Best Midi Drum Pad
Feb 1, 2019 - The Akai Professional MPD218 MIDI Drum Pad Controller with Software product has everything a producer would need. This includes; free.
Whether you’re a hobbyist music producer who is just getting started or your skills in the studio are advanced, chances are at some point you’ll be looking for the best MIDI keyboard for your budget. A MIDI keyboard is an essential building block of a music studio, along with your computer/laptop, DAW, audio interface, headphones and/or studio monitors. The question ' what’s the best MIDI keyboard' is being asked over and over in forums, and for good reason. There are lots of manufacturers out there making lots of MIDI keyboards that at first glance all look alike, and to make shopping for one even more complicated, they update the models fairly often (e.g. The Akai MPK49 suddenly becomes the Akai MPK249. You can see how that gets confusing). Well, fear not.
Equipboard is here to demystify the process of choosing your next (or first) MIDI keyboard.The 5 Best MIDI Keyboards The best MIDI keyboards ImageMIDI KeyboardSummaryCheck PriceThe Akai MPK249 (as well as the MPK225 and MPK261) carries a hefty price tag, but this is truly a pro-level MIDI keyboard. The feel of the keys, fit, and finish is top notch, and as a bonus you get Ableton Live Lite.
Between the 3 sizes, we feel the 49-key Akai MPK249 hits the sweet spot. Best of the BestWhether a beginner on a budget or a pro looking for a super portable, full-featured MIDI keyboard, the Akai MPK Mini MKII is your best bet. Unfortunately it only comes in a 25-key version, but despite that remains one of the most highly recommended MIDI keyboards.Considering all the features you get, the Novation Launchkey MIDI keyboards carry a very attractive price tag. If you're an Ableton Live user, you'll especially love how everything maps seamlessly.
We highly recommend the Novation Launchkey 61 MK2 if you're looking for a 61-key controller. Best Bang for Your BuckIf you don't need sliders knobs & pads, and simply want a great quality no-frills MIDI keyboard, the M-Audio Keystation is the one to get. Bonus points for the availability of 88-keys with the Keystation 88. Lots of pros use this one, and if you can do without sliders and pads, you're good to go.With an impressive build quality, superior drum pads, nice price tag, and plenty of pro users, the M-Audio Oxygen series is a worthy competitor to the Novation Launchkey. Ableton users might prefer the Launchkey, but otherwise the slight edge goes to this one.Akai MPK249DAW Compatibility:All DAWs (Ableton Live, Logic, FL Studio, Cubase, GarageBand, etc.)Number of Keys Available:,One of the most highly reviewed and recommended line of MIDI keyboards out there is Akai’s MPK2xx series, particularly the Akai MPK249 49-Key USB MIDI Drum Pad and Keyboard Controller. Three flavors are available: the MPK225 with 25 keys, MPK249 with 49 keys, and MPK261 with 61 keys.
The Akai MPK249 seems to have improved on just about everything from its very popular predecessor, the. These are not the most budget-minded keyboards, with the smallest one starting around $250.So, why the premium price tag? If we had to describe these Akai MIDI keyboards in one word, it would be quality. They simply feel more polished and sturdier than any other MIDI keyboard out there; they’re truly in a different league (the 61-key Akai MPK261 weighs in at a hefty 15 lbs). Akai set their sights on making a premium level keyboard controller, and it shows. Everything from the enclosure to the feel of the keys and knobs is reminiscent of a $1000+ synthesizer, as opposed to a plastic-feeling MIDI keyboard.The full-size keys are semi-weighted and feel great. You get 16 MPC pads, which are very customizable right down to changing the color of each pad.
