All Posts by Jaime Echagüe

Review MIDI keyboard Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 White. Where to buy it?

I’ll tell you how this post is built. First I list the features of the Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 White 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.

  • 49 Velocity sensitive keys with aftertouch
  • 16 Colour illuminated performance pads
  • 9 Faders
  • 9 Rotating control knobs
  • LC-Display
  • Category work
  • Pitch and Modulation wheel
  • Chord and Transpose function
  • Transport buttons
  • 5 Expression Control inputs
  • 4 CV outputs
  • 1 CV input
  • midi (MIDI allows you to do such wonderful things as connect the keyboard to the computer, record a soundtrack and with certain programs pass with a click what you have played to musical notes in a score. MIDI tracks store information from musical notes) input and output
  • USB port
  • Input for outside power
  • Aluminium housing
  • System requirements: Min. Windows 7 or MAC OS 10.8 or maybe more, 4 GB RAM, 2 GHz Central Processing Unit, 7 GB free hard drive area for complete installing of the included pc software, DVD drive, net connection
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 793 x 297 x 53 mm
  • Weight: 6.3 kg
  • Colour: White
  • Includes Analog Lab computer software with more than 6500 Sounds (Different sounds of piano and other instruments), Piano V and Ableton Live Lites

review arturia-keylab-mkii-49-white

This keyboard usually has a price around 408.00 €

Now that we’ve seen the features of this keyboard Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 White 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:

Looked long and difficult for a mid-range USB keyboard so happy i chose the Arturia. It comes bundled with Analog Lab that will be an item that is excellent of and makes this better yet value.
The DAW integration with Ableton is amazing together with weighting and quality associated with keys are i’m all over this. Overall construction, metal top panel wood inserts on the edges, additionally makes it feel just like an item that is peremium.
Highly recommended

Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 White vs Novation Impulse 61

The keyboard Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 White is usually 75 € more expensive than Novation Impulse 61.

And then a video of the keyboard

Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 White

Novation Impulse 61
  • 49 Velocity sensitive keys with aftertouch
  • 16 Colour illuminated performance pads
  • 9 Faders
  • 9 Rotating control knobs
  • LC-Display
  • Category work
  • Pitch and Modulation wheel
  • Chord and Transpose function
  • Transport buttons
  • 5 Expression Control inputs
  • 4 CV outputs
  • 1 CV input
  • MIDI input and output
  • USB port
  • Input for outside power
  • Aluminium housing
  • System requirements: Min. Windows 7 or MAC OS 10.8 or maybe more, 4 GB RAM, 2 GHz Central Processing Unit, 7 GB free hard drive area for complete installing of the included pc software, DVD drive, net connection
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 793 x 297 x 53 mm
  • Weight: 6.3 kg
  • Colour: White
  • Includes Analog Lab computer software with more than 6500 sounds, Piano V and Ableton Live Lites
  • 61 Keys
  • Semi-Weighted with aftertouch
  • complete DAW and plug-in control
  • 8 Backlit drum pads
  • 9 Fader 55 mm
  • 9 Assignable buttons
  • 8 Rotating control knob
  • 6 Transport buttons
  • Pitch and modulation wheel
  • 2 Octave secrets
  • Arpeggiator, beat roll- and clip launch buttons
  • LCD
  • USB port
  • Expression and sustain pedal ports
  • MIDI in/ out
  • Automap control software
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 1022 x 332 x 100 mm
  • body weight: 6.5 kg
  • Including Xcite+ software pack, Ableton Live Lite

And then a video of the keyboardNovation Impulse 61

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Novation Impulse 61 review

Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 White vs Studiologic SL88 Studio

The keyboard Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 White is usually 20 € more expensive than Studiologic SL88 Studio, but the difference is so small that this can vary..

