12 best midi keyboards

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

Anyone wishing to master keyboard play will have to choose the first instrument. A full-fledged classical piano can be 'overwhelming' both in the literal sense – housing conditions do not allow, and in terms of cost. After all, such drastic measures are often not necessary and can be dispensed with with a compact and versatile synthesizer. A midi keyboard might be even better.

The editors of the magazine, together with the analyst of the service https://rankquality.com/, have prepared for you an overview of the best midi keyboards of the 2019-2020 market with a preliminary analysis of the key characteristics and selection criteria.

How to choose a midi keyboard

For those for whom this topic is completely new, we have prepared a short excursion with explanations of the basic points: what is a midi keyboard in general, what are the varieties, what to look for when choosing.

What is a midi keyboard

Outwardly, most midi keyboards are very close to synthesizers – the same 'piano' keys, a similar shape, similar controls. But that's where the similarities end. The midi keyboard itself is exactly what the keyboard is, and it cannot sound on its own, unlike a synthesizer.

The midi keyboard becomes a musical instrument only when connected to a computer (in some cases – to a wearable gadget) and running the appropriate software. The closest analogy is a computer keyboard, which is useless by itself, but capable of a lot when connected to a PC.

What are midi keyboards

We said above that midi keyboards are very similar to synthesizers in their 'piano' look. In fact, this is the case, and most midi keyboards on sale are exactly like that. But for the outlook it is useful to know that there are other form factors.

In addition to the classic type, there are also pushbutton keyboards, pad controllers, touch keyboards, there are even options with an accordion-type keypad or organ-type footswitches.

But, the most widespread and demanded type is a classic-style midi keyboard with 'black and white' keys. They can differ from one another by the number of keys – from mini-keyboards with 25 keys to full-sized ones with 88 keys. It is this form factor that we will consider in the framework of today's thematic review from.

Mechanism

We figured out the fundamental differences, now we will consider the design nuances, which may also be important. For a beginner, you should at least know about them, and the choice is a personal matter for everyone.

So, midi keyboards of the classical 'piano' type are distinguished by their keyboard mechanics: unweighted (synth-action), semi-weighted (semi-weighted) and weighted (full weighted action, hammer action).

1. Weighted keys are the closest thing to a classical piano. Only such a midi keyboard can be a more or less close alternative to a mechanical piano for full-fledged learning. It uses the same hammer principle with full imitation of classical mechanics. Only the hammers here do not hit the strings, but the sensors. This takes into account both the force of pressing and the force of impact, as in a real piano. As a rule, these models are the most expensive.
2. The semi-weighted keys are also an imitation of a hammer mechanism, but in a lightweight version. The keys have counterweight and inertia – this is how an imitation of mechanics is created, but there are no hammers themselves. Due to inertia, a much wider dynamic range can be obtained. It is physically easier to play on such a keyboard than on a weighted one, and with a great stretch it can be used to learn how to play the piano.
3. Unweighted is the simplest, easiest and often cheapest option. Such midi keyboards are also called dynamic or synthesizer-type keyboards. They are definitely not suitable for correct positioning of hands while learning to play the piano, but they will ideally help for learning musical notation, playing the keys without special ambitions, for your own pleasure and playing music with your family. It can also be a good option for a musician to quickly record an original melody that suddenly came as an inspiration.

Connection interface

Almost all modern midi keyboards are equipped with a USB interface. Therefore, if you plan to use the device only when connected to a computer, nothing else is required. But for those cases when the midi keyboard will work as part of the 'team' of other musical instruments, a different connection method may be needed. The universal type of connection is consonant with the name of this class of devices – midi interface.

The classic MIDI connector uses 5 pins and cannot serve as a power connection at the same time, unlike USB. Even USB is highly dependent on the source, and if it's a tablet, it simply won't have enough power to power the midi keyboard. Therefore, for the keyboard to work via the MIDI interface, the keyboard will need its own power supply in any case, and when connected via USB, depending on the power of the source.

