In recent years, the world of music production has undergone a significant transformation. With technological advancements, music producers now have access to various software tools and hardware devices that help them create music in previously impossible ways. The MIDI controller is one crucial piece of equipment that has become indispensable to modern music producers.
MIDI controllers come in various shapes and sizes, from compact and portable units designed for mobile music production to large, elaborate keyboards with a wide range of features. This article will explore three MIDI controllers that we believe are excellent choices for newer music producers. These controllers offer a range of features, from synth-action keys to transport controls and Bluetooth connectivity, making them highly versatile and valuable tools for musicians and producers of all skill levels. So whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting in the world of music production, read on to discover some of the best MIDI controllers on the market today.
Novation Launchkey Mini Mk3
The Novation Launchkey Mini is an excellent MIDI keyboard for new music producers constantly on the go. With its miniature size, functional features, and compact design, this MIDI controller easily fits into any backpack, making it an excellent option for musicians who want to create music on the go. The controller features 25 synth-action mini keys and 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads that are fully customizable. The illuminated pads can trigger loops, control drums, and play samples, providing producers with various musical tools.
Moreover, the Launchkey Mini MK3 is designed to work seamlessly with Ableton Live, one of the most popular DAWs musicians use today. Whether you use Ableton Live or a different DAW, the Launchkey will work with it, making it a versatile and adaptable option for producers. The controller also has eight rotary knobs that allow you to customize your tone and pitch and modulation sliders that provide extra tone-shaping tools. Additionally, the static chord mode transposes your chord up and down the keyboard, giving producers more options for their music.
Finally, the Launchkey Mini features a TRS Type A 1/8-inch MIDI port (adapter cable not included), allowing producers to connect other MIDI-enabled devices to the controller. This feature provides musicians with even more flexibility and options when creating music. In conclusion, with its versatile features, seamless integration with DAWs, compact design, and portability, the Novation Launchkey Mini is a great MIDI keyboard for new music producers who want to create music on the go or in the studio.
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Akai MPK Mini Mk3
The Akai Professional MPK Mini III is an excellent MIDI keyboard for new music producers who want to take control of their music-making in exciting new ways. Whether you’re a mobile performer or a studio producer, this ultra-compact keyboard is small enough to fit in your backpack, making it an excellent option for musicians who want to create music on the go. The controller features 25 velocity-sensitive synth-action mini keys, Octave Up/Down buttons, and an ergonomic 4-way thumbstick for pitch-bend and mod duties. The Gen 2 keybed is redesigned for improved dynamic expression and articulation, allowing producers to get hands-on with their music again.
Moreover, the MPK Mini III comes with eight backlit, bankable velocity-sensitive MPC-style pads (in two banks) with MPC Note Repeat and Full Level, plus eight assignable endless knobs for mixing, tweaking plug-ins, and more. The bright OLED display provides immediate parameter feedback, allowing musicians to adjust quickly and easily. Additionally, the onboard arpeggiator comes with adjustable resolution, range, and modes, providing producers with even more options for their music. With dedicated Octave Up and Octave Down buttons, and an onboard Arpeggiator Tap Tempo button, the MPK Mini III gives producers complete control over their music.
Finally, the Akai Professional MPK Mini III is built to last. It is class-compliant with USB-MIDI connectivity for Mac/PC, USB-powered, and requires no power adapter. The sustain pedal input jack and rugged build ensure on-the-go durability. Additionally, the controller comes with an included Complete Music Production Starter Kit, providing producers with even more tools and resources to help them create great music. In conclusion, with its ultra-compact design, versatile features, and rugged build, the Akai Professional MPK Mini III is a great MIDI keyboard for new music producers who want to create music on the go or in the studio.
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Arturia MiniLab MkII
Arturia’s MiniLab 3 is a 25-key MIDI keyboard controller designed to focus on synthesizer research and development. With an ultra-slim profile and weighing just over three pounds, this device is an excellent option for newer music producers who need a compact and portable solution for their music-making needs. The MiniLab 3 features two capacitive touch sensors for pitch and modulation control, eight touch- and pressure-sensitive pads that are fully assignable and RGB-backlit, eight rotary encoders, and four high-quality sliders. These controls can be customized to create versatile schemes that suit user preferences.
One of the standout features of the MiniLab 3 is the new mini display that includes a clickable browsing knob. This display provides real-time feedback on tweaks and mods made to any of the MiniLab 3’s 500 presets, making it easy to navigate and customize sounds. The MiniLab 3 also includes intuitive functionality that allows straightforward transposition control by octave or semitone, hold and chord modes, and the built-in arpeggiator. Custom DAW scripts have been tailored for integration with major workstations alongside seamless compatibility with Arturia’s extensive library of software instruments.
In conclusion, the Arturia MiniLab 3 is an excellent option for newer music producers who need a portable and compact MIDI keyboard controller packed with features. Its sleek design, intuitive functionality, customizable controls, and seamless integration make it an ideal device for on-the-go music creation.
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M-Audio Keystation 49 Mk3
The M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 is the perfect solution for music producers seeking a reliable and intuitive MIDI keyboard controller. With its full-sized synth-action keys, this lightweight and expressive keyboard is ideal for studio setups and live performances. The Keystation 49 MK3 is a plug-and-play device with Mac/PC Class Compliancy and USB bus powering, making it easy to use on the go. It also features a standard 1/4-inch sustain pedal input and an on/off switch on the back panel for convenience.
The Keystation 49 MK3’s intuitive control set is designed to help you breeze through your music-making sessions. Its Pitch, Modulation, and Octave controls are located to the left of the keys, allowing for quick and easy adjustments. The dedicated Volume slider is perfect for live performances and can be assigned to control any MIDI value in the studio, allowing for added expression while recording. The Keystation 49 MK3 has transport controls and cursor keys, allowing you to navigate your DAW without needing a mouse.
