Back when I first started out I had a little 37 key thing, actually really made some great stuff with it.
But since grids and sequencers it’s been a while, looking to pick something up.
Looking at the Komplete Kontrol, looks pretty sweet especially for NI stuff. Anyone use one? I saw they just announced a black keys model. Looks cool but might not actually be that helpful.
What other midi keyboards can people recommend?
I’m probably not looking to spend heaps, but keen to get into playing, so semi weighted would be nice. As handy as grids are for banging out tracks and beats, and the odd chord, I’m kinda excited to get back to a keyboard for a change…
I got lucky and found a Novation Impulse 49 for $60 on craigslist, so I picked it up right away with the intention of reselling it but I ended up just keeping it. Dont care much for pads and knobs on midi keyboards but I use the faders all the time for quick mixing and levels. Keys are a bit lighter than what im used to but its nice having the aftertouch.
I just got an Arturia KeyStep I’m pretty happy with it. MIDI, USB-MIDI (client, not host), and CV/Gate, all in a package small enough I may be able to take it out with the iPad in the camper at some point this summer.
I’m thinking something specifically for home. Middle range. 49 keys and upwards - I get tired of changing octaves all the time. I wonder if the screens on the Komplete Kontrol Mk 2 are gimmicky and if they’ll seem antiquated a couple years down the line, maybe it’s better going with something more stock.
arturia keystep for portability, roland A-49 in the studio. I like both, not too expensive either. A-49 has that joystick pitchbend/modwheel combo which is cool for getting funky with
I have an NI KK S61 Mk 1. It works great with Maschine, but as far as I’m aware, you can’t change the midi channel without connecting it to a computer and using the software to load a different preset. I’m also looking at the Arturia Keystep as it seems to cover all the bases.
Knob 1 page 1 = CC14, knob 2 page 1 = CC15 etc.
In preset mode its pre mapped to VSTs and your DAW. So ya, Komplete specific. In midi mode its as i first stated.
In Logic i can use a Transformer in the Environment to change the CC value to what i want.
Maybe you can do the same in Ableton? I dont know it very well.
I really like the keyboard. The fixed midi isnt really indicated on the product page or specs.
I was pretty bummed when i found it was not editable.
Of course you can midimap it within your DAW as you wish. The problem is if you want to use it standalone (directly connected to a synth). With fixed CCs you cannot send whatever CC you want/need to the synth directly.
I think 88key S is kinda where I want to be, pricey though. Might have to save for a while. Would probably prefer a 76 key but NI don’t make one. Tbh, apart from Guitar Rig it’s been a while since I’ve had much kontakt (ahem) with Native Instruments, but their stuff has come a long way. If I could ever grab a full copy of Komplete I mean, man, what a sound palette…