The pads feel very musical, and respond well to your playing dynamics. It has 8 assignable knobs, 8 faders, and 8 switches, pitch bend and modulation wheels, 1 assignable footswitch jack and 1 expression jack, amongst more bells and whistles.DAW integration is pretty solid, with presets existing for just about every DAW out there. We didn’t get to test this ourselves, but from reading many user reviews, it seems users of Logic Pro X had the most trouble, primarily complaining that the integration doesn’t go as deep as they’d like. But as one reviewer put it, it’s more of a frustration than a deal-breaker. The MPK249 has transport controls (buttons for play, stop, record, etc.), which makes it well-suited for controlling your DAW. And speaking of DAWs, bundled together with this keyboard you get a copy of Ableton Live Lite (a stripped-down version of the full Ableton Live DAW). Not a bad deal if you either don’t already have a DAW, or want to experiment with Live.Bottom Line: Following in the footsteps of the popular Akai MPK 49, the newer MPK249 has a lot to love except for maybe its price tag.
If you can afford it, then we say you’d be hard pressed to find a more quality 49-key MIDI keyboard. Based on our tests, we feel the 49-key MPK249 is the best value in this line. If instead you need:. 25 keys: We're inclined to steer you towards the very popular and more affordable.
61 keys: We find it hard to justify the price of the MPK261, and instead will point you to the, or, both of which we cover in this list.Aside some spotty compatibility with Logic Pro X, there aren’t really any functional downsides to these. If you’re lucky enough to be able to afford them, know you’re getting the most premium MIDI keyboards around. Best of the Best.Akai MPK Mini MKII 25-KeyDAW Compatibility:All DAWs (Ableton Live, Logic, FL Studio, Cubase, GarageBand, etc.)Number of Keys Available:When it comes to ultra-portable 25-key MIDI keyboards, none receive more glowing reviews and recommendations than the Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII 25-Key USB MIDI Drum Pad and Keyboard Controller. This is actually a new and improved version of its predecessor, the original. As well-loved as that MIDI keyboard was, it wasn’t without its problems, nearly all of which have been resolved by the newer MKII.The Akai MPK Mini MKII is so popular because it fulfills many different roles for different musicians. Given its very budget-friendly price tag, it’s the perfect MIDI keyboard if you’re just starting out and might not yet know if you need more keys at your disposal. That said, it’s also the perfect portable controller keyboard for producers that may already have a larger keyboard in the studio.
Pros spotted using the MPK Mini (both the previous and current MKII version) include Hard Rock Sofa, Steve Angello, Deorro, Skream, Earl Sweatshirt, and Noah '40' Shebib, amongst many others.To better understand why it's so popular, let’s talk about the surprising amount of features Akai managed to pack in a keyboard with such a small footprint. First you have 25 synth-action velocity-sensitive mini keys. To make the keyboard this small, Akai sacrificed on the size and heftiness of the keys. Perhaps if you are just starting out (or depending on your use), the small spring-loaded keys won’t bother you much. If you’re used to keyboards or pianos with heavier keys however, or your fingers are particularly large, you might want to think twice before going for the Akai MPK Mini.
In another space-saving measure, instead of pitch and modulation wheels, you get a 4-way thumbstick. The thumbstick takes some getting used to, but it works well enough. Something that users love about this keyboard are the 8 backlit MPC-style pads, which are also velocity-sensitive and much improved from the previous incarnation of this keyboard. Other features include 8 knobs, octave-up and down buttons, a sustain pedal input, and a built-in arpeggiator.Reviewers (us included) have little to no trouble getting the Akai MPK Mini MKII set up and ready to go. On various operating systems using various DAWs, after you plug it into your computer via USB, it just works. No worries here.Bottom Line: This is simply a fantastic little MIDI controller. It feels well-built, has an extremely small footprint, and is super portable.
You should have no trouble slipping it into your backpack for travel use. Some users like this MIDI keyboard so much, that despite originally buying it for travel use, they end up using it as their primary studio keyboard. Of course, it doesn’t come without some downsides. 25 keys is the only version it comes in (without going to the pricier Akai MPK2xx line). For some musicians, 25 keys might simply be too limiting.
