Best Midi Keyboards with 49 Keys
Introduction
The 49-key MIDI keyboard controller is turning into the usual for studios and in addition for live shows. It has grown to be such a wonderful instrument to have because it’s small and transportable, but it permits you to do more than what a 25-key controller can do.
These controllers are funding if you’re trying to improve your synth game or if you’re seeking to dive more into producing. The upper-end merchandise will stay with you all through your whole musical journey.
It’s possible you’ll discover that a 61-key or 88-key is just too huge for the area you have to work in, and in your keyboard-playing potential. Then again, 25-key controllers could also be too small for two-handed playing.
That’s where 49-key controllers are available: they provide a terrific middle-ground between accommodating dexterous players while minimizing the quantity of space the keyboard takes up.
That’s why we’ve targeted this article on the most effective 49-key MIDI controller keyboards. We’ve scoured the web for the most effective products in the marketplace, and have compiled a list of these with the most effective options and highest scores.
We just want to let you know that we’ll list these best midi keyboards with 49 keys in no particular order. They’ll be randomized as we don’t wish to sort them from best to worst.
Listed below are our Top 10 MIDI Keyboards with 49 Keys for 2023:
1. Yamaha MX49 V2
The Yamaha MX49 is a hybrid between a MIDI Controller and a synthesizer. As a MIDI Keyboard controller, it has class-compliant MIDI Connectivity, DAW management for transport, mixer, and knobs (assignable) for all-around music-making use.
As a synthesizer, it consists of Yamaha’s MOTIF sound engine and VCM (Virtual Circuit Modelling) for analog-accurate sounds. One user noted it is a MIDI Controller on steroids.
With the options as a MIDI Controller alone, many customers had been glad to have the ability to have nice DAW and VST integration. Having onboard synth circuitry provides the comfort and artistic management of the MX49 V2.
Also, in the age we live in, it might nearly be bizarre if this MIDI controller didn’t include an app. The application is known as, the FM Essential Synth App, and it’s free to users of the MX49.
The great thing about the app is that it provides you with a straightforward technique to access the options on your board.
You may also do seamless edits in your recordings from the app for added comfort. The one drawback? It’s an IOS exclusive. iPads, pods, and phones will be capable of accessing it. Each different smart device is, unfortunately, out of luck.
- 16 Multitimbral parts
- VCM (Virtual Circuitry Modelling)
- 1,000 Voices
- Based on the waveforms from the MOTIF XS
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Yamaha MX49 V2 |
2. Akai MPK 249
Amongst professional composers utilizing 49-key MIDI controllers, the Akai Professional MPK249 is commonly thought about as a business benchmark in opposition to which different models and controllers are assessed.
And for a superb reason too. From its semi-weighted keys and enhanced highly effective hardware specs to finish plug-in utilization freedom due to the digital instrument player software function, this controller presents unparalleled expertise for even essentially the most demanding composers.
The MPK series has been on the front line for MIDI keyboards for the reason that beginning, and the MPK249 is an instance of this. It comes geared up with 49 full-size semi-weighted keys, and every key is velocity-sensitive.
The drum pads are a standout function on the Akai MPK249, and so they set this keyboard aside from others.
Features embrace semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, 16 pads, 24 assignable knobs and faders, and a backlit LCD display screen to call a few. The MPK249 comes totally geared up with Ableton live lite, which permits the consumer to begin diving into software sounds instantly.
Ableton is among the most popular DAWS within the music world as we speak, and any software program that’s compatible with it’s a good thing.
- Arpeggiator
- MPC Note Repeat
- MPC full level
- Tap Tempo and Time Division
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Akai MPK 249 |
3. M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3
The Keystation 49 MK3 comes with a complete software program package deal that has everything you’ll want to get you started, together with Pro Tools, First M-Audio Version, Ableton Live Lite, 2GB of sample content material from Touch Loops, Xpand!2, Velvet, and Mini Grand from AIR Music Tech.
The 49 full-size velocity-sensitive keys present a pure feel that captures each refined nuance of your efficiency.
The volume fader, transport, and directional buttons give you simple management of your software program, plus ergonomically designed pitch and modulation wheels, octave ‘up‘ and ‘down’ buttons, and sustain pedal input permit for expressive performances and better creativity.
The compact design suits small desk areas and studios, whereas the superior functionality permits you to customize your controls to your recording software.
The MK3 permits you to plug in and play nearly instantly through a USB midi connection to your Mac or PC, and no drivers or power supply are required.
The streamlined controls are complemented by devoted transport cursors, so you should use the keyboard as a mouse if you wish. There’s additionally an Advanced button that prompts a number of different MIDI management possibilities.
Moreover, this light-weight and mobile M-Audio keyboard may be linked to an iPad or iPhone and used with Garageband, through an Apple Camera Connector.
- 6.3 mm Jack input for optional sustain pedal (not included)
- USB bus-powered
- Plug and play for Mac and PC
- 1 Fader
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M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 |
4. Novation 49SL MKII
The performance of any MIDI controller is to assist the composer to create music on the digital audio workstation (DAW). Nevertheless, the Novation 49SL MkIII is so effectively designed that it virtually renders the computer screen obsolete and permits you to focus solely on the controller.
At first look, all of the buttons, lights, knobs, and screens would look overwhelming to the untrained. What the musician sees nonetheless is a veritable array of controls for a large number of tweaking options.
The Novation 49SL is -just- a 49-key MIDI controller at its core, but with a large number of parameters it’s able to manage, and the amount of visible feedback you get from the screens alone, its depth goes past what the quantity of accessible keys gives.
