The 10 best recording keyboard for 2018
Finding the best recording keyboard suitable for your needs isnt easy. With hundreds of choices can distract you. Knowing whats bad and whats good can be something of a minefield. In this article, weve done the hard work for you.
1. Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII | 25-Key Ultra-Portable USB MIDI Drum Pad & Keyboard Controller with Joystick, VIP Software Download Included
Feature
Compact keyboard controller easily fits backpack and studio production desk (12.4" long, 1.6 lbs)Powered by USB connection to computer, with free virtual-instrument download packages
Crammed full of all the features you need to play and edit musical ideas
25-synth-action mini-keys, 8 velocity-sensitive rubber drum pads with two banks, and eight assignable control knobs
Includes VIP - the ground-breaking, award-winning music software platform that provides musicians and composers with a powerful hands-on control solution for their virtual instrument and virtual effect collection
Description
The new MPK Mini MKII is an ultra-compact keyboard controller designed to easily fit in the laptop-toting musicians backpack and still earn its spot on the desktop producers crowded table space.
For maximum portability, the MPK Mini MKII requires no software drivers or external power adapter for operation. It supports plug-and-play connectivity, features USB-MIDI, and powers up with a single USB connection to your computer.
With an array of hardware controls, the MPK mini MKII lets you record, compose, and perform with virtual instruments, effect plugins, and Digital Audio Workstations whenever inspiration strikes.
It features 25 velocity-sensitive synth-action keys, a 4-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch and modulation manipulation, 8 backlit velocity-sensitive MPC-style pads, and 8 assignable Q-Link knobs. Plus, two banks expand the number of MPC-style pads to 16 for extended creative capabilities.
The MPK mini MKII includes all the essentials for quickly laying down and expanding upon your musical ideas.
Finally, it comes bundled with professional production software and virtual instruments free downloads for immediate music creation. Editor Software Requirements- Mac OS X 10.7+ or Windows 7+
Frequently Asked Questions
What software comes with the Akai MPK Mini?
The Akai MPK Mini comes with the following software:
- Akai Pro MPC Essentials
- SONiVOX Wobble 2
- AIR Hybrid 3
- Preset Editor Software
How do I get my software?
- Go to akaipro.com/my-account
- Login to your Akai Pro account. If you do not have an account, Create one.
- Once you have logged in or created your Akai Professional user account, choose Register a Product.
- Enter the requested information to Register your MPK2 series controller and press Submit.
- Once you have Registered your MPK2 Series controller, you can now find the downloads for the various included software within the My Account section.
What operating systems is it supported with?
The Akai MPK Mini is supported on the latest operating systems, including Windows 8 and Mac 10.9. The MPK Mini is a class-compliant plug-and-play device that does not require a specific driver installation in order to be functional and will function with all major Windows and Mac operating systems from Windows XP, Vista and 7 to Mac 10.4 and later.
Is it powered by USB or wall power supply?
The Akai MPK Mini is USB hub powered. It connects and powers by a standard USB-A to USB-B cable and does not require a wall power supply.
What are the differences between the MPK Mini MKI and MKII?
Some of the major additions and changes to the Akai MPK Mini are:
- Features a 4-way Pitch Bend and Modulation joystick. This joystick has three assignable modes, including:
- Pitch Bend - Up, down, left and right
- Modulation 1 - There is a single CC per axis. The center CC is at 64 and the joystick modulates on the axis of choice.
- Modulation 2 - There are two CCs per axis. The center axis is 0 and the endpoint CCs on each axis can be set by the user with the included preset editor.
- Connects via standard USB-A to USB-B cable rather than a mini-USB to USB-B cable.
- Features a Noterepeat and Full-level button option.
- Contains a 1/4 Sustain pedal input for standard momentary non-latching foot-switch functionality.
- The 8 velocity-sensitive pads have back-lit red and green coloring.
Can I change the default presets?
Yes! There are four built-in presets that can be chosen in the controller. These presets can be edited, adjusted and uploaded to the MPK Mini using the included preset editor.
Wait! What if I still have more questions?
Dont worry! You can watch step-by-step tutorials in the Related Video Shorts below or visit akaipro.com/kb/search/MPK_Mini for more detailed FAQs.
