Review MIDI keyboard Akai MPK mini Limited Black. Where to buy it?

I’ll tell you how this post is built. First I list the features of the Akai MPK mini Limited Black keyboard. Then you have a video or two, purchase links and useful comments from other users and then you have one of the most useful parts; comparison tables with similar keyboards so you can compare.

• Special version of this MPK mini MKII in black
• 25 Synth-action keys
• 4-Way joystick for dynamic pitch / modulation control
• 8 MPC pads with note repeat
• Arpeggiator
• 8 Assignable settings for mixing, plug-in control and much more
• 6.3 mm Jack input for sustain pedal (The most important pedal of a piano or keyboard is the sustain pedal and is used to keep the note playing even if you stop pressing the key.)
• Power supply via USB, power supply not required
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 318 x 181 x 44 mm
• Weight: 750 g
• Includes program (downloads): Hybrid 3 by AIR musical Tech, SONiVOX Wobble and Akai Pro MPC Essentials

This keyboard usually has a price around 98.00 €

Now that we’ve seen the features of this keyboard Akai MPK mini Limited Black watch these related videos to learn more.

Post you may be interested in

• Ranking with the best midi keyboards
• My selection of cheap midi keyboards.
• Best MIDI Software to work with.
• MIDI Basic Guide.
• Midi Keyboards by Brand.

Akai MPK mini Limited Black vs Akai MPK mini Mk2

The keyboard Akai MPK mini Limited Black is usually 10 € more expensive than Akai MPK mini Mk2, but the difference is so small that this can vary..

And then a video of the keyboard

And then a video of the keyboardAkai MPK mini Mk2

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Akai MPK mini Mk2 review

Akai MPK mini Limited Black vs Akai LPK 25

The keyboard Akai MPK mini Limited Black is usually 54 € more expensive than Akai LPK 25.

And then a video of the keyboard

And then a video of the keyboardAkai LPK 25

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Akai LPK 25 review

Akai MPK mini Limited Black vs Swissonic EasyKey 49

The keyboard Akai MPK mini Limited Black is usually 29 € more expensive than Swissonic EasyKey 49, but the difference is so small that this can vary..

And then a video of the keyboard

And then a video of the keyboardSwissonic EasyKey 49

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Swissonic EasyKey 49 review

Akai MPK mini Limited Black vs Arturia Keystep

The keyboard Akai MPK mini Limited Blackis usually 13 € cheaper than Arturia Keystep, but the difference is so small that this can vary..

And then a video of the keyboard

And then a video of the keyboardArturia Keystep

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Arturia Keystep review

Where to buy the keyboard Akai MPK mini Limited Black

Thomann

• Free Shipping.
• Full warranty. If you have any problems, they take care of everything.
• 100% reliable payment.
• Leader in trouble-free shipping.
• Usually Best price.
• Best Reputation: They are the leading online store in Europe and have the best catalogue and information.

Amazon

• Free Shipping and possibility of shipping in one day with Amazon Premium.
• Full Guarantee but they are no experts in music equipment.
• Sometimes better price.
• He’s got worse stock than Thomann.

Also look at these models with a similar price and features:

