Review MIDI keyboard Roli Seaboard Rise 25. Where to buy it?

ROLI is a London-based music technology company known for its high-tech musical instruments, in particular the Seaboard. It was founded by American musician and entrepreneur Roland Lamb in 2009. I’ll tell you how this post is built. First I list the features of this Roli Seaboard Rise 25 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.

• With 25 keys/pads ‘Keywaves
• Combines the intimacy of acoustic instruments with the versatility of electronic music
• New dimensions of tactile interaction
• Use with a variety of software and hardware synthesizers, as well as the included Equator package
• Simulates the true dynamic range of any instrument
• Customize patches using trackpad and touch faders
• Create new sound possibilities by mapping sound parameters to unique gestures
• Perform and record tracks with subtle and sensual details that previously required post-production
• Built-in MIDI on bluetooth with up to 8 hours of continuous performance
• Playing and forming sound tones in an amazingly direct and intuitive way

This MIDI keyboard is typically priced at around €755/£679/$749 and offers 25 ‘Keywaves’ keys/pads with new dimensions of tactile interaction, simulating the authentic dynamic range of any instrument.Combining the intimacy of acoustic instruments with the versatility of electronic music, you can customize the patches using the trackpad and touch-sensitive faders.

Create new sound possibilities by mapping sound parameters to unique gestures. Perform and record tracks with subtle and sensual details that previously required post-production. Includes built-in MIDI over Bluetooth with up to 8 hours of continuous performance

Now that we have seen the features of this Roli Seaboard Rise 25 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.

Roli Seaboard Rise 25 vs Roli Seaboard Block Studio Edition

The Roli Seaboard Rise 25 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €755/£679/$749 while the Roli Seaboard Block Studio Edition is priced at €349/£311/$345. Let’s go head to head:

• The Roli Seaboard Rise 25 provides 25 ‘Keywaves’, with a range of 4 octaves similar to a keyboard. The Roli Seaboard Block Studio Edition provides 24 ‘Keywaves’ with a range of 2 octaves similar to that of a keyboard. Keywaves are pads/keypads on which you can use 5D-Touch Technology: Tapping, Pressing, Rubbing, Sliding and Lifting.
• Besides the Keywaves, the Roli Seaboard Rise 25 offers a trackpad and 3 touch-sensitive faders, as well as octave up/down buttons and movement buttons.
• The Roli Seaboard Rise 25 features an integrated sustain pedal input, a USB-A connection, a USB-B connection and a power supply input, and offers Bluetooth MIDI. The Roli Seaboard Block Studio Edition integrates a USB-C port as MIDI output and also power supply, it also has Bluetooth MIDI.
• The Roli Seaboard Rise 25 includes the software licenses for Equator Synth, Strobe2, Bitwig 8-Track, Tracktion Waveform, Cypher2 Player, Max MSP 3 (3 month trial) and Seabaord Dashboard. The Roli Seaboard Block Studio Edition includes the licenses for Roli Studio (includes Roli Studio Player and Roli Studio Drums), Strobe2 Full, Ableton Live Lite 9, Max MSP 8 (6 month free trial), Roli Dashboard and Roli Connect.

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

In our first comparison, we have two Roli MIDI controllers, on one hand, the Seaboard Rise 25 which offers 25 ‘Keywaves’ and on the other hand the Seaboard Block Studio Edition which offers 24 ‘Keywaves’, which we can use in 5 different dimensions: Push, push, pull, slide and lift. This is a great way to express yourself.

As an advantage of the Roli Seaboard Rise 49 we have a normal size controller with 25 ‘Keywaves’ and also certain control functions like 3 faders and a touchpad that will also allow us to modify different parameters. The Roli Seaboard Block Studio Edition has a much lower price and a more compact and lighter model. If you want 25 ‘Keybeds’ you will go for the Roli Seaboard Rise 25. And if you want the same expression but with a more compact and portable controller, apart from being economical, the Roli Seaboard Block Studio Edition will be a better option. As a note, it is worth mentioning that the Roli Seaboard Block Studio Edition can be joined with another similar model to form a controller with a wider range of notes.

Here is a video of the Roli Seaboard Block Studio Edition keyboard

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Roli Seaboard Block Studio Edition review.

