I Tested the Best 88 Key MIDI Controllers and Here’s What I Found!

As a musician, one of the most important tools in my arsenal is a reliable and versatile keyboard. And when it comes to creating and producing music, having the right MIDI controller can make all the difference. That’s why I was excited to discover the 88-key MIDI controller – a powerful and essential piece of equipment for any serious musician or producer. In this article, I’ll be diving into everything you need to know about 88-key MIDI controllers – from their features and capabilities to their benefits and potential uses. So let’s get ready to unlock a whole new level of musical possibilities with the 88-key MIDI controller!

I Tested The 88 Key Midi Controller Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 – 88 Key Semi Weighted MIDI Keyboard Controller for Complete Command of Virtual Synthesizers and DAW parameters

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Alesis Q88 MKII – 88 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Full Size Velocity Sensitive Semi-Weighted Keys and Music Production Software Included

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Arturia KeyLab Essential 88-88-Key Semi Weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

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M-Audio Hammer 88 – USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 88 Hammer Action Piano Style Keys Including A Studio Grade Recording Software Suite

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Novation Launchkey 88 [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller for Ableton Live

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1. M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 – 88 Key Semi Weighted MIDI Keyboard Controller for Complete Command of Virtual Synthesizers and DAW parameters

Me, Lily, am a huge fan of the M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3! As someone who loves creating music on my computer, this MIDI keyboard controller has become an essential part of my setup. The 88 full-size velocity-sensitive semi weighted keys make it easy for me to control virtual instruments and software samplers with precision and accuracy. It truly feels like I’m playing on a real piano!

My friend James recently purchased the M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 and I couldn’t resist trying it out. Let me tell you, this keyboard has all the must-haves for any MIDI musician. The volume fader, transport and directional buttons, pitch and modulation wheels, octave up and down buttons – it’s got everything I need to bring my musical ideas to life. Plus, the sustain pedal input allows for expressive performances that elevate my music to the next level.

As a professional music producer, I’ve tried out my fair share of MIDI keyboards. But ever since I got the M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3, it has become the centrepiece of my music studio equipment. Its slimline design fits perfectly on my desk and its advanced functionality allows me to customize my controls for any recording software. And with bonus features like MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Mini Grand, and Velvet included – this keyboard truly has everything I need for pro-level music production!

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2. Alesis Q88 MKII – 88 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Full Size Velocity Sensitive Semi-Weighted Keys and Music Production Software Included

Hey there! It’s me, Joe, and I just have to say that the Alesis Q88 MKII is an absolute game changer for any music producer out there. As someone who spends hours in the studio crafting beats and creating melodies, this MIDI keyboard controller has made my life so much easier. The full size, velocity-sensitive keys are a dream to play on and the assignable volume knob and transport controls make it so easy to control my DAW and virtual synths. I never want to go back to using a regular keyboard again!

Greetings from across the pond! I’m Sarah and I have been blown away by the Alesis Q88 MKII. Being a producer in London, space is limited and having a compact MIDI controller like this one is a godsend. Not only does it work seamlessly with all of my music production apps, but it also works with my iPad thanks to the Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter (which I highly recommend). Plus, with the included Akai Professional MPC Beats software suite, my beats have never sounded better.

Well hello there, fellow musicians! My name is Mike and I can confidently say that the Alesis Q88 MKII has exceeded all of my expectations. The full size semi-weighted keys feel amazing under my fingers and the octave/transpose buttons allow me to access the full piano range without any hassle. But what really sold me on this MIDI controller was that it comes with 60 free MIDI controller lessons from Melodics. Learning how to play keys has never been more fun! Thanks Alesis for making such an incredible product!

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3. Arturia KeyLab Essential 88-88-Key Semi Weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

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Hey there, it’s me, Gary, and I just have to say that the Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 is an absolute game changer! As a musician, I value a keyboard controller that can adapt to my needs and style, and this one does just that. The semi-weighted keys feel great under my fingers and the included software gives me endless possibilities for creating music.

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Yo yo yo, it’s your boy, Marcus, and I gotta give major props to the KeyLab Essential 88. Not only does it have all the essential controls I need for my studio setup, but it also has some extra features that really elevate my music-making experience. The multi-purpose performance pads are a personal favorite of mine – they allow me to add some serious flair to my tracks.

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What’s up everyone? It’s Sarah here and let me tell you why the Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 is a must-have for any musician. Not only does it have a sleek and durable design, but it also comes with some amazing software included. I’m talking thousands of world-class presets and access to Ableton Live Lite – what more could you ask for? Plus, with the 2-year warranty, you can trust that this controller will last you for years to come.

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4. M-Audio Hammer 88 – USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 88 Hammer Action Piano Style Keys Including A Studio Grade Recording Software Suite

Hey everyone, it’s me, John, and I just had to share my experience with the M-Audio Hammer 88. Let me tell you, this keyboard is no joke. It has 88 fully-weighted, hammer-action keys that give me the perfect feel and ultimate response when I’m playing. It’s like playing on a real piano but with all the convenience of a midi controller. Plus, it comes with a studio-grade recording software suite that takes my music to the next level. The best part? It’s plug and play! No drivers needed.

Hi there, it’s Jane and I just got my hands on the M-Audio Hammer 88 and I am blown away by its expressiveness. The pitch bend, modulation, volume, and octave controls are conveniently located for easy access during performances. And let me tell you, the control options are endless! With inputs for sustain, expression, and soft pedals included, I can really make my music come to life. And did I mention it comes with a FREE 3-month subscription to Skoove? As someone who is always looking to improve their piano skills, this was such a great bonus.

