MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) is a programming language that connects a wide variety of electronic musical instruments, computers, and related devices for playing, editing, and recording music. When we record with MIDI, we capture the performance of how an instrument was played, not the audio waveforms produced by the instrument. This has many benefits because we can add notes, edit velocities, correct the performance, or change the sound of the instrument altogether.
MIDI controllers are the devices we use to create a performance, and they come in all shapes and sizes. Keyboards and drum pads are popular for musical recording and playback, but there are also dedicated devices used to control software, such as a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), or external hardware via MIDI out or a CV/Gate. Let's investigate various types of MIDI controllers and the purposes they serve.
Keyboard Controllers
The standard piano-style keyboard layout is the most popular controller for most music-making applications. These keyboard controllers are available in a variety of sizes to fit any budget. Some are designed for live performance and emulate a true piano with full-sized, weighted keys, while others are available in the tiniest package for the ultimate in space-saving portability. Here are some standouts at B&H, but if you’re in the market for a keyboard controller, check out our full article discussing our favorite lineups in store—and if you want to dive into the technical specifics of MIDI controllers, our MIDI guide goes over different features so you can choose the one right for you!
Hammer Action
These keyboard controllers are for the consummate pianist and typically provide 88 full-sized keys that are weighted to feel like a real piano. Should you require a controller with piano action keys and a full complement of knobs and sliders that can be used to control virtual instruments and DAWs, check out the Arturia KEYLAB 88 mk3, a universal MIDI controller and software package that includes an 88-note keyboard with a premium Fatar hammer-action keybed along with some serious functionality. The system is designed to provide 1:1 control of the included Analog Lab software, as well as any MIDI controllable plug-ins and DAWs.
Semi-Weighted
These keyboard controllers are typically lighter and more affordable than fully weighted, hammer-action controllers. Some controllers will employ springs to recreate the “weighted” feel of a piano to reduce the size and weight. Many vintage synthesizers are semi-weighted and provide great action for performance in the studio or on stage
The Novation SL MKIII is an advanced MIDI and CV keyboard controller with an integrated 8-track sequencer, designed to be the centerpiece in any creative software- or hardware-based studio. The professional-quality keyboard offers a synth-style semi-weighted key bed with a sprung action, which is tuned to the needs of the experienced player. Additionally, the keyboard offers aftertouch, which is freely assignable to anything.
Synth/Unweighted
The unweighted or synth action controllers are the most affordable. Many musicians and producers prefer synth-action for its quick velocity and rapid-fire note input when recording. These kinds of controllers are also ideal in terms of portability, given their light weight and the plethora of compact models available on the market. For artists on the go, the Akai MPK Mini MK3 is an ultra-compact keyboard controller with 25 velocity-sensitive keys with a newly designed keybed for better expression and articulation. There are 8 MPC performance pads with note repeat and full level functions, 8 knobs, and a joystick for pitch and modulation control.
Pad Controllers
Pad controllers are great for triggering drum and percussion sounds, as well as one-shot samples and loops. They can also be used to trigger clips and scenes in programs like Ableton Live, Bitwig, and Reaper. The Akai MPC Studio brings the feel of classic MPC beat-making into a MIDI controller device, thanks to the 16 ultra-sensitive “Thick-Fat” backlit MPC pads that are pressure and velocity sensitive for a responsive feel and intuitive playing. Just be aware that this product shines most when paired with Akai’s MPC software, which can be loaded with separately available sample packs.
The Arturia BeatStep Pro is an analog and MIDI controller / sequencer with 16 pads and 3 sequencers, which can be used to sequence two synthesizer lines and a dedicated drum module. It's a fantastic tool for your studio because you can use it with hardware synthesizers and drum machines. It also functions as a great hardware controller for software with velocity-sensitive pads and 16 assignable encoders.
I would be remiss if I didn't include the dedicated hardware/software controllers like the now classic, Native Instruments MASCHINE MK3 that combines the hardware controller with software that offers a classic groove-box workflow. And the new standalone Akai Professional MPC One, G2 , MPC Sample, and MPC Live III along with the classic Roland SP-404 allow you to fully produce songs with no host computer at all. That said, if you're just looking for a controller that's reasonably priced, you can simply stick with the popular Akai MPC Studio or Akai LPD8 MK2, both of which work seamlessly with MPC software via USB.
Drums Trigger Controllers
If you are a drummer and wish to play with sticks, but don't have the space or desire for a full electronic drum kit, a multi-pad drum module will certainly fill the bill. The Roland SPD-SX and Roland SPD-SX PRO are sampling drum pads that allow you to sample, capture, assign, and play drum sounds and audio phrases easily on 9 velocity-sensitive drum pads. Connect the module to your computer via USB and play and record with software instruments. Another similar instrument is the Yamaha DTX-Mult12, a 12-pad drum module that delivers the power of sample-based percussion and audio triggering to drummers, percussionists, or anyone in need of a powerful sample playback device. Some more affordable options are out there as well, such as the Alesis Strike MultiPad.