• Novation Launchkey Mini MK3
• Akai MPK mini Mk2
• Akai MPK miniplay
• Roli Lightpad Block M Studio Ed.
• Arturia MiniLab MKII
• Roli Beatmaker Kit
• Novation Impulse 25
• Akai MPK mini MK2 white
• Alesis V25
• CME Xkey Air 25
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys I/O 25
• Akai APC Keys 25
• Akai LPK 25
• M-Audio Code 25 black
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25
• Novation Launchkey Mini MK2
• Alesis V mini
• Arturia MicroLab Black
• Akai LPK 25 wireless
• Akai MPK mini Limited Black
• Arturia MiniLab MKII Inverted Edition
• M-Audio Oxygen 25 Mk4
• Korg nanoKEY Studio
• Swissonic EasyKey 25
• Korg nanoKEY 2 black
• Korg nanoKEY 2 Limited Orange
• Korg nanoKEY 2 Limited Blue
• Akai MPK mini MK2 white – AIEP3 Bdl
• Nektar Impact LX25+
• Novation Launchkey 25 MK2
• Alesis Q25
• Akai MPK 225
• Korg microKEY 25
• Miditech Midistart Music 25
• Alesis VI25
• Korg nanoKEY 2 white
• Arturia MicroLab Blue
• Nektar SE25
• Korg microKEY Air 25
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys 25
• Midiplus X2 mini
• Icon iKeyboard 3X
• Keith McMillen K-Board
• CME Xkey 25 silver
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32
• Alesis V49
• Arturia Keystep Black Edition
• Swissonic EasyKey 49
• Arturia Keystep
• Arturia KeyLab Essential 49
• Nektar Impact LX49+
• M-Audio Code 49 Black
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys 2 Pro
• M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3
• M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3
• Novation Impulse 49
• Nektar Impact GX 49
• Novation Launchkey 49 Mk2
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A49
• M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4
• Alesis Q49 Keyboard Controller
• Roland A-300 Pro
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys I/O 49
• Alesis VI49
• Midiplus AK490
• Alesis Vortex Wireless 2
• M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32
• Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Red
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys 37 Pro
• Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 BE
• Haken Audio Continuum Half Size
• CME Xkey 37 LE
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys Pro
• Korg microKEY 49 MkII
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys 2
• Miditech Midistart Music 49
• Roland A-49 Black
• Korg microKEY 37 MkII
• Swissonic ControlKey 49
• Roland A-500 PRO
• Nektar SE49
• Korg microKEY Air 37
• Korg microKEY Air 49
• Roland A-49 White
• Nektar Panorama T4
• Miditech Garagekey mini
• Miditech Minicontrol-32
• Midiplus X3 mini
• Miditech i2-Control 37 Black
• Icon iKeyboard 4X
• Miditech i2-mini 32
• Midiplus X4 mini
• Miditech i2-mini 32 Bluetooth
• Icon iKeyboard 5X
• Acorn Masterkey 49
• M-Audio Code 61 Black
• Arturia KeyLab Essential 61
• Nektar Impact GX 61
• M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3
• Alesis V61
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61
• Swissonic EasyKey 61
• M-Audio Oxygen 61 Mk4
• Roland A-800 Pro
• Korg microKEY Air 61
• GSi DMC-122
• Nektar Impact LX61+
• Alesis VI61
• Novation Launchkey 61 MK2
• Icon iKeyboard 6X
• Acorn Masterkey 61
• Miditech i2-61 Black Edition
• Midiplus X6 mini
• Korg microKEY 61 MkII
• Midiplus X-6 II
• Viscount Physis Piano K5 EX
• M-Audio Keystation 88 MkII
• Kawai VPC1
• Doepfer LMK2+ 88 GH
• Doepfer LMK4+ 88 GH black
• Swissonic ControlKey 88
• Viscount Physis Piano K4 EX
• Doepfer LMK4+ 88 GH grey
• Nektar Impact LX88+
• Haken Audio Continuum Full Size
• Midiplus Stage 88
• Studiologic Numa Concert
• Icon iKeyboard 8X
• Doepfer LMK2+ 88 GH without Case
• Midiplus X-8 II
• Doepfer LMK4+ 88 GH GR without Case

Review MIDI keyboard Akai LPK 25 wireless. Where to buy it?

Akai Professional has been one of the most influential producers of music production equipment in the world since 1984. I’ll tell you how this post is built. First, I will list the features of this Akai LPK 25 wireless keyboard. Then you have a video or two, purchase links and useful comments from other users and then you have one of the most useful parts; comparison tables with similar keyboards so you can compare.

• 25 mini synthesizer action keys
• MIDI via Bluetooth for iOS or Mac (Bluetooth LE4)
• MIDI via USB for Mac or Windows
• Arpeggiator with 4 octaves
• Octave up/down buttons and tap tempo controls
• Plug-and-play USB port for Mac and PC, no installation driver required
• 4 programmable banks for user presets
• Different arpeggiator modes
• USB port
• 6.3mm sustain pedal input
• USB or batteries (3 AA, not included)
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 365 x 124 x 36 mm
• Weight: 490 g
• Includes a software editor for Mac and PC

This MIDI keyboard is usually priced at around €55/£49/$58 and offers 25 mini synthesizer action keys that allow you to play and compose different musical ideas on your favorite DAW using your own sample libraries.

It also offers buttons for octave up/down, arranger, tap tempo, Bluetooth and Prog Select. It is a somewhat minimalist MIDI controller.

It integrates a USB connection, a sustained input and MIDI via Bluetooth for iOS or Mac (Bluetooth LE4), so it can be used without cables. It also includes a software editor for Mac and Windows.

Now that we have seen the features of this Akai LPK 25 wireless keyboard watch these related videos to know more.

Posts you may be interested in

• Ranking with the best midi keyboards
• My selection of cheap midi keyboards.
• Best MIDI Software to work with.
• MIDI Basic Guide.
• Midi Keyboards by Brand.

