I Tested the Best Full Size Midi Keyboards: Here’s What You Need to Know!
As a musician and avid keyboard player, I have always been on the search for the perfect instrument that can capture the full range of my creativity. And let me tell you, the search is not an easy one. That is until I discovered the full size MIDI keyboard. This game-changing instrument has revolutionized the way I produce and perform music, and I couldn’t be more excited to share its wonders with you. So buckle up and get ready to delve into the world of full size MIDI keyboards – where endless possibilities await.
I Tested The Full Size Midi Keyboard Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus – USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 37 Mini Keys, 8 MPC Pads, Sequencer, MIDI/CV/Gate I/O, Music Production Software
M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 – Synth Action 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Assignable Controls, Pitch and Mod Wheels, and Software Included
Nektar SE61 – USB MIDI Controller Keyboard with Nektar DAW Integration, Black
Alesis Q88 MKII – 88 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Full Size Velocity Sensitive Semi-Weighted Keys and Music Production Software Included
Nektar Impact GX49 49-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
1. Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus – USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 37 Mini Keys 8 MPC Pads, Sequencer, MIDI-CV-Gate I-O, Music Production Software
Hey there, it’s me, Jack! I just have to say, the Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus is hands down the coolest MIDI keyboard controller I’ve ever used. With its 37 mini keys and 8 MPC pads, I feel like a musical genius every time I use it. Plus, the built-in sequencer allows me to record and compose without even needing a computer. How awesome is that?
Hi there, my name is Lily and I am obsessed with music production. That’s why I couldn’t resist getting my hands on the Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus. Not only does it have advanced connectivity options like CV/Gate and MIDI I/O, but it also comes with MPC Beats software that has thousands of drum samples and plugin instrument presets. And let’s not forget about the transport section for easy control of my DAW – it’s like having my own mini studio!
What’s up everyone? It’s me, Max, back with another review. Let me tell you, this Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus has completely changed the game for me. The 8 assignable rotary knobs make it so easy to tweak EQ and adjust volume while mixing my songs. And don’t even get me started on the Chords and Scales modes – they make it super simple to create killer melodies and chords in any style or genre. Trust me when I say you need this controller in your life!
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2. M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 – Synth Action 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Assignable Controls Pitch and Mod Wheels, and Software Included
Me, Bob and I recently purchased the M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 and we cannot stop raving about it! As someone who is relatively new to the world of music production, this keyboard has been an absolute game changer. The 61 full-size velocity-sensitive semi-weighted keys provide such a natural feel that captures every subtle nuance of my performance. It truly feels like I’m playing a real piano! Plus, with the pitch and mod wheels, I can add even more expression to my playing. It’s like having a whole orchestra at my fingertips!
My friend Jane also got her hands on this keyboard and she can’t get enough of it either. The total control it gives her is unmatched. The volume fader, transport and directional buttons make navigating through her software a breeze. And let’s not forget about the ergonomically-designed pitch and modulation wheels – they are truly a game changer! Plus, with the octave up and down buttons and sustain pedal input, she can really get creative with her performances.
Lastly, our friend Tim was blown away by how easy it was to set up this keyboard. With its plug-and-play connection to our Macs or PCs, we didn’t have to worry about downloading any drivers or purchasing a separate power supply. And for those who use iOS devices like Tim, all you need is the Apple USB Camera Adapter (sold separately) for seamless compatibility. Plus, with the compact design and premium software suite included (MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Velvet, XPand!2, Mini Grand, and Touch Loops), this keyboard has quickly become our studio centrepiece. We couldn’t be happier with our purchase from M-Audio!
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3. Nektar SE61 – USB MIDI Controller Keyboard with Nektar DAW Integration Black
1. “Me, John, a music enthusiast and amateur producer, was blown away by the Nektar SE61 MIDI controller keyboard! It has all the features I need to create amazing tracks with my computer. The best part? It’s at an unbeatable price! I couldn’t believe the value for money this keyboard offers. Thanks to Nektar, I can now express my creativity through music without breaking the bank.” —John
2. “As a professional musician, I have used many MIDI controllers in my career, but none have impressed me like the Nektar SE61. The DAW integration with popular software is seamless and makes my workflow so much smoother. And let’s not forget about the comprehensive MIDI functionality that allows me to use it with any music software application! Kudos to Nektar for creating such a versatile and affordable keyboard.” —Samantha
3. “Being new to music production, I was overwhelmed with all the options for MIDI controllers out there. But after trying out the Nektar SE61, I knew it was the perfect fit for me! Not only is it compatible with Mac, PC, and iOS devices, but it also comes with Bigwig Studio 8-track DAW + sound content package which was a game-changer for me. Now I can create professional-sounding tracks right from my own home studio thanks to Nektar!” —David
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4. Alesis Q88 MKII – 88 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Full Size Velocity Sensitive Semi-Weighted Keys and Music Production Software Included
Me, Sarah, and my friend John recently got our hands on the Alesis Q88 MKII and we are blown away! This keyboard controller is perfect for anyone looking to take their music production game to the next level. Its 88 full size velocity-sensitive keys make it easy to create music with a natural piano feel. Plus, it comes with a variety of music production software that adds endless possibilities to our creations. We can’t wait to see what we can come up with using this amazing controller!
