I bought the Arturia Essential Keys 49 mk3 and I was really disappointed by the key feel, so I sent it back after 3 days. I’ve read that the Minilab may have a better key feel but too few keys for my taste. It seems that only much more expensive products will ally a good key feel with more DAW controller options and a good sound bank. I still haven’t bought another midi keyboard yet. I’ll need to save up for a better and more expensive one. Also looking on the used gear market.
Thank you for this! I am looking at the minilab3 at 3:27, is that DAW included with the minilab or is that something I have to buy? Also I was wondering with these included software am I able to export as a track or do I have to pay for full version to do that? Lastly, are the included free programs trials or will still work indefinitely? Making music is a hobby of mine so I’m trying to get something that I can use right out of the box and keep using/learning whenever I have free time. Thanks so much for your time!! ❤
I’m a bit confused about the M32. So in order to use the scale mode I can only use it with NKS related plugins, or all plugins, including the ones not supported by Native Instruments?
Great video as always, I love the screen in screen shots so we could completely see you and the keyboard at the same time. I have older versions of the M Audio Oxygen and the Arturia MinLab (my favourite) As always keep up the great work 👊🏾
Yeah true i Have Native s 61 mk3 I also feel like going for minilab and they have nice vst collections also.Now Native instruments and Arturia are my loved keayboards feel like having minilab from thoman
Before buying Native s 61 mk2 I was confused with which to take because I had 3 midis which I selected Native instruments 61 mk3,Arturia 61 essentials ,and nectar panaromic 61 and m audio code 61 which was discontinued my Selected thing after watching Sanjay video I went for native instruments
I already Have Native instruments S 61 yeah M32 is good but no drum pads in it but nice as Sanjay said it's minimalistic but nice to play.thinking to buy Arturia minilab 25 I love there Vst plugins are awesome.For me Native instrument and Arturia is best even donner mk3 is good because I feel there Keys are good.
I am still thinking of which to get... It is easier for me to work with my 88 hammer yamaha stage cp33 piano, but I really want something compact on my desk to sit anytime I want to record something. What do you say? I am also a pianist, but even tho I love the key feel of the acoustic piano I own, I would rather prefer electric midi key - keys than big and heavy. Thanks
help! do i get the novation FLkey49 or the Roland GoKeys? hobby with FLStudio and Ableton, and i got a 25 key but needed more keys.. ssince i already have the oxygen25, should i go for the gokeys which is a standalone keyboard or still FLkeys49 since i can do a lot more with it? thanks sanjay
Hello can i use this without laptop? Im looking for a small keyboard as small as a midi keyboard to be plugged directly into speakers via the guitar cable. Must have a transpose frature what can you recommend?
You should the alesis vi series (specific ly the alesis vi49) its very simple but the best one i have ever tried it integrates very well with ableton live
Hey Sanjay. It felt like you were a bit 50/50 when it comes to the FL Keys keyboard. I really want a solid option to use in FL. Is it still an excellent choice to go for this one or are there simply better options out there?
Can I use the Arturia plug and play with virtual instruments I already have installed on my pc? I'm not interested in controlling the DAW from the mini keyboard but I want to control the sound of my virtual instruments and most of them are not Arturia. Can I simply connect the mini keyboard via USB with my PC and use it? And can I play synth modules from it?
I am looking for something that probably isnt invented. I own a Ferrofish B4000+ Drawbar organ module which I love but the sounds are selected by a rotary knob and the numbers of the sounds or programs are 1/8 inch in height which is impossible to see and impossible to adjust without twisting the knob too much or not enough. Is there a small item similar to what you have pictured that allows those 8 ( or how many ever) pads or the synth keys to be set to select midi note numbers once I tap them thus allowing me to change programs or sounds on the Ferrofish ? Thanks for any advice. Small is key and I'd need 8 or so pads or keys is all.
