All Posts by Jaime Echagüe

Review MIDI keyboard Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25. Where to buy it?

I’ll tell you how this post is built. First I list the features of the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 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.

  • Newly developed semi-weighted keyboard with 25 secrets
  • OLED show
  • 8 Touch-sensitive dials
  • Pitch and Mod Wheels
  • 4D drive encoders
  • Smart play
  • Machine integration
  • Control of Logic ProX, Ableton Live, Garage Band, Cubase and Nuendo
  • Power supply via USB
  • 6.3 mm Foot 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.) input
  • USB port
  • Dimensions: 488 x 257 x 89 mm
  • Weight: 2.4 kg
  • The Gentleman
  • Monark
  • Scarbee Mark I
  • Reactor Prism
  • Reactor Blocks Wired
  • Reactor 6 player
  • Contact 6 Players
  • Guitar Rig 5 Player
  • Complete Control Software
  • Machine Essential

review native-instruments-komplete-kontrol-a25

This keyboard usually has a price around 139.00 €

Now that we’ve seen the features of this keyboard Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 watch these related videos to learn more.

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

Post you may be interested in

Some comments from people who come to the forum about this model:

Comment:

For the purchase price, it is a fantastic item. Yes it is plastic all over, nevertheless the create continues to be quite sturdy. There’s nothing end that is high it needless to say. Nevertheless the keys and knobs have a feel that is nice them, and I find playing onto it a pleasure. The display that is small it a little bit difficult to navigate the settings regarding the keyboard. Although that is not actually a challenge because I would rather use the computer to manage the keyboard, and never one other method around for me personally. The real strong point of this product could be the software compatibility, and simple of good use.

Comment:

Its a tremendously well built midi keyboard offering so many good software along with it. Complete size keys and several midi functions

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 vs Akai MPK mini Mk2

The keyboard Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 is usually 51 € more expensive than Akai MPK mini Mk2.

And then a video of the keyboard

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25

Akai MPK mini Mk2
  • Newly developed semi-weighted keyboard with 25 secrets
  • OLED show
  • 8 Touch-sensitive dials
  • Pitch and Mod Wheels
  • 4D drive encoders
  • Smart play
  • Machine integration
  • Control of Logic ProX, Ableton Live, Garage Band, Cubase and Nuendo
  • Power supply via USB
  • 6.3 mm Foot pedal input
  • USB port
  • Dimensions: 488 x 257 x 89 mm
  • Weight: 2.4 kg

Includes Complete Instruments and FX:

  • The Gentleman
  • Monark
  • Scarbee Mark I
  • Reactor Prism
  • Reactor Blocks Wired
  • Reactor 6 player
  • Contact 6 Players
  • Guitar Rig 5 Player
  • Complete Control Software
  • Machine Essential
  • 25 Synth-Action keys
  • 4-Way joystick for powerful pitch/modulation adjustment
  • 8 MPC pads with note repeat
  • Arpeggiator
  • 8 Assignable control pods for mixing, plugIn-control and much more
  • 6.3 mm jack input for sustain pedals
  • Power supply via USB, power adapter not required
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 317 x 181 x 44 mm
  • Weight: 748 g
  • Including software program (downloads): Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Wobble and Akai professional MPC Essentials

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

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 vs Akai LPK 25

The keyboard Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 is usually 95 € more expensive than Akai LPK 25.

And then a video of the keyboard

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25

Akai LPK 25
  • Newly developed semi-weighted keyboard with 25 secrets
  • OLED show
  • 8 Touch-sensitive dials
  • Pitch and Mod Wheels
  • 4D drive encoders
  • Smart play
  • Machine integration
  • Control of Logic ProX, Ableton Live, Garage Band, Cubase and Nuendo
  • Power supply via USB
  • 6.3 mm Foot pedal input
  • USB port
  • Dimensions: 488 x 257 x 89 mm
  • Weight: 2.4 kg

Includes Complete Instruments and FX:

  • The Gentleman
  • Monark
  • Scarbee Mark I
  • Reactor Prism
  • Reactor Blocks Wired
  • Reactor 6 player
  • Contact 6 Players
  • Guitar Rig 5 Player
  • Complete Control Software
  • Machine Essential
  • USB-MIDI Controller functions with almost any audio software
  • 25 Velocity sensitive mini keys
  • Arpeggiator
  • Sustain button
  • Octave down and up along with faucet tempo keys
  • Plug-and-play USB connection for Mac and PC requires no driver installation
  • completely fits in a new laptop bag or in a backpack
  • Four programmable memory banking institutions
  • computer software editor for Mac and PC included
  • Power supply via USB Bus – no importance of one more power supply
  • Dimensions: 9.65 x 34.04 x 2.79 cm
  • body weight: 0.635 kg

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

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 vs Swissonic EasyKey 49

The keyboard Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 is usually 70 € more expensive than Swissonic EasyKey 49.

And then a video of the keyboard

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25

Swissonic EasyKey 49
  • Newly developed semi-weighted keyboard with 25 secrets
  • OLED show
  • 8 Touch-sensitive dials
  • Pitch and Mod Wheels
  • 4D drive encoders
  • Smart play
  • Machine integration
  • Control of Logic ProX, Ableton Live, Garage Band, Cubase and Nuendo
  • Power supply via USB
  • 6.3 mm Foot pedal input
  • USB port
  • Dimensions: 488 x 257 x 89 mm
  • Weight: 2.4 kg

Includes Complete Instruments and FX:

  • The Gentleman
  • Monark
  • Scarbee Mark I
  • Reactor Prism
  • Reactor Blocks Wired
  • Reactor 6 player
  • Contact 6 Players
  • Guitar Rig 5 Player
  • Complete Control Software
  • Machine Essential
  • 49 Full-size velocity sensitive secrets
  • Aluminium housing with side synthetic panels
  • Pitch flex- and modulation wheel
  • LED Display
  • 1 Fader for volume control
  • 1 Programmable rotary encoder
  • Octave key to transpose the pitch associated with the whole keyboard
  • 1 Pedal connector
  • 1 MIDI Out
  • Powered by USB
  • Compatible with Windows Vista, XP (SP1 and greater), Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10 and Mac OS X
  • Dimensions (WxHxD): 825 x 210 x 68 mm
  • Weight: 4.77 kg
  • Incl. 1 m USB Cable and Thomann Studio Starter Kit LE (software packet with DAW software, computer software synthesizers, as well as impacts plugins)

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

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 vs Arturia Keystep

The keyboard Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 is usually 28 € more expensive than Arturia Keystep, but the difference is so small that this can vary..

And then a video of the keyboard

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25

Arturia Keystep
  • Newly developed semi-weighted keyboard with 25 secrets
  • OLED show
  • 8 Touch-sensitive dials
  • Pitch and Mod Wheels
  • 4D drive encoders
  • Smart play
  • Machine integration
  • Control of Logic ProX, Ableton Live, Garage Band, Cubase and Nuendo
  • Power supply via USB
  • 6.3 mm Foot pedal input
  • USB port
  • Dimensions: 488 x 257 x 89 mm
  • Weight: 2.4 kg

Includes Complete Instruments and FX:

  • The Gentleman
  • Monark
  • Scarbee Mark I
  • Reactor Prism
  • Reactor Blocks Wired
  • Reactor 6 player
  • Contact 6 Players
  • Guitar Rig 5 Player
  • Complete Control Software
  • Machine Essential
  • 32x Velocity-sensitive keys (Slimkey)
  • With aftertouch
  • Integrated polyphonic step sequencer
  • Up to 64 actions and 8 simultaneous records per step
  • 8-Mode Arpeggiator
  • Chord Play mode
  • Transport buttons
  • Pitch and modulation touch fader
  • Colour: White
  • Power connector
  • USB
  • MIDI In / Out
  • CV / gate output
  • Sync input and output
  • Sustain pedal input

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 Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25

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:

Review MIDI keyboard Novation Launchkey Mini MK2. Where to buy it?

I’ll tell you how this post is built. First I list the features of the Novation Launchkey Mini MK2 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.

  • 16 Velocity-dependent Publish Pads Tri-colour with LEDs
  • 7 Function keys
  • 2 Performance secrets
  • 8 Rotating control knobs
  • Power supply via USB
  • Compatible with Mac, Computer and iPad (requires Camera Connection Kit – perhaps not included)
  • Dimensions (W x L x D): 325 x 175 x 43 mm
  • body weight: 675 g
  • Incl. Ableton Live Lite, Novation’s Soft-Synth Bass Station and V-Station as well as Loopmasters samples

review novation-launchkey-mini-mk2

This keyboard usually has a price around 69.00 €

Now that we’ve seen the features of this keyboard Novation Launchkey Mini MK2 watch these related videos to learn more.

Post you may be interested in

Some comments from people who come to the forum about this model:

Comment:

This keyboard could be the perfect option for a laptop computer setup! Because this keyboard is tiny, has 8 knobs to mess around with (I prefer to utilize the knobs to regulate cutoff and FXs etc.) and 16 drum pads to create beats with additionally the pricing isn’t too harmful to budget manufacturers either!

This keyboard is quite simple to setup, just plug it into the usb port.

the sole flaws with this particular product would be the knobs which can be too free (at the least for me personally), however they are usable. The flaw that is second the tips. They have been kinda springy-ish so a while is taken by it getting accustomed them. Also the velocity is kinda crazy along with hitting super difficult to get a significant noise, however, if you are using a DAW (that you simply probably will be using anyways with this specific keyboard) you’ll just go right to the settings and turn the velocity establishing down, so it does not make a difference how hard you press you’ll always get a good volume.

This keyboard is also awesome searching, nice matte-ish black with orange base.

Conclusion:
Really solid keyboard to take with one to the school, park… or you just want a small keyboard that wont take all of the area in your desk this is certainly a good choose. Has sufficient knobs and pads to mess around with and feels good and sturdy.

Comment:

I had the Novation Launchkey Mini MK2 for around 6 thirty days now
it is one of the most mini midi that i have came across that have a very intuitive function over Ableton, feel well when you play it and it’s really an easy task to get used too, good quality nice led colored.
The secrets a bit in the tiny part but comparing for the employment of it together with mobility it’s really nice.

Novation Launchkey Mini MK2 vs Akai MPK mini Mk2

The keyboard Novation Launchkey Mini MK2is usually 19 € cheaper than Akai MPK mini Mk2, but the difference is so small that this can vary..

And then a video of the keyboard

Novation Launchkey Mini MK2

Akai MPK mini Mk2
  • 16 Velocity-dependent Publish Pads Tri-colour with LEDs
  • 7 Function keys
  • 2 Performance secrets
  • 8 Rotating control knobs
  • Power supply via USB
  • Compatible with Mac, Computer and iPad (requires Camera Connection Kit – perhaps not included)
  • Dimensions (W x L x D): 325 x 175 x 43 mm
  • body weight: 675 g
  • Incl. Ableton Live Lite, Novation’s Soft-Synth Bass Station and V-Station as well as Loopmasters samples
  • 25 Synth-Action keys
  • 4-Way joystick for powerful pitch/modulation adjustment
  • 8 MPC pads with note repeat
  • Arpeggiator
  • 8 Assignable control pods for mixing, plugIn-control and much more
  • 6.3 mm jack input for sustain pedals
  • Power supply via USB, power adapter not required
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 317 x 181 x 44 mm
  • Weight: 748 g
  • Including software program (downloads): Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Wobble and Akai professional MPC Essentials

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

Novation Launchkey Mini MK2 vs Akai LPK 25

The keyboard Novation Launchkey Mini MK2 is usually 25 € more expensive than Akai LPK 25, but the difference is so small that this can vary..

And then a video of the keyboard

Novation Launchkey Mini MK2

Akai LPK 25
  • 16 Velocity-dependent Publish Pads Tri-colour with LEDs
  • 7 Function keys
  • 2 Performance secrets
  • 8 Rotating control knobs
  • Power supply via USB
  • Compatible with Mac, Computer and iPad (requires Camera Connection Kit – perhaps not included)
  • Dimensions (W x L x D): 325 x 175 x 43 mm
  • body weight: 675 g
  • Incl. Ableton Live Lite, Novation’s Soft-Synth Bass Station and V-Station as well as Loopmasters samples
  • USB-MIDI Controller functions with almost any audio software
  • 25 Velocity sensitive mini keys
  • Arpeggiator
  • Sustain button
  • Octave down and up along with faucet tempo keys
  • Plug-and-play USB connection for Mac and PC requires no driver installation
  • completely fits in a new laptop bag or in a backpack
  • Four programmable memory banking institutions
  • computer software editor for Mac and PC included
  • Power supply via USB Bus – no importance of one more power supply
  • Dimensions: 9.65 x 34.04 x 2.79 cm
  • body weight: 0.635 kg

