I want to buy a MIDI keyboard controller

[JCBigler]

I'm interested in buying a MIDI keyboard controller. I don't want to spend a lot and don't need a full synth or sequencer workstation etc... It's only use will be for virtual instruments.

I'd like a 61 key unit, with some sort of drum pads on it for extra versatility.

Been looking at the offerings from Novation, Alesis, M-Audio, Korg, Akai, etc... I'd like to spend no more than about $350, $400 at the upper end. Are there any real differences in quality or usability at this level?

Musically, I'm most interested in organ type sounds, like B3 stuff, 61 key would be fine at this point. But I could consider an 88-key if there's something that's really good for traditional piano playing.

I'm also considering just getting an EWI USB, since I'm a saxophone player and it seems like I should have one anyway.

Any thoughts or suggestions?

[Sardi]

The differences will be in the key bed and quality of the pads, sliders, knobs etc. Some have integration with SW like the NI keyboards.

Best bet is to go to a shop (if you can) and have a play on some of them. I’m not a piano player by any means, but even I can tell the difference between the feel of some key beds. Everyone is different in what they find acceptable.

There’s a lot to choose from and they all will offer similar features. Just comes down to what’s best for you really.

Sorry if that doesn’t help.


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[musicman691]

Not going to say what to buy but will mention a couple of companies to NOT buy from: Arturia and M-Audio. The quality & longevity just aren't there. Personal experience on both.

[JCBigler]

So I'm looking at maybe the Novation Impulse 61. Anyone have experience with this unit?

Does anyone know if it's possible to map the faders as the draw bars for organ stops?

[JFreak]

I have Novation Launchkey and it has all you need for about 285 euros.

Originally Posted by JCBigler

Does anyone know if it's possible to map the faders as the draw bars for organ stops?

At least the Novation Launchkey can do it, plus the master volume can be mapped as the 9th draw bar

[JCBigler]

Originally Posted by JFreak

I have Novation Launchkey and it has all you need for about 285 euros.

At least the Novation Launchkey can do it, plus the master volume can be mapped as the 9th draw bar

That's good to know. I was looking at the Launchkey series also. But it looked like the Impulse had a better build quality, maybe?

[Dizzi45Z]

Originally Posted by musicman691

Not going to say what to buy but will mention a couple of companies to NOT buy from: Arturia and M-Audio. The quality & longevity just aren't there. Personal experience on both.

+1 I purchased a Keylab 61 and I have forced myself to make it last. I hate this keyboard so much. The keys feel cheap and I have had to repair keys multiple times, the pads are horrible no matter how you try to adjust them. Finally a key won't sound on the keyboard any more and I am finally giving it my way out to a better keyboard.

I have wanted to get a Komplete 49 mk2 since I use so much of Komplete, but I have this feeling that they should be releasing an mk3 version any day now and I don't want to purchase the day before they release the new version.

I have an Akai MPK mini and I absolutely LOVE the feel of the pads on that thing. So I have been leaning to possibly going with an Akai and giving that a go.

[bobcharest]

I’m finally getting my Roland A-88 into the mix. It plays wonderfully I think.

I’ll be using it for playing VSTs more than controlling transport functions.


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[JCBigler]

So now I'm really on the fence...Do I want a keyboard MIDI controller? or Do I want a wind instrument MIDI controller, like a EWI USB?

The answer obviously, is yes, I want both. But I don't want to buy both at the same time.

I'm starting to lean towards the EWI USB, because it will be easier to hide from my wife, and easier to take on tour with me when I go back out.