And then a video of the keyboard

Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 White

Studiologic SL88 Studio
  • 49 Velocity sensitive keys with aftertouch
  • 16 Colour illuminated performance pads
  • 9 Faders
  • 9 Rotating control knobs
  • LC-Display
  • Category work
  • Pitch and Modulation wheel
  • Chord and Transpose function
  • Transport buttons
  • 5 Expression Control inputs
  • 4 CV outputs
  • 1 CV input
  • MIDI input and output
  • USB port
  • Input for outside power
  • Aluminium housing
  • System requirements: Min. Windows 7 or MAC OS 10.8 or maybe more, 4 GB RAM, 2 GHz Central Processing Unit, 7 GB free hard drive area for complete installing of the included pc software, DVD drive, net connection
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 793 x 297 x 53 mm
  • Weight: 6.3 kg
  • Colour: White
  • Includes Analog Lab computer software with more than 6500 sounds, Piano V and Ableton Live Lites
  • Weighted hammer action keyboard TP/100LR with Aftertouch
  • 6 Way joystick control
  • 3 Function buttons
  • 4 Programmable zones
  • 4 Programmable pedal connectors
  • 3 Joystick controllers
  • TFT color display (320 x 240 px)
  • Editable and programmable pc software (SL Editor)
  • Programmable Key-Balance function
  • 6 Editable velocity curves
  • Magnetic rail system for holding sheet music and laptop computer (holders not included)
  • Dimensions (L x W x H): 1260 x 310 x 125 mm
  • body weight: 13.7 kg
  • Power adapter (9 V DC, 1 A) and PS 100 sustain pedal included

And then a video of the keyboardStudiologic SL88 Studio

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Studiologic SL88 Studio review

Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 White vs Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2

The keyboard Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 Whiteis usually 71 € cheaper than Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2.

And then a video of the keyboard

Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 White

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2
  • 49 Velocity sensitive keys with aftertouch
  • 16 Colour illuminated performance pads
  • 9 Faders
  • 9 Rotating control knobs
  • LC-Display
  • Category work
  • Pitch and Modulation wheel
  • Chord and Transpose function
  • Transport buttons
  • 5 Expression Control inputs
  • 4 CV outputs
  • 1 CV input
  • MIDI input and output
  • USB port
  • Input for outside power
  • Aluminium housing
  • System requirements: Min. Windows 7 or MAC OS 10.8 or maybe more, 4 GB RAM, 2 GHz Central Processing Unit, 7 GB free hard drive area for complete installing of the included pc software, DVD drive, net connection
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 793 x 297 x 53 mm
  • Weight: 6.3 kg
  • Colour: White
  • Includes Analog Lab computer software with more than 6500 sounds, Piano V and Ableton Live Lites
  • For all of your digital instruments
  • Fatar keyboard with aftertouch and 49 semi-weighted secrets
  • Ergonomic pitch and mod tires plus touch strip
  • Pre-configured mapping for several KOMPLETE instruments and hundreds of NKS-compatible (Native Kontrol Standard) instruments from leading third-party suppliers
  • Full VSTi help
  • Tag-based preset browsing: Find noises quickly and preview them instantly
  • Two high-resolution color displays for browsing, sound tweaking and more
  • Light Guide: RGB lights above each key signal drum cells, key switches, chords, tips and much more
  • Smart Play: Recognise keys and inversions with the Light Guide, play chord sequences and arpeggios using single keys or any key with white secrets only
  • Seamless integration with MASCHINE hardware/software
  • intuitive control of Logic professional X, Ableton Live and GarageBand
  • Two freely assignable inputs for base pedals
  • MIDI In/Out
  • Power supply via USB 2.0
  • Register your hardware to download the KOMPLETE KONTROL computer software and KOMPLETE SELECT for free (11 top-quality software instruments and results): Massive, Monark, The Gentleman, Drumlab, Reaktor Prism, Scarbee Mark I, Retro Machines, Vintage Organs, West Africa, Solid coach Comp, and Replica)
  • System requirements: Mac OS X 10.11 or macOS 10.12 (Intel Core 2 Duo), Windows 7 or later (Intel Core 2 Duo or AMD Athlon 64 X2), Internet connection and an images card supporting OpenGL 2.1 or maybe more needed (only for pc software download and activation), 4 GB RAM (6 GB recommended for large CONTACT instruments), USB 2.0 or more (cable included)

And then a video of the keyboardNative Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2 review

Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 White vs Nektar Panorama P6

The keyboard Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 Whiteis usually 21 € cheaper than Nektar Panorama P6, but the difference is so small that this can vary..