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

Novation Launchkey Mini MK2 vs Swissonic EasyKey 49

The keyboard Novation Launchkey Mini MK2is usually 0 € cheaper than Swissonic EasyKey 49, but the difference is so small that this can vary..

And then a video of the keyboard

Novation Launchkey Mini MK2

Swissonic EasyKey 49
  • 16 Velocity-dependent Publish Pads Tri-colour with LEDs
  • 7 Function keys
  • 2 Performance secrets
  • 8 Rotating control knobs
  • Power supply via USB
  • Compatible with Mac, Computer and iPad (requires Camera Connection Kit – perhaps not included)
  • Dimensions (W x L x D): 325 x 175 x 43 mm
  • body weight: 675 g
  • Incl. Ableton Live Lite, Novation’s Soft-Synth Bass Station and V-Station as well as Loopmasters samples
  • 49 Full-size velocity sensitive secrets
  • Aluminium housing with side synthetic panels
  • Pitch flex- and modulation wheel
  • LED Display
  • 1 Fader for volume control
  • 1 Programmable rotary encoder
  • Octave key to transpose the pitch associated with the whole keyboard
  • 1 Pedal connector
  • 1 MIDI Out
  • Powered by USB
  • Compatible with Windows Vista, XP (SP1 and greater), Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10 and Mac OS X
  • Dimensions (WxHxD): 825 x 210 x 68 mm
  • Weight: 4.77 kg
  • Incl. 1 m USB Cable and Thomann Studio Starter Kit LE (software packet with DAW software, computer software synthesizers, as well as impacts plugins)

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

Novation Launchkey Mini MK2 vs Arturia Keystep

The keyboard Novation Launchkey Mini MK2is usually 42 € cheaper than Arturia Keystep, but the difference is so small that this can vary..

And then a video of the keyboard

Novation Launchkey Mini MK2

Arturia Keystep
  • 16 Velocity-dependent Publish Pads Tri-colour with LEDs
  • 7 Function keys
  • 2 Performance secrets
  • 8 Rotating control knobs
  • Power supply via USB
  • Compatible with Mac, Computer and iPad (requires Camera Connection Kit – perhaps not included)
  • Dimensions (W x L x D): 325 x 175 x 43 mm
  • body weight: 675 g
  • Incl. Ableton Live Lite, Novation’s Soft-Synth Bass Station and V-Station as well as Loopmasters samples
  • 32x Velocity-sensitive keys (Slimkey)
  • With aftertouch
  • Integrated polyphonic step sequencer
  • Up to 64 actions and 8 simultaneous records per step
  • 8-Mode Arpeggiator
  • Chord Play mode
  • Transport buttons
  • Pitch and modulation touch fader
  • Colour: White
  • Power connector
  • USB
  • MIDI In / Out
  • CV / gate output
  • Sync input and output
  • Sustain pedal input

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 Novation Launchkey Mini MK2

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:

Review MIDI keyboard Alesis V mini. Where to buy it?

Alesis is a company founded in the United States in 1980 that designs and markets electronic musical instruments, digital audio processors, audio mixers, drum amplifiers, digital audio interface amplifiers, recording equipment, drum machines, professional audio and electronic percussion products. I’ll tell you how this post is built. First I list the features of this Alesis V mini 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 speed-sensitive ‘mini’ keys
  • 4 speed-sensitive backlit pads
  • Pitch and modulation wheel
  • Sustain buttons
  • 4 assignable knobs
  • System requirements: Mac with OS X 10.8 or later / PC with Windows 7 or later
  • Requires an available USB port
  • Includes Air Music Tech’s V mini (license per download) and xpand!2 (license per download)

review alesis-v-mini
This MIDI keyboard is usually priced at around €50/£44/$51 and offers 25 mini-size velocity-sensitive keys, which in its 2-octave range will allow us to play many musical figures.