Akai LPK 25 wireless vs Akai MPK mini Mk2

The Akai LPK 25 wireless MIDI keyboard is priced at €55/£49/$58 when the Akai MPK mini MK2 white is priced at €79/£70/$81. Let’s go face to face:

• Both offer 25 mini synthesizer action keys.
• The Akai LPK 25 wireless offers octave up/down buttons, arranger, tap tempo, Bluetooth and Prog Select. And the Akai MPK mini MK2 white offers 1 4-way thumbstick for dynamic tone/modulation control, 8 MPC pads with note repeater, an arpeggiator button, 8 control knobs, octave up/down buttons, and pitch bend and modulation wheels.
• The Akai LPK 25 wireless integrates a USB connection, a sustained input, and MIDI via Bluetooth for iOS or Mac (Bluetooth LE4). The Akai MPK mini MK2 has a built-in sustain pedal input and a USB connection for power.
• The Akai LPK 25 wireless includes a software editor for Mac and Windows. The Akai MPK mini MK2 includes the Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Wobble and Akai Pro MPC Essentials licenses.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

In our first comparison, we have on one hand the Akai LPK 25 wireless which offers 25 mini synth-action keys and buttons for octave up/down, arranger, tap tempo, Bluetooth and Prog Select. And on the other hand, the Akai MPK mini MK2 also offers 25 mini keys and 1 4-way thumbstick for dynamic tone/modulation control, 8 MPC pads with note repeater, an arpeggiator button, 8 control knobs, octave up/down buttons, and pitch bend and modulation wheels.

The main advantage of the Akai LPK 25 wireless is its Bluetooth MIDI function and this allows you to use the MIDI controller without cables. However, the Akai MPK mini MK2 has the advantage of having a large number of control functions, such as pads, knobs and so on. If you need a MIDI controller to be used without cables, the Akai LPK 25 wireless will be one of the most economical and basic options. And on the other hand, if you need 25 mini keys, and also a moderate number of control functions go for the Akai MPK mini MK2.

And here is a video of the Akai MPK mini MK2 keyboard

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Akai MPK mini Mk2 review

Akai LPK 25 wireless vs Akai MPK 225

The Akai LPK 25 wireless MIDI Keyboard is priced at €55/£49/$58 when the Akai MPK 225 is priced at €239/£215/$248. We will see your face to face:

• The Akai LPK 25 wireless offers 25 mini synthesizer action keys and the Akai MPK 225 offers 25 semi-weighted keys.
• The Akai LPK 25 wireless offers buttons for octave up/down, arranger, tap tempo, Bluetooth and Prog. Select. And the Akai MPK 225 offers 8 MPC (MIDI Production Center) Pads with RGB lighting, 8 assignable controllers and 4 assignable buttons, transport buttons (stop, play, net, etc), movement buttons, buttons for other functions and pitch bend and modulation wheels.
• The Akai LPK 25 wireless integrates a USB connection, a sustain input and MIDI via Bluetooth for iOS or Mac (Bluetooth LE4). The Akai MPK 225 integrates an external power supply input, USB connection, MIDI input and output, and two sustain and expression pedal inputs.
• The Akai LPK 25 wireless includes a software editor for Mac and Windows. The Akai MPK 225 includes the Ableton Live Lite, SONiVOX Twist 2.0 and Akai Pro MPC Essentials licenses.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

In this comparison, we have on the one hand the Akai LPK 25 wireless with its functions already analyzed, and on the other hand, the Akai MPK 225 has 25 semi-balanced keys, 8 MPC (MIDI Production Center) Pads with RGB lighting, 8 assignable controllers and 4 assignable buttons, transport buttons (stop, play, network, etc), movement buttons, buttons for other functions and pitch bend and modulation wheels.

The main advantage of the Akai LPK 25 is its Bluetooth MIDI function, which allows you to use it without cables. And as advantages of the Akai MPK 225 we can count on its 25 semi-weighted keys, and its functions of pads, knobs and buttons, in addition to the other control functions they offer, of course also having a higher cost. If you get the budget and don’t need the Bluetooth MIDI option, go for the Akai MKP 225, now if you need Bluetooth MIDI and not a big need for control functions either go for the Akai MPK 225.

And here’s a video of the Akai MPK 225

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Akai MPK 225 review.

Akai LPK 25 wireless vs Akai LPK 25

The Akai LPK 25 wireless MIDI Keyboard is priced at €55/£49/$58 while the Akai LPK 25 is priced at €42/£37/$42, with a small difference. Let’s go face to face:

• Both offer 25 mini synthesizer action keys.
• Both offer buttons for octave up/down, arranger, tap tempo, and Prog. Select. And the Akai LPK 25 wireless has the Bluetooth button. And the Akai LPK 25 has the sustain button.
• The Akai LPK 25 wireless integrates a USB connection, a sustain input, and MIDI via Bluetooth for iOS or Mac (Bluetooth LE4). When the Akai LPK 25 offers a USB connection
• Both include a software editor for Mac and Windows.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

In this comparison we have two practically equal models, on one hand the Akai LPK 25 wireless and on the other the Akai LPK 25, with certain differences between them, the Akai LPK 25 wireless has the advantages of having the Bluetooth MIDI function and the other of having a sustain pedal input, where the Akai LPK 25 has a button for the sustain function. Go for the wireless version, for a slight difference in price you will have great advantages.