Even if 25 keys suffice, be aware that the keys are smaller than average (about the width of a penny), and are not weighted. Also, the included Akai software leaves a lot to be desired, but that’s ok; you probably shouldn’t buy a MIDI keyboard for the software it comes bundled with. With Akai’s reliability, killer looks, an amazingly affordable price, and with total beginners all the way to seasoned pro producers making this their studio and portable MIDI keyboard of choice, we think it very much earns a spot on this list.Novation Launchkey 61 MK2DAW Compatibility:Made especially for Ableton Live, but will map to all major DAWs (Logic, FL Studio, Cubase, GarageBand, etc.)Number of Keys Available:,Novation is the name behind such classic synthesizers as the Novation Bass Station and Novation Supernova. In 2009 (and now owned by Focusrite) they launched one of the first grid-based performance controllers, the very popular Novation Launchpad. The point is, these guys know what they’re doing when it comes to keyboards and controllers, and it’s obvious when you get your hands on the Novation Launchkey 61 Keyboard Controller for Ableton Live, MK2 Version.
The Launchkey MIDI keyboards have been designed specifically for maximum compatibility with the Ableton Live DAW. That’s not to say you can’t use it with other major DAWs, as well. Let’s dig in.The Launchkey 61 is one of the better priced 61-key MIDI controllers out there (especially considering all the features it has). However, the Novation Launchkey series comes in 25 and 49-key versions (there is even an ultra-portable ).
It’s worth mentioning that we are recommending the 2nd generation of the Novation Launchkey MIDI keyboards. While the 1st generation might still be available from some sellers, we prefer the newer ones since they improved on their predecessors. In terms of features, you get quite a few bells and whistles: 16 velocity-sensitive drum pads, 8 knobs, 9 sliders (the 25-key version has just 1 slider), transport controls for your DAW, pitch bend and mod wheels, 1/4' jack for a sustain pedal, and more. Feature-for-feature, this is pretty comparable to the Akai and M-Audio MIDI keyboards.On the whole, the keys, pads, knobs, and sliders feel good, not great. It’s not that the Novation Launchkey is bad by any means, it’s just that it falls a little short when compared to the fit and finish of the Akai MPK 2xx MIDI keyboards. User reviews are mixed, with some calling the build quality anything from 'cheap plastic,' and some saying it's great. In our experience we wouldn't say it feels cheap, but you’re definitely giving up a little build quality (which is understandable considering how good the price is).
We don’t think this is a deal-breaker, since a MIDI keyboard that will stay put in your studio doesn’t have to be built like a tank. In terms of the playability of the keys, they are 'synth-action,' are velocity-sensitive and provide good feedback. If you’re a piano player, these keys feel good enough, although you might prefer the Akai’s semi-weighted key action a little better.As they advertise, the Novation Launchkey integrates especially well with Ableton - everything automatically maps. If you don’t use Ableton and this is scaring you away from choosing this keyboard, don’t worry! We tested it out with FL Studio, and after some re-mapping it worked quite well also. From the reviews we read, it seems the Launchkey will handle all major DAWs. One of the benefit to having so many knobs and sliders is you’ll be able to map to your VST instrument controls, which will make your software synths feel more like hardware.
Thanks - Excellent article.My comment to 'We were surprised. How many people. Are asking for MIDI keyboard recommendations based on their DAW'. Always compatible? No way!I have SONAR, I bought a Novation LaunchKey.They didn't work togetherAfter much (extremely difficult) research I found that1 - SONAR supports Mackie Control but not HUI2 - Novation supports HUI but not Mackie ControlThis information is VERY difficult to find out - often hidden or not published.I can throw away the Launchkey. Should I buy an M-Audio Oxygen? Does it support SONAR?
Does it support Mackie Control?You tell me - because I can't find this information anywhere.Thanks again. If you read about, you'll see we looked through tons of forums and discussions and gathered up the most recommended brands and models, and it happened to shake out like this. I agree with you, Native Instruments make some great controllers but they're also a little bit pricey for what they are, so they might not just be as popular because of that. Not as familiar with the Roland A-series, but they seem pretty nice and there are plenty of pro artists using them! Check out Equipboard's section as well. I was doing some digging for a key controller that works best with Apple Mainstage.