Additional functionality

Midi keyboards can also differ in additional features and functionality. So, at the level of the game itself, this or that model can support after-pressing, have built-in modulation wheels, support the connection of pedals, contain a variety of additional controllers for modulating sound right on the device, even before the signal enters the computer or other 'older' device.

The presence of such functional additions can make life much easier, or it may turn out to be unclaimed – these points should be considered in advance if you have to pay a lot for such additional functionality.

Rating of the best midi keyboards

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
Best compact midi keyboards	1	M – Audi o Keystation Mini 32 MK3	RUB 4,839
	2	AKAI MPK Mini MKII	RUB 6,900
	3	KORG microKEY2-37	7 400 rub.
	4	Nektar Acorn Masterkey 61	RUB 7,990
	5	Novation Launchkey Mini	RUB 8,253
	6	Arturia MiniLab MkII	RUB 8,980
The best midi keyboards from 10 thousand rubles	1	Roland A-49	RUB 10,930
	2	Nektar Impact LX25 +	RUB 9,990
	3	M – Audi o Keystation 88 II	RUB 17,219
	4	Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A49	RUB 19,040
	5	Studiologic SL88 Studio	RUB 36 860
	6	Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MkII	RUB 92,000

Best compact midi keyboards

The first collection of the review is devoted to inexpensive compact midi keyboards of mainly well-known and reputable brands. The presented models are not necessarily the newest – the experts took into account not only objective indicators, but also feedback from real users for the entire time of each model's presence on the market.

M – Audi o Keystation Mini 32 MK3

Rating: 4.9

Let's start with the most inexpensive and simple option, which has proven itself well as a small, comfortable midi keyboard 'for all occasions'. The manufacturer is known for its inexpensive, efficient and fairly reliable technology.

M – Audi o The Keystation Mini 32 MK3 is only slightly wider than an average laptop and is perfect as a portable option that can be deployed in any environment – even at home, at a cafe, at a park on a bench. Dimensions – 418x20x105mm, weight – 0.45kg. The number of keys is 32, small-sized with an unweighted mechanism. Connection to the control device and power supply – via the USB interface.

The 32 keys of this model is a good attempt at a compromise between the very minimum of 25 keys and a full-size version of 88 keys. This range covers two and a half octaves, and switching between octaves of other orders is carried out using a button on the body itself. There is also a mechanical volume control, which can be reprogrammed to another function if desired; pitch control keys; active shift key. The convenience of using this additional functionality causes mixed reactions from users, but at least it is. The control buttons are backlit, the color of which changes depending on the mode.

There is, however, one flaw in the model – sometimes it happens that the octaves stop connecting. The problem is solved simply – in the disconnected state from the computer by simultaneously pressing and holding the '+', '-' buttons and the octave switching buttons. A possible sustain problem is also 'cured'.

The keyboard consumes very little power and is powered only by the USB interface. The lack of the possibility of additional power supply from the outlet is regarded by some users as a minus, since when powered by a laptop, M – Audi o Keystation Mini 32 MK3 will definitely significantly drain the battery.

The keyboard comes with a long enough USB connection cable and a software package – Ignite and Ableton lite. The Ableton version is very simplified, but it is quite suitable for basic tasks.

This model implements GarageBand support, due to which the device can be connected to iPad through a special adapter. True, you have to put up with a very meager choice of software and limitations on functionality, but this is already a problem iPad.

Advantages

• build quality;
• minimum size with 32 keys;
• additional functions;
• variable, depending on the mode, illumination of control buttons;
• GarageBand support.

disadvantages

• no own power supply, only via USB;
• sometimes octave switching and sustain (treated) 'flies'.