And here is a video of the Akai LPK 25 keyboard

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Akai LPK 25 review.

Akai LPK 25 wireless vs Miditech Midistart Music 25

The Akai LPK 25 wireless MIDI Keyboard is priced at €55/£49/$58 when the Miditech Midistart Music 25 is priced at €58/£51/$60, but the difference is so small that this may vary depending on the store we ask. Let’s go face to face:

• The Akai LPK 25 wireless offers 25 mini synthesizer action keys and the Miditech Midistart Music 25 offers 25 full-size sensitive keys.
• The Akai LPK 25 wireless offers octave up/down buttons, arranger, tap tempo, Bluetooth and Prog Select. And the Miditech Midistart Music 25 offers an assignable fader, a joystick for pitch and modulation, and octave up/down buttons.
• The Akai LPK 25 wireless integrates a USB connection, a sustain input and Bluetooth MIDI for iOS or Mac (Bluetooth LE4). The Miditech Midistart Music 25 integrates a USB connection, MIDI output, and sustain pedal input.
• The Akai LPK 25 wireless includes a software editor for Mac and Windows. The Miditech Midistart Music 25 includes the Magix Samplitude SE license.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

In this comparison we have on the one hand the Akai LPK 25 wireless, with its functions and features that we have already analyzed, on the other hand, we have the Miditech Midistart Music 25 that offers 25 full-size keys with sensitivity, and also an assignable fader, a joystick for pitch and modulation, and up/down octave buttons.

As an advantage of the Akai LPK 25 wireless, we have, as always, its Bluetooth MIDI function, and as an advantage of the Miditech Midistart Music 25 we can mention its full-size keys, and its assignable fader that in tracks like mixes can be very useful. As we mentioned before, if you need a controller to be used without cables, go for the Akai LPK 25 wireless. Now you don’t think that function is indispensable, but if you want to have a controller with full-size keys go for the Miditech Midistart Music 25.

And here is a video of the Miditech Midistart Music 25 keyboard

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Miditech Midistart Music 25 review.

Akai LPK 25 wireless vs M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4

The Akai LPK 25 wireless MIDI keyboard is priced at €55/£49/$58 when the M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4 is priced at €122/£105/$122, with a difference of $70 between the two. Let’s move on to the face-to-face:

• The Akai LPK 25 wireless offers 25 mini synthesizer action keys, and the M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4 offers 49 responsive keys.
• The Akai LPK 25 wireless offers buttons for octave up/down, arranger, tap tempo, Bluetooth and Prog. Select. And the M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4 offers 8 sensitive pads, 8 freely assignable rotary buttons, 9 freely assignable faders, transport buttons, assignable buttons, and pitch bend and modulation wheels.
• The Akai LPK 25 wireless features an integrated USB connection, a sustain input, and MIDI via Bluetooth for the iOS or Mac (Bluetooth LE4). The M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4 features an integrated USB connection and a sustain pedal input.
• The Akai LPK 25 wireless includes a software editor for Mac and Windows. The M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4 includes the Ableton Live Lite (Software) and Sonivox Twist (Software) licenses.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

In our latest comparison, we have the Akai LPK 25 wireless that we analyzed earlier, and on the other hand we have the M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4 that offers 49 sensitive keys, 8 sensitive pads, 8 freely assignable rotary buttons, 9 freely assignable faders, transport buttons, assignable buttons, and pitch bend and modulation wheels.

As we have always mentioned, the Akai LPK 25 wireless has the advantage of having its Bluetooth MIDI function that allows it to be used without the need for cables. The advantage of the M-Audio Oxygen 49 MK4 is that it has a set of control functions that allow you to have great control over the use of the DAW of your choice, in addition to having 49 full-size, responsive keys. If you want Bluetooth MIDI, go for the Akai LPK 25. If the features of the M-Audio Oxygen 49 MK4 meet your expectations, go for it.

Here is a video of the M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4 keyboard

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4 review.

What is the best of these MIDI keyboards if I am a beginner on a budget?

While the answer to this question lies mostly in what specific need you have, for example, if you want to have a keyboard with the widest possible note range, or if you want to have as many control features as possible, or perhaps a mix between the two, that is without leaving behind the different connections and software licenses offered by most MIDI controllers, we will give an objective opinion according to our experience in music production and thus also with the price demanded by the controllers, a kind of value for money.