And then a video of the keyboard

Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 White

Nektar Panorama P6
  • 49 Velocity sensitive keys with aftertouch
  • 16 Colour illuminated performance pads
  • 9 Faders
  • 9 Rotating control knobs
  • LC-Display
  • Category work
  • Pitch and Modulation wheel
  • Chord and Transpose function
  • Transport buttons
  • 5 Expression Control inputs
  • 4 CV outputs
  • 1 CV input
  • MIDI input and output
  • USB port
  • Input for outside power
  • Aluminium housing
  • System requirements: Min. Windows 7 or MAC OS 10.8 or maybe more, 4 GB RAM, 2 GHz Central Processing Unit, 7 GB free hard drive area for complete installing of the included pc software, DVD drive, net connection
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 793 x 297 x 53 mm
  • Weight: 6.3 kg
  • Colour: White
  • Includes Analog Lab computer software with more than 6500 sounds, Piano V and Ableton Live Lites
  • Weighted keyboard with 61 keys
  • With velocity and aftertouch
  • Pitch bend and modulation wheel
  • High-resolution 3.5″ TFT display
  • 16 Rotating control knob
  • 9x 45 mm Fader
  • 1x 100mm ALPS Motorized faders
  • 10 Configurable LED switches
  • 28 Freely configurable switches
  • 12 Attack and pressure-sensitive pads
  • 4 LED Mode switch
  • Connectors for sustain and phrase pedal
  • USB slot (computer) + USB Micro B (power motorized faders)
  • Profound connection to all or any popular DAWs incl. Cubase, Nuendo, Factor, Studio One and Logic Pro X
  • Dimensions: 990 x 330 x 101 mm
  • body weight: 7.71 kg

And then a video of the keyboardNektar Panorama P6

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Nektar Panorama P6 review

Where to buy the keyboard Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 White

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 Vortex Wireless 2 Red. Where to buy it?

I’ll tell you how this post is built. First I list the features of the Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Red 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.

  • USB / midi (MIDI allows you to do such wonderful things as connect the keyboard to the computer, record a soundtrack and with certain programs pass with a click what you have played to musical notes in a score. MIDI tracks store information from musical notes) keytar controller with accelerometer
  • Portable performance keyboard with neck strap
  • 37 Velocity-sensitive tips with aftertouch
  • Eight velocity-sensitive RGB illuminated Performance Pads
  • Eight illuminated faders for volume or parameter control
  • Programmable tilt sensor with on / off switch
  • Volume control
  • pitch bend (Functionality that changes the sound wave of what you play and then returns to its original state) wheel
  • Touchstrip
  • Sustain and octave switch on the handle
  • USB port
  • 5-Pin DIN standard MIDI connection
  • Wireless USB connection to any Mac or PC
  • Power supply via USB or 4 AA batteries
  • Dimensions: 89.4 x 25.4 x 7.4 cm
  • body weight: 2.9 kg
  • Vortex Cordless 2 Keytar
  • Wireless USB receiver
  • USB cable
  • Strap
  • Cable holder
  • Manual
  • Software: Hybrid 3, Loom 2, Vacuum Pro and Xpand! 2 by AIR Music tech, TimewARP 2600 and Ableton Live Lite

review alesis-vortex-wireless-2-red

This keyboard usually has a price around 219.00 €

Now that we’ve seen the features of this keyboard Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Red watch these related videos to learn more.

Post you may be interested in

Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Red vs M-Audio Keystation 88 MkII

The keyboard Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Red is usually 70 € more expensive than M-Audio Keystation 88 MkII.