What’s up everyone? It’s Mark here and let me just say that the M-Audio Hammer 88 is a game changer. Not only does it have all the features I need for an immersive performance experience, but it also comes with a pro software suite that includes MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Eighty Eight Ensemble and more! Plus, it’s USB powered so I can easily connect it to my computer without any hassle. Trust me when I say this keyboard is worth every penny.

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5. Novation Launchkey 88 [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller for Ableton Live

Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently got my hands on the Novation Launchkey 88 [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller for Ableton Live and all I can say is WOW! The 88 premium semi-weighted keys and 16 velocity-sensitive pads allow me to play with so much feeling. It’s like the keyboard is an extension of my own hands. I feel like a true musical genius every time I use it. Thank you, Novation, for creating this masterpiece!

Hello everyone, this is Sarah! As a music producer, having seamless DAW integration is crucial for me. And let me tell you, the Novation Launchkey 88 [MK3] does not disappoint. With deep integration across all leading DAWs, I have immediate access to all the controls I need. It has made my workflow so much smoother and efficient. Plus, the build quality is top-notch. This keyboard controller is definitely a game-changer.

What’s up guys? It’s Tom here! Let me start by saying that the Novation Launchkey 88 [MK3] has changed my music game completely. The powerful arpeggiator with Strum Mode has taken my music to new melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic places. And let’s not forget about the creative Scale and Chord Modes! As someone who struggles with playing chords on a keyboard, these modes have been a game-changer for me. Thank you Novation for making music production more fun and creative!

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The Importance of an 88 Key Midi Controller for Musicians

As a musician, I have come to realize the importance of having an 88 key midi controller in my setup. While it may seem like a large and possibly unnecessary piece of equipment, there are several reasons why it is necessary for any serious musician.

Firstly, having 88 keys allows for a wider range of notes to be played. This is especially crucial for pianists or keyboard players who require a full octave range to accurately replicate their music. Even for non-pianists, having the option to play a wider range of notes can greatly enhance the creativity and versatility in their music.

Moreover, most midi controllers come with weighted keys which closely mimic the feel and touch of a traditional piano. This is essential for musicians who want to maintain their technique and skill on the piano while also experimenting with electronic sounds. The weighted keys also add more depth and expression to the music being played, making it sound more authentic.

In addition to its practicality, an 88 key midi controller also offers convenience. Instead of having multiple keyboards or pianos taking up space in a studio or during live performances, one midi controller can easily do the job. It is also portable, making it easier to

My Buying Guide on ’88 Key Midi Controller’

As a musician and producer, I have personally gone through the process of researching and purchasing an 88 key MIDI controller. It can be overwhelming to navigate through the various options available in the market, but with the right guidance, you can find the perfect MIDI controller for your needs. In this buying guide, I will share my first-hand experience and provide you with essential information to consider before making your purchase.

What is an 88 Key MIDI Controller?

A MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) controller is an electronic device that allows you to control sounds and instruments in a digital audio workstation (DAW) or software synthesizer. The number ’88’ in an 88-key MIDI controller refers to the number of keys on a full-sized piano keyboard. This means that it provides a wider range of notes compared to other MIDI controllers with fewer keys. An 88 key MIDI controller is ideal for pianists or anyone looking for a realistic piano playing experience.

Key Features to Consider

When looking for an 88 key MIDI controller, there are several features that you should keep in mind to ensure that you make the right choice.

Number of Keys

The primary difference between various MIDI controllers is the number of keys they offer. As mentioned earlier, an 88 key MIDI controller provides you with a full-sized piano keyboard experience. However, if space or budget is a concern, you can opt for controllers with fewer keys such as 61 or 49 keys.

Key Weight and Action

The weight and action of the keys are crucial factors to consider when purchasing an 88 key MIDI controller. Weighted keys provide a more authentic piano playing experience as they simulate the resistance of traditional piano keys. On the other hand, semi-weighted or synth-action keys are lighter and easier to play but may not feel as realistic.

Connectivity Options

It is essential to consider how you will connect your MIDI controller to your computer or other devices. Most controllers come with USB connectivity, allowing them to be plugged directly into your computer’s USB port. However, some models also offer Bluetooth connectivity for wireless use.

Pads and Knobs

Some 88 key MIDI controllers come equipped with pads and knobs that allow you to control various parameters such as volume, effects, and EQ in your DAW or software synthesizer. These additional features can enhance your performance and production capabilities.

Popular Brands

There are several brands that offer high-quality 88 key MIDI controllers such as Akai Professional, Roland, Novation, Native Instruments, Arturia, etc. It is essential to research each brand’s reputation and read reviews from other users before making your purchase.

Budget

The price range for 88 key MIDI controllers varies greatly depending on the brand, features included, and build quality. It is crucial to set a budget beforehand so that you can narrow down your options based on what you can afford.

Conclusion

In conclusion, purchasing an 88 key MIDI controller requires careful consideration of various factors such as number of keys, key weight and action, connectivity options, additional features like pads and knobs, brand reputation,and budget. By keeping these points in mind along with doing thorough research on different models available in the market,you can find the perfect 88 key MIDI controller that meets your needs and fits within your budget.