AKAI MPK Mini MKII

Rating: 4.8

The review continues with the most inexpensive midi keyboard of the MPK series of the AKAI trademark. Representatives of the 'old school' warmly perceive this brand, although in fact there is almost nothing left of the legendary Japanese company – in 2004 AKAI went bankrupt, and the Chinese company Grande Group of Hong Kong bought the trademark.

The dimensions of this model are 318x45x181mm, weight – 0.75kg. The body is made of sturdy plastic, the assembly is solid, sturdy, without backlashes and creaks. The keyboard rests stably on any flat surface thanks to the rubber feet. Control buttons are equipped with variable illumination.

Here we see the minimum accepted set of keys – 25 by two octaves, but due to this, the additional functionality is significantly expanded. Small-sized keys with unweighted mechanism. It is possible to connect a pedal through a standard 6.3mm TRS jack on the back of the device. Power – via USB Type B. The keyboard supports transpose (shift).

Additional functions and controls: modulation controller, pitch controller, arpeggiator, drum pads (velocity sensitive), Pitch / Mod joystick, octave up / down. Eight configurable controllers support custom settings with the ability to save – 4 memory banks are allocated for this.

This model definitely pleases with a simple but well thought out arrangement of control elements, which makes working with the midi keyboard especially convenient and enjoyable. Octave switching buttons are located on the left just above the main block of keys. Large rubberized drum pads are pressure sensitive. Controls are on the left, and custom controllers are on the right.

Using the specialized software that comes with the AKAI MPK Mini MKII, you can configure individual pads and link them to the DAW functionality. The Pitch / Mod controller in this model is not made in the form of ordinary wheels, as in most other similar instruments, but in the form of a joystick with a red hat. For the most part, users find this solution convenient and expedient.

Advantages

• build quality;
• touch sensitive keys;
• velocity-sensitive pads;
• convenient location of controls;
• saving custom settings;
• easy to configure and use software.

disadvantages

• powered by USB only.

KORG microKEY2-37

Rating: 4.7

The next mini-model in the review of the best midi keyboards according to version is a product of no less legendary Japanese brand KORG. Only this time the company is still the same, with which it all began, and the good traditions of quality are observed.

This model is part of the KORG microKEY2 line of midi keyboards with 24, 37, 49 and 61 keys. We will consider not the smallest, but also not the largest option – 37 keys. The dimensions of the case of this modification are 565x54x139mm, weight – 1kg. The device works by receiving power from a USB Type-B connection or autonomously from two AA batteries. One set of batteries can work up to 20 hours.

The keys are small, unweighted, but velocity sensitive (Natural Touch). In addition to the USB Type-B port, there are also two USB Type-A jacks that allow you to connect other devices in USB hub mode. In the context of musical use, this model is often equipped with additional external functionality via nanoKONTROL, Korg nanoPAD or other compatible controllers. Direct connection to iPad is provided.

This model, like both previous ones, supports octave shift – for this there are function buttons on the case. They provide access to the entire range, and, moreover, they allow you to shift not only whole octaves, but also individual notes. The Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels are provided to control the tone and expression.

KORG microKEY2-37 is easily and quickly recognized by the operating system, most often you don't even need to install drivers. But for the full use of the keyboard, you still need specialized software. The basic part is provided free of charge – can be downloaded from the manufacturer's official website. In addition, this midi keyboard comes with official licenses from KORG Gadget and KORG Module.

Advantages

• 37 sensitive keys;
• USB hub function;
• the ability to connect a pedal (footswitch);
• the ability to directly connect to iPad;
• easy installation in the system;
• work including from AA batteries.

disadvantages

• no fundamental shortcomings have been identified.

Nektar Acorn Masterkey 61

Rating: 4.7

Now let's consider one of the few options on the market with a coverage of three octaves, and even with semi-weighted keys, which can be bought for less than 10 thousand rubles. This is Acorn Masterkey 61 of the famous Nektar brand. We warn you right away, this model has already been discontinued. On sale on the Russian market in February-March 2020, it is still available, but not everywhere.