Technical Specs
- Note Keys: (25) velocity-sensitive mini keys
- Pads: (8) assignable backlit pads, velocity- and pressure-sensitive
- Pad Banks: (2) banks
- Knobs: (8) assignable 270 knobs
- X-Y Controller: (1) configurable thumbstick with 3 modes
- Octaves: 10-octave range with octave up/down buttons
- Arpeggiator: adjustable resolution, range, and modes
- Additional Controls:
- Note Repeat button
- Full Level button
- Tap Tempo button
- Inputs / Outputs
- (1) USB port
- (1) 1/4 (6.35mm) TS input for sustain pedal
- Power: USB power via full-size USB jack; no power adapter required
- Dimensions (width x depth x height):
- Product: 12.5 x 7.13 x 1.75
- Shipping: 14.3 x 8.64 x 2.9
- Weight
- Product: 1.65 lbs
- Shipping: 2.43 lbs
Box Contents
- MPK mini
- USB Cable
- MPK mini Editor (download)
- Software Download Card
- User Guide
- Safety & Warranty Manual
2. Alesis V49 | 49-Key USB MIDI Keyboard & Drum Pad Controller (8 Pads / 4 Knobs / 4 Buttons)
Feature
Perfect building block for music producer needing to control plug-ins and virtual instruments49 full-sized, square-front keys with adjustable sensitivity
8 LED-backlit drum trigger pads respond to both velocity and pressure
4 assignable knobs, 4 assignable buttons, and Pitch & Mod wheels
USB-powered with sustain-pedal input
Description
The performance-oriented Alesis V49 offers expressive hands-on control for the software musician seeking an inexpensive, compact MIDI keyboard controller with expanded features.
The new V series combines velocity-sensitive keys with eight drum/trigger pads, allowing virtual instruments to be played with dynamic expression. Cool blue LEDs illuminate the padsas well as the four assignable knobs and buttonsfor positive visibility. Musicians can make assignments quickly via the MIDI Learn feature. Octave shift keys provide access to the entire note range. A single USB cable provides both a power and data connection to nearly any computer.
The V49 also comes with Software Preset/Parameter utility that makes setup a snap and includes free downloads for Ableton Live Lite 9 and Xpand!2 by AIR Music Tech.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this unit need a power supply to work?
These controllers are USB hub-powered and do not take an external power supply.
Do I need to install drivers for this to work on my PC/MAC?
No, these controllers areclass-compliant meaning that they are plug-and-play and do not require a specific driver download in order to function. The V series controllers will function on Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7 and Windows 8 as well as all Mac operating systems that are 10.4.11 and above. Also, because they are class-compliant, they will continue to function as Windows and Apple come out with later updates and operating systems.
What are the programmable buttons for?
Use these buttons to send MIDI CC messages to your software. They can function as momentary or toggle (latching) buttons. You can also use the V Editor software to set each button to send program and change messages to your software. See the V Editor's User Guide to learn how to do this.
Does this have pre-programmed sounds?
These controllers do not. They are midi controllers and are meant to trigger software in your computer that has sounds built into them such as Ableton, Logic ect...
What kind of sustain pedals does this use?
The V Series has a connection for a 1/4"" TS sustain pedal (Momentary non-latching footswitch). It would be helpful to have one that has a polarity switch on it in case you want to customize the way the pedal reacts when being pressed down or released.
Further Technical Support
Whether you are a customer or dealer, if you already own a ION product, or if you just have pre-sales questions, the experienced ION technical support team is available to help!
Visit the link below to connect with any of the following support options: online community support, phone support, email support.