Roli Seaboard Rise 25 vs Roli Seaboard Rise 49

The Roli Seaboard Rise 25 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €755/£679/$749 while the Roli Seaboard Rise 49 is priced at €1199/£1,088/$1,195. Let’s go head to head:

• The Roli Seaboard Rise 25 provides 25 ‘Keywaves’ with a 2-octave range similar to a keyboard. Keywaves are pads/keys where you can use 5D-Touch Technology: Tapping, pressing, rubbing, sliding and lifting. 49 Keywaves are provided by the Roli Seaboard Rise 49, with a range of 4 octaves similar to that of a keyboard.
• In addition to the Keywaves, both offer a trackpad and 3 touch-sensitive faders, plus octave up/down buttons and movement buttons.
• Both feature a sustain pedal input, a USB-A connection, a USB-B connection and a power supply input, as well as offering Bluetooth MIDI.
• The Roli Seaboard Rise 25 includes the licenses for Equator Synth, Strobe2, Bitwig 8-Track, Tracktion Waveform and Seaboard Dashboard. The Roli Seaboard Rise 49 includes the software licenses for Equator Synth, Strobe2, Bitwig 8-Track, Tracktion Waveform, Cypher2 Player, Max MSP 3 (3-month trial) and Seaboard Dashboard.

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

In this comparison, we again have two Roli MIDI controllers, the Seaboard Rise 49 on one hand and the Seaboard Rise 25 on the other. After that they generally have the same functions and features, both having a great possibility of expression using the 5 different dimensions: Pulsation, pressure, rubbing, sliding and lifting. If you need the 4-octave range go for the Seaboard Rise 49, if you are fine with 2 octaves go for the Seaboard Rise 25.

And here is a video of the Roli Seaboard Rise 49 keyboard

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Roli Seaboard Rise 49 review.

Roli Seaboard Rise 25 vs Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2

The Roli Seaboard Rise 25 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €755/£679/$749 when the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2 is priced at €498/£449/$498. Having a difference of 254 Euro, we will move on to the face-to-face:

• The Roli Seaboard Rise 25 offers 25 ‘Keywaves’, with a range of 4 octaves similar to a keyboard. Keywaves are pads/keys on which you can use 5D-Touch Technology: Tapping, pressing, rubbing, sliding and lifting. The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2 offers Fatar ‘Keybeds’ with aftertouch and 49 semi-balanced keys.
• Apart from the ‘Keywaves’, the Roli Seaboard Rise 25 offers a trackpad and 3 touch-sensitive faders, plus octave up/down buttons and movement buttons. The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2 offers a 4D push encoder, 8 assignable knobs, 3 transport buttons (network, play, pause) and buttons for different functions.
• The Roli Seaboard Rise 25 integrates a sustain pedal input, a USB-A connection, a USB-B connection and a power supply input, and offers Bluetooth MIDI. The Native Instruments Kompletete Kontrol S49 MK2 features an integrated MIDI input and output, two assignable pedal inputs and an external power supply, as well as a USB connection.
• The Roli Seaboard Rise 25 includes the software licenses for Equator Synth, Strobe2, Bitwig 8-Track, Tracktion Waveform, Cypher2 Player, Max MSP 3 (3-month trial) and Seaboard Dashboard. The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2 includes KOMPLETE SELECT plus KOMPLETE SELECT for free (11 premium instruments and effects: Massive, Monark, The Gentleman, Drumlab, Reaktor Prism, Scarbee Mark I, Retro Machines, Vintage Organs, West Africa, Solid Bus Comp, and Replica).

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 Roli Seaboard Rise 25 with its functions and features that we have already analyzed before, and on the other hand the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MKII that offers ‘Keybeds’ Fatar with aftertouch and 49 semi-weighted keys, 4D push encoder, 8 assignable knobs, 3 transport buttons (network, play, pause) and buttons with different functions.

The advantage of the Roli Seaboard Rise 25 is its great capacity for expression thanks to its 5-dimensional touches: Push, press, rub, slide and lift. In addition to its Bluetooth MIDI function that allows it to be used without cables. And by the Native Instruments Kompletete Kontrol S49 MKII as advantages, we find certain control functions as its 8 assignable knobs, or its 4D encoder that allows being used in 4 dimensions. If you need a current MIDI controller, and to experiment there is no doubt that the Roli Seaboard Rise 25 will be your best option, but if you need a more standard controller with its more traditional and classic functions and with a quality keyboard, go for the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MKII.