It also offers 4 backlit velocity-sensitive pads, pitch bend, and modulation wheels, sustain buttons, and 4 assignable knobs, which will allow you to have moderate control over the DAW you are using.

It’s USB powered, so no external power supply is needed. The Alesis V mini includes the Air Music Tech V mini software editor (license by download) and xpand!2 (license by download).

Now that we have seen the features of this Alesis V mini keyboard watch these related videos to know more.

Posts you may be interested in

Alesis V mini vs Akai MPK mini Mk2

The Alesis V MIDI Keyboard is priced at €50/£44/$51 and the Akai MPK mini MK2 is priced at €79/£70/$81. Let’s go to the face-to-face:

  • Both offer 25 mini-size keys with sensitivity, the Akai’s synthesizer action.
  • The Alesis V mini offers 4 speed-sensitive backlit pads, a pitch bend and modulation wheel, sustain buttons and 4 assignable knobs.
  • The Akai MPK mini Mk2 features a thumbstick for pitch and modulation, 8 MPC pads with note repeat, an arpeggiator button and 8 assignable control knobs.
  • In connections, both are USB powered and the Akai has an additional input for a sustain pedal.
  • The Alesis V mini includes the Air Music Tech V mini (license by download) and xpand!2 software editor (license by download) and the Akai MPK mini MK2 includes a complete production software package (downloads): Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Wobble and Akai Pro MPC Essentials.

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

Alesis V mini

Akai MPK mini MK2
  • 25 speed-sensitive ‘mini’ keys
  • 4 speed-sensitive backlit pads
  • Pitch and modulation wheel
  • Sustain buttons
  • 4 assignable knobs
  • System requirements: Mac with OS X 10.8 or later / PC with Windows 7 or later
  • Requires an available USB port
  • Includes Air Music Tech’s V mini (license per download) and xpand!2 (license per download)
  • 25 mini synthesizer action keys
  • New 4-way ‘thumbstick’ for dynamic tone/modulation control
  • 8 MPC pads with note repetition
  • Arpeggiator
  • 8 assignable control knobs for mixing, adjusting plugins, and more
  • The ultra-compact design allows you to create anywhere
  • Additional inputs: 1 x 6.3 mm jack for sustain pedal
  • Powered by USB
  • No power adapter required
  • Full size sustain pedal input jack
  • Includes complete production software package (downloads): Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Wobble and Akai Pro MPC Essentials
  • Dimensions: 317 x 181 x 44 mm
  • Weight: 748 g

In this comparison we find the Alesis V mini, a MIDI controller with moderate functions, such as pads, pitch bend and modulation wheels, sustain knobs and buttons, as well as its 25 sensitive mini keys. On the other hand, the Akai MPK mini MK2 offers a 4-way thumbstick, high-quality MPC (Midi Production Center) pads, and knobs, not to mention its 25 mini synthesizer action keys. As you can see they are similar controllers, however, due to the quality of the pads and sustain pedal input, the Akai has a certain advantage over the Alesis, of course, there is also a relevant difference in money between them. If you have the budget go for the Akai MPK mini MK2.

And here’s a video of the Akai 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

Alesis V mini vs Akai LPK 25

The Alesis V mini MIDI Keyboard is priced at €50/£44/$51 while the Akai LPK 25 is priced at €42/£37/$42, but the difference is so small that this may vary from store to store.