In this post, we find inexpensive MIDI controllers, with a price tag of no more than $240, and we name the M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4 as the best choice for a beginner in music production, thanks to its 49-key full-size keyboard with velocity sensitivity (intensity in MIDI language), as well as offering pads, buttons and faders, all of which can be assigned along with other control functions, integrates a sustain pedal and also includes licenses that are highly valued by beginners. It is an excellent input option.

Where to buy the Akai LPK 25 wireless keyboard

Amazon

• Free Shipping and the possibility of shipping in one day with Amazon Premium.
• Full Guarantee but they are no experts in music equipment.
• Sometimes a better price.
• He’s got worse stock than Thomann.

Thomann

• Free Shipping.
• Full warranty. If you have any problems, they take care of everything.
• 100% reliable payment.
• A leader in trouble-free shipping.
• Usually the Best price.
• Best Reputation: They are the leading online store in Europe and have the best catalog and information.

Also, look at these models with a similar price and features:

• Novation Launchkey Mini MK3
• Akai MPK mini Mk2
• Akai MPK miniplay
• Roli Lightpad Block M Studio Ed.
• Arturia MiniLab MKII
• Roli Beatmaker Kit
• Novation Impulse 25
• Akai MPK mini MK2 white
• Alesis V25
• CME Xkey Air 25
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys I/O 25
• Akai APC Keys 25
• Akai LPK 25
• M-Audio Code 25 black
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25
• Novation Launchkey Mini MK2
• Alesis V mini
• Arturia MicroLab Black
• Akai LPK 25 wireless
• Akai MPK mini Limited Black
• Arturia MiniLab MKII Inverted Edition
• M-Audio Oxygen 25 Mk4
• Korg nanoKEY Studio
• Swissonic EasyKey 25
• Korg nanoKEY 2 black
• Korg nanoKEY 2 Limited Orange
• Korg nanoKEY 2 Limited Blue
• Akai MPK mini MK2 white – AIEP3 Bdl
• Nektar Impact LX25+
• Novation Launchkey 25 MK2
• Alesis Q25
• Akai MPK 225
• Korg microKEY 25
• Miditech Midistart Music 25
• Alesis VI25
• Korg nanoKEY 2 white
• Arturia MicroLab Blue
• Nektar SE25
• Korg microKEY Air 25
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys 25
• Midiplus X2 mini
• Icon iKeyboard 3X
• Keith McMillen K-Board
• CME Xkey 25 silver
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32
• Alesis V49
• Arturia Keystep Black Edition
• Swissonic EasyKey 49
• Arturia Keystep
• Arturia KeyLab Essential 49
• Nektar Impact LX49+
• M-Audio Code 49 Black
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys 2 Pro
• M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3
• M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3
• Novation Impulse 49
• Nektar Impact GX 49
• Novation Launchkey 49 Mk2
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A49
• M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4
• Alesis Q49 Keyboard Controller
• Roland A-300 Pro
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys I/O 49
• Alesis VI49
• Midiplus AK490
• Alesis Vortex Wireless 2
• M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32
• Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Network
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys 37 Pro
• Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 BE
• Haken Audio Continuum Half Size
• CME Xkey 37 LE
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys Pro
• Korg microKEY 49 MkII
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys 2
• Miditech Midistart Music 49
• Roland A-49 Black
• Korg microKEY 37 MkII
• Swissonic ControlKey 49
• Roland A-500 PRO
• Nektar SE49
• Korg microKEY Air 37
• Korg microKEY Air 49
• Roland A-49 White
• Nektar Panorama T4
• Miditech Garagekey mini
• Miditech Minicontrol-32
• Midiplus X3 mini
• Miditech i2-Control 37 Black
• Icon iKeyboard 4X
• Miditech i2-mini 32
• Midiplus X4 mini
• Miditech i2-mini 32 Bluetooth
• Icon iKeyboard 5X
• Acorn Masterkey 49
• M-Audio Code 61 Black
• Arturia KeyLab Essential 61
• Nektar Impact GX 61
• M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3
• Alesis V61
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61
• Swissonic EasyKey 61
• M-Audio Oxygen 61 Mk4
• Roland A-800 Pro
• Korg microKEY Air 61
• GSi DMC-122
• Nektar Impact LX61+
• Alesis VI61
• Novation Launchkey 61 MK2
• Icon iKeyboard 6X
• Acorn Masterkey 61
• Miditech i2-61 Black Edition
• Midiplus X6 mini
• Korg microKEY 61 MkII
• Midiplus X-6 II
• Viscount Physis Piano K5 EX
• M-Audio Keystation 88 MkII
• Kawai VPC1
• Doepfer LMK2+ 88 GH
• Doepfer LMK4+ 88 GH black
• Swissonic ControlKey 88
• Viscount Physis Piano K4 EX
• Doepfer LMK4+ 88 GH grey
• Nektar Impact LX88+
• Haken Audio Continuum Full Size
• Midiplus Stage 88
• Studiologic Numa Concert
• Icon iKeyboard 8X
• Doepfer LMK2+ 88 GH without Case
• Midiplus X-8 II
• Doepfer LMK4+ 88 GH GR without Case

Review MIDI keyboard Arturia MicroLab Black. Where to buy it?