And here is a video of the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 K12 keyboard

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 K12 review.

Roli Seaboard Rise 25 vs Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 K12

The Roli Seaboard Rise 25 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €755/£679/$749 when the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 K12 is priced at €622/£569/£569. Let’s see the face to face:

• The Roli Seaboard Rise 25 provides 25 ‘Keywaves’, with a range of 4 octaves similar to a keyboard. Keywaves are pads/keys on which you can use 5D-Touch Technology: Tapping, pressing, rubbing, sliding and lifting. The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 MK2 offers 61 semi-weighted Fatar keys with aftertouch.
• Besides the ‘Keywaves’, the Roli Seaboard Rise 25 offers a trackpad and 3 touch-sensitive faders, plus octave up/down buttons and movement buttons. The Native Instruments Kompletete Kontrol S61 MK2 offers a 4D push encoder, 8 assignable knobs, 3 transport buttons (network, play, pause) and different function buttons.
• The Roli Seaboard Rise 25 integrates a sustain pedal input, a USB-A connection, a USB-B connection and a power supply input, and offers Bluetooth MIDI. The Native Instruments Kompletete Kontrol S61 MK2 features an integrated MIDI input and output, two assignable pedal inputs and an external power supply, as well as a USB connection.
• The Roli Seaboard Rise 25 includes the software licenses for Equator Synth, Strobe2, Bitwig 8-Track, Tracktion Waveform, Cypher2 Player, Max MSP 3 (3-month trial) and Seaboard Dashboard. The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 MK2 includes KOMPLETE SELECT plus KOMPLETE SELECT for free (11 premium instruments and effects: Massive, Monark, The Gentleman, Drumlab, Reaktor Prism, Scarbee Mark I, Retro Machines, Vintage Organs, West Africa, Solid Bus Comp, and Replica).

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 Roli Seaboard Rise 25 with its functions and features that we have already analyzed before, and on the other hand the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MKII that offers 61 semi-weighted Fatar keys with aftertouch, 4D push encoder, 8 assignable knobs, 3 transport buttons (network, play, pause) and buttons with different functions.

As an advantage of the Roli Seaboard Rise 25 we have its great capacity of expression thanks to its 5-dimensional touches: Push, press, rub, slide and lift. In addition to its Bluetooth MIDI function that allows it to be used without cables. And by the Native Instruments Kompletete Kontrol S49 MKII as advantages, we find certain control functions as its 8 assignable knobs, or its 4D encoder that allows being used in 4 dimensions. If you need a current MIDI controller, and to experiment there is no doubt that the Roli Seaboard Rise 25 will be your best option, but if you need a more standard controller with its more traditional and classic functions and with a quality keyboard, go for the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 MKII.

And here is a video of the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 K12 keyboard

What 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 a series of good MIDI controllers that have a medium-high price range and therefore their functions are of quality. And as a star product we can and the most suitable one for a beginner in music production is the Roli Seaboard Block Studio Edition that offers 24 ‘keybeds’ that can be used both as keys and pads, and we also have its great expression capacity thanks to its 5-dimensional touches: Tapping, pressing, rubbing, sliding and lifting. If you have the opportunity to acquire it, don’t think twice.

Where to buy the Roli Seaboard Rise 25 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.

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

• Roli Seaboard Rise 25
• Roli Seaboard Block Studio Edition
• Roli Songmaker Kit Studio Edition
• Haken Audio ContinuuMini
• Roli Seaboard Rise 49
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2
• Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 Black
• Akai MPK 249
• Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 White
• Novation 49SL MKIII
• Korg Triton taktile 49
• Keith McMillen K-Board Pro 4
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 MK2
• Novation 61SL MKIII
• Novation Impulse 61
• Arturia KeyLab MkII 61 White
• Arturia KeyLab MkII 61 Black
• Nektar Panorama P6
• Akai MPK 261
• Nektar Panorama T6
• Studiologic SL73 Studio
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2
• Studiologic SL88 Studio
• Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII
• M-Audio Hammer 88
• Studiologic SL88 Grand
• Studiologic Numa Stage
• Doepfer PK88 GH
• Doepfer PK88 GH without Case

Review MIDI keyboard Novation Launchkey Mini MK3. Where to buy it?