And then a video of the keyboard

Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Red

M-Audio Keystation 88 MkII
  • USB / MIDI keytar controller with accelerometer
  • Portable performance keyboard with neck strap
  • 37 Velocity-sensitive tips with aftertouch
  • Eight velocity-sensitive RGB illuminated Performance Pads
  • Eight illuminated faders for volume or parameter control
  • Programmable tilt sensor with on / off switch
  • Volume control
  • Pitch bend wheel
  • Touchstrip
  • Sustain and octave switch on the handle
  • USB port
  • 5-Pin DIN standard MIDI connection
  • Wireless USB connection to any Mac or PC
  • Power supply via USB or 4 AA batteries
  • Dimensions: 89.4 x 25.4 x 7.4 cm
  • body weight: 2.9 kg

Delivery contents:

  • Vortex Cordless 2 Keytar
  • Wireless USB receiver
  • USB cable
  • Strap
  • Cable holder
  • Manual
  • Software: Hybrid 3, Loom 2, Vacuum Pro and Xpand! 2 by AIR Music tech, TimewARP 2600 and Ableton Live Lite
  • 88 Velocity-sensitive secrets
  • Transport switch for DAW control
  • Modulation wheel
  • Volume knob/control
  • Pitch wheel
  • Octave key
  • MIDI connection via USB and MIDI socket
  • Supports ipad Camera Connection Kit (available separately, maybe not included)
  • Connections: USB, 1 x MIDI, sustain pedal, phrase pedal (both 6.3 mm jack)
  • Power supply via USB slot or 9 V DC power adapter (optional, perhaps not included)
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): approx. 1346 x 240 x 100 mm
  • Weight: approx. 7.30 kg
  • Including computer software: Eighty-Eight Ensemble plugin from SONiVOX – Virtual Steinway CD 327 concert piano, Ableton Live Lite – recording pc software

And then a video of the keyboardM-Audio Keystation 88 MkII

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the M-Audio Keystation 88 MkII review

Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Red vs Novation Impulse 49

The keyboard Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Redis usually 3 € cheaper than Novation Impulse 49, but the difference is so small that this can vary..

And then a video of the keyboard

Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Red

Novation Impulse 49
  • USB / MIDI keytar controller with accelerometer
  • Portable performance keyboard with neck strap
  • 37 Velocity-sensitive tips with aftertouch
  • Eight velocity-sensitive RGB illuminated Performance Pads
  • Eight illuminated faders for volume or parameter control
  • Programmable tilt sensor with on / off switch
  • Volume control
  • Pitch bend wheel
  • Touchstrip
  • Sustain and octave switch on the handle
  • USB port
  • 5-Pin DIN standard MIDI connection
  • Wireless USB connection to any Mac or PC
  • Power supply via USB or 4 AA batteries
  • Dimensions: 89.4 x 25.4 x 7.4 cm
  • body weight: 2.9 kg

Delivery contents:

  • Vortex Cordless 2 Keytar
  • Wireless USB receiver
  • USB cable
  • Strap
  • Cable holder
  • Manual
  • Software: Hybrid 3, Loom 2, Vacuum Pro and Xpand! 2 by AIR Music tech, TimewARP 2600 and Ableton Live Lite
  • 49 Keys
  • Semi-weighted action with aftertouch
  • Comprehensive DAW and plug-in control
  • 8x Backlit drum pads for designing arpeggios, rolling beats and establishing clips
  • 9x 55 mm Faders
  • 9 Mute / Solo buttons
  • 8 Encoders
  • 6 Transport settings
  • Pitch- and modulation wheel
  • 2 Octave / Transpose buttons
  • LCD display
  • USB connector
  • Expression- and sustain pedal connectors
  • MIDI I/O
  • Automap control pc software
  • Dimensions: 846 x 332 x 100 mm
  • body weight: 5 kg
  • Incl. Xcite+ Software Pack, Ableton Live Lite

And then a video of the keyboardNovation Impulse 49

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

Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Red vs Novation Launchkey 49 Mk2

The keyboard Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Red is usually 24 € more expensive than Novation Launchkey 49 Mk2, but the difference is so small that this can vary..

