

One of the features of this MIDI keyboard that may be polarising to producers is the smaller sized keys, so for those looking to play complex sequences and patterns may find playing this keyboard a little difficult.

It has 25 mini keys, 8 velocity sensitive touchpads, and a small joystick for controlling pitch, modulation or expression. This device is a great example of an affordable, entry-level keyboard that is easy to use and great quality. We have been fanboys of Akai for many years, and their MPK series are fantastic for simple, intuitive beatmaking. ❁ MAIN BENEFITS ❁ MAIN DOWNSIDES ➭ DAW Integration: The additional features integrate well will all DAWs (particularly Ableton) ➭ Not as durable as some of the more expensive options ➭ Affordable: Great price considering the amount of features ➭ To plug into an iPad, a powered USB hub is required ➭ Several additional features: 16 soft pads, 9 faders, pitch-bend wheel etc ➭ Lacks aftertouch ➭ Included software: Ableton Live, Novation Bass Station, Addictive KeysĬompatibility: PC/Mac | Power: USB | Keys: 49 | Key size: Standard | Additional Controls: 16 colored back-lit velocity-sensitive drum pads, 6 transport controls, 9 faders, Pitch-bend/ modulation wheel, 2-octave buttons | Included software: Ableton Live, Novation Bass Station Vst, Addictive Keys | Dimensions (cm): 77.5 x 8.9 x 27 | Weight (kg): 3.7Īkai’s “MPK Mini Mk2” ranks among the best and most popular MIDI keyboards on the market, mainly due to it’s small, compact size and low price tag. Not sure if Ableton is right for you? Click here for our guide on choosing a DAW. This keyboard is also available in 25 or 61 key models.

However, for other DAW users, do not let this put you off, the launchkey Mk2 functions extremely well with other programs.

This MIDI keyboard comes with a “Lite” version of the Ableton product, allowing you to test the superb connectivity between this device and Ableton, right down to the colour-coded touch pads. The large range of assignable control options is perfect for beatmaking, as it allows you to take a hardware-based approach to editing parameters and automation. The keys have a great, velocity sensitive feeling, and the back-lit pads feel sturdy and highly responsive. They offer a comprehensive range of control options, and come packaged in a sleek, intuitive design.įor an inexpensive controller with several additional functions (16 colored, back-lit, velocity-sensitive drum pads, 9 faders, a pitch bend/modulation wheel and more), you get a lot of bang for your buck. Novation’s Launchkey range have been among our favourite MIDI keyboards for quite some time, and for good reason.