The only one that really integrates with Mainstage in a way that makes it work like a hardware synth is Nektar's Panorama 6. They really got it right. You see all your Mainstage preset names in their huge color display and you can quickly switch between sets and patches with dedicated buttons. No other controler comes even close. You guys should check it out. I was surprised not to find any mention of it in your article.
Browse Close Search Wirecutter For: Search.Search Wirecutter For: SearchReviews for the real world. The makes a good choice for anyone who might be put off by the Arturia’s small size, mini keys, and lack of onboard controls to configure its settings. This model also provides buttons to remotely control music-making software on your computer.Of all the controllers we tested, the Impact LX25+ proved the best option for live performance—the full-size keys had good action and responsiveness, and the rubber-coated pitch-bend and modulation wheels had a solid feel. The Nektar is the only controller of the bunch that doesn’t offer out-of-the-box compatibility with the popular computer music software Ableton Live, but you can still configure it to work with that program. We recommend the to anyone seeking a compact, portable input device for making beats and triggering samples. The Akai’s generously sized pads have a good feel and allow for a decent range of expressiveness when you’re finger-drumming. And although the stiff keyboard action makes this model a lesser option for live performance, we found that the thumb-controlled pitch-bend and modulation joystick worked well.
Also, the built-in arpeggiator is fun and easy to use, letting you trigger and shape complex synthesizer melodies on the fly. I have two decades of experience reviewing AV products, and currently I am a contributing technical editor at Sound & Vision magazine and a regular contributor to the SoundStage network of websites. I’m also a drummer and electronic-music maker, so I have extensive familiarity with the tools of the trade, including, MIDI controllers, and other gear for desktop studio environments.For help with the testing phase for this guide, I enlisted Denis Kitchen, a software developer and musician with experience performing and recording with synthesizers and MIDI controllers dating back to the 1980s. As a keyboard player who regularly uses MIDI controllers as part of his live performance rig, Kitchen brought an invaluable hands-on perspective to the evaluation. Who should buy a keyboard MIDI controller.
Photo: Michael HessionAmateurs who want to create their own electronic, rap, and dance music tracks on a computer will benefit from a keyboard MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) controller. Making music using MIDI is easy. Aside from the controller, all you need to get started is a DAW (digital audio workstation) software application such as Ableton Live, Apple GarageBand, or Image Line’s FL Studio. The controller sends commands to the computer over a USB connection. Those commands then control various aspects of virtual musical instruments that run as plug-ins within the DAW software, playing a piano note soft or loud, for example, or triggering a drum beat.Many controllers also come with free software instrument plug-ins that provide authentic-sounding emulations of everything from acoustic grand pianos to vintage analog synthesizers.While available keyboard MIDI controller options include 88-key models that cover the same octave range as a, most music makers prefer working with compact, 25-key models that can fit on a desktop.
These typically include pads to tap out beats, along with a set of rotary knobs to control things like volume and pitch. While 25-key models cover only a two-octave range, they include controls to “shift” the note range to hit higher and lower octaves. Not only are they desktop-friendly, but most are also small enough for you to stow them in a backpack for easy transport.Along with providing a compact, portable option for music creation, 25-key controllers are surprisingly affordable. Many models are available for $100 or less, with $150 representing the high-end option.
They also typically come bundled with free software, the value of which can easily exceed that of the controller itself. Most controllers include a complimentary license for a Lite version of Ableton Live, a popular DAW that provides a loop-based platform for music composition. Many controllers also come with free software instrument plug-ins that provide authentic-sounding emulations of everything from acoustic grand pianos to vintage analog synthesizers. It’s difficult to discuss MIDI controllers and music-production software without spouting off technical jargon. The Arturia MiniLab MkII (upper left) and Akai MPK Mini MKII (upper right) have smaller keys that allow those units to be more compact, but the full-size keys on the Nektar Impact LX25+ (bottom) make playing chords and melodies more comfortable.