And then a video of the keyboard

Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Red

Novation Launchkey 49 Mk2
  • USB / MIDI keytar controller with accelerometer
  • Portable performance keyboard with neck strap
  • 37 Velocity-sensitive tips with aftertouch
  • Eight velocity-sensitive RGB illuminated Performance Pads
  • Eight illuminated faders for volume or parameter control
  • Programmable tilt sensor with on / off switch
  • Volume control
  • Pitch bend wheel
  • Touchstrip
  • Sustain and octave switch on the handle
  • USB port
  • 5-Pin DIN standard MIDI connection
  • Wireless USB connection to any Mac or PC
  • Power supply via USB or 4 AA batteries
  • Dimensions: 89.4 x 25.4 x 7.4 cm
  • body weight: 2.9 kg

Delivery contents:

  • Vortex Cordless 2 Keytar
  • Wireless USB receiver
  • USB cable
  • Strap
  • Cable holder
  • Manual
  • Software: Hybrid 3, Loom 2, Vacuum Pro and Xpand! 2 by AIR Music tech, TimewARP 2600 and Ableton Live Lite
  • 16 Velocity sensitive multicoloured drum pads with RGB LEDs
  • 2 Drum pad control buttons
  • 8 Knobs
  • 9 Sliders
  • LED show
  • Transport controls
  • Octave / Transpose buttons
  • Pitch- and modulation wheel
  • Backlit mode buttons
  • 8 Mute/Solo buttons
  • Connectors: USB + sustain pedal input
  • Dimensions: 770 x 81 x 270 mm
  • Weight: 3.1 kg
  • Incl. Novation V-Station and Bass facility Software, Loopmasters Sample-Pack and Ableton Live Lite

And then a video of the keyboardNovation Launchkey 49 Mk2

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Novation Launchkey 49 Mk2 review

Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Red vs M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4

The keyboard Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Red is usually 97 € more expensive than M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4.

And then a video of the keyboard

Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Red

M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4
  • USB / MIDI keytar controller with accelerometer
  • Portable performance keyboard with neck strap
  • 37 Velocity-sensitive tips with aftertouch
  • Eight velocity-sensitive RGB illuminated Performance Pads
  • Eight illuminated faders for volume or parameter control
  • Programmable tilt sensor with on / off switch
  • Volume control
  • Pitch bend wheel
  • Touchstrip
  • Sustain and octave switch on the handle
  • USB port
  • 5-Pin DIN standard MIDI connection
  • Wireless USB connection to any Mac or PC
  • Power supply via USB or 4 AA batteries
  • Dimensions: 89.4 x 25.4 x 7.4 cm
  • body weight: 2.9 kg

Delivery contents:

  • Vortex Cordless 2 Keytar
  • Wireless USB receiver
  • USB cable
  • Strap
  • Cable holder
  • Manual
  • Software: Hybrid 3, Loom 2, Vacuum Pro and Xpand! 2 by AIR Music tech, TimewARP 2600 and Ableton Live Lite
  • 8 Velocity sensitive and painful trigger pads
  • 8 Assignable rotary encoders
  • 9 Assignable faders
  • Transport buttons for (ex.) DAW administration
  • LCD Display
  • USB coach powered
  • USB MIDI
  • Input for sustain pedal
  • Included into the distribution: USB cable, quickstart guide, software “Ableton real time Lite” and “Sonivox Twist”
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 814 x 243 x 94 mm
  • body weight: 2.9 kg

And then a video of the keyboardM-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4

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

Where to buy the keyboard Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 Red

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 M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32. Where to buy it?

M-Audio is a business unit of inMusic Brands that designs and markets digital audio and MIDI interfaces, keyboards and MIDI controllers, synthesizers, speakers, studio monitors, digital DJ systems, microphones and music software. I’ll tell you how this post is built. First I’ll list the features of this M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 keyboard. Then you have a video or two, shopping links, and helpful comments from other users, and then you have one of the most useful parts; comparison charts with similar keyboards for you to compare.