Dimensions of the keyboard case – 965x190x76mm, weight – 2kg. The exterior is dominated by a silver finish. This model has 61 keys, semi-weighted, small, responsive to the velocity of pressing. The control panel is located on the left side. A midi keyboard is connected via the USB Type-B interface, and it also receives power from it. There is a standard 6.3mm jack for a sustain pedal (the pedal itself is not included in the package).

This model offers the user good additional functionality, even regardless of the software. So, on the control panel there are four assignable control knobs in real time, octave switching, program change, transposition, MIDI fader (assignable). The modes are displayed on a simple 3-digit LED display.

Octave buttons are located directly above the LED screen. With their help, you can expand the coverage of octaves by the keyboard by 4 up and 3 down. If desired, these buttons can be programmed to perform other functions (together with octaves, there are only four options): changing the midi channel, changing the program, transposition.

The keyboard comes complete with licensed Presonus Studio One Artist software. It is a very powerful platform for recording or production, convenient, easy to learn, containing a rich set of ready-made filters and tools for working with sound and even video.

Advantages

• 61 keys;
• semi-weighted key mechanism;
• high-quality key calibration;
• additional functionality;
• powerful and useful software;
• combination of price and characteristics.

disadvantages

• no pronounced flaws and systematic complaints were found.

Novation Launchkey Mini

Rating: 4.6

The next midi keyboard in our review is the junior mini-model from the Novation Launchkey Mini line. We will consider a newer, improved and functional model from the same series in the second collection.

This is a midi keyboard with the minimum set of keys for such devices – 25. The keys are small, unweighted. Dimensions of the device – 325x43x175mm, weight – 0.675kg. It is connected and powered via the USB Type B interface. In general, the performance is not bad, but the class makes itself felt – the assembly is not the strongest and most thorough.

This model, in addition to its main function, also offers quite interesting advanced functionality. So, on the control panel there are 16 backlit rubberized pad buttons. They can be used to drive drums or to work with the Ableton software. The backlight can change colors for orientation according to the function set on each pad. Above the pads are 8 mechanical controls that can be assigned to control filters or a mixer. Other controls are for octave shifting, mode switching, and more.

To further expand the functions of this model, the manufacturer provides proprietary software for free. Synchronization is fast and transparent, the interaction of the device and software is lightning fast.

Advantages

• 16 rubberized backlit pads
• 8 programmable rotary controls;
• high-quality free branded software for iOS.
• lightning-fast interaction of the keyboard with the software;
• simple and convenient control.

disadvantages

• not too careful assembly.

Arturia MiniLab MkII

Rating: 4.5

Completing the first collection of the magazine's review of the best midi keyboards is another mini-model with 25 keys. This is the second generation of the successful and popular Arturia MiniLab.

The Arturia MiniLab MkII model received an updated design, an expanded package, new functions and in addition – the software included in the Ableton Live Lite package, as well as licensed virtual instruments UVI Grand Piano Model D and Analog Lab Lite.

Keyboard dimensions – 355x50x220mm, weight – 1.5kg. Power and connectivity via USB Type B. 25 unweighted, touch-sensitive small keys. The control panel contains 8 convenient pads, 16 customizable rotary knobs, control buttons, touch controllers – changing the pitch, modulation. It is possible to connect a sustain pedal via a standard 1/4 “TRS.

The rotary controls deserve special mention. All of them are impeccable, which is not to everyone's liking, but it has its own advantages. The first 9 knobs are also push-buttons, you can use them to navigate the list of instruments and select presets.

There is some controversy among users of the use of touch-sensitive touchpads for Pitch and Modulation instead of traditional mechanical wheels. But for the most part, this solution finds positive feedback, like the entire device as a whole. By the way, the touchpads are also customizable – they can be reset to zero when you release your finger, or fixed at the current value until the next change.

