Are you getting the most from your DAW workflow? We’re looking at some of the best budget MIDI controllers for different studio setups.
A MIDI controller keyboard is one sure way to bring the human touch into DAW-based music production. Apart from the immediacy of being able to record MIDI parts live, you can also control various DAW and plug-in parameters.
Choosing a Budget MIDI Controller
As many home studios are short on space, size is the first reason to choose one MIDI controller over another. Next, it’s important to look at the DAW you’re using, as some manufacturers design controllers for specific DAWs.
Finally, it’s worth looking into how you’re actually creating music. A film composer and a sample-based hip-hop producer have very different workflows. Therefore, the type of controller they would want changes according to the functions they require.
Also, consider that you might want to link up other hardware into your MIDI chain like desktop synthesizers and samplers. Once you know roughly what you need in a controller, you can look at the different functions it has and how they can aid your production workflow.
AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3
When you need a portable solution or you’re simply short on space, the MPK Mini MK3 is a great affordable option. Its velocity-sensitive 25-key mini keybed has a 10-octave range, allowing you to program and play basic MIDI parts.
In addition, the MPK Mini has eight assignable rotary encoders that you can link to your plug-in parameters or effects sends. Furthermore, the eight MPC trigger pads have velocity, full level, and note repeat modes for programming different instruments.
On the top left of the control panel, the 4-way joystick alters pitch and modulation. Meanwhile, the arpeggiator’s features provide a quick method for creating lead parts and melodies.
Novation Launchkey 37 MK3
The Launchkey 37 MK3 is a great compact controller for Ableton Live, but it also works well with Logic Pro, Cubase, and Reason. With the 37-key keybed and a range of DAW function buttons, you can get busy creating without using a mouse.
All the commands to select channels, record, and capture MIDI will help you navigate quickly from one idea to the next. Meanwhile, the arpeggiator functions, as well as chord and scale modes are available in standalone.
This means you can easily control desktop synths and sound modules without DAW integration. Although it doesn’t have channel faders for DAW automation, the Launchkey does have pads, rotary knobs, and basic transport controls.
Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 MK3
The KeyLab Essential 49 MK3 is a versatile controller that combines a useful selection of controls with an intuitive layout. Furthermore, there is support for all major DAWs including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, Cubase, and Bitwig Studio.
Equally, there is complete integration with Arturia Analog Lab V, giving you the ability to browse presets and use the preassigned macros. In the center of the console, you’ll find a 2.5-inch display with a large multifunction encoder and four buttons.
This allows you to scroll through the patch library fast, and access the essential parameters of your favourite sounds. The KeyLab Essential series includes a range of software so you can dive into music production right away.
Intuitive Instruments Exquis
If you’re looking for a non-traditional MIDI input method, the Exquis is a 61-key hexagonal button controller with MPE capabilities. When playing, you have access to 35 different scales with a design that is focussed on harmonic ratios between notes.
Each key has a range of input messages that can be sent to an instrument including velocity and aftertouch, as well as X and Y vectors. In addition, there is a slider control and four multifunction encoders for more controls.
As the Exquis presents such a different angle on composition, it has its own software that allows you to get the most of its functionality on macOS or Windows.
M-Audio Hammer 88 Pro
Whether you’re an accomplished keyboardist or you want to improve your skills, a full-size weighted keyboard gives you a powerful platform for getting more expression from your software.
When using instruments with deep velocity-sampled layers and round-robin sampling like Omnisphere or Addictive Drums, a weighted controller allows you to get a range of dynamics that makes it an essential part of your studio.
With loads of space for controls, you also have a bank of 16 MPC-style trigger pads, eight rotary encoders, and nine faders for DAW automation.
More about Budget MIDI Controllers:
*Note: This article about budget MIDI controllers contains promotional links that help us fund our site. Don’t worry: the price for you always stays the same! If you buy something through these links, we will receive a small commission. Thank you for your support!