Which is best for beginners? My son has been talking a lot about making music lately and I want to get him something like this but not sure which would be best considering he doesn’t play piano
I am a guitarist, I don't know how to play piano so I want a midi keyboard to write my orchestra stuff and synthwave, ambient music. What do you suggest?
Hey thanks for the good info ! Akai and aturia is working indivisually as well ? I mean they need to connect with the daw to make the sound ? Or they can work with just electric power
The main thing I am looking for currently with a keyboard is a one-touch chord maker is what I would call it by it probably goes by a different name. Basically what I want is a keyboard where I push a note and it plays the corresponding chord. Is there any you can think of that does this?
is minilab3 the only one that gives free instruments pack? what about oxygen pro mini? what would be a good choice for beginners? I'm thinking about 120$ for the whole setting
Don't worry about getting instrument packs with your midi controller. There are so many good free ones available online you don't need them and will probably be downloading and using those free ones anyway.
@@SanjayCI like the Mini lab 3 for the keys, but, I own the Akai MPK mini and the Akai MPC key 61 so it makes sense to get the plus because I already enjoy the Akai line of midi keyboards
Hi Sanjay, I work on Studio One 6, wich mini Keybord you recommend? I am interested in Nektar impact lx 25 + or the mini version because of its good integration with Studio one. In your opinion, is mine a good choice or do you recommend something else? 
I want to start making my own music ( i did like 30 years ago, with fasttracker, madtracker etc and a mini korg synth, only keys) Now i want start making some dance/trance music. What is the best program to work with Fruitloops? I am thinking of the Akai MPK mini plus. good choice?
Which would have the longevity (playing wise) for a 3 year old? I like the arturia for the keys and the software (when he eventually gets a PC) but the MPK MP has more keys and a better drum pad. Is there anything that has all these features in one unit?
Are there any midi controllers that have medium sized keys? Tried the Minilab mk3, and while I really like it, the actual keys are just to little for me... I already have a larger controller with regular sized keys, but my hands are small, and playing octaves on the left hand is a bit of a stretch...arthritis doesn't help either... I'm looking for something in between but I haven't seen anything available... Thanks for any suggestions!
Hey Sanjay, great overview! Just wanted to know if you have a method to extend the pitch and mod wheel on the Launchkey mini? I realize the touch controls don't really do it for me, and I'm looking for a way to get the physical wheels without buying another keyboard (though it might be about the same price as the extension). Thanks!
Which of these MIDI keys would be best if I wanted to use my pedals with it? I have a Chroma Console that I normally use with my Akai mini. Figured I would need a Midi out
do you have or can you do a similar video with regards to larger keyboards? I want a more full length piano to use, but I'm having a hard time finding one.
Awesome video..this is such great advice. Which of these small (or any midi controller) would be most appropriate for someone who writes/ composes orchestral music only? I only write for classical orchestra. Do I need the faders, knobs, pads, etc? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.
Hi Sanjay. My little boy wants a Midi controller with keys and finger drum pads. He is too young for production software on a PC. Is there a stand-alone machine that will loop, record but does not need a pc.
Thanks for the video, Sanjay Still cant decide. A very noob question here: what do you think the best for a newbie who also is starting to learn using Ableton? I have a hard time figure out those on-screen controls and parameters, yet I dont really know what really helps for that. Thanks!
Endless encoders on Minilab aren't exclusive to Arturia software, right? Can be mapped to DAW controls or other synth parameters? Cool feature but I don't use Arturia synths.
Yes, good video. I personally don’t need a keyboard controller that small. I‘m always looking for a keyboard controller that works best together with Logic Pro and has 61 or 73 (76) keys. There seems to be none like that on the market. Most likely the Nektar controllers, but somehow I don’t like their outer appearance…
Excuse me sir, i have an M Audio oxygen pro 49. I was using it with fl studio and i was havibg mapping issues, Now ive swapped to Ableton. Do you have or could you make a video on full functionality of ableton with that controller?