  • 32 sensitive mini keys
  • 8 Pads
  • 8 rotary controllers
  • Pitch, modulation and sustain controls
  • Navigation and transport keys
  • Supports HyperControl
  • MIDI-Mapping Technology
  • Automatic recognition of most DAW’s
  • Includes Software Suite (online download): Pro Tools First (M-Audio Edition) and VIP 3.0 Software

review m-audio-axiom-air-mini-32
This MIDI keyboard is usually priced at around €59/£51/$60 and offers 32 speed-sensitive (MIDI language intensity) mini keys that will allow you to play or compose different musical performances.

It also offers 8 sensitive pads, 8 assignable knobs, pitch bend, modulation and sustain controls that will allow you to have moderate control on your DAW of choice and thus also automatically recognize most audio software on the market.

It is USB powered, so no external power supply is needed. It supports HyperControl (M-Audio’s own technology) which means that the computer automatically “maps” a function to each control on the MIDI keyboard, allowing for true plug-and-play.

Finally, the M-Audio Axiom Mini 32 comes with the following software packages (online download): Pro Tools First (M-Audio Edition) and VIP 3.0 Software.

Now that we’ve seen the features of this M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 keyboard, watch these related videos to learn more.

Posts you may be interested in

M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 vs Akai MPK mini MK2

The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €59/£51/$60 and the Akai MPK mini MK2 is priced at €79/£70/$81, with a difference of £24 between them. Let’s take a look at the face-to-face:

  • The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 offers 32 sensitive mini keys, while the Akai MPK mini MK2 offers 25 synthesizer action mini keys.
  • The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 offers 8 assignable pads, 8 assignable knobs, pitch bend, modulation and sustain controls, plus navigation and transport keys.
  • The Akai MPK MK2 features a 4-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch/modulation control, 8 MPC (MIDI Production Center) pads with note repeat, an arpeggiator button, and 8 assignable control knobs.
  • Both are USB powered, so no external power supply is needed. The Akai has a sustain pedal input.
  • The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 includes a software package (online download): Pro Tools First (M-Audio Edition) and VIP 3.0 Software and the Akai MPK mini MK2 includes a full 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

M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32

Akai MPK mini MK2 white
  • 32 sensitive mini keys
  • 8 Pads
  • 8 rotary controllers
  • Pitch, modulation and sustain controls
  • Navigation and transport keys
  • Supports HyperControl
  • MIDI-Mapping Technology
  • Automatic recognition of most DAW’s
  • Includes Software Suite (online download): Pro Tools First (M-Audio Edition) and VIP 3.0 Software
  • 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
  • Color: White

In our first comparison, the M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 offers 32 keys, 8 pads, 8 knobs, and controls for pitch bend, modulation and transport, plus it supports HyperControl, which is a great advantage over the competition. The Akai MPK mini MK2 offers 25 keys, 1 4-way thumbstick for pitch and modulation, 8 MPC (MIDI Production Center) pads, 8 assignable knobs, and an arpeggiator button. While both are good controllers, the M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 has certain advantages over the Akai, thanks to its 32 keys and HyperControl support, for a few euros more.

Here’s 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

M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 vs Arturia MiniLab MKII

The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €59/£51/$60 and the Arturia MiniLab MKII is priced at €91/£82/$91, with a difference of £27 between them. Let’s go face-to-face:

  • The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 offers 32 sensitive mini keys, while the Arturia MiniLab MKII offers 25 synthesizer-action mini keys.
  • The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 offers 8 assignable pads, 8 assignable knobs, pitch bend, modulation and sustain controls, plus navigation and transport keys.
  • The Arturia MiniLab MKII offers 16 rotary encoders (two of which are clickable), two banks of eight-speed and pressure-sensitive pads with RGB backlighting, touch-strips for pitch bend and modulation.
  • Both are USB powered, so no external power supply is needed, the Arturia offers a sustain pedal input.
  • The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 includes a software package (online download): Pro Tools First (M-Audio Edition) and VIP 3.0 Software and the Arturia MiniLab MKII includes the Analog Lab Lite software license with five hundred sounds in V-Collection Five quality, Ableton Live Lite and UVI Grand Piano (software requires a download from manufacturer’s site).