Arturia is a company based in Grenoble, France, specializing in the development of music software and hardware, with products aimed at both amateurs and professionals. I’ll tell you how this post is built. First, I’ll list the features of this Arturia MicroLab Black keyboard. Then you have a video or two, purchase links and useful comments from other users and then you have one of the most useful parts; tables of comparisons with similar keyboards so you can compare.

• With 25 speed-sensitive keys
• 2 touch sensors for modulation wheel and pitch bend
• Native USB/MIDI support, no drivers required
• USB bus-powered
• Low power: Can work with Android or Apple iPad devices (required cables or adapters not included)
• Includes USB cable, Analog Lab Lite with over 500 presets from the V Collection, UVI Grand Piano Model D and the Bitwig 8-Track DAW
• Dimensions: 414 x 37 x 130 mm (width x height x depth)
• Weight: 770 g
• Color: Black

This minimalist MIDI keyboard is usually priced at around €79/£71/$78 and offers 25 speed-sensitive mini keys, which in a range of 2 octaves will allow you to play the melodies, rhythms, chords and so on with the sample libraries you have.

It also offers 2 touch sensors for modulation wheel and pitch bend that will give expression and life to your compositions. It has native USB/MIDI support, which means that no external drivers are needed to work. It’s Plug and Play.

It is USB powered so it does not need any external power supply to work, and due to its low power, it can be used with Android and Apple devices.

Finally, it is worth mentioning that it includes the Analog Lab Lite software licenses with more than 500 presets from the V Collection, UVI Grand Piano Model D and the Bitwig 8-Track DAW.

Now that we have seen the features of this Arturia MicroLab Black keyboard watch these related videos to learn more.

Posts you may be interested in

• Ranking with the best midi keyboards
• My selection of cheap midi keyboards.
• Best MIDI Software to work with.
• MIDI Basic Guide.
• Midi Keyboards by Brand.

Arturia MicroLab Black vs Arturia Keystep

The Arturia MicroLab Black MIDI Keyboard has a price of €79/£71/$78 and the Arturia Keystep has a price of €102/£89/$101, with a difference of 26 euros, which can be changed according to the shop where we ask. Let’s go face to face:

• When the MicroLab, offers us 25 mini keys with sensitivity, the Keystep has 32 thin keys with sensitivity and aftertouch
• As the Keystep is a polyphonic sequencer and MIDI controller, it offers up to 64 steps and 8 notes of polyphony.
• The Arturia MicroLab Black offers 2 touch sensors for modulation wheel and pitch bend and the Arturia Keystep offers transport buttons and touch sliders for pitch bend and modulation. And it has sequencer and MIDI controller modes.
• The Arturia MicroLab Black has a USB connection, while the Arturia Keystep offers the connections: USB, MIDI In/Out, CV/Out, Sync In/Out, Sustain Pedal In, Power Supply In.
• The Arturia MicroLab Black includes the : Analog Lab Lite with over 500 presets from the V Collection, UVI Grand Piano Model D and the Bitwig 8-Track DAW.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

In our first comparison, we have two good pieces of equipment, on the one hand, the Arturia MicroLab Black, which as its name indicates, is a minimalist model of a MIDI controller, with 25 sensitive keys, and pitch bend and modulation control. However, with the Arturia Keystep we find a sequencer and a MIDI controller, with logically more functions and features than its competition. If you are satisfied with a minimalist keyboard, the MicroLab is for you, but if you need a portable sequencer that also works as a controller, the Arturia Keystep will be your choice.

And here is a video of the Arturia Keystep

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Arturia Keystep review.

Arturia MicroLab Black vs Arturia MiniLab MKII

The Arturia MicroLab Black MIDI Keyboard is priced at €79/£71/$78 when the Arturia MiniLab MKII is priced at €91/£82/$91, but the difference is so small that this may vary. Let’s move on to the face-to-face:

• Both offer 25 speed-sensitive mini keys (intensity in MIDI language)
• The Arturia MicroLab Black offers 2 tactile sensors for the modulation wheel and Pitch Bend and the Arturia MiniLab MKII offers 16 rotary encoders (2 of them are clickable), 2 banks of 8 speed and pressure-sensitive pads, with RGB backlighting and touch strips for pitch bend and modulation.
• The Arturia MicroLab Black has a USB connection, while the Arturia MiniLab MKII offers a USB connection and input for a sustain pedal.
• The Arturia MicroLab Black includes the : Analog Lab Lite with over 500 presets from the V Collection, UVI Grand Piano Model D and the Bitwig 8-Track DAW. And the Arturia MiniLab MKII includes the license for the Analog Lab Lite software with 500 sounds in V-Collection 5 quality, Ableton Live Lite and UVI Grand Piano (software requires a download from manufacturer’s website).