Analog LAB Lite comes in a free Lite version and an upgrade to the full version will require additional payment. But in the light version, you can also significantly expand the functionality of the keyboard.

Another complete program – UVI Grand Piano – turns the Arturia MiniLab MkII into a real Steinway concert grand piano (corresponding visualization), and even sampled. The virtual instrument contains an impressive library of 862 samples. UVI Grand Piano may require a significant portion of system resources, so it is advisable to use not the weakest computer to work with the program.

Advantages

• high-quality assembly;
• simple but nice design;
• quality pads;
• multifunctional rotary controls;
• touch panels Pitch and Modulation instead of wheels (not everyone likes);
• useful additional software included;
• you can connect a sustain pedal.

disadvantages

• there are complaints about the 'scrolling' of the rotary controls.

The best midi keyboards from 10 thousand rubles

The second selection in the review of the best midi keyboards according to the version conditionally separates budget models from more advanced ones with a claim to a semi-professional and professional level.

Roland A-49

Rating: 4.9

First, consider the most inexpensive midi keyboard in this collection from Roland. It is a 49-key instrument with a small set of controls. In terms of functionality, the Roland A-49 is somewhat inferior to the budget models described above, “stuffed” with pads, but here the quality and some approach to the professional level are in the first place.

The dimensions of the device are 836x84x182mm, the weight is 2.5kg. Materials and assembly are exceptionally high quality, which is noticeable immediately and is noted in almost every review of real buyers. Professionals note flawless key mechanics (even for unweighted ones), correct aftertouch and touch sensitivity similar to a real piano. From the controls

The device is connected and powered via USB Type B 3.0. This is an important point, since the fast USB allows you to use the keyboard with a computer without noticeable delays, even without using an ASIO card. There is also a MIDI output. It is produced in two colors – white and black, reflected in the modification name with BK and WH indices, respectively.

The Roland A-49 body controls include: S1 and S2 buttons for switching sounds, assignable C1 and C2 knobs; Function and SuperNatural buttons (pressing them at the same time – call the Visual Control function. The Function button gives access to the selection of the active MIDI channel, sound bank, change the system settings. The SuperNatural button is already an 'invention' strictly by Roland – turns on the interaction mode with the connected sound module (Jupiter-80, Integra-7 and others).

Simple buttons '+' and '-' can be used to transpose, increase or decrease the octave. Mode changes will be reflected in the LED next to it.

On the rear panel of the keyboard, in addition to the MIDI and USB connectors, there are the HOLD and EXPRESSION TRS jacks for connecting the sustain and expression pedals.

Advantages

• high build quality;
• flawless key mechanics;
• natural 'piano' sensitivity and aftertouch;
• interfaces USB3.0 and MIDI;
• work without delays even without an ASIO card;
• two jacks for sustain and expression pedals.

disadvantages

• some users lack functionality.

Nektar Impact LX25 +

Rating: 4.8

The second number in the collection is another model from Nektar, this time already more serious than the above-described Acorn Masterkey 61, despite the minimal set of keys – 25. This keyboard is comparable to the previous one for the price.

Dimensions of the device – 476x70x267mm, weight – 1.8kg. The 25 main keys are full-sized, which can be essential for professional use. The mechanism is still unweighted, synthesizer type. The instrument is connected via USB Type B, and is powered by it.

The Nektar Impact LX25 + control panel contains a fairly wide range of controls for parameters and additional functionality. There are 8 backlit pads, 8 assignable knobs, standard Modulation and Pitch Bend wheels, conveniently positioned transpose and octave buttons, 5 configurable presets, a Page button to switch between standard and custom layouts, and more.

Most of the users have a good opinion of the mechanics of the keys and pads, but there are some reviews in which a certain weakness of the sensitivity of both is noted. Tests have shown that such claims are not unfounded.

