I currently have a Novation Impulse 49, which I actually really like – and although it’s not a particularly important feature, I love its design and the way it looks. But I also love the layout, button/fader sizes and it’s features.
I’d keep it, but sadly it let me down a little recently with a pitch bend fault, and is currently away for warranty repair, so I’m considering selling it once fixed.
Whilst it’s away, I’ve gone back to my M-Audio Oxygen 61 MKIV.
I actually quite like this as well, the key feel is nicer than I remember, and I actually might prefer it to the Novation’s Semi-Weighted keys. (I’m used to high-end Yamaha Synth key feel, but can’t find anything like this in my price range).
After much looking around, not a lot seems to have changed in the MIDI Controller Keyboard market since I bought my Novation in 2021.
I know the Impulse is a pretty old product (10+ years), but it still seemed a really good controller for the price just a few years ago.
Some of the alternatives I’ve been considering are:
- M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49
- Novation Launchkey 49 MK3
- A used Akai Professional MPK 49
- Nektar Impact LX49+
- Samson Graphite 49
I was going to budget around £230, given I paid £167 for my Impulse in 2021. I’ve seen them for around £220+, which I guess means I got a bargain, or it’s way overpriced.
I really like the look and features of the Akai, and I have a feeling the keybed will be a little more to my liking than the others.
The Launchkey is probably the more direct replacement for my Impulse, and I like it’s features, although the little tiny screen puts me off somewhat.
The Oxygen Pro seems like a good allrounder, but not sure If I like it more than the other two.
What are your thoughts on these keyboards vs the Impulse?
Should I stick with what I have, or change to something else?