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

M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32

Arturia MiniLab MKII
  • 32 sensitive mini keys
  • 8 Pads
  • 8 rotary controllers
  • Pitch, modulation and sustain controls
  • Navigation and transport keys
  • Supports HyperControl
  • MIDI-Mapping Technology
  • Automatic recognition of most DAW’s
  • Includes Software Suite (online download): Pro Tools First (M-Audio Edition) and VIP 3.0 Software
  • 25 speed-sensitive mini keys
  • 16 rotary encoders (two of them are clickable)
  • 2 banks of eight-speed and pressure-sensitive pads with RGB backlighting
  • Touchstrips for pitch bend and modulation
  • Connection for sustain pedal
  • USB connection
  • Powered by USB
  • Dimensions: 355 x 220 x 50mm (width x depth x height)
  • Weight: 1,5kg
  • Includes Analog Lab Lite software license with 500 sounds in V-Collection Five, Ableton Live Lite and UVI Grand Piano quality (software requires a download from manufacturer’s site)

In this comparison, we have the M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 which we discussed earlier, and the Arturia MiniLab MKII which offers 25 speed-sensitive mini keys, 16 rotary encoders, 2 banks of eight sensitive pads with RGB backlighting and touch strips for pitch bend and modulation. As in the previous comparison, both are good controllers, with a slight difference that the M-Audio has 32 keys, 8 pads, 8 knobs and on the other hand, the Arturia has 25 keys, and 16 pads, and 16 knobs. This makes for a very interesting comparison. If you need 3 octaves, go for the M-Audio, and if you need more pads and knobs, go for 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.

M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 vs Akai LPK 25

The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €59/£51/$60 and the Akai LPK 25 is priced at €42/£37/$42, with a difference of $22. Let’s move on to the face-to-face:

  • The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 offers 32 sensitive mini keys, while the Akai LPK 25 offers 25 synthesizer-action mini keys.
  • The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 offers 8 assignable pads, 8 assignable knobs, pitch bend, modulation and sustain controls, plus navigation and transport keys.
  • The Akai LPK 25 offers an Arpeggiator Button, a Sustain Button, Octave Up/Down Buttons, and Tap Tempo.
  • Both are USB powered, so no external power supply is needed.
  • The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 includes a software package (online download): Pro Tools First (M-Audio Edition) and VIP 3.0 Software and the Akai MPK 25 includes an included Mac and PC software editor.

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

M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32

Akai LPK 25
  • 32 sensitive mini keys
  • 8 Pads
  • 8 rotary controllers
  • Pitch, modulation and sustain controls
  • Navigation and transport keys
  • Supports HyperControl
  • MIDI-Mapping Technology
  • Automatic recognition of most DAW’s
  • Includes Software Suite (online download): Pro Tools First (M-Audio Edition) and VIP 3.0 Software
  • 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 a USB port, no mains power cable required
  • Size: 9,65 x 34,04 x 2,79 cm
  • Weight: 0.635 kg

In this comparison, we have the M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32, which we have already analyzed, and on the other hand, the Akai LPK 25 which offers 25 mini-sensitive keys, an arpeggiator button, sustain button, octave up/down buttons and tap tempo, a somewhat minimalist controller but also with great compatibility to different DAWs and is very portable. If you need a controller with more than two octaves, and more features, the M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32, and if you choose the Akai LPK 25, will serve you well if you need a more minimalist controller.

Here’s 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.

M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 vs Miditech Midistart Music 25

The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €59/£51/$60 and the Miditech Midistart Music 25 is priced at €58/£51/$60, but the difference is so small that this may vary depending on which shop we ask. Let’s take a look at the face-to-face:

  • The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 offers 32 sensitive mini keys, while the Miditech Midistart Music 25 offers 25 full-size keys with sensitivity.
  • The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 offers 8 assignable pads, 8 assignable knobs, pitch bend, modulation and sustain controls, plus navigation and transport keys.
  • The Miditech Midistart Music 25 features joysticks for pitch bend and modulation, and octave +/- buttons.
  • Both are powered via USB, so no external power supply is required.
  • The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 includes a software package (online download): Pro Tools First (M-Audio Edition) and VIP 3.0 Software 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