The Nektar Impact LX25 + is an 'above average' keyboard, which means tight integration with virtually every DAW software demanded in the music world. The fader and mixing potentiometers allow you to control the channel flows of the desired track on the DAW, all 8 knobs can be arbitrarily assigned in any order and configured to control tones and volume.

Advantages

• high quality parts and assembly;
• full-size keys;
• wide additional functionality;
• convenience and intuitive control;
• wide compatibility with DAW-programs;
• flexibility of settings and assignments.

disadvantages

• comparatively weak sensitivity of keys and pads.

M – Audi o Keystation 88 II

Rating: 4.8

From 'mini' to 'maxi' format – the next model in our review will be the first with the maximum number of keys – 88. This is the second edition of the popular and well-proven M – Audi o Keystation 88. The updated version has even more positive feedback from users and high marks from professionals.

The dimensions of the keyboard are 136x24x9cm, the weight is already pretty decent – 7.7 excluding packaging. 88 full-size, semi-weighted keys with velocity sensitivity. Connected and powered via USB Type B interface. Standard MIDI output and two pedal jacks are also included. And another important point – this model can be powered by a 9V adapter, but the adapter itself is not included in the kit.

The keyboard is made in a compact body and there are few physical controls on it: the volume slider and the modulation wheel are both assignable, the +/- octave shift buttons, the Pitch Bend wheel, and the edit mode button. As for the drivers, wide backward compatibility with the OS Windows up to XP, and for the family Mac OS X is implemented here.

This model comes with Ableton Live Lite and Ignite Music Creation software. Official manufacturer's warranty – 12 months.

All in all, this is one of the most affordable solutions that has physical coverage of all seven octaves. This moment, combined with quality and a very affordable price, makes it easy to 'forgive' some limited functionality. And this limitation is only conditional – with the use of the appropriate software the capabilities of M – Audi o Keystation 88 II grow many times over.

Advantages

• 88 semi-weighted full-size keys
• build quality;
• MIDI connector;
• two interfaces for connecting pedals;
• compatibility with many OS;
• the ability to power from the adapter.

disadvantages

• somewhat limited functionality.

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A49

Rating: 4.7

We now take a look at a representative of Native Instruments' iconic Komplete Kontrol series. This is a midi 'sized' 49-key keyboard with some important features for professional use. The line also includes modifications with fewer and more keys with similar functionality.

First, briefly about the technical side of this model. The dimensions of the device are 820x89x257mm, the weight is 4kg. Connection and power supply – via USB Type B. There is a standard 1/4 Jack for connecting a pedal. The keys are full-sized with a semi-weighted mechanism. From the controls directly on the body there are 8 encoders, one 4-directional pushbutton encoder, two touch strips for changing the pitch and modulation.

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A49 benefits from tight integration with virtually all virtual MIDI instruments and enhanced Native KOMPLETE compatibility.

But even without such integration, the controller's firmware already initially contains the richest choice of tools – 4500 standard sounds and almost 10GB of a wide variety of material for composing and decorating musical compositions.

The Smart Play and Easy Mode deserve special praise. They are aimed at making it easier to enter chords and individual notes. So you can create a rich loss by pressing individual keys. In Easy Mode, the process is even more simplified – any scale is displayed only on white keys.

In general, Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A49 is a convenient and powerful tool that allows you to easily combine plugins, manage them, and comprehensively use the richest built-in library. Modes and states are displayed on a compact OLED – display, which further enhances usability.

The keyboard can also function as a sequencer with the assistance of the corresponding software. For example, in the Ableton Live application, you can control quantization, playback, recording, as well as turn the metronome on and off, repeat or undo operations, and much more.

Advantages

• quality of materials and workmanship;
• tight integration with a variety of software systems;
• full support for Native KOMPLETE;
• Smart Play;
• mode for beginners Easy Mode;
• the widest set of built-in musical material.

disadvantages

• no pronounced shortcomings were found.

