Best keyboard to make beats is a great choice for most of the producers, who prefer MIDI keyboards as an essential part of creating music. Be it simple drum patterns or complex piano melodies, using a MIDI keyboard allows the music creators to show their creativity and that, too, with the use of simple pieces of hardware. Huge variety of MIDI keyboards are available in the market. Ranging from tiny and compact 25-key devices to enormous and all-encompassing keyboards, there are endless options available. Besides, many MIDI keyboards have additional controls, knobs and sliders that allow the users to control various parameters within DAW. The workstation of the beatmaker keyboards consists of the keyboard and sequencer as well as a sound module. It can be selected in 61, 76 or even 88 keys.
Why find MIDI controllers?
The keyboard workstation is the one that enables producers to record, arrange and sample the music. It can be done without depending on a computer prior to exporting it to DAW. It can be done by using the MIDI controller. However, when they are used in a studio, the users are supposed to purchase them. Moreover, it is recommended that the modern keyboards and pianos should have MIDI capabilities. It assists the users when they need an external sound module or VST. MIDI controllers have a remarkable point; i.e. they have been purpose-built to efficiently integrate with different other software and hardware.
The Keys in Keyboards
The keys in the keyboard for making beats are not the same; their number and weight vary. While deciding the number of keys while purchasing, one should keep in mind the space. Choose that keyboard that comfortably fits in the set up of the recording studios. However, space should not be the only consideration. One should also keep in mind the needs; i.e. even if there is enough space in the studio, still there is no need to get all 88 keys.
Digital Piano Vs MIDI Controller
A digital piano or a workstation on keyboard beat maker does not come even closer to the level of integration provided by a MIDI controller. Having a beatmaker with a MIDI controller provides one with one of the best assets in the recording studios. Where a keyboard workstation creates electronic music of its own by combining the keyboard with the sequencer and sound module, the MIDI Keyboard does not generate music itself. Instead, it produces music via an audio interface with a computer. With MIDI, the computer produces the music via software.
The Fun with MIDI Keyboards
MIDI keyboards play an important role in making beats. It is equally essential for a beginner as well as for a professional beatmaker. Whether a producer desires to make a lofi hip hop beat or thumping bass house, programming MIDI sequences is inevitable for the production. Different recording studios have different recording needs, space, and budget. However, as far as the keyboard workstation is concerned, they are supposed to look at the set up that will not disappoint them. There are lots of MIDI keyboards available to serve the purpose.
The Best Keyboards
If you are looking for the best keyboard to make beats then here are the 5 best options available:
1. Novation LaunchKey 49 Mk2
Novation LaunchKey range comes under the category of some of the favourites MIDI keyboards. They offer a comprehensive range of control options and come packaged in a sleek and intuitive design. It is an inexpensive controller which comes in 16 colours and it has backlit, velocity-sensitive drum pads, 9 faders, a pitch bend wheel and much more. Further, the keys have a great velocity-sensitive feeling, and the black-lit pads feel so firm and quite responsive
The large range of assignable control options which the Novation LaunchKey offers is perfect for beat making. It is because it allows its users to take a hardware-based approach to editing parameters and automation. The MIDI Keyboard has a Lite version of the Ableton product. It allows one to experience excellent connectivity between this device and Ableton, right down to the colour coded touchpads.
Different recording studios have varied recordings. This keyboard is available in 25 to 61 key models
Some of the pros and cons of the Launch Key are:
Pros
- The additional feature integrates well with all DAWS.
- Considering the features that it offers, it is quite affordable
- It has 16 soft pads, 9 faders, pitch-bend wheel as additional features
Cons
- Although it is not expensive but it is not durable as well and ultimately users will have to switch to any other keyboard.
- A powered USB hub is required to plug into an iPad.
- It also lacks aftertouch
2. Akai MPK Mini Mk2
It is ranked as the best and most popular MIDI keyboards on the market. It is mainly because of its small, compact size as well as the low price tag. The MPk series proves to be
amazing for simple and intuitive beat-making. This device serves as the best example of an affordable, entry-level keyboard which is easy to use and is of great quality. It consists of 25 mini keys, 8 velocity-sensitive touchpad, and a small joystick for controlling pitch, modulation or expression.
Pros
- It is portable and can easily fit in a laptop bag
- It is one the cheapest Mini keyboards out there.
- Several additional features are: 8 soft pads, 8 knobs, 4-way joystick controller
The included software is, VIP 3.0 and MPC Essentials
Con
- Its mini keys may cause hindrance in some procedures.
- Knobs are too small to fit within the small layout of the device
- It is not a good choice for live performances, as its controller is too tiny and have no live editors
3. Arturia KeyLab 49 Mk2
Arturia KeyLab 49 Mk2 seems like a perfect choice for those who want an encompassing, immersive MIDI controller that will let them create beats intuitively and creatively. It is one easy and elegant looking keyboard. For beginners getting around this MIDI keyboard may be an issue but gradually they will understand using it. It has 49 full-sized velocity-sensitive keys, which are very responsive.
Pros
- It has high quality and is durable
- It is one of the best keyboards in terms of construction
Cons
- The only major setback of this keyboard is its expenses.
4. Native Instruments Kopmlete Kontrol A49
It is one of the most popular devices for making beats. It blurs the lines between software and hardware. It has a very high standard in terms of VST instruments and plug-ins.
Pros
- It links perfectly with Native instrument plug-ins
- It is much cheaper than their flagship S-Series
Cons
- It is not ideal for travelling because of its bulky keyboard
- It does not have any touchpad
- It also lacks aftertouch