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

In this comparison, we find two controllers of the brand Arturia, which although they have a slight difference in price, we also have slight differences in their functions, where the MiniLab MKII is the winner thanks to its 16 assignable encoders and its 2 banks of 8 pads, which in total are 16. It is worth spending a few euros more if you have these functions in your controller.

And here’s a video of the Arturia MiniLab MKII keyboard

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Arturia MiniLab MKII review.

Arturia MicroLab Black vs Akai LPK 25

The Arturia MicroLab Black MIDI Keyboard is priced at €79/£71/$78 and the Akai LPK 25 is priced at €42/£37/$42, with a difference of €37. Let’s see the face-to-face:

• Both offer 25 speed-sensitive mini keys (intensity in MIDI language)
• The Arturia MicroLab Black offers 2 touch sensors for modulation wheel and Pitch Bend and the Akai LPK 25 offers an arpeggiator button, a sustain button and octave up/down buttons and a tap tempo button.
• Both have a USB connection.
• The Arturia MicroLab Black includes the licenses for: Analog Lab Lite with over 500 presets from the V Collection, UVI Grand Piano Model D and the Bitwig 8-Track DAW. And the Akai LPK 25 includes editor software for Mac and PC.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

We find ourselves with two minimalist MIDI controllers, with relatively few functions, but with certain aspects that are of great value to some. On the one hand, we have the Arturia MicroLab Black with its 25 mini keys and its pitch bend and modulation sensors. And on the other hand, the Akai LPK 25 with its 25 mini keys, and its buttons for arpeggiator, sustain and octaves, besides the tap tempo. As a personal opinion, I would go for the Akai since I don’t see so necessary the pitch bend and modulation touch strips. But I’m sure you’ll make the best decision according to your needs.

And here is a video of the LPK 25 Akai keyboard

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Akai LPK 25 review.

Arturia MicroLab Black vs Miditech Midistart Music 25

The Arturia MicroLab Black MIDI Keyboard is priced at €79/£71/$78 and the Miditech Midistart Music 25 is priced at €58/£51/$60, but the difference is so small that this may vary depending on the shop where we ask. Let’s go face to face:

• They both offer 25 mini speed-sensitive keys (intensity in MIDI language), the interesting thing about the Miditech is that they are full-size keys.
• The Arturia MicroLab Black offers 2 touch sensors for the modulation wheel and Pitch Bend and the Miditech Midistart Music 25 offers a joystick for pitch bend and modulation and two +/- octave buttons, plus an assignable fader.
• Both have a USB connection, the Miditech has a MIDI output.
• The Arturia MicroLab Black includes the licenses for Analog Lab Lite with over 500 presets from the V Collection, UVI Grand Piano Model D and the Bitwig 8-Track DAW. And the Miditech Midistart Music 25 includes the Magix Samplitude SE.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

Again we have an interesting difference between two minimalist MIDI keyboards, on the one hand, our Arturia MicroLab Black which we have already analyzed before, and on the other hand the Miditech Midistart Music 25, with 25 full-size keys with sensitivity, a joystick for pitch bend and modulation and an assignable fader. That because of the normal size of the keys of the second one, is the best option in case you are used to playing with a real keyboard or piano.

And here’s a video of the Miditech Midistart Music 25 keyboard

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5CVtlM3EB_k

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Miditech Midistart Music 25 review.

Which is the best of these MIDI keyboards if I am a beginner on a low budget?

While the answer to this question lies mostly in what specific need you have, for example, if you want to have a keyboard with the widest range of notes possible, or if you want to have as many control functions as possible, or perhaps a mix between the two, that is without leaving behind the different connections and software licenses that most MIDI controllers offer, we will give an objective opinion according to our experience in music production and thus also with the price that the controllers demand, a kind of value for money.

In this post, we have mostly MIDI controllers for less than 100 euros, and as a star product, we can mention the Miditech Midistart Music 25, which is one of the controllers that offers full-size keys for a really cheap price, apart from that we also have it’s up/down octave buttons, a joystick for pitch bend and modulation and an assignable fader. It also has an integrated input for a sustain pedal. All these features it offers for the price it demands are very fair, if you have the chance to go for it.