- http://www.alesis.com/contact
Technical Specifications
- Keyboard: 49 keys; velocity-sensitive; full range of 127 MIDI notes with Octave Up/Down buttons or transposition
- Pads: 8 assignable pads; velocity-sensitive; blue-backlit
- Knobs: 4 assignable 270 knobs; blue-backlit
- Buttons
- 4 assignable buttons; blue-backlit
- 2 Octave Up/Down buttons; blue-backlit
- Inputs / Outputs
- (1) USB port
- (1) 1/4 TS footswitch input
- Power: via computer USB
- Dimensions(width x depth x height): 37.6 x 9.6 x 4.5
- Weight: 9.5 lbs
Box Contents
- V49
- V Editor Software (download)
- Software Download Cards
- USB Cable
- User Guide
- Safety & Warranty Manual
3. Nektar IMPACT LX25+ MIDI Controller
Feature
Premium midi controller with 25 expressive synth-action keys, on-board pitch bend and modulation wheels for performances8 Hyper-Sensitive backlit pads
Mac, PC and iOS compatible
Software instruments automatically mapped to controls
Includes Bitwig 8-Track DAW
Description
The Impact LX25+ MIDI controller is compact and portable yet jam-packed with intelligent and expressive performance control. Ever wanted a controller that hooks up automatically to your DAW? Impact LX25+ does exactly that. Nektar DAW Integration custom designed for Bigwig, Cubase, Digital Performer, FL Studio, GarageBand, Logic, Nuendo, Reaper, Reason, Sonar and Studio One takes Impact LX25+ way beyond functionality normally offered by a USB MIDI controller keyboard. With Impact LX25+ the hard work is done, so you can focus on your creativity. The 25 note velocity sensitive keyboard is a synth action, full-size, piano-style keys with a medium tension. A 30mm fader and 8 pots are at the center of the Impact LX25+ control panel. Each control is fully programmable to send any MIDI CC message for use with hardware or software MIDI products. For groove and beat creation, Impact LX25+'s 8 velocity sensitive pads. Calibrated to trigger at a light touch, finger drumming is suddenly well within reach with a nice and even velocity response. The best part is the "Pad Learn feature, which allows you to just select a pad, play the note or drum sound you want on the keyboard and assignment is done. The 4 color LED illumination indicates which pad map is currently loaded and can even tell you which type of MIDI message each pad sends. With Nektar DAW Integration, the pads are automatically mapped in for example Reason and Bigwig.. The two Clips and Scenes buttons are used in Bigwig to trigger...., Clips and Scenes. In Reason, a clever control of Reason's location points create a similar experience with scenes triggering of any Reason song. The 6 dedicated transport buttons are always within reach and mapped to control Cycle, Rewind, Forward, Stop, Play and Record. Press Shift to get access to alternate functions such as Got L, Set L, Set R, Undo, Click and Mode. Dedicated Track up/down and Patch up/down buttons are located below the display.4. midiplus X4 mini MIDI Keyboard Controller, White
Feature
X4 mini MIDI keyboards which have 49 weighted keys respectively. X mini MIDI keyboard is hot plug supported. No driver is needed. It is powered by USB and no external power supply is needed.3 segment backlit LED. Capacitive touch sensors to control PITCH and MODULATION. Featured with SHIFT for customized functions and OCTAVE/TRANSPOSE.
4 customizable knobs; Default setting: T1 (Volume), T2 (Pan), T3 (Expression Controller), T4 (Reverb). ATTACHMENT manual cable
Description
X mini MIDI keyboard has a lot of features and is easy to use. With USB connection, you can enjoy making music whenever you want to. X4 mini MIDI keyboards which have 49 weighted keys respectively. X mini MIDI keyboard is hot plug supported. No driver is needed. It is powered by USB and no external power supply is needed.5. Akai Professional LPK25 | 25-Key Ultra-Portable USB MIDI Keyboard Controller for Laptops
Feature
25-key USB MIDI keyboard controller gives you expressive performance with computer-based digital audio workstations, sequencers, and more25 velocity-sensitive mini-keyboard keys are highly portable; writing sessions, capturing ideas and studio use with nearly all music creation software
Built-in arpeggiator provides melodic inspiration and versatile patterns for modern music production
Plug-and-play USB connection for Mac and PC; no driver installation required. Perfect for Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase, Studio One, Reaper, Digital Performer, Ableton, etc
USB-powered; no additional power cable needed
Sustain button, octave up and down, and tap tempo controls ensure your ideas translate from head to hardware
Includes editing software for Mac and PC; easily customize the keyboards' MIDI commands to fit your workflow
Description
Melodic performance in the palm of your hand.
The LPK25 laptop performance keyboard is a USB-MIDI controller for musicians, producers, DJs and other music creators. Powered by a USB connection to your computer, it measures less than 13 inches across and weighs less than a pound to easily fit into a laptop case, backpack or messenger bag for extreme portability.
Keyboard players who want to work with software on their computer will find that the LPK25 gives their laptop the keys they need to express themselves anywhere.
The LPK25 is a scaled-down relative to the MPK series of keyboard performance controllers. The diminutive keyboard is made up of 25 miniature, velocity-sensitive keyboard keys with synth action. The LPK25 contains an arpeggiator, which steps through chords automatically, assisting musicians with creating quick melodic ideas. Sustain, octave up and down and tap tempo controls round out the LPK25s easy-to-learn layout.