  • Both offer 25 mini-size keys with sensitivity.
  • The Alesis V mini offers 4 speed-sensitive backlit pads, a pitch bend and modulation wheel, sustain buttons and 4 assignable knobs.
  • The Akai MPK mini Mk2 offers an arpeggiator button, a sustain button, octave up/down buttons and tap tempo.
  • When connected, both are USB powered and the Akai is plug and play.
  • The Alesis V mini includes the Air Music Tech V mini (license by download) and xpand!2 software editor (license by download) and the Akai LPK 25 includes a software editor for Mac and PC included

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

Alesis V mini

Akai LPK 25
  • Twenty-five speed-sensitive ‘mini’ keys
  • Four speed-sensitive backlit pads
  • Pitch and modulation wheel
  • Sustain buttons
  • Four attributable knobs
  • System requirements: Mac with OS X one hundred and eight or following/computer with Windows seven or following
  • Free USB port required
  • Includes Air Music Tech’s V mini (license per download) and xpand!2 (license per download)
  • Works with virtually all audio software
  • 25 mini-format speed-sensitive keys
  • Arpeggiator
  • Sustain button
  • Octave Up/Down and Tap Tempo buttons
  • Plug&Play USB socket on Mac and PC without drivers
  • Fits neatly into a laptop bag or backpack
  • 4 programmable memory banks
  • Editor Software for Mac and PC included
  • Powered by USB port, no mains power cable required
  • Size: 9,65 x 34,04 x 2,79 cm
  • Weight: 0.635 kg

Again we have a comparison of the Alesis V mini, with another Akai product, this time the LPK 25, which is a very minimalist MIDI controller with 25 keys and buttons for arpeggiator, sustain, octave up and down and tap tempo. Although it also has the advantage that it is compatible with almost any DAW and is very portable, it can fit in a suitcase or even a pocket. If you are interested in something minimalist and portable the Akai LPK 25 will be your choice, if not for a few more euros the Alesis V mini offers more control functions.

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

Alesis V mini vs Miditech Midistart Music 25

The Alesis V mini MIDI Keyboard is priced at €50/£44/$51 when the Miditech Midistart Music 25 is priced at €58/£51/$60, but the difference is so small that this can vary. Let’s move on to the face-to-face:

  • Both offer 25 keys with sensitivity, the Alesis has mini-size keys, and the Miditech has full-size keys.
  • The Alesis V mini offers 4 speed-sensitive backlit pads, a pitch bend and modulation wheel, sustain buttons and 4 assignable knobs.
  • The Miditech Midistart Music 25 offers a joystick for Pitchbend and Modulation, and octave +/- buttons.
  • When connected, both are powered via USB.
  • The Alesis V mini includes the Air Music Tech V mini (license by download) and xpand!2 software editor (license by download) and the Miditech Midistart Music 25 includes a Magix Samplitude SE software editor.

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

Alesis V mini

Miditech Midistart Music 25
  • Twenty-five speed-sensitive ‘mini’ keys
  • Four speed-sensitive backlit pads
  • Pitch and modulation wheel
  • Sustain buttons
  • Four attributable knobs
  • System requirements: Mac with OS X one hundred and eight or following/computer with Windows seven or following
  • Free USB port required
  • Includes Air Music Tech’s V mini (license per download) and xpand!2 (license per download)
  • 25 large keys with sensitivity
  • Joystick for Pitchbend and Modulation
  • Octave buttons +/-
  • MIDI output
  • USB port
  • Includes USB cable
  • Magix Samplitude SE
  • Size: 380 x 80 x 240 mm
  • Weight: 2.3 Kg

In this interesting comparison we have the already analyzed Alesis V mini, and in front of it is the Miditech Midistart Music 25 that has 25 normal size keys, a joystick for pitch bend and modulation, and up and down octave buttons. If you want a keyboard with pads and knobs the Alesis will be your choice, if you are interested in the full-size keys the Miditech will be the best for you.

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.

Alesis V mini vs M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4

The Alesis V mini MIDI keyboard is priced at €50/£44/$51, while the M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4 is priced at €125, let’s go face to face:

  • The Alesis V mini offers 25 mini-size keys, and the M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4 has 49 full-size sensitive keys.
  • The Alesis V mini offers 4 speed-sensitive backlit pads, a pitch bend and modulation wheel, sustain buttons and 4 assignable knobs.
  • The M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4 features 8 sensitive pads, 8 freely assignable rotary knobs and 9 freely assignable faders, plus a transport button and pitch bend and modulation wheels.
  • When connected, both are powered via USB.
  • The Alesis V mini includes the Air Music Tech V mini (license by download) and xpand!2 software editor (license by download) and the M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4 includes Quickstart Guide, Ableton Live Lite (Software) and Sonivox Twist (Software).