Hi and thanks a lot for your amazing videos. Newbie here, i would like to ask you which one will work with Amplitube 5 max and which one offers straight away virtual instruments?
Hey Sanjay! Im a beginner at producing music but I really enjoy trying to make songs on my midi keyboard. I would really like to find some type of online training course that would help broaden my skills at producing music. Do you have any suggestions?
Do you think Arturia, Novation, Akai and Native Instruments will release midi 2.0, full MPC and polyphonic aftertouch to catch up with the Korg KeyStage in 2024? Will we be forced to buy new hardware, or will vendors just release firmware upgrades?
Got the alpine white lab 3 and came across this...with a keystep pro im invested already but wanted a portable set up and got some ath prox5 in white to be that guy at cafés etc lol thanks for helping me feel assured
Thanks for the video my man. Seen a number of your joints, you're good at it! Its appreciated. Im new to all of this but Im interested in learning and would like to make make beats. Dont know where to start as far as what to purchase. Should I get the MPK MINI with the MPC ONE or just one piece of equipment in the MPC Key 37? Thanks in advance for help and or advice.
Hi thanks, a lot for this video, which keyboard should I use if I do mainly classical music (piano and strings flutes...etc.) I want to create some songs for my games. I use Cubase as software
Great video. A beginner's question: Which of these keyboards have split keyboard functionality? Or is keyboard splitting something you can do with the accompanying software? Thanks
If you don't have Audio Interface, then ASIO for All is a way to get started but yes, good to have Audio Interface and also DAW software of which these will come bundled with cut down versions. You can also try Reaper which is cheap and has a generous trial period. Works well with the M32 and ReaKontrol (thing that drives Reaper DAW functions from the M32 and is quite good).
Hi Sanjay, thanks for your videos! I'm looking for a new midi keyboard, between 49-61 semi weighted keys, drumpad, maybe sliders, under 500. I use ableton and native instruments plugins the most (a lot of Kontakt). I make original lo-fi, rock, funk, hip hop, etc. I want something that doesn't feel like a toy, maybe something with bonus plug-ins or software but not crucial since I have a ton of plugins already. I also play guitar and want to do live looping. What would you suggest? thx! p.s. I have an old NI Komplete Kontrol but seems to be very latent all the sudden and doesn't have a drum pad.
⬇ Links here ⬇
Universal Audio (Sponsor) bit.ly/3slXsUf
1. Arturia Minilab 3 geni.us/qjYl
2. Akai MPK Mini Plus geni.us/FMNDS7
(Akai MPK Mini geni.us/6M2JNEM
3. M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini geni.us/cdGB7p
4. Native Instruments M32 geni.us/r1YI
5. Launchkey Mini Mk3 geni.us/lL0Yhsy
6. FLkey Mini geni.us/ASBlQ
Can you talk about M-Audio Oxygen Pro 25, as it has everything you mention, and great keys too.
And it looks like it the best on the market...
Which is the best if I'm just starting out and want to use it for drums and synth?
Super helpful, thanks. Still trying to decide!
Great to see doctors taking some time out for themselves
A big deal for someone like me is having a midi-out port. Small keyboards are great, but when you have a lot of outboard gear the inclusion of a midi port is the difference between whether or not you can make use of it in a lot of situations. Glad to see them showing up more in this price range/product focus
Hobbytronics is once again selling their USB MIDI host to DIN adapter, which for around 50 bucks solves the problem. You can also cobble something similar up from a RasPI or an Arduino and a DIN daughter card, but I'm willing to front a few bucks for the convenience of someone else building it for me.
Great in-depth comparison of the Top 6 Midi Keyboards. Thank you. I really look forward to your “best of” videos. Keep them coming!
Thanks!
You're welcome! And thanks for the Super Thanks!