Novation Digital Music Systems Ltd. is a British music equipment manufacturer, founded in 1992 by Ian Jannaway and Mark Thompson as Novation Electronic Music Systems. Today, the company specializes in MIDI controllers with or without keyboards, analog and virtual analog performance synthesizers, grid-based performance controllers and audio interfaces.

I’ll tell you how this post is built. First I list the features of this Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 keyboard.Then you have a video or two, purchase links and then you have one of the most useful parts, which are comparison tables with similar keyboards so you can compare.

This MIDI keyboard is usually priced at around €98/£89/$99 and gives you 25 speed-sensitive mini keys (which translates as intensity in MIDI language), which allow you to play melodies and chords as well as compose or arrange your musical ideas.

It includes 16 RGB pads (RedGreenBlue backlighting) with sensitive dynamics, which allow to create percussion loops or other used samples, we also have 8 assignable rotary controllers, to be more precise in the parameters of the DAW or plugin we are using.

It also has touch-strips or sliders to control the pitch bend and modulation in real time, i.e. at the moment of sounding. We also have arpeggiator function and fixed-chord mode, that is to say playing a chord using only one note.

Finally the connections of the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 are: 3.5 mm minijack MIDI output, USB port, Sustain pedal input, and offers a Bundle Software license.

Now that we have seen the features of this Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 keyboard look at 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.

Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 vs Akai MPK mini MK2

The Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €98/£89/$99 compared to the Akai MPK mini MK2 €79/£70/$81, but the difference is so small that this may vary. Let’s see the face to face:

• Both offer 25 speed-sensitive (MIDI language intensity) mini synthesizer action keys.
• The Novation offers 16 backlit pads, 8 assignable knobs and touch sliders for pitch bend and modulation, and transport buttons (play, rec, forward, reverse), while the Akai offers 8 high-quality MPC (Midi Production Center) pads, 8 assignable knobs and a 4-way thumbstick for pitch bend and modulation control.
• Both have an arpeggiator function as well as a sustain pedal input. Both are USB powered, no other power supply is needed.
• The Novation includes a Software Bundle and the Akai includes Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Wobble and Akai Pro MPC Essentials as licenses.

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

We have a very even comparison, with two MIDI controllers with very similar features and prices, the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 that we have already analyzed with a bigger amount of pads and transport buttons (only relevant differences), and the Akai MPK Mini MKII of which we have the difference already mentioned, and a slightly lower price, but with a slightly higher popularity, and according to that, I would go for it. Seeing also the size of its pads, in the Novation they are very small, while in the Akai they are a little bigger and with MPC quality.

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

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9jHtGcP7U4Q&t=2s

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

Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 vs Arturia MiniLab MKII

The Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €98/£89/$99 and the Arturia MiniLab MKII is priced at €91/£82/$91, but the difference is so small that this may vary.

• Both offer 25 synthesizer-action mini keys with speed sensitivity (intensity in MIDI language).
• The Novation offers 16 backlit pads, 8 assignable knobs and touch sliders for pitch bend and modulation, and transport buttons (play, rec, forward, reverse), while the Arturia offers 16 assignable rotary encoders (knobs), 8 sensitive pads with RGB (RedGreenBlue) feedback and pitch bend and modulation touch strips.
• Both have a sustain pedal input. Both are USB powered, no other power supply is needed.
• The Novation includes a Software Bundle and the Arturia includes the Analog Lab Lite software license with 500 sounds in V-Collection Five quality, Ableton Live Lite and UVI Grand Piano.

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

Again in this comparison, we have two very similar MIDI controllers, where the only relevant difference is that the Novation has 16 backlit and sensitive pads, and 8 assignable knobs, while the Arturia is the opposite, offering 16 assignable knobs, and 8 backlit and sensitive pads. In terms of weight, the Novation is very light at 689g and the Arturia is still light at 1.5kg. If you wish to have more pads in order to have more controls of this type (to give throws or to have samples/parameters assigned), the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 is better for you, on the other hand, if you wish to have more knobs (to have parameters assigned) to control, your choice will be the Arturia MiniLab MKII.

And here’s a video of the Arturia MiniLab MKII

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

Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 vs Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32

The Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €98/£89/$99 while the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 is priced at €105/£98/$108, but the difference is so small that this can vary.

• The Novation has 25 speed-sensitive mini keys (intensity according to MIDI language). When the Native Instruments has 32 mini-keys equally sensitive.
• The Novation offers 16 backlit pads, 8 assignable knobs and touch sliders for pitch bend and modulation, and the transport buttons (play, rec, forward, reverse). The Kontrol M32 offers 8 assignable encoders and two touch-strips for pitch bend and modulation. In addition to a 4D pushbutton encoder.
• Both have input jack for sustain pedal, USB port and USB power.
• The Novation includes a Software Bundle. The Kontrol M32 includes the software Monark, Scarbee Mark I, Reaktor Prism, Komplete Kontrol Software, Maschine Essentials, Komplete Start, Ableton Live 10 Lite. Plus intuitive control over the DAWs: Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, Garage Band, Cubase and Nuendo.

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

And here is a video of the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 keyboard

The most relevant difference between these two models of MIDI controllers is the number of keys, in the Novation there are 25 (2 Octaves) and in the Native Instruments, there are 32 (3 Octaves). The Native Instruments does not offer any pads, whereas in the Novation we have 16 of them. And in the Native Instruments, we have a 4-dimensional push encoder, useful for the control of the DAW, or some plugin parameter. According to your needs, you will choose what suits you best.

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 review.

Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 vs Arturia Keystep

The MIDI Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 is priced at €98/£89/$99 and the Arturia Keystep is priced at €102/£89/$101, but the difference is so small that this can vary.

• The Novation has 25 velocity-sensitive mini-keys (intensity according to MIDI language), while the Keystep has 32 thin keys with sensitivity and aftertouch.
• As the Keystep is a polyphonic sequencer, it offers up to 64 steps and 8 notes of polyphony.
• The Novation offers 16 backlit pads, 8 assignable knobs and touch sliders for pitch bend and modulation, and the transport buttons (play, rec, forward, reverse). The Keystep offers transport buttons and touch sliders for pitch bend and modulation.
• Both have input jacks for sustain pedal, USB port and USB power. And the Keystep has a CV output/door, input/sync output.
• The Novation includes a Software Bundle. The Kontrol M32 includes Monark, Scarbee Mark I, Reaktor Prism, Komplete Kontrol Software, Maschine Essentials, Komplete Start, Ableton Live 10 Lite. Plus intuitive control over the DAWs: Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, Garage Band, Cubase and Nuendo.

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

Now we have a slightly more interesting comparison with a MIDI controller as such, the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3, and the Arturia Keystep which is also a MIDI controller and which merges the functions of a sequencer, allowing you to work with sequences (steps) of different musical elements such as percussive rhythm loops, harmonies, arpeggios and also basses and melodies in order to create musical ideas. If you want to experiment with this function, the Arturia is for you.

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.

Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 vs Akai LPK 25

The Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €98/£89/$99 and the Akai LPK 25 is priced at €42/£37/$42.

• Both have 25 speed-sensitive mini keys (intensity according to the MIDI language).
• The Novation offers 16 backlit pads, 8 assignable knobs and touch sliders for pitch bend and modulation, and the transport buttons (play, rec, forward, reverse). The Akai offers octave up/down buttons, sustain button and tap tempo. It’s really very basic.
• Both have input jack for sustain pedal, USB port and USB power.
• The Novation includes a Software Bundle. The Akai is Plug and Play and works with virtually all audio software.
• The Arturia Minilab MKII has the dimensions of 355 x 220 x 50mm and a weight of 1.5 kg, while the Akai MPK mini MK2 has the dimensions (W x H x D): 9.65 x 34.04 x 2.79 cm and a weight of 635 g.

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

Now we have an equally interesting comparison, the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 which we have already discussed with a considerable number of functions and features for the beginner in music production. The Akai LPK 25 is a more minimalist MIDI controller, and at the same time very portable, that due to its measures and weight can fit in a suitcase or pocket. According to your needs, you will choose the best decision.

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.

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.

Although one of the closest comparisons was the first one, where we found ourselves face to face with the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 and the Akai MPK Mini MK2. As we mentioned before, the Akai MPK Mini MK2 has some advantages against its competitors: better quality pads and a slightly cheaper price, besides having more software licenses included. If you want a driver that won’t let you down, go for it.

Where to buy the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3

Amazon

• Free Shipping and 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
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Digital Piano Casio CT X3000 Full Review. Is it a good purchase?

Casio Digital Piano CT-X3000 Review Complete Is it a good piano?

Casio is a Japanese company that produces electronic devices, including electronic musical keyboards. Today we are looking at the Casio CT-X3000 digital keyboard, which for a fair price has everything a beginner’s keyboard needs: sensitive keys, decent polyphony, sustain pedal connection, and USB MIDI connection. With a price of €282/£257 it is a keyboard for beginners, let’s see its features and then with the comparisons:

• 61 touch-sensitive keys
• 64 notes of polyphony (Number of notes that can be played at once. This includes accompaniments that also consume notes. So if you play over an accompaniment, more notes will be accumulated)
• aiX sound generation engine
• 800 different sounds (different piano and other instrument sounds)
• 30 pre-installed songs
• 235 types of rhythms (Rhythms of accompaniment that adapt to what you are playing. There are bossa nova rhythms, etc. Sometimes they are also known as accompaniment styles)
• Pitch Bend Wheel
• Four-sentence pads to improve usability and speed
• It brings the following basic effects: reverb (Reverb effect), Chorus
• Function harmony
• DSP (Digital Signal Processing) effects. These are digital effects that modify the sound of the keyboard)
• 100 types of Arpeggio function (The Arpeggio function allows you to play an entire passage of notes by pressing just one key. Many come pre-recorded and some keyboards allow you to create them)
• One-Touch Presets
• Transposition (Transposition allows you to move the note spectrum of a keyboard. This is to be able to play with transposing instruments. It is not an easy concept but it is made to facilitate the writing of an orchestration for instruments with very different bass and treble registers)
• MIDI Recorder
• LC display for improved usability
• Auto shut-off function (energy saving)
• Combined headset/line connection
• Pedal connection
• Usb to Host (This is a more modern MIDI connector. MIDI allows you to do such wonderful things as connect your keyboard to your computer, record a sound track, and with certain programs pass on what you have played to musical notes in a score with a single click. MIDI tracks store the information of the notes)
• USB to Device
• Sustain pedal connection (The sustain pedal of a piano or keyboard is used to keep the note playing even if you stop pressing the key)
• Speaker system with an acceptable power of 6 W (enough for a small restaurant)
• Can be battery operated and comes with power supply
• It measures 948 x 384 x 116 mm
• It has a weight of 6.9 kg (not the lightest but it can be carried easily)

 

 

Related post you can be interested in

• Ranking with the best digital pianos
• My selection of cheap musical keyboards.
• Basic concepts you need to know about digital pianos.
• The best resources to learn to play the piano by yourself.
• The best Casio Digital Pianos.

Now let’s compare the Casio CT X3000 with its more common alternatives. Also at the end of the post you will find a section with the best shopping possibilities for this digital piano. But you can go directly to that part of the post by pressing the following button.

Casio CT-X3000 vs. Casio CT-X700

First we will compare two keyboards The Casio CT-X3000 with a price of €282/£257, while the Casio CT-X700 has a price of €209/$174/£189, with a difference of 77 euro. We will put them face to face to verify their similarities and differences:

• Both keyboards have 61 keys with touch sensitivity, sensitivity refers to the function of being able to play with dynamics, i.e. when we press a key with force, it sounds louder than when we press a key with less force.
• The Casio CT-X3000 offers 800 different voices/sounds, with 64 notes of polyphony and 235 rhythms/styles for accompaniments. The Casio CT-X700 provides 600 different voices/sounds, 48 notes of polyphony and 195 rhythms/styles for accompaniment. Remember that polyphony is the largest number of notes that can be played simultaneously.
• Both keyboards have a Casio branded AiX sound generation engine.
• The Casio CT-X3000 has the following effects: Reverb, Chorus, Delay, and other DSP (Digital Signal Process), while the Casio CT-X700 has Chorus and Reverb effects. Both have the Harmony function and 100 arpeggio types, also metronome and transposition.
• Both keyboards have a combined headphone and line output, sustain pedal connection, AND USB to host connection, meaning that they can be connected to a computer for use as a MIDI controller in a music composition or production program.
• The Casio CT-X3000 has a USB to device connection, which means that it accepts USB SD sticks for storing MIDI recordings. And as another difference, it has Pitch Bend wheels, which allow you to change the height of a note while you’re at it.
• The Casio CT-X3000 weighs 6.9 kg and measures 948 × 384 × 116 mm, while the Casio CT-X700 weighs 4.3 kg and measures 948 × 350 × 109 mm mm.

