Midi Keyboard Controller For Mac – This is the best MIDI keyboard for Mac with Logic Pro X 2020 Edition. With many of us finding more time than usual this year to be creative and start new audio projects, not to mention that Logic Pro X users saw a huge update a few months ago, having a good controller by our side can be more important and useful than ever. If our MacBook or iOS device is the brain of our music production setup, then our trusty MIDI keyboard can be the heart of the operation. A simple piece of plastic that looks like a piano for many is an expression of human emotion and creativity to the otherwise overly efficient cold steel with the Apple logo on it for the rest of us. Read below to explore the best MIDI keyboards to help you unleash your creativity and decide which option is best for your specific needs.
This year we’re starting with some more budget-friendly options that work just as well in your portable MacBook setup as in your home studio. The top picks in the Best Budget MIDI Keyboard 2020 category include some staples as well as some additional entries. We had the chance to test some of the more affordable Nektar options earlier this year, as well as the Alesis budget model, which currently sits alongside our favorite mini MPK MKII (and successor MKIII) from Akai. These keyboards typically promote portability with all the bells and whistles, and a tight 25-key layout. But you’ll find an expanded suite of controls in exchange for portability, as well as plenty of content bundled with Akai, Alesis and Arturia MiniLab options.
Midi Keyboard Controller For Mac
Original Instruments is still sitting on the list here. While the main feature of Original Instrument hardware will always be access to a massive collection of instruments and sound sources – it just released the blind KOMPLETE 13 update – as well as the personal value it brings to you, NI has really proven itself in MIDI. There is still a place for a keyboard controller. While the higher-end S Series models can be $1,000+, the company also offers more affordable hardware-based controls for its excellent software tools and the Komplete Kontrol M32 – a keyboard that’s quite affordable. We created a budget section above, but with enough additional functionality to earn its place on this list.
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Komplete Kontrol M32 MIDI keyboard controller hit store shelves in the middle of last year. It brings another portable mini MIDI keyboard to the market for musicians, but with larger keys at 32 with an OLED display and NI touch buttons for real-time visual feedback and control of a fairly extensive collection of sounds. The bus-powered MIDI controller includes “intuitive control over Logic Pro X, GarageBand and Ableton Live” with around 6,100 sounds packed into 10GB of content. It also works well as a companion to NI’s MASCHINE MIKRO drum-based controller if you’re looking to expand your input methods below (although you may need to consider the new Novation Launchpad support if you’re a Logic Pro X 10.5+ user. ). It’s definitely worth a closer look for those who want portable software support who also don’t mind the “compact” design of the key.
Here are some of the best lineup options and some important features to look for when making your decision:
As mentioned in previous reviews, Arturia’s entry in our list of best MIDI keyboards tends to fall back on its budget options, as mentioned above. However, some high-end models offer special functionality not available from many competitors – built-in polyphonic sequencers, CV / Gate / Mod outputs for integration with modular gear, clock synchronization and more. This advanced functionality can allow this hybrid MIDI controller to be a hub for partially mouse-free setup, especially for those with heavy hardware and a preference for modular/physical sequencing.
Released earlier this year, Arturia’s KeyStep Pro 37-key MIDI controller and sequencer is a perfect example of this. About BeatStep Pro Sharing much of what I loved (and still use), and with a full keyboard controller, KeyStep Pro is a solid solution for multidisciplinary PC integrated devices. workflows based on physical synths / tools. We also recommend checking out the new KeyStep 37 and Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII for additional CV-ready MIDI controller combinations.
Nektar Se25 ▷ Mini Midi Controller Keyboard
Part MIDI keyboard, part multi-touch performance surface, the ROLI Seaboard Block has appeared on almost every list on the subject since its release, and for good reason. It brings the wonderful world of MPE Seaboard technology to a more affordable price and further opens up a whole new world of creative possibilities for PC based musicians. At my side, I have every possible opportunity, even in vain, to reach out with my hand to poke, tug, slide, and sketch out a melody or musical idea on the shiny, almost alien-like textured surface. . No matter how many people know about this amazing little device, it still feels underappreciated to this day.
For those unfamiliar, Seaboard uses MPE – a type of 5D touch MIDI standard that supports a variety of gestures. Using a more comprehensive routing structure than your typical keyboard controller, on different MIDI channels, the user can play normal keys or like a string instrument. Twisting, sliding and bending notes with both hands, resulting in all kinds of wild expressive polyphony or especially organic. It’s not cheap, but it’s cheaper than the full-sized Seaboards out there, and something I want every musician to at least try. In short, the software ROLI makes/supports for this is worth your time, with a particular personal highlight being FXpansion’s amazing Cypher 2.
While this nicely rounds out our top picks, especially in what has been a relatively quiet year for new releases, there are definitely some other models to note here. First, let’s take a look at the Akai Professional MPK series. Available in 25, 49, and 61-key configurations, this keyboard has been a personal favorite of ours for years. But with so many options these days, the rather tanky locks and lack of upgrades have left them in a respectable position this year. You’ll also find the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 MIDI keyboard, which is a popular choice for Ableton users with built-in Live integration, although it’s compatible with other DAWs as well. See below for all of this year’s honorees. But don’t be fooled here, this is an amazing choice (I currently have an MPK-61 in front of me and love it).
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Ik Multimedia’s Irig Keys Mini Midi Controller Review
Justin is a senior editor covering all things music Justin is an audio engineer/producer with over 10 years experience in the music industry. For a limited time, join over 100,000 musicians developing their skills with Melodics. Melodics is a desktop application that teaches you how to play and perform with MIDI keyboards, pad controllers and drums. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional looking to learn advanced techniques, Melodics grows with you. It’s free to download when you register your controller and comes with over 60 free tutorials (including five exclusives) to get you started!
Jump into PC-based music creation and performance from the Keystation 61 keyboard controller. The Keystation 61 is a simple and powerful MIDI controller designed for sequencing music and playing virtual instruments on your Mac or PC. It features 61 full-size velocity-sensitive keys and an array of controls that expands the range of playable notes, expressive possibilities, and streamlines the recording workflow. Use the octave range button; pitch and modulation wheels; and transport and directional control to play, perform and record using your music software without using a mouse or trackpad. The Keystation 61 also includes a 1/4″ (6.3 mm) pedal input that allows you to use an external control pedal, such as the SP2 (sold separately), to support a real piano.
Lightweight and durable, the Keystation 61 is perfect for traveling musicians who want to control their music software during live performances or for producers who want to add an intuitive, natural-feeling MIDI controller to their studio. For an easy-to-use and portable setup, the Keystation 61 is USB powered, class compliant and USB-MIDI compatible.