Thanks for making this video! I found it very useful in picking out a mini midi controller. Ended up with both the MPK Mini 3 and Minilab 3. One update for your video is that the MPK Mini 3 can be configured to match the Minilab 3's encoders when using Analog Lab via Akai's MPK Mini Editor app. The parameter name can also be assigned to the same encoders for display. For the lower four encoders use cc# 93-Chorus, 18-Phaser, 19-Delay, 16-Reverb going left to right. For the upper four encoders use cc# 74-Brightness, 71-Timbre, 76-Time, and 77-Movement. Once you do this, the MPK Mini 3 encoders match the Minilab 3 and display the correct variable on the screen. Of course, there are no sliders in the MPK Mini 3 to match the Minilab 3. Hope this helps!
Between the Akai and the Minilab, which one do you prefer?
@@LS95774 the Akai, once I matched the knobs to the Arturia encoders, I use the Akai more because it takes up a lot less space. Not sure if they improved the build since Sanjay reviewed it but the Akai I got feels as solid as the Arturia.
Very helpful comment! I assume same things apply to the MPK Mini Plus. I use the Arturia Collection a lot and even though the Minilab 3 is amazing, I find the 2 octaves very limiting. I was intrigued by the MPK Mini Plus's 3 octaves plus the CV outputs but I was hesitant as to how compatible it will be with Arturia's plug-ins. So you have answered exactly that. Big thanks!
What is the silver grey thingy with three knobs and 3 faders that is visible at 0:49 in the right side of the video?
Monogram controller by the looks of it.
Great video Sanjay! There's something about MIDI keyboards that are just so fun to watch and hear about. I got the AKAI Mini Plus recently and haven't looked back, and paired with my AKAI Fire, I have fantastic control over FL Studios. It's always nice to see these in depth reviews on what else is out there, so thank you!
I truly appreciate your videos. You are truly the man and very professional.
I am a new piano player at the young age of 50. As a disabled US Marine, learning to play the piano has been a phenomenal tool for stress release.
My love for piano began with my passion for praise and worship.
I would like to know if you would consider doing a review of the Sunday Sounds Appropriate and software. It's idea is fantastic, but I am starting to wonder if it is my keyboard (SL88 studio), my playing, or the quality of the piano VSTs. I would love to get the grandeur, but the cost wow. I love the Sunday sounds pads and pianos, they just don't seem to sound great.
What would you suggest for someone that wants pads, ambience sounds and praise and worship type piano sounds..?
Thank you again for your time sir...
Hi nice and helpful, ! What you suggest for DJ producing ,the Arturia Minilab 3 ? Thanks for info
I JUST watched your MIDI keyboard review from a year ago, great timing.
I got the Arturia minilab 3 a few months ago on sale for $80 NEW and it is AMAZING!
Best feeling budget keyboard and the performance is very accurate!
where u got it for 80$? Its really nice price
@ it was about 6 or so months back at my local guitar center on a sale they had.
I'm between the m32, the m-audio, and the mpk mini plus. I really like the extra keys on the mpk mini plus, but it sounds like the keybed is not as good, and as someone who used to play piano, that sounds offputting. The m-audio seems like a good choice, but I don't like the lack of endless knobs. Finally the m32 seems super sleek, which I like, but it's lacking drum pads. It's not a make or break for me, but it would be the easy choice if it had some.
You should take a look at the more expensive Akai Midi’s.
In this price range, i feel like the Akai is the best out of all worlds.
I own the MPK Mini Plus, honestly there is nothing wrong with it's keyboard. It's responsive and feels nice. It's also only slightly larger than a traditional pc keyboard so it sits nicely in small spaces.
The mpk mini’s keys kind of suck, but it’s a good little synth for the price. (I’m also a pianist)
Just wondering which one you recommend for a beginner? I want to learn how to make music as I can sing and song write but can’t play any instruments.. yet! Thanks for your video even if I don’t get a reply I will decide on one of them!