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

Alesis V mini

M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4
  • 25 speed-sensitive ‘mini’ keys
  • 4 speed-sensitive backlit pads
  • Pitch and modulation wheel
  • Sustain buttons
  • 4 assignable knobs
  • System requirements: Mac with OS X 10.8 or later / PC with Windows 7 or later
  • Requires an available USB port
  • Includes Air Music Tech’s V mini (license per download) and xpand!2 (license per download)
  • 49 sensitive keys
  • 8 Sensitive Pads
  • 8 freely assignable rotary knobs
  • 9 freely assignable sliders
  • Transport button e.g. for DAW control
  • LCD screen
  • Powered by USB port
  • USB Midi
  • Sustain pedal connection
  • Includes USB cable, Quickstart Guide, Ableton Live Lite (Software) and Sonivox Twist (Software)
  • Dimensions: WxDxH 814 x 243 x 94 mm
  • Weight: 2.9 k

In this comparison, we have our Alesis v mini on one hand, and on the other a keyboard that is twice as expensive and is the M-Audio Oxygen 49 MK4 that offers 49 full-size sensitive keys, 8 pads, 8 rotary knobs, and 9 faders, all of which are assignable. Both are controllers, but at the same time very different, and depending on your needs you can see which one suits you best.

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.

Alesis V mini vs Akai APC Keys 25

The Alesis V mini MIDI Keyboard is priced at €50/£44/$51 while the Akai APC Keys 25 is priced at €72/£64/$73. Let’s see the face-to-face:

  • Both offer 25 mini-size keys with sensitivity. And the Akai has synthesizer action.
  • The Alesis V mini offers 4 speed-sensitive backlit pads, a pitch bend and modulation wheel, sustain buttons and 4 assignable knobs.
  • The Akai APC Keys 25 offers a 5×8 clip launch matrix with RGB lighting for clip status indication, an octave and sustain switch and 8 assignable faders.
  • When connected, both are powered via USB.
  • The Alesis V mini includes Air Music Tech’s V mini (license by download) and xpand!2 software editor (license by download) and the Akai APC Keys 25 includes software packages (download versions): Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist Spectral Morphing Synthesizer, Toolroom Records Artist Launch Packs.

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

Alesis V mini

Akai APC Keys 25
  • 25 speed-sensitive ‘mini’ keys
  • 4 speed-sensitive backlit pads
  • Pitch and modulation wheel
  • Sustain buttons
  • 4 assignable knobs
  • System requirements: Mac with OS X 10.8 or later / PC with Windows 7 or later
  • Requires an available USB port
  • Includes Air Music Tech’s V mini (license per download) and xpand!2 (license per download)
  • 25-key mini Synth-Action keyboard
  • Smooth Integration into Ableton Live
  • 5×8 clip launch matrix with RGB illumination for an indication of current clip status
  • Octave switch and Sustain
  • 8 Assignable Faders that Ableton Live Recognizes Automatically
  • Includes Software Package (Download versions): Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist Spectral Morphing Synthesizer, Toolroom Records Artist Launch Packs
  • Powered by USB Class Compliant

In our last comparison, we have again the Alesis V mini, and on the other side the Akai APC Keys 25, a MIDI controller oriented towards the Ableton Live DAW, with its functions compatible with this audio software. It features 25 mini keys, a 5 x 8 clip launch matrix, i.e. 40 small illuminated pads, an octave and sustain switch and 8 assignable faders. If you work with Ableton Live, this will be a very good tool. If not, you can still work with other compatible DAWs.

And here’s a video of the Akai APC Keys 25

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Akai APC Keys 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 demanded by the controllers, a kind of value for money.

In this post we have very cheap MIDI controllers with few functions, somewhat minimalist, however, the star product of this post is undoubtedly the Akai MPK Mini MK2 that because of its price offers excellent functions and features, that among others has: a 4-way joystick for pitch bend and modulation, 8 MPC (MIDI Production Center) pads of great quality and 8 assignable knobs, besides its sustain pedal connection and licenses that add in this product to make it an excellent option for beginners. Don’t hesitate to take it with you if you have the chance.

Where to buy the Alesis V mini keyboard

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.

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.

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