Studiologic SL88 Studio

Rating: 4.6

Finally, let's look at two models with full key size, maximum number of keys and hammer action. The first will be the most inexpensive model in this class – the Studiologic SL88 Studio from the famous Italian manufacturer Fatar.

This model is essentially a simplified version of the older and much more expensive Studiologic SL88 Grand flagship modification. The main difference is the use of lightweight TP / 100LR mechanics, which significantly influenced the cost. The rest of the functionality of the tool remained unchanged.

Keyboard dimensions – 1260х125х310mm, weight – 13.7kg. The body is strong, metal. The keys are pressure-sensitive and have an Aftertouch function. Controls: 4-position regulator, 3 function buttons, 3 joysticks. Modes are displayed on a compact 320×240 dots color display. The keyboard supports the division of the main block of keys into zones, 4 ranges.

A USB Type B connector is used to connect the device. There is also a MIDI input and two MIDI outputs. There are as many as four connectors for connecting external pedals. Power supply – from the adapter included in the delivery set.

When developing this model and its older Grand-modification, the engineers were guided, in particular, by the desire to minimize the dimensions, at least in width. The developers have succeeded in this in full measure – the width of the keyboard is almost equal to the width of the keyboard block itself. For the same purpose, the traditional modulation and tone wheels have been replaced by joysticks. There are three joysticks in total, and the third controls Cutoff and Resonance. This is the default, since the joysticks can be reprogrammed if desired.

We should also say a few words about the key mechanics. The TP / 100LR system used here is objectively the best budget alternative to the expensive flagship TP / 40WOOD. It is comfortable, of high quality and durable, quite quiet and with controlled movement. However, especially sensitive and sophisticated musicians should try the keyboard by touch in the literal sense, since there is still some slowness and viscosity. Again, these are not drawbacks, just features that may not matter.

Advantages

• 88 keys;
• weighted keys with a hammer mechanism;
• sturdy metal body;
• quality of materials and workmanship;
• LCD display;
• 4 connectors for pedals;
• value for money.

disadvantages

• individual sensitivity to the peculiarities of the TP / 100LR keyboard mechanics.

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MkII

Rating: 4.5

The most expensive professional solution from Native Instruments rounds off the review of the best midi keyboards according to the version. This is the 'older sister' of the aforementioned Komplete Kontrol A49, which significantly surpasses her in professional level and capabilities. It is an enhanced version of the popular and commercially successful Komplete Kontrol S series.

There are no longer any half-measures in terms of key mechanics – the manufacturer uses a full-fledged professional Fatar hammer action. What is noteworthy is that each key in its upper part is equipped with a backlight, and this is done not for decorative purposes, but in order to increase the intuitiveness of the game – the indicators highlight certain areas, depending on the settings set.

Keyboard dimensions – 1390x115x346mm, weight – 13.2kg. The updated version of the controller received rubberized mechanical wheels for adjusting Modulation and Pitch Bend, which was not in the previous one. It also features a touchpad as an alternative to the expression pedal. Two color graphic displays are used to display modes and other information. The control panel also houses eight touchpad controls, a set of control buttons and a navigation knob.

This model can be used stand-alone without being tied to a sequencer. The functionality allows you to quickly search for materials by tags, preview the instrument, turn on arpeggios and chords with single keys. The keyboard is tightly integrated with most of the most popular DAWs, is equipped with plug-ins with support for Smart Play and NKS technologies, and is fully integrated into the ecosystem of Komplete Kontrol and Maschine Essentials complexes.

For connection and commutation, a USB interface, MIDI input and output, jacks for sustain and / or expression pedals are provided. The package also includes the Komplete 12 Select software package with the additions Gentleman, Monark and Massive, as well as a set of 7 thousand ready-made sounds and 33GB of effects and instrument sounds.

Advantages

• 88 keys, full-size;
• high quality Fatar hammer action;
• each key with a separate functional backlight;
• high professional level.
• multifunctional software included.

disadvantages

• high price.

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Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.