I bought the Akai MPK Mini Plus as a rank beginner. Here is why I bought it. Hardware ports, you can control hardware synths and other midi items with it. Sequencer (few have that feature), larger key set, it's difficult to play 2 handed with 25 keys. The mod and pitch wheels. I bought mine to integrate with Reaper and Linux. It works very well with both. You can always map the knobs and drumpads yourself, you don't need the manufacturer software to do it. The software integration is tbh a secondary consideration. After having it a few months it really was the best value for me.
did u decide on one?
@@Clara-c5q7jDoes the Minilab 3 have a sequencer?
None of them have aftertouch. That's a showstopper for me. One that does is in this price range the Arturia Keystep, which sadly mostly only ever gets reviewed in the context of being a sequencer and not a regular midi controller.
I love the Minilab 3! It’s my absolute favorite for the key feel/size. I like it better than the Keylab 61 Essential.
Same
Why do you like the MiniLab more?
@@AlexanderPochertPiano It was mainly for portability and key-feel. BUT... Since I posted this comment, I got hold of a used Roli Lumi Keys and it's my new fave. The keys are so comfortable, and make far less noise. It's smaller than the minilab and it can do bluetooth.
@@tiffanyanthony Thanks a bunch for your answer!
I bought the Arturia Essential Keys 49 mk3 and I was really disappointed by the key feel, so I sent it back after 3 days. I’ve read that the Minilab may have a better key feel but too few keys for my taste. It seems that only much more expensive products will ally a good key feel with more DAW controller options and a good sound bank. I still haven’t bought another midi keyboard yet. I’ll need to save up for a better and more expensive one. Also looking on the used gear market.
Thank you for this! I am looking at the minilab3 at 3:27, is that DAW included with the minilab or is that something I have to buy? Also I was wondering with these included software am I able to export as a track or do I have to pay for full version to do that? Lastly, are the included free programs trials or will still work indefinitely? Making music is a hobby of mine so I’m trying to get something that I can use right out of the box and keep using/learning whenever I have free time.
Thanks so much for your time!! ❤
I’m a bit confused about the M32. So in order to use the scale mode I can only use it with NKS related plugins, or all plugins, including the ones not supported by Native Instruments?
5:18 could I ask what that small thing is on the right hand side with buttons and knobs
Thanks for this very informative video.
None of these kbd feature aftertouch, let alone MPE or polyaft. Do they ?
Great video as always, I love the screen in screen shots so we could completely see you and the keyboard at the same time. I have older versions of the M Audio Oxygen and the Arturia MinLab (my favourite)
As always keep up the great work 👊🏾
I'm only here for a dose of keyboard envy😉 as I already have the M32 which I like a lot. But the weighted keyboard feel of the Minilab is tempting :-)
Yeah true i Have Native s 61 mk3 I also feel like going for minilab and they have nice vst collections also.Now Native instruments and Arturia are my loved keayboards feel like having minilab from thoman
Before buying Native s 61 mk2 I was confused with which to take because I had 3 midis which I selected Native instruments 61 mk3,Arturia 61 essentials ,and nectar panaromic 61 and m audio code 61 which was discontinued my Selected thing after watching Sanjay video I went for native instruments
I plan to get the M32 and deep dive into Ableton.
Ordered as well 🎉
Nice! Why did you choose the M32?
@@SanjayC because of my affinity for NI and Komplete Kontrol. I think it will work best for how I make music.
I already Have Native instruments S 61 yeah M32 is good but no drum pads in it but nice as Sanjay said it's minimalistic but nice to play.thinking to buy Arturia minilab 25 I love there Vst plugins are awesome.For me Native instrument and Arturia is best even donner mk3 is good because I feel there Keys are good.
Don’t bother it’s no good
Is there a best choice for the Waveform DAW?