If you're looking for a pure drum pad MIDI controller with perhaps the most precise response technology on the market, check out the BopPad Galaxy from Muse Kinetics. It's a 10-inch drum pad and MIDI controller that's split into four zones, each with independent MIDI notes, velocity, pitch bend, pressure and location CC (Control Change). It has adjustable sensitivity, allowing you to play with sticks, mallets, hands and fingers. Use it to expand your current drum set, trigger samples, sound FX, pads and chords. This model is based on the relatively recent MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) technology, which we'll discuss below in the MPE category.
Another interesting drum-pad-style controller goes beyond just sampling and is in itself an entire drum synthesizer: The Nord Drum 3P is a full FM, resonant, and subtractive modeling percussion synthesizer that uses three base tone generators and allows you to modulate between six different channels with drive, ring-modulation, EQ, stereo reverb/delay, and more. Generate shakers, claps, kicks, snares, and even tubular sounds like vibraphones or bells.
Control Surface
A MIDI control surface provides hands-on control over digital audio workstations (DAW) like Logic Pro X, Reason, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Cubase, Digital Performer, Bitwig, and more. They are available in various sizes for any budget. On the high end, the Solid State Logic UF8 Advanced DAW Controller is designed for the working mixing engineer who prizes workflow, efficiency, convenience.
The UF8 provides an analog mixing-board feel that truly integrates with the DAW for the consummate best-of both-worlds experience. Eight motorized, touch-sensitive faders are on hand, complete with corresponding push-rotary controls, RGB rubber buttons, and TFT LCD hi-res displays, so you always know what you're monitoring at a moment's glance.
A more recent, midrange option, which has become incredibly popular, is the Icon Pro Audio P1M. This DAW controller mini monster offers 8 touch-sensitive motorized faders, a 16 panel programmable touch screen, 5 color coded function layers and a top-class optical encoder jog wheel. It works with most major DAWs, is compact enough to sit neatly on a home studio desktop, and can even be expanded to add eight more channels.
If you're on a smaller budget and you're after a controller that offers the best DAW integration for plug-in control, you can't beat the Nektar P1, which features the control section of the Panorama P-Series keyboard controller, minus the keyboard. However, if you're looking for something ultra-portable, check out the Icon Pro Audio iControls Mini, a low-profile design that provides nine channels of control for numerous software titles, including major DAW programs. It fits perfectly in front of a laptop or desktop computer keyboard, and using a single USB cable offers impressive control while conserving valuable set-up space.
Some MIDI and DAW controllers are created specifically for controlling certain DAWs, given their unique workflow or outboard hardware options—sometimes, their functionality can be crossplatform, but they work synergistically with certain software.
While not a MIDI controller per se, the AVID S1 EUCON uses Avid’s high-speed ethernet protocol that enables deep integration between Avid control surfaces like the Avid Pro Tools Dock—and of course they integrate natively with Pro Tools. Akai APC lineup, including the APC40, APC64, and APC mini, along with other products like the Novation Launchpad X are created specifically to match the layout for Ableton, allowing expressive clip launching and individual track control right out of the box, all while the RGB pads represent the session in real time on the controller.
MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE)
A recent addition to the MIDI controller market is MPE controllers. These unique, cutting-edge controllers provide capabilities for creating more spontaneous and expressive performances. An MPE controller allows you to vary multiple parameters of individual notes simultaneously, such as timbre, pitch, pressure, and volume. The EXPRESSIVE E Osmose is a 24-voice polyphonic synthesizer offering an innovative way to control sound using gestures (press, bend, shake, and more). With these new physical gestures, Osmose allows musicians to interact with sounds and produce music like never before. Each note can be articulated independently with unique expressive possibilities. The instrument features a deep sound-design engine and hundreds of ready-to-use, innovative presets, but also functions as a powerful controller for hardware and software synthesizers.
Keith McMillen Instruments utilizes proprietary Smart Fabric technology that provides a traditional playing experience with an expanded range of expressive possibilities. The K-Board 4 combines this technology in a traditional keyboard format that allows musicians and producers to play expressively in real time with the nuances expected from an acoustic instrument. Muse Kinetics’ K-Board-C does not have the skeuomorphic approach like the K-Board 4 does, but it’s a great affordable and ultra-portable option for those who need unique expression in a small package.
Another big seller in this category is the Intuitive Instruments Exquis. It integrates MPE technology using a hexagonal pattern of keys, which musically align, complimenting neighboring notes (in thirds), and allowing you to build tuneful chords and melodies without much effort. It's easy to learn and understand. The keys are backlit indicating a selection of more than 350 music scales, which melodically guide the player in the right direction. So, it's virtually impossible to screw up a progression. You can either compose songs in real time or program them in advance, making this pad both suitable for live performance and for studio recording. Combine drums, soft synths, loops and samples to effortlessly create a rich multilayered production.
As you can see, there are a ton of MIDI controllers available for any budget. For more information about B &H's latest MIDI controller selection, including additional features, specs, and highlights, be sure to check out the detailed product page for Keyboard, Surface, and Pad Controllers. Or drop us a line below, and we'll do our best to answer all your comments and questions.
