Have you ever gone to a concert and wondered how the musicians can generate various sounds from their keyboards? The answer lies in the magic of Midi controllers.
Midi controllers are premium keyboard controllers that can generate different sounds with varied pitch and texture, making them a versatile tool for music producers. However, there is a surplus of cheaply built and poor-sounding Midi controllers in the market.
These low-quality keyboard controllers can greatly affect your music. Therefore, this comprehensive guide will explore some of the best Midi controllers for professional music producers.
What IS A Midi Keyboard Controller?
A keyboard controller is a device with piano or synth-style keys and usually a selection of knobs, buttons, and sliders. All of these transmit MIDI data to external sound modules (synthesizers), computer software synthesizers, or hardware or software sequencers.
Most keyboard controllers themselves have no internal sound-generating capability, but almost any keyboard synthesizer/workstation can act to control the sounds and parameters of other devices.
The real advantages of a Midi controller are versatility and portability. They give you control over virtually the entire range of modern music hardware and software while sometimes even being compact enough to fit in your laptop computer bag.
Moreover, here are some of the best Midi Controllers for professional music producers:
1. LUMI Keys Studio Edition
The main attraction of the LUMI Keys studio edition is the 24-key illuminated controller that radiates a vibrant sea of colors that is guaranteed to attract bystanders.
It gives you a platform to express yourself in an innovative way through a light-guided composition that makes every melody and chord more special. The jaw-dropping collage of color can spark ideas and boost creativity.
2. Nektar Panorama P4
If you are looking for a top-quality 49-key MIDI controller keyboard with all the bells and whistles, check out the Nektar Panorama P4. It’s a semi-weight keyboard with a plethora of controls.
There are 16 encoders, nine faders, 12 velocity-sensitive pads, 10 LED buttons, 28 buttons, and even a motorized fade on this unit. The comprehensive controller boasts a display that shows you the details of the parameters that you’re tweaking; moreover, you can also opt for a 61-key model.
3. Arturia KeyLab Essential 49
One of the most preferred Midi controllers is KeyLab Essential 49, which is a budget-friendly version offered by Arturia. You’ll struggle to find a more feature-packed controller for the same price elsewhere. It has everything you need to make it the ideal control center for your production setup.
This sleekly designed keyboard controller has 49 velocity-sensitive keys, and while they don’t feel premium as such, they are well above average for the price range. It also features Essential 49, which delivers the complete package, starting with transport controls that are compatible with all major DAWs. The hands-on workflow doesn’t end there; there are nine assignable rotary knobs and nine assignable faders.
4. Akai MPK Mini MKII
With 5 years of user feedback, the new MPK Mini is the best portable MIDI keyboard on the market. The MPK Mini MKII is designed for live performers and for producers who don’t require a bigger keyboard.
It has the minimum required size to still be able to create melodies and chords while being durable enough to move around constantly. With a weight of 1.65 pounds and only 2 octaves, this controller can fit inside most backpacks.
One incredible feature that stands out in this MIDI keyboard is the 4-way thumb stick for pitch and modulation control.
5. Novation Launchpad Pro MK3
The Novation Launchpad Pro MK3 is absolutely unrivaled when it comes to controlling Ableton Live. At its core, the Launchpad wants to solve everything wrong with Ableton’s Push controllers, which can seem overpriced and clunky for some users.
As such, it adheres to the same concept of only using pads to control your DAW. But don’t let that fool you! The 64 pads can launch clips and scenes, play notes and chords, and create complex 4-track sequences in seconds.
In essence, the Novation Launchpad Pro MK3 is the perfect companion for Ableton Live, providing a whole new dimension to your DAW. Additionally, this keyboard features eye-catching RGB lights, and the bundled software also provides an enhanced musical experience.
6. Arturia MiniLab 3
Another compact powerhouse by Arturia, the MiniLab 3 features a sleek all-white or all-black palette; the MiniLab 3 manages to provide 25 keys, 8 pads, 4 faders, and 8 knobs in an ultra-compact format.
The MiniLab 3 can effortlessly function with DAW, as with every Arturia product; a massive software bundle is included with your purchase. Analog Lab, Native Instruments – The Gentleman, and even a copy of Ableton Live Lite are some of the perks included with this amazing MIDI controller keyboard.
7. Ableton Push
The Ableton Push controller integrates seamlessly with any music system to the point that you can create a song without even having to look at your computer screen. It can all be done from the controller.
This controller has 64 velocity-sensitive pads, a touch strip that can be assigned to Ableton parameters, 11 touch-sensitive encoders, an LCD showing you your control changes, as well as a whole bunch of other controls that you can use to navigate your song in Ableton.
Conclusion
Midi controllers are the ultimate instruments many music producers use due to their adaptability, flexibility, and limitless musical abilities.
With the emergence of many Midi controllers like LUMI Keys Studio Edition, the music world has experienced a collective innovation that guarantees a unique and attractive musical experience previously believed to be unattainable.