I am still thinking of which to get... It is easier for me to work with my 88 hammer yamaha stage cp33 piano, but I really want something compact on my desk to sit anytime I want to record something. What do you say? I am also a pianist, but even tho I love the key feel of the acoustic piano I own, I would rather prefer electric midi key - keys than big and heavy. Thanks
I think its best to have two - so get a small keyboard from this list that checks your boxes and use it alongside the hammer action full keyboard
help! do i get the novation FLkey49 or the Roland GoKeys?
hobby with FLStudio and Ableton, and i got a 25 key but needed more keys.. ssince i already have the oxygen25, should i go for the gokeys which is a standalone keyboard or still FLkeys49 since i can do a lot more with it?
thanks sanjay
I bought Novation... So bad... Keys and pads are horrendous. Misfires... No fires... Random action...
Same, bought it and it made me leave the hobby, now im looping for an AKAI to come back
13:16 what's that keyboard?
Expressive E Osmose
Hello can i use this without laptop? Im looking for a small keyboard as small as a midi keyboard to be plugged directly into speakers via the guitar cable. Must have a transpose frature what can you recommend?
Mini Play but no sequencer
You should the alesis vi series (specific ly the alesis vi49) its very simple but the best one i have ever tried it integrates very well with ableton live
Always GREAT videos!!!
Hey Sanjay. It felt like you were a bit 50/50 when it comes to the FL Keys keyboard. I really want a solid option to use in FL.
Is it still an excellent choice to go for this one or are there simply better options out there?
Can I use the Arturia plug and play with virtual instruments I already have installed on my pc? I'm not interested in controlling the DAW from the mini keyboard but I want to control the sound of my virtual instruments and most of them are not Arturia. Can I simply connect the mini keyboard via USB with my PC and use it? And can I play synth modules from it?
Yes.
I am looking for something that probably isnt invented. I own a Ferrofish B4000+ Drawbar organ module which I love but the sounds are selected by a rotary knob and the numbers of the sounds or programs are 1/8 inch in height which is impossible to see and impossible to adjust without twisting the knob too much or not enough.
Is there a small item similar to what you have pictured that allows those 8 ( or how many ever) pads or the synth keys to be set to select midi note numbers once I tap them thus allowing me to change programs or sounds on the Ferrofish ?
Thanks for any advice. Small is key and I'd need 8 or so pads or keys is all.
Which is best for beginners? My son has been talking a lot about making music lately and I want to get him something like this but not sure which would be best considering he doesn’t play piano
I am a guitarist, I don't know how to play piano so I want a midi keyboard to write my orchestra stuff and synthwave, ambient music. What do you suggest?
Same here, I think oxygen pro check many boxes for me. Did you get one?
Can you please tell me whether i should buy the oxygen pro mini or the minilab 3 as a beginner who has never tried a midi keyboard
Newbie here. Do all of these require a daw or they come with their one software?
Hey thanks for the good info ! Akai and aturia is working indivisually as well ? I mean they need to connect with the daw to make the sound ? Or they can work with just electric power
your reviews are the best. thank you!
What would you guys recomend for someone stating i don't have much software either
1:47 where did you get that plugin?
As a beginner which should I go with? I’m in between the minilab 3 and launchkey 49
The launchkey 49 100%
@@Faterna.888ended up going with the keylab essential 61 mk3
What kind of soundcard should we have to play this sounds!?
When I was younger only Soundblaster AWE32 had nice instruments to play in midi
I just wish Arturia would release a 25-key or 37-key with full-sized keys. I miss the Keylab 25.
Yeah, that would be so good
We need you to get the message to Arturia, hahaha. :) @@SanjayC
The main thing I am looking for currently with a keyboard is a one-touch chord maker is what I would call it by it probably goes by a different name.
Basically what I want is a keyboard where I push a note and it plays the corresponding chord. Is there any you can think of that does this?
is minilab3 the only one that gives free instruments pack? what about oxygen pro mini?
what would be a good choice for beginners? I'm thinking about 120$ for the whole setting
Don't worry about getting instrument packs with your midi controller. There are so many good free ones available online you don't need them and will probably be downloading and using those free ones anyway.