The keys themselves are not any slouch: a sweet spot hybrid between semi-weighted and synth-action keys offers it a responsive but acquainted feel.
This is designed for studio use. It doesn’t imply you can’t use it live; we simply advocate it for the studio. What we like about this product is it has a sequencer. That is at the moment one of the hottest products on the market, so many keyboards don’t yet have a few of its features.
- 16 Velocity-sensitive and illuminated RGB drum pads
- 8 Endless rotary encoders
- 8 Faders
- 6 Buttons for transport control
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Novation 49SL MKIII |
5. Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2
The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2 is a four-octave keyboard controller meant for use with a laptop computer operating a DAW. It has eight rotary knobs onboard, two high-quality displays, transport controls, scale, and arpeggiator buttons, a four-way multi-purpose rotary knob, and two mod wheels plus a mod touch strip.
The concept behind bundling them is that the Komplete Kontrol keyboard offers you hands-on, physical entry to the instructions and sounds within the Komplete Kontrol software program, mainly providing you with a turnkey “synth studio in a box” answer regardless of which DAW you produce.
The keyboard has two displays onboard that may present quite a lot of parameters: in case you’re utilizing Komplete Kontrol, you possibly can sort and browse for sounds utilizing the screens and you may navigate and make adjustments using the knobs and buttons. You’ll be able to even audition sounds as you scroll through them utilizing the chunky browse encoder.
The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2 is a stable replacement to the unique and brings tighter integration with NI’s personal Komplete Kontrol virtual instrument player software program due to the brand-new displays. There are tons of different keyboard controllers on the market, however, this hardware/software combo is hard to beat.
- Seamless integration with MASCHINE Hardware/Software
- Intuitive control of Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, Pro Tools (from 2021.10) and GarageBand
- Two freely assignable inputs for foot pedals
- MIDI In/Out
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Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2 |
6. Nektar Panorama T4
That is the successor to the Panorama P4. We believe Nektar personally did an implausible job with this product, and we consider it’s really top-of-the-line right now.
With so many things obtainable at a look, the Nektar Panorama T4 might look a bit overwhelming at first, but it surely’s superb integration and initially misleading user-friendliness because of its LCD display rapidly dispels that notion.
It additionally contains Nektarine, a proprietary plugin that permits VST/VST3 plugin management for virtual instruments and effects plugins. Customers love the Panorama T4 for it is flexibility and integration with their DAWs.
Some praise the texture of the keys and general construct high quality, stating that the unit feels “premium“. For folks utilizing Hammond B3 Organ virtual instruments, the 9 B3 drawbars can simply be mapped to each of the 9 faders.
The Nektar Panorama is not on the high-end of price points however at a look, it gives many options which can be often discovered in the higher echelons of MIDI controllers. If you would like premium options at a reasonable price, that is the controller to get. Plus points for Hammond organ customers for the drawbar mapping.
- 9 Faders of 30 mm each
- 8 Assignable LED buttons and 8 encoders
- Each controller is fully programmable
- Chord function: Trigger up to 6 notes via a key or pad
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Nektar Panorama T4 |
7. Roland A-49 Lightweight
The Roland Company is thought for designing and producing a number of the most excellent musical instruments, like synthesizers and keyboards, guitars, and digital recording gear.
The Roland A-49 MIDI Keyboard Controller is lightweight and comprises a streamlined structure. Along with this, this controller is user-friendly. It’s USB bus-powered, which signifies that the buyer doesn’t call for an AC adapter.
The Roland A-49 MIDI Keyboard Controller features a D-MEAN controller, two buttons, and two knobs for improved performance. It’s an extremely lightweight, compact design, which makes it easy to raise and carry.
This management contains velocity-sensitive keys and additionally produces wonderful noises. It’s additionally well-known for its knobs and controls. It’s well-designed to get rid of vertical shake and mechanical sound.
These are the unbelievable features that make Roland A-49 MIDI Controller an outstanding difference for musicians that need to have an easy-to-use, comfy MIDI keyboard. That is in all probability the perfect keyboard midi controller.
Relating to additional features, it’s not too rich, although that makes it excellent for somebody who desires a keyboard that’s both glossy and simple.
You mainly get two knobs for adjusting parameters and a transport part for controlling the fundamental capabilities of your DAW. For those who’re traveling quite a bit, you’ll be pleased to know that this thing solely weighs 6 lbs!
- D-BEAM controller
- USB powered
- Connectors: HOLD pedal (jack)
- EXPRESSION pedal (jack)
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Roland A-49 |
8. Arturia Keylab MK II
The KeyLab MKII is solidly in-built pro-feeling aluminum and has Arturia’s partly retro, partly futuristic aesthetic that we for one occur to fairly like.
They don’t have an extremely putting appearance like a Nord keyboard, however, at this level, you possibly can spot an Arturia design fairly quickly. It is available in 49 or 61-key variations and as is often the case they’re functionally identical except for the variety of keys.
Across the back is a flexible choice of ports for interfacing with every kind of different gear. There’s USB of course for MIDI and power, with a PSU choice for utilizing the controller independently of a pc. Sustain, expression and aux pedal inputs can be found for proper performance management and there’s a CV input in addition to two common MIDI DIN plugs.
What’s attention-grabbing is that you just additionally get four CV outputs – pitch bend, gate, and mod 1 and 2 which are able to in fact allow you to connect with Eurorack and different modular synth gear.
Arturia has formed here – its Beatstep, MiniBrute, and a number of other different hardware items additionally characteristic CV functionality, that means there’s no want so as to add but extