Ableton Forum

Hi there guys.

I am currently looking to purchase a 49 key midi keyboard/controller. Having no experience with dedicated midi keyboards i would love some advice from the forums i trust(mostly)!

My requirements are 49 keys (at least) midi in out and thru, at least 16 controllers and preferably although not essential, drum pads. I am also interested to hear what anyone has to say about hybrid midi controllers, synthesizers, as this would be a great way to layer sounds live without pushing the cpu too hard. My budeget is 150-300 english pounds, with the low end being preferable.

I would be interested in hearing anyones experiences with the following controllers: Novation bass thru to X station, M audio's range of budget stuff, and Korg's Microcontroller and MicroKorg. (Particularly interested in the vocoder on the last one, i vocode all the time but am not sure about bending down to that little tannoy mic, can the mic be replaced?)

Things i would like that arent neccesarilly essential is keys that are big and weighty enough to feel 'proper', auto mapping for reason and ableton and good customer service support.

Thanks in advance.

James

I have an M-Audio Axiom 25, which I like a lot....drum pads, faders and endless rotaries....semi-weighted keys. They also make larger boards. You'd probably want a 61 key if it's your only (main) board, if you come from a more piano background....something that will give you good range without having to shift octaves frequently.

i second the axiom series. i have a 49 key. totally love it. was concerned about how the faders felt, but upon using them, i like em a lot. the keys on it feel great, and the after touch is wonderful. the only thing i don't like is that the rotary encoders "click" which makes them feel a bit a bit sluggish.

3rd for the Axiom

Take a look at the Novation controllers

http://www.novationmusic.com

They have a great range of MIDI controllers, I own an X-Station 49 and absolutely love the flexibility built into it. I have also heard a lot of great reviews on the new XioSynth (if you're looking for controller/synth combo).

i have an evolution mk449 and i like it fine
i dont do anything extravagant with it though so its hard to say if its versatile enough for someone else

have you looked into this one? good feel; sufficient keys for composition; can see what parameter is mapped to which knob/fader (similar to the novation remote sl) and usb powered - no need for external power supply - a nice feature which the novation can't match.

well, 6 months into MY axiom 49 and the display is DEAD! I had been recommending it.......love the pads......love the keys!

It's the holidays.....haven't heard from maudio, but I have all the warranties and all......but that seems a bit early.

I can't find any info on adjusting the contrast...........is there a way?