Thank you for yet another video made with love, great information, and in-depth knowledge.
You're welcome! I hope you also watched the best headphones of 2023 video ua-cam.com/video/fvcguBzVR3g/v-deo.html
@@SanjayC brother please help me should I go with arturia or m audio mentioned above
Another amazing video!
Thanks so much! Which one would you pick?
@@SanjayCI like the Mini lab 3 for the keys, but, I own the Akai MPK mini and the Akai MPC key 61 so it makes sense to get the plus because I already enjoy the Akai line of midi keyboards
Couldn't you take the m32 and pair it with a launchpad x? If so i might go that route. Still undecided about my first midi
Hi Sanjay, I work on Studio One 6, wich mini Keybord you recommend? I am interested in Nektar impact lx 25 + or the mini version because of its good integration with Studio one. In your opinion, is mine a good choice or do you recommend something else?

I want to start making my own music ( i did like 30 years ago, with fasttracker, madtracker etc and a mini korg synth, only keys) Now i want start making some dance/trance music. What is the best program to work with Fruitloops? I am thinking of the Akai MPK mini plus. good choice?
Which would have the longevity (playing wise) for a 3 year old? I like the arturia for the keys and the software (when he eventually gets a PC) but the MPK MP has more keys and a better drum pad. Is there anything that has all these features in one unit?
Drum pads are a MUST:-)
How are the drum pads on M-Audio oxygen? Are they same in quality to those from Akai since it's under same company?
Are there any midi controllers that have medium sized keys? Tried the Minilab mk3, and while I really like it, the actual keys are just to little for me... I already have a larger controller with regular sized keys, but my hands are small, and playing octaves on the left hand is a bit of a stretch...arthritis doesn't help either... I'm looking for something in between but I haven't seen anything available... Thanks for any suggestions!
Hey Sanjay, great overview! Just wanted to know if you have a method to extend the pitch and mod wheel on the Launchkey mini? I realize the touch controls don't really do it for me, and I'm looking for a way to get the physical wheels without buying another keyboard (though it might be about the same price as the extension). Thanks!
Which of these MIDI keys would be best if I wanted to use my pedals with it? I have a Chroma Console that I normally use with my Akai mini. Figured I would need a Midi out
Does keyboards gives any extra plugins or software applications?
Can you tell us what you think about the M-WAVE 25?
Which one for live performance through mixer, using NI and Cubase?
Does the pitch slide even work with Vital or Serum? I never got the slide notes when using those two.
Thanks so much for this video
:)))
do you have or can you do a similar video with regards to larger keyboards? I want a more full length piano to use, but I'm having a hard time finding one.
was wandering what outputs would I need for my speakers to connect my MacBook Pro m3 would I need to buy a audio interface?
Awesome video..this is such great advice. Which of these small (or any midi controller) would be most appropriate for someone who writes/ composes orchestral music only? I only write for classical orchestra. Do I need the faders, knobs, pads, etc? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.
great video, but which one has a hold button?
Which midi keyboard or combination midi pad controllers fits best with CUBASE
Hi Sanjay. My little boy wants a Midi controller with keys and finger drum pads. He is too young for production software on a PC. Is there a stand-alone machine that will loop, record but does not need a pc.
Great video! What is best for writing a more classical/folk song?
Wondering if any of these have good integration with UA Luna
Up. Wondering the same thing
Is the software free for minilab 3?
Wish you would have included some that are full size. I’m interested in finding a midi controller as close to a piano feel as possible.
Thanks for the video, Sanjay
Still cant decide. A very noob question here: what do you think the best for a newbie who also is starting to learn using Ableton?
I have a hard time figure out those on-screen controls and parameters, yet I dont really know what really helps for that.
Thanks!
Amazing content sanjay as always,
Here im trying to get 61 midi keyboard but i dont know which one should i get because im into key feels
Endless encoders on Minilab aren't exclusive to Arturia software, right? Can be mapped to DAW controls or other synth parameters? Cool feature but I don't use Arturia synths.