M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32

Miditech Midistart Music 25
  • Thirty-two sensitive mini keys
  • Eight Pads
  • Eight rotary controllers
  • Pitch, modulation and sustain controls
  • Navigation and transport keys
  • Hold on to HyperControl
  • MIDI-Mapping Technology
  • Automatic recognition of most DAW’s
  • Includes Avid Ignite Music Creation Software
  • 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 comparison, we have two controllers with similar prices, but notable differences between them. On the one hand, the M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 already analyzed before, and on the other hand, the Miditech Midistart Music 25 that offers 25 large keys with sensitivity, a joystick for pitch bend and modulation, and octave up and down buttons. If you need a 3-octave range, you’ll go for the M-Audio, and if you’re more comfortable with large keys and two octaves are enough for you, the Miditech will be your choice.

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.

M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 vs M-Audio Oxygen 61 Mk4

The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 MIDI keyboard is priced at €59/£51/$60, while the M-Audio Oxygen 61 Mk4 is priced at €155/£133/$154, with a significant difference. This is the face-to-face one:

  • The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 offers 32 sensitive mini keys, while the M-Audio Oxygen 61 Mk4 offers 61 full-size keys with sensitivity and synth action.
  • The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 offers 8 assignable pads, 8 assignable knobs, pitch bend, modulation and sustain controls, as well as navigation and transport keys.
  • The M-Audio Oxygen 61 Mk4 offers 8 speed-sensitive trigger pads, 8 assignable knobs, 9 assignable faders and transport buttons for DAW control.
  • Both are USB powered, so no external power supply is required. The M-Audio Oxygen 61 Mk4 has a sustain pedal input.
  • The M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 includes a software package (online download): Pro Tools First (M-Audio Edition) and VIP 3.0 Software and the M-Audio Oxygen 61 Mk4 includes a SONiVOX Twist (Software), Ableton Live Lite (Software), USB cable, Quick Start Guide, Warranty and Safety Manual.

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

M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32

M-Audio Oxygen 61 Mk4
  • 32 sensitive mini keys
  • 8 Pads
  • 8 rotary controllers
  • Pitch, modulation and sustain controls
  • Navigation and transport keys
  • Supports HyperControl
  • MIDI-Mapping Technology
  • Automatic recognition of most DAW’s
  • Includes Software Suite (online download): Pro Tools First (M-Audio Edition) and VIP 3.0 Software
  • 61 full-size speed-sensitive synthesizer action keys
  • 8 speed-sensitive trigger pads
  • 8 assignable knobs
  • 9 assignable faders
  • Transport buttons for DAW control
  • Automation for popular DAWs: Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase, and more
  • LCD screen
  • USB powered
  • Plug-and-Play Support
  • MIDI-USB connectivity
  • Input for sustain pedal
  • Included software: Ableton Live Lite and SONiVOX Twist Synth
  • The box also includes: SONiVOX Twist (Software), Ableton Live Lite (Software), USB cable, quick start guide, warranty and safety manual
  • Dimensions: 977 x 243 x 94mm (width x depth x height)
  • Weight: 3.4kg

In the last comparison we have two M-Audio brand controllers, the Axiom Air Mini 32, which we have already discussed, and the Oxygen 61 Mk4 which offers 61 full-size velocity-sensitive synthesizer action keys, 8 velocity-sensitive trigger pads, 8 assignable knobs and 9 assignable faders. These are two very different controllers, so if you need a more portable 3-octave controller, the M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 will be your choice, and if you want comfort and a wider range, the M-Audio Oxygen 61 MK4 will be a better option, of course at a higher price.

Here is a video of the M-Audio Oxygen 61 Mk4 keyboard

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the M-Audio Oxygen 61 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 moderate functions, and as the best MIDI controller for beginners, we can mention the M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 that offers 32 keys in mini format and pad and rotary control functions, as well as automation and other functions, making it a great choice of controller for beginners.

Where to buy the M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 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:

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