Technical Specs
- Number of presets: 4
- MIDI output channels over USB: 16
- Note keys: 25 (velocity-sensitive)
- Inputs/outputs: 1 USB-mini port
- Power: < 100 mA, 5V DC via USB
- Dimensions (width x depth x height): 13.3 x 3.8 x 1.3
- Weight: 1.41oz
Box Contents
- LPK25
- Software CD
- USB cable
- Safety Instructions & Warranty Information
6. RockJam 61-Key Electronic Keyboard SuperKit with Stand, Stool, Headphones & Power Supply
Feature
FULL SIZE KEYBOARD: A true full size 61 key keyboard piano with standard key sizes features LCD screen, record and playback functionality, 100 keyboard sounds 100 rhythms, and 50 demo songsHEADPHONES: A set of high quality headphone are included within your digital piano package meaning letting musicians and leaners play comfortably without disturbing others
STOOL: A durable and sturdy padded stool accompanies your musical keyboard kit meaning you can play without discomfort for hours
STAND: Your keyboard package provides a strong and adjustable keyboard stand that is designed to hold your keyboard securely and adjust to musicians of all sizes
LEARNING AID 1: To start your beginner keyboard journey the RockJam 561 provides your with both access to 30 free songs on the Simply Piano app
LEARNING AID 2: Two months of Face to Face lessons are provided through Take Lesson so you can take your keyboard play to the next level
POWER SUPPLY: Unlike a number of keyboard kits the RockJam understand that electronic keyboards require electricity, therefore your power supply is included within this all in one package.
Description
The RockJam 561 Super Kit includes a 61-key keyboard, a stand, a padded stool, and a pair of high quality headphones. It addition, the super kit comes with 30 Simply Piano songs to be downloaded on your iPhone, iPad or Android device that will help aspiring musicians to learn and practice sight reading, rhythm, technique, two-handed playing, and much more (instructions and song list below). This intuitive keyboard comes with a power supply for use at home, but can also be powered by 6 x 1.5V Size D batteries so you can take it on stage or on the road. The keyboard has a crisp LCD screen, and provides instructions for beginners, telling them which keys to press or chords to play while trying demo songs, making it the perfect keyboard for budding musicians. Although the keyboard is compact, the keys themselves are full size. The sturdy and portable keyboard stand is a great way to ensure the keyboards stability, and is very easy to fold up and take on the road. The padded stool is a comfortable choice for pianists of all ages. The included over-ear headphones enable pianists to play without disturbing anyone around them. And when a concert is called for, the keyboard has built-in speakers that will fill the room with rich, resonant sound. The keyboard also has a wealth of preloaded sound options, including 50 demo songs, 100 rhythms and 100 sounds. The RockJam 661 kit comes with everything a pianist needs, and is an ideal gift for beginners and advanced musicians alike. To activate this app with your RockJam, download Simply Piano on your iPad and register as a new user. Then, go to Settings, Select Your Piano, and choose RockJam from the dropdown menu. The free songs will be available in the Library.7. Novation Launchkey Mini 25-Note USB Keyboard Controller, MK2 Version
Feature
Launchkey Mini - the mini keyboard for Ableton Live16 multi-colour backlit velocity sensitive drum pads
8 knobs, dedicated navigation and control buttons
Software for Mac and PC, Including: Ableton Live Lite, XLN Audio Addictive Keys, Novation Bass Station and V Station virtual instruments and over 4GB of Loopmasters samples
Make dynamic beats, play like an instrument and mix without losing focus and ontrol any effect or instrument mid-performance to add expressive effects like reverb or filters; 2-year limited warranty on manufacturing defects
Description
Launchkey Mini (MK2) is Novation's most compact and portable MIDI keyboard controller. It may be small, but it gives you everything you need to create new tunes in Ableton Live without cluttering up your desk. Launchkey Mini has been designed to make it easy and fun to produce electronic music. All the controls work as soon as you plug it in and are arranged to make the most sense in Ableton Live. 16 velocity-sensitive pads let you launch clips and play beats. They light up to show you when clips are loaded, playing, and recorded and are laid out to match your Ableton Live session view; one row to launch clips, and one row to stop them. You can also easily tweak your instruments using eight high-quality knobs, and sketch out ideas on a 25-note mini keyboard with a fast synth-style action that makes it really enjoyable to play. Launchkey Mini is compact and tough enough to throw in your bag, so you can take it anywhere. It will work the moment you plug it into your laptop and you wont need any drivers or power cables, because its class compliant and bus-powered via USB. You can also connect it to your iPad via a Camera Connection Kit to control all sorts of iOS music apps, like Novation's free Launchkey App. Launchkey Mini also integrates immediately with FL Studio, Pro Tools, Reason, Cubase, and Logic without any mapping whatsoever. It comes with everything you need to start making music: Ableton Live Lite, XLN Audio Addictive Keys, Novation Bass Station and V Station virtual instruments and over 4GB of Loopmasters samples.8. Pyle USB MIDI Keyboard Controller - Portable Recording Equipment Kit w/ 25 Synth Piano Keys, 8 Drum Beat Pads, 16 DJ Fader Knobs - Mini Hardware Buttons Control Any Electronic Music DAW - PMIDIKPD50
Feature
UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: A single cable connects the white mini travel size piano to the USB port of any Mac or PC laptop computer or desktop PC. No extra power adapter necessary! Synthesizer is compatible with all professional Digital Audio Workstation production software with like Logic, Ableton Live, Pro tools or GarageBand.MULTI FUNCTION CONTROLLER: 25 keys and 8 drum beat maker pads (with 2 preset banks) are velocity sensitive for small big volume dynamics. Change key or octave of the portable keyboard using the LED buttons to enjoy a full range of control from this compact device.