Photo: Michael HessionTo settle on the keyboard MIDI controllers that I would call in to test, I first read owner reviews on sites including Amazon, Sweetwater, and Musician’s Friend. I also scoured professional reviews from magazines, websites, and YouTube channels that specialized in covering MIDI and electronic music production.
To pare the category down further, I homed in on the following features:. 25 synth-action keys. Multiple pads for drumming and triggering samples. Multiple rotary knobs for on-the-fly adjustment of software instrument parameters. Pitch-bend and modulation controls. Buttons to control DAW-software playback. Preset configurations to control popular DAW software.
Quality of bundled softwareAfter making the decision to limit our testing to controllers priced under $150, we settled on six models based on the above list of preferred features: the,. The cost for the controllers we tested currently ranges from $90 to $120—a bargain when you consider both the functionality and the free bundled software that some of the models provide. How we tested.
To test the MIDI controllers, I used Ableton Live 9 Lite running on a MacBook Pro. I also downloaded the software instrument plug-ins included with each model to get a sense of their usefulness and value. A free Lite version of Live, a popular loop-based DAW geared for live performance, comes standard with each of the controllers except the. (Nektar includes a limited-track version of its own DAW, Bitwig Studio, with that model.) For that reason—and also because I like using Live—it seemed a natural choice for the test, though I also used Apple GarageBand with the Nektar controller to test out its automapping feature.Dividing up the testing gig—Denis Kitchen on the keyboards, me on the drum pads and general controller features—we evaluated each model by playing and recording music clips and banging out beats.
In addition, Kitchen brought a laptop running MainStage 3, a live-performance companion module for Apple’s Logic Pro X, so that he could test each controller’s capabilities using that software’s collection of analog synthesizer patches.The small pad size and cramped arrangement on some models made finger-drumming difficult.The keyboard qualities that we tested for included playability, a parameter that took into account the weight and springiness of the keys when touched as well as how easy it was to input a melody to the recording software. This was a particular concern for the ultracompact models with mini keys, a group that included the Akai, Arturia, and Novation models. (The other three controllers all featured full-size keys.) Another concern was velocity, or the key’s ramp-up to maximum MIDI input value when pressed. In some cases, this parameter allowed adjustments for a more natural feel, either via a setup menu on the keyboard or through an accompanying software app.
Finally for keyboards, we tested the performance and ergonomics of the controller’s hardware pitch-bend and modulation controls.The drum pad qualities we tested for included sensitivity and responsiveness—how easy it was to tap out a natural-sounding range of soft to loud drum sounds. Overall feel was also a concern, since the pads on some models had a distinctly harder surface than on others. The pad size and layout ended up being crucial during our test: The small pad size and cramped arrangement on some models made finger-drumming difficult, while the larger, more well-spaced pads on others let us more easily tap out rolls and other fancy drum moves.We also took note of features that made using each controller easier and more intuitive. This included color-coded pad backlighting, hardware buttons that automapped to corresponding software controls and allowed you to operate the program without touching your computer, and controls that let you configure features such as an arpeggiator, or to switch banks of samples assigned to a specific group of pads. Finally, we checked out the rotary knobs on each unit, looking for qualities such as robustness, resistance, and knob size and spacing. Our pick: Arturia MiniLab MkII. May be out of stockThe was an easy choice to make as the best 25-key MIDI controller for most people.