With 49 full-sized, synth-action, velocity-sensitive keys, the M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 balances playability and portability. Its streamlined control set includes everything you need to control your music software. It is an excellent option for newer music producers who want a simple yet powerful MIDI keyboard controller.
The M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 is a versatile and reliable option for music producers of all skill levels. Its lightweight design and streamlined control set make it easy to use on the go, while its full-sized keys and advanced button allow for robust MIDI control in the studio.
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Nektar Impact LX25+
The Nektar Impact LX25+ is the perfect MIDI keyboard for newer music producers who want the power of the Impact LX+ series without the added keys and faders. Based on the award-winning Panorama and LX49+/LX61+ before it, the LX25+ offers intelligent mapping to give you hands-on control of your DAW session. You can quickly switch between Mixer, Instrument, and Preset modes for a fast workflow. The Impact LX25+ offers a smooth and precise feel with its synth-action keys, pitch and mod wheels, knobs, 30mm fader, and performance pads.
The Impact LX25+’s 25-note velocity-sensitive keyboard has a smooth synth action with medium tension, making it perfect for playing just about any part. You get four velocity curves that gradually increase dynamics to suit your playing style. There are three fixed velocities for certain types of synth parts requiring consistent output. The pitch bend and modulation wheels are properly placed to your left, with the octave and transpose buttons above them. With these controls, you can easily manipulate the pitch and modulate the sound of your instruments.
The Nektar Impact LX25+ comes with Bitwig 8-Track DAW software, which features the entire collection of Bitwig Studio devices for use on up to eight project tracks with audio or MIDI. Bitwig DAW software gives you a powerful toolset and fast workflow for sketching and arranging musical ideas to final mixdown and even live performance. You can create music seamlessly and efficiently with the Nektar Impact LX25+ and Bitwig 8-Track DAW software. This keyboard is perfect for newer music producers who want to streamline their workflow and easily create great music.
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Novation Launchkey 37 MK3 37-key Keyboard Controller
The Novation Launchkey 37 MK3 is perfect for newer music producers seeking tightly integrated control over their music creation process. Whether launching clips in Ableton Live or composing in any other major DAW, the Launchkey 37 MK3 delivers streamlined control optimized for Ableton Live with immediate access to all the necessary controls. With an easy-to-read 16 x 2 character screen, 37 velocity-sensitive synth-style keys, 16 RGB backlit velocity-sensitive pads, pitch bend, and modulation wheels, the Launchkey 37 MK3 provides all the features you need to get your music from your head to your speakers.
One of the most exciting features of the Launchkey 37 MK3 is the new Scale and Chord Modes, which allows you to play perfectly in-key basslines, melodies, chords, and leads. The Scale modes transpose keys and pads to notes in the selected scale, and the Chord Modes enable you to trigger chords with one finger, making it easy for beginners to create harmonic progressions. In addition, the Launchkey 37 MK3 has a powerful arpeggiator that takes your melodies to the next level. The larger velocity-sensitive pads with optimized response make it more intuitive to use than ever.
Novation has taken all the user feedback from the previous iterations and improved the Launchkey 37 MK3 in every way. The controller instantly maps to most major DAWS. The eight rotary knobs, 5-pin MIDI out socket, Arm/select buttons, Octave up/down buttons, Play/stop/record/loop button, Track navigation buttons, Capture MIDI/quantize/click/undo buttons, stop/solo/mute buttons. Scene launch button provides you with all the controls you need. The Novation Launchkey 37 MK3 is a powerful, versatile, intuitive MIDI keyboard controller perfect for new music producers.
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Korg NanoKONTROL Studio
The Korg nanoKONTROL Studio is a versatile MIDI controller perfect for music producers who want a portable and intuitive control surface for their laptops or iPad. With Bluetooth LE connectivity, you can set up the nanoKONTROL Studio in seconds without needing a USB cable. The controller features eight sliders, 8 knobs, and 32 buttons that provide access to various functions, including volume, pan, mute, solo, and record. The transport section of the nanoKONTROL Studio includes a jog wheel, marker placement, and other essential navigation tools, making it easy to manipulate your music on the go.
The nanoKONTROL Studio is designed to be an ideal control surface for mobile mixing and music production. With eight sliders and eight knobs, you can easily mix or manipulate other continuous controllers, giving you precise control over your music. The 32 buttons on the controller provide access to essential functions like mute, solo, record arm, and more. You can also store up to five snapshots, making it easy to recall scenes quickly and easily.
The Korg nanoKONTROL Studio has a software bundle for Mac, PC, and iOS platforms to use with your preferred DAW. The Bluetooth LE connectivity makes it easy to connect wirelessly to your computer or mobile device to work from anywhere without the hassle of cables. Whether you’re a seasoned music producer or a new musician, the Korg nanoKONTROL Studio is an excellent choice for a portable, easy-to-use MIDI controller.
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Will Vance is a professional music producer who has been involved in the industry for the better part of a decade and has been the managing editor at Magnetic Magazine since mid-2022. In that time period, he has published thousands of articles on music production, industry think pieces and educational articles about the music industry. Over the last decade as a professional music producer, Will Vance has also ran multiple successful and highly respected record labels in the industry, including Where The Heart Is Records as well as having launched a new label with a focus on community through Magnetic Magazine. When not running these labels or producing his own music, Vance is likely writing for other top industry sites like Waves or the Hyperbits Masterclass or working on his upcoming book on mindfulness in music production. On the rare chance he's not thinking about music production, he's probably running a game of Dungeons and Dragons with his friends which he has been the dungeon master for for many years.