So what is the recommendation for beginners and bandlab users?
Yes, good video. I personally don’t need a keyboard controller that small. I‘m always looking for a keyboard controller that works best together with Logic Pro and has 61 or 73 (76) keys. There seems to be none like that on the market. Most likely the Nektar controllers, but somehow I don’t like their outer appearance…
Excuse me sir, i have an M Audio oxygen pro 49. I was using it with fl studio and i was havibg mapping issues, Now ive swapped to Ableton. Do you have or could you make a video on full functionality of ableton with that controller?
Hi and thanks a lot for your amazing videos. Newbie here, i would like to ask you which one will work with Amplitube 5 max and which one offers straight away virtual instruments?
Hey Sanjay! Im a beginner at producing music but I really enjoy trying to make songs on my midi keyboard. I would really like to find some type of online training course that would help broaden my skills at producing music. Do you have any suggestions?
Excellent vid! is it possible connect any of these midi controllers to a Midiplus Mini engine instead of a computer?
Do you think Arturia, Novation, Akai and Native Instruments will release midi 2.0, full MPC and polyphonic aftertouch to catch up with the Korg KeyStage in 2024? Will we be forced to buy new hardware, or will vendors just release firmware upgrades?
Got the alpine white lab 3 and came across this...with a keystep pro im invested already but wanted a portable set up and got some ath prox5 in white to be that guy at cafés etc lol thanks for helping me feel assured
Thanks for the video my man. Seen a number of your joints, you're good at it! Its appreciated. Im new to all of this but Im interested in learning and would like to make make beats. Dont know where to start as far as what to purchase. Should I get the MPK MINI with the MPC ONE or just one piece of equipment in the MPC Key 37? Thanks in advance for help and or advice.
I'm an FLstudio user and I'm trying to decide between the FLkey 37 and the Akai Midi Plus, any suggestions?
What did u get ?
@@NOOB-nz9kc FLkey37
@@NOOB-nz9kc I like it
producer in trap and filmscoring here. thinking about going for sl88 studio midi and the minilab 3, does that sound good?
Which one works better with Luna daw
Love the shirt 👍🏽. Haha! I like how you measured the down weight of the keys. Very important
How about fine tunning in each?
Hi thanks, a lot for this video, which keyboard should I use if I do mainly classical music (piano and strings flutes...etc.) I want to create some songs for my games. I use Cubase as software
Analog lab pro comes with Arturia Minilab? Or is it a lite version
is there a joystick I can buy for NI keyboards.
Great video. A beginner's question: Which of these keyboards have split keyboard functionality? Or is keyboard splitting something you can do with the accompanying software? Thanks
Which one is work with GarageBand ?
Any of these work with omnisphere 2?
Hi!
An audio interface is needed for this midi? Or is just plug into my computer and play? Thanks!
If you don't have Audio Interface, then ASIO for All is a way to get started but yes, good to have Audio Interface and also DAW software of which these will come bundled with cut down versions. You can also try Reaper which is cheap and has a generous trial period. Works well with the M32 and ReaKontrol (thing that drives Reaper DAW functions from the M32 and is quite good).
Which one is very compatible with Fl studio ?
im looking for the best keyfeel! ty!
Hi Sanjay, thanks for your videos! I'm looking for a new midi keyboard, between 49-61 semi weighted keys, drumpad, maybe sliders, under 500. I use ableton and native instruments plugins the most (a lot of Kontakt). I make original lo-fi, rock, funk, hip hop, etc. I want something that doesn't feel like a toy, maybe something with bonus plug-ins or software but not crucial since I have a ton of plugins already. I also play guitar and want to do live looping. What would you suggest? thx! p.s. I have an old NI Komplete Kontrol but seems to be very latent all the sudden and doesn't have a drum pad.