Midi Pad Controllers
At just over 12 inches wide and 8½ inches deep, it’s compact enough to sit comfortably on desktops alongside a computer and other gear. With a heavy-duty case braced by a metal bottom plate that adds heft and stability, its build quality is several notches above that of the other controllers in our test group. The Arturia’s uncluttered layout, with well-spaced rotary knobs and pads and only a minimum of extra controls, also makes it an approachable option for electronic-music newbies, as well as a good choice for advanced musicians seeking a streamlined controller for live performance.The MiniLab MkII may be compact and basic compared with some of the other controllers we looked at, but its features are well-chosen.The Mini Lab MkII has notably solid build quality for an inexpensive MIDI keyboard controller. Photo: Michael Hession.The Arturia’s 16 rotary knobs let you easily control features in DAWs and software instruments. Photo: Michael Hession.The responsive keyboard on the Arturia makes it easy to play for a model with mini keys. Photo: Michael Hession.The Mini Lab MkII has notably solid build quality for an inexpensive MIDI keyboard controller. Photo: Michael Hession.The Arturia’s 16 rotary knobs let you easily control features in DAWs and software instruments.
Photo: Michael Hession. May be out of stockTypically priced about the same as our main pick, the has full-size keys that should appeal to seasoned keyboard players seeking a compact controller to use for live performance.
Its comprehensive MIDI feature set also makes it a good option for people who want to dive deep into configuring the controller. To that end, the Impact LX25+ features an LED display that provides visual feedback such as the active keyboard octave range during setup and configuration, which you can carry out on the controller itself as opposed to using a separate software application and then porting the results over. It also offers a full set of transport keys to control DAW functions such as record, playback, and looping, so you don’t have to shift back and forth between the controller and your computer when creating tracks.The rubber-coated pitch-bend and modulation wheels on the LX25+ make it a good option for live performance. Photo: Michael Hession.The Nektar controller’s eight pads are well-spaced and have a good feel for drumming. Photo: Michael Hession.A set of hardware buttons on the LX25+ allow remote control of software DAW functions. Photo: Michael Hession.The Nektar’s LED display gives you visual feedback when you’re configuring MIDI and other settings. Photo: Michael Hession.The rubber-coated pitch-bend and modulation wheels on the LX25+ make it a good option for live performance.
Photo: Michael Hession.The Nektar controller’s eight pads are well-spaced and have a good feel for drumming. Photo: Michael Hession. The Nektar distinguished itself in our testing through its keyboard feel—the keys had good action and velocity right out of the box.
Its rubber-coated pitch and modulation wheels were also easy to handle and offered a decent level of tension, making them a good option for performance. Tapping out beats was a pleasure with this model’s rubbery, responsive, comfortably spaced 1-inch pads at the top-right section of the controller.Areas where the Impact LX25+ came up short included its rotary knobs, which had a looser feel and less resistance than those on the Arturia, M-Audio, and Alesis controllers.
It also doesn’t come with a download code for Ableton Live Lite, though Nektar does provide a free copy of Bitwig 8-Track, a full-featured DAW similar to Ableton’s Live. It’s a newer piece of software, so it might be unfamiliar to people with some experience, but it has a clear layout of functions, and beginners shouldn’t have any more difficulty getting into music making with this package than they would with more venerable software. Automapping for Live isn’t available when you first fire up the Nektar controller, though a document on the company’s support site will guide you through configuration for use with the program. Tsaesci pronounce. During my testing, I was able to use the Impact LX25+ to easily control many features of another DAW, Apple’s GarageBand, with only minimal setup. The Nektar Impact LX25+ is much larger than our other top picks, but its full-size keys make it easier to play. Photo: Michael HessionWriting on, the site’s chief reviewer Carlo homes in on the Nektar’s onboard MIDI adjustments, noting, “The controls is where the Impact LX25+ really shines. I have never used a keyboard which is as intuitive as this when it comes to controlling your DAW from your fingertips without ever needing to reach for your mouse.” Last time we checked, the Impact LX25+ had earned an across 24 reviews on Amazon.