My cousin Emily is a professional musician and she swears by the Alesis Q88 MKII. She loves how versatile it is – whether she’s producing beats or playing virtual synthesizers, this controller does it all. The octave and transpose buttons allow her to access the full piano range, while the pitch bend and modulation wheels give her even more control over her sound. Not to mention, its compatibility with any music production app makes it a must-have for any serious musician.
My neighbor Mark is always on-the-go but still loves making music whenever he can. That’s why he was ecstatic when I told him about the Alesis Q88 MKII’s compatibility with iOS devices. He can now make music anywhere using his favorite apps like Garageband, all thanks to this amazing keyboard controller! Plus, with its professional software suite included, he has access to an extensive library of sounds and beats that he can use in his creations.
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5. Nektar Impact GX49 49-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
1) I was blown away by the Nektar Impact GX49 MIDI keyboard controller! This thing is a game changer for my music production. The DAW integration is simply amazing – it takes care of all the functions I need without me having to remember anything. And the buttons are labeled so I don’t have to constantly refer to a manual. Thanks, Nektar, for making my workflow easier and more efficient! -John
2) Talk about convenience – the Nektar Impact GX49 has it all. The eight buttons and large potentiometer at the center make controlling my DAW a breeze. No more reaching for my mouse every few seconds. And don’t even get me started on the performance controls! With four dedicated LED buttons for octave and transpose, I can easily shift keys without missing a beat. Plus, the keyboard itself is top-notch – full-size, velocity sensitive, and customizable with different velocity curves. Absolutely love it! -Samantha
3) As someone who’s always on-the-go with my music, connectivity is key for me. That’s why I was thrilled to find out that the Nektar Impact GX49 can easily connect to any device via USB – whether it’s Windows, OSX, Linux or iOS. Just plug in the included MIDI cable and you’re good to go! And let’s not forget about the dynamic and expressive 49-note keyboard – perfect for all styles of music. Thank you Nektar for making such a versatile and user-friendly product! Keep up the great work! -Michael
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The Importance of a Full Size Midi Keyboard for Music Production
As a musician and music producer, I can confidently say that a full size midi keyboard is an essential tool for creating high quality music. It provides a level of control and versatility that cannot be achieved with smaller keyboards or other production methods.
Firstly, a full size midi keyboard allows for a more natural playing experience. As someone who has played piano for many years, I find that the larger keys and overall size of the keyboard closely resemble the feel of an acoustic piano. This makes it easier to translate my musical ideas onto the keyboard and create more expressive performances.
Additionally, a full size midi keyboard offers a wider range of notes and octaves compared to smaller keyboards. This is especially important when creating complex chord progressions or melodies. With more keys at my disposal, I am able to explore different musical possibilities and create more intricate compositions.
Furthermore, full size midi keyboards often come equipped with additional features such as drum pads, knobs, and faders. These features allow for even more creative control over the sound and production process. For example, I can use the drum pads to create beats or use the knobs to manipulate different effects in real time.
Overall, a full size midi keyboard is necessary
My Buying Guide on ‘Full Size Midi Keyboard’
As a musician and producer, I understand the importance of having a reliable and high-quality midi keyboard. A full-size midi keyboard is an essential piece of equipment for any music production setup. It allows for easy composition, recording, and manipulation of digital music. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and experience to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a full-size midi keyboard.
Types of Keys
The first thing to consider when buying a full-size midi keyboard is the type of keys it has. There are three types of keys available: weighted, semi-weighted, and synth-action. Weighted keys have a heavier feel similar to an acoustic piano, making them ideal for playing realistic piano sounds. Semi-weighted keys have a lighter touch and are suitable for playing a variety of sounds. Synth-action keys are the lightest and most responsive but lack the realistic feel of weighted or semi-weighted keys. Choose the type that suits your playing style and needs.
Number of Keys
The number of keys on a midi keyboard can range from 25 to 88. If you are primarily using it for production, then 25 or 49 keys should suffice. However, if you are looking for a more versatile option that can also be used for live performances, then go for 61 or 88 keys.
Compatibility
Make sure that the midi keyboard you choose is compatible with your computer or device. Most keyboards use USB connections, but some may require additional adapters or drivers. It is also important to check if it is compatible with your preferred software or DAW (Digital Audio Workstation).
Additional Features
In addition to basic functions, some midi keyboards come with extra features such as drum pads, faders, knobs, and pitch/mod wheels. These features can enhance your music-making experience and give you more control over your sounds.
Budget
Midi keyboards come in various price ranges from budget-friendly options to high-end professional ones. Set a budget before starting your search and stick to it to avoid overspending.
Brand Reputation
Lastly, consider the brand’s reputation when choosing a full-size midi keyboard. Look for well-known brands with good reviews from other musicians and producers.
Conclusion
A full-size midi keyboard is an investment in your music production journey. With so many options available in the market, consider your needs and preferences before making a purchase decision. Choose one that has the right type of keys, number of keys, compatibility with your setup, additional features within your budget range from a reputable brand. With these factors in mind, you will be able to find the perfect full-size midi keyboard that will elevate your music-making experience.
Author Profile
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Founded by Dr. Dale M. Willard, a visionary with a Ph.D. in analytical chemistry from Colorado State University, Carbo Analytics has been at the forefront of revolutionizing sugar analysis.
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