PERFECT FOR ELECTRONIC MUSICIANS: Don't let software get in the way of your mixing workflow. Use the simple mix board to record and master music naturally by ear by quickly adjusting and fine tuning DAW system sound parameters more fluidly using the 16 assignable DJ fader rotary knobs.
PITCH BEND/ MOD SLIDER/ FOOT PEDAL CONNECTION: Add some spice to your set using these extras! Sustain foot pedal is not included. Great desk equipment accessories for any virtual recording studio musical station!
INCLUDES MIDI EDITOR SOFTWARE: Download and install the programmable software kit to your Windows or Mac and make advanced edits to the synth surface global MIDI channel - switch between toggle and switch mode, or change CC value for both on and off.
This unit has some software updates since its initial release and it is recommended to run the firmware updates to allow seamless integration with newer operating systems and applications
Description
Pyles PMIDIKPD50 is a great addition to any musicians home production workstation!Just plug in via PC or laptop USB and get full control over any parameter or your favorite DAW.
Universal compatibility - will work with ALL Digital Audio Work Stations that allow MIDI mapping.
Free Mad and PC software available on our website allows advanced edits to preset banks and controls of all the MIDI funcitons.
Features:
Compact Digital Control Pad & Keyboard
USB Audio MIDI Interface Mixing System
(25) Velocity-Sensitive Mini-Keyboard Keys
Quick Plug-and-Play Setup
Simple & Hassle-Free Operation
Shift and Pad Bank Trigger Buttons
Front Panel Button & Rotary Control Center
Professional Parameter Control Encoders
Dedicated Octave Adjustment
Pitch and Modulation Touch Strip
LED Backlight Pad Button Illumination
Works with Mac & PC
Used for DJ Sound Mixing, Music Editing, Digital Audio Processing
Whats in the Box:
MIDI Keyboard System
USB Power Cable
Audio Editing Software
Technical Specs:
Connection Interface: 2.0 USB Type B, 1/4 Footswitch Jack
Velocity Assignment: (3) Curve, (1) Constant
Powered via USB Bus, No Additional Power Source Necessary
Dimensions (L x W x H): 14.7 x 7.6 x 1.3 -inches
Sold as: 1
Weight: 3.04 lbs.
9. M-Audio Axiom AIR Mini 32 | Premium 32-Key USB MIDI Keyboard & Drum Pad Controller (8 Pads / 8 Knobs), VIP Software Download Included
Feature
Keyboard and pad controller with Ignite music creation software by AIRCustomizable with simple plug n' play operation with all popular digital audio workstations via HyperControl
32 expressive, low-profile velocity-sensitive keys
8 velocity-sensitive trigger pads x2 banks, 8 assignable knobs for immediate control over FX, panning, etc
Includes VIP - the ground-breaking, award-winning music software platform that provides musicians and composers with a powerful hands-on control solution for their virtual instrument and virtual effect collection
Description
The Axiom AIR Mini 32 gives you the compact footprint you need for for crowded desktops and on-the-go music production. And this petite USB MIDI unit is also loaded with control options. You get eight trigger pads, ergonomically positioned buttons and knobs - and even transport controls for your DAW! If you need a mini controller that rocks - the M-Audio Axiom AIR Mini 32 ia da bomb.10. Casio Inc. CTK6200 PPK 61-Key Premium Keyboard Pack with Samson HP30 Closed-Cup Headphones, Power Supply and Stand
Feature
Keyboard pack includes a pair of Samson HP30 closed-cup headphones, X-style stand, and power supplyAHL sound source delivers 700 high-quality built-in tones
Store up to 10 of your own original tones for instant recall
210 preset rhythms cover a wide range of musical genres, from rock and pops, to jazz, Latin, piano pieces, and more
Song Sequencer provides 16 tracks plus one system track that supports recording of up to five songs
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