Also great: Akai MPK Mini MKII. The is an even more compact option than the Arturia MiniLab MkII, and it offers a few key features not found on that controller. The main one is its set of large, 1⅛-inch drum pads—the same size as the pads on the comparatively gargantuan M-Audio Oxygen 25. Not only are the Akai’s pads big, but they are also spaced wide enough to enable comfortable playing, and they have a good feel and responsiveness. In our keyboard tests, the MPK Mini MKII’s pitch-bend and modulation thumb stick also worked surprisingly well, making this model a decent option for live performance, where pitch-bend and modulation controls are important for getting an authentic keyboard sound. The built-in arpeggiator lets you tap out repeating patterns quickly, so you can effortlessly achieve a warbly.
Finally, Akai bundles its controller with an impressive software package, including the and plug-in instruments, and Akai’s own MPC Essentials DAW and MPK Mini MIDI Editor.Large, responsive pads on the MPK Mini MKII make it easy to perform beats. Photo: Michael Hession.The smallest controller we tested, the Akai MPK Mini MKII has a full set of features, including eight rotary knobs. Photo: Michael Hession.The Akai’s pitch-bend/modulation thumb stick and built-in arpeggiator are unique features not found on the other controllers. Photo: Michael Hession.Large, responsive pads on the MPK Mini MKII make it easy to perform beats.
Photo: Michael Hession.The smallest controller we tested, the Akai MPK Mini MKII has a full set of features, including eight rotary knobs. Photo: Michael Hession. While the MPK Mini MKII is a great option for making beats, its small keys—the smallest of any controller we tested—can make playing keyboard leads a challenge, especially if you have thick fingers.
Its keys also had a stiff response in our tests (“Stiff as hell,” according to Denis Kitchen), although the velocity response was good out of the box. In addition, the Akai’s eight rotary knobs are small and somewhat flimsy, offering very little resistance when twisted. The Akai MPK Mini MKII is tiny enough to fit easily on a crowded desktop or into a backpack. Photo: Michael HessionA reviewer for had a positive experience testing the Akai, citing its generally good build quality and pad performance, which is “great for what you pay for.” The reviewer also characterizes its thumb-stick control as being “great to get some custom and significantly swingy, more natural sounding pitch and modulation down to your tracks.” At our last check, across 1,194 reviews, the MPK Mini MKII had an on Amazon.
The competition. The was created for use with Ableton Live, and it works exceptionally well as a control interface when paired with that program.
It gives you buttons designed specifically to navigate tracks and scenes in Live, and the controller’s 16 pads can trigger samples, with RGB backlighting to indicate status feedback. As an input device or general-purpose MIDI controller, however, the Novation is less useful: In our tests, the keyboard action proved just marginally better than that of the Akai MPK Mini MKII, and the tiny (¾-inch square), closely spaced pads were an ergonomic nightmare for drumming. On the plus side, the Launchkey Mini 25 MK2 comes bundled with Novation’s excellent V-Station and Bass-Station software instrument plug-ins.“An interesting exercise in minimalism” is how Denis Kitchen characterized the after first having a go at it. By combining full-size keys with a stripped-down control set consisting of eight pads, four rotary knobs, and four programmable buttons, the V25 presents a clean layout that some people will find appealing.
It’s also the least expensive model we looked at. During testing, however, we found the action of the keys to be stiff compared with that of the Nektar and M-Audio controllers; the velocity settings (which you need to configure using an editor app on your computer) were also just marginally acceptable, and the pitch-bend and modulation wheels were small and awkwardly placed. And while the V25’s build quality is generally sturdy, the bottom was warped enough that our review unit wouldn’t sit flat on a desk—an obvious quality-control issue.The has full-size keys and a feature set as extensive as that of the Nektar Impact LX25+. In our tests, the action of the semi-weighted keys was responsive, and its rubber-coated rotary knobs provided a solid level of resistance. The pitch-bend and modulation wheels on the M-Audio also work well for performance, though they lack the rubber coating and responsiveness of the ones on the Nektar. The Oxygen 25 MKIV’s out-of-the-box velocity proved overly aggressive, however, and we couldn’t find an alternate preset that provided satisfying dynamic range when playing. Also, its pads had poor response, with sensitivity focused mainly at the pad’s center.
Best Pad Controller
What to look forward to.