Where to buy the Arturia MicroLab Black keyboard

Amazon

• Free Shipping and the possibility of shipping in one day with Amazon Premium.
• Full Guarantee but they are no experts in music equipment.
• Sometimes a better price.
• He’s got worse stock than Thomann.

Thomann

• Free Shipping.
• Full warranty. If you have any problems, they take care of everything.
• 100% reliable payment.
• A leader in trouble-free shipping.
• Usually the Best price.
• Best Reputation: They are the leading online store in Europe and have the best catalog and information.

Also, look at these models with a similar price and features:

• Novation Launchkey Mini MK3
• Akai MPK mini Mk2
• Akai MPK miniplay
• Roli Lightpad Block M Studio Ed.
• Arturia MiniLab MKII
• Roli Beatmaker Kit
• Novation Impulse 25
• Akai MPK mini MK2 white
• Alesis V25
• CME Xkey Air 25
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys I/O 25
• Akai APC Keys 25
• Akai LPK 25
• M-Audio Code 25 black
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25
• Novation Launchkey Mini MK2
• Alesis V mini
• Arturia MicroLab Black
• Akai LPK 25 wireless
• Akai MPK mini Limited Black
• Arturia MiniLab MKII Inverted Edition
• M-Audio Oxygen 25 Mk4
• Korg nanoKEY Studio
• Swissonic EasyKey 25
• Korg nanoKEY 2 black
• Korg nanoKEY 2 Limited Orange
• Korg nanoKEY 2 Limited Blue
• Akai MPK mini MK2 white – AIEP3 Bdl
• Nektar Impact LX25+
• Novation Launchkey 25 MK2
• Alesis Q25
• Akai MPK 225
• Korg microKEY 25
• Miditech Midistart Music 25
• Alesis VI25
• Korg nanoKEY 2 white
• Arturia MicroLab Blue
• Nektar SE25
• Korg microKEY Air 25
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys 25
• Midiplus X2 mini
• Icon iKeyboard 3X
• Keith McMillen K-Board
• CME Xkey 25 silver
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32
• Alesis V49
• Arturia Keystep Black Edition
• Swissonic EasyKey 49
• Arturia Keystep
• Arturia KeyLab Essential 49
• Nektar Impact LX49+
• M-Audio Code 49 Black
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys 2 Pro
• M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3
• M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3
• Novation Impulse 49
• Nektar Impact GX 49
• Novation Launchkey 49 Mk2
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A49
• M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4
• Alesis Q49 Keyboard Controller
• Roland A-300 Pro
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys I/O 49
• Alesis VI49
• Midiplus AK490
• Alesis Vortex Wireless 2
• M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32
• Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Network
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys 37 Pro
• Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 BE
• Haken Audio Continuum Half Size
• CME Xkey 37 LE
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys Pro
• Korg microKEY 49 MkII
• IK Multimedia iRig Keys 2
• Miditech Midistart Music 49
• Roland A-49 Black
• Korg microKEY 37 MkII
• Swissonic ControlKey 49
• Roland A-500 PRO
• Nektar SE49
• Korg microKEY Air 37
• Korg microKEY Air 49
• Roland A-49 White
• Nektar Panorama T4
• Miditech Garagekey mini
• Miditech Minicontrol-32
• Midiplus X3 mini
• Miditech i2-Control 37 Black
• Icon iKeyboard 4X
• Miditech i2-mini 32
• Midiplus X4 mini
• Miditech i2-mini 32 Bluetooth
• Icon iKeyboard 5X
• Acorn Masterkey 49
• M-Audio Code 61 Black
• Arturia KeyLab Essential 61
• Nektar Impact GX 61
• M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3
• Alesis V61
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61
• Swissonic EasyKey 61
• M-Audio Oxygen 61 Mk4
• Roland A-800 Pro
• Korg microKEY Air 61
• GSi DMC-122
• Nektar Impact LX61+
• Alesis VI61
• Novation Launchkey 61 MK2
• Icon iKeyboard 6X
• Acorn Masterkey 61
• Miditech i2-61 Black Edition
• Midiplus X6 mini
• Korg microKEY 61 MkII
• Midiplus X-6 II
• Viscount Physis Piano K5 EX
• M-Audio Keystation 88 MkII
• Kawai VPC1
• Doepfer LMK2+ 88 GH
• Doepfer LMK4+ 88 GH black
• Swissonic ControlKey 88
• Viscount Physis Piano K4 EX
• Doepfer LMK4+ 88 GH grey
• Nektar Impact LX88+
• Haken Audio Continuum Full Size
• Midiplus Stage 88
• Studiologic Numa Concert
• Icon iKeyboard 8X
• Doepfer LMK2+ 88 GH without Case
• Midiplus X-8 II
• Doepfer LMK4+ 88 GH GR without Case