Both are excellent keyboards for beginners, but as we noticed the Casio C T-X 3000 has better performance, plus a pitch bend wheel and the option of connecting USB sticks to increase MIDI recording storage. So if you’re on a tight budget, you might want to go for the cheaper one. If you want more and better performance, the Casio C T-X 3000 will be your keyboard of choice.

We will put the features of each of these pianos in 2 different columns to make it easier to see the differences:

And now a video of the Casio CT-X700

If you want to know more about this model, don’t miss our review of the Casio CT-X700.

Casio CT-X3000 vs. Casio CT-X5000

Now let’s compare two very similar Casio brand keyboards, the Casio CT-X3000 with a price of €282/£257 and the Casio CT-X5000 with a price of €365/$450/£333, giving a difference of £77, let’s see their faces:

• Both keyboards have 61 touch-sensitive keys, which on the Casio CT-X5000 are configurable. Sensitivity refers to the function of being able to play dynamically, i.e. when a key is pressed with force, it sounds louder than when a key is pressed with less force.
• Both keyboards offer 800 different voices/sounds, with 64 notes of polyphony and 235 rhythms/styles for accompaniment. Generated by the AiX sound engine. Remember that polyphony is the highest number of notes that can be played at the same time.
• The Casio CT-X3000 has the following effects: Reverb (24 types), Chorus (12 types), Delay (15 types) and 100 DSP (Digital Signal Process). The Casio CT-X5000 has the following effects: Reverb (32 types), Chorus (16 types), Delay(20 types), and 100 DSP (Digital Signal Process). Both have a Harmony function and 100 arpeggio types, also metronome and transposition. Although they are the same effects on the X5000 we can find more variety.
• Both keyboards have a combined headphone and line output, Sustain pedal connection, AND USB to host connection, meaning that they can be connected to a computer to be used as a MIDI controller in a music composition or production program. They also have a USB to device connection, which means that they accept USB SD sticks for storing MIDI recordings.
• Both have Pitch Bend wheels, which allow you to change the height of a note while playing.
• The Casio CT-X3000 has two 6 W speakers, which is an acceptable power level. The Casio CT-X5 1000 has two 15-watt speakers, having a higher power.
• The Casio CT-X3000 weighs 6.9 kg and measures 948 × 384 × 116 mm, while the Casio CT-X5000 weighs 7 kg and measures 948 × 350 × 109 mm.
• The Casio CT-X3000 comes with a power supply and is battery-powered. The Casio CT-X5000 also includes a power supply but does NOT support batteries, so it cannot be used on the road or in a portable manner.

As you can see, both keyboards are very similar. The main difference is that the Casio C T-X 5000 has a higher speaker power of 15W and does not support batteries. The higher power allows you to rehearse with other musicians or friends without using external amplification.

We will put the characteristics of each of these pianos in 2 different columns to make it easier to see the differences:

Now a video of the Casio CT-X5000:

If you want to know more about this model, don’t miss our review of the Casio CT-X5000.

Casio CT-X3000 vs Yamaha PSR-E463

Now we’ll buy the Casio C T-3000 beginner’s keyboard at a price of €282/£257 and the Yamaha PSR-E463 digital keyboard at a price of €285/$350/£259, let’s see their differences and similarities in the following face-to-face:

• Both keyboards have 61 touch-sensitive keys.
• The Casio C T-X3000 has 800 different sounds or voices, with 64 notes of polyphony and 235 types of styles or rhythms for accompaniment, all generated by its AiX sound engine. While the Yamaha PSR-E463 has 758 different sounds or voices, with 48 notes of polyphony and 235 styles or rhythms for accompaniment, all generated by its sound engine AWM, own brand Yamaha.
• The Casio CT-X3000 has the following effects: Reverb (24 types), Chorus (12 types), Delay (15 types), 100 DSP (Digital Signal Process), Harmony and 100 arpeggio types. The Yamaha PSR-E463 has the following effects: Reverb (12 types), Chorus (5 types) Harmony (26 types) and 10 DSP, assignable with control knobs and 150 arpeggio types. Both have metronome and transposition.
• Both keyboards have a combined line and headphone output, with a sustain pedal connection. As well as a USB to host connection, this means they can be connected to a computer to be used as a MIDI controller in a music composition or production program. And only the Casio CT-X3000 has a USB to device connection, which means that it accepts USB SD sticks for storing MIDI recordings.
• The Casio CT-X3000 has a Pitch Bend wheel, which allows you to change the pitch of a note as it is played.
• Both keyboards have an acceptable power output from their 6 W speakers.
• The Casio CT-X3000 weighs 6.9 kg and measures 948 × 384 × 116 mm, while the Yamaha weighs 6.6 kg and measures 946 × 404 × 139 mm.
• Both keyboards include their power supply and also allow the use of batteries for operation.
• The Yamaha allows the use of applications from an iPhone or iPad, and an additional cable is required.

As we can see here we also find very similar keyboards. With few differences that we could comment as: The Casio has a slightly higher amount of sounds and polyphony notes, the Casio also has pitch bend wheels, plus USB to device connection. The Yamaha has 50 more arpeggio types, and applications available alongside devices such as the iPhone or iPad. We invite you to watch the Videos below and compare the sounds of both, with such a small difference in price, will not be an easy decision.

We will put the features of each of these pianos in 2 different columns to make it easier to see the differences:

And now a video of the Yamaha PSR-E463:

If you want to know more about this model don’t miss our review of the Yamaha PSR-E463.

Casio CT-X3000 vs Korg EK50

Finally, we will have the comparison of these two digital keyboards: the Casio C T-X3000 with a price of €282/£257 and the Korg EK 50 with a price of €294/$450/£272, with a slight difference of £12. So let’s see what the differences and similarities are in these two entry-level devices:

• Both keyboards have 61 touch-sensitive keys.
• The Casio C T-X3000 has 800 different sounds or voices, with 64 notes of polyphony and 235 types of styles or rhythms for accompaniment, all generated by its AiX sound engine. While the Korg EK50 has more than 700 different sounds or voices with 64 polyphony voices and 280 styles or rhythms for accompaniment +16 musical styles, generated by its PCM sound engine, the Korg brand.
• The Casio CT-X3000 has the following effects: Reverb (24 types), Chorus (12 types), Delay (15 types), 100 DSP (Digital Signal Process), Harmony and 100 arpeggio types. The Korg EK50 has 34 different effect types with 148 variations. Both have metronome and transposition.
• The Casio CT-X3000 has a combined line and headphone output, while the Korg EK50 has a 6.3 mm main L and R output and separate headphone output. Both have a USB to host connection, which means that they can be connected to a computer for use as a MIDI controller in a music composition or production program. Both also have a USB to device connection, which means that they accept USB SD sticks for storing MIDI recordings.
• The Casio CT-X3000 has a Pitch Bend wheel, which allows you to change the pitch of a note as it is played.
• The Casio CT-X3000 has an acceptable power output of 6W, while the Korg EK50 has two 10W speakers, enhancing the power of the Casio.
• The Casio CT-X3000 weighs 6.9 kg and measures 948 × 384 × 116 mm, while the Korg EK50 weighs 7.5 kg and measures 994 × 392 × 132 mm.
• The Korg EK50 has a four-position joystick, a song recorder and an upgradeable operating system.
• Both keyboards include their power supply and also allow the use of batteries for operation.
• The Yamaha allows the use of applications from an iPhone or iPad, and an additional cable is required.

Once again, we have two entry-level keyboards, each with its own functions and features. The Yamaha allows the use of apps from iOS devices. While the Korg offers a four-position joystick, a song recorder and an upgradeable operating system for the same keyboard. We invite you to watch the Videos of each keyboard and compare their sounds, according to this you can make a better decision.

We will put the characteristics of each of these pianos in 2 different columns to make it easier to see the differences:

If you want to know more about this model don’t miss our review of the Korg EK50.

Where to buy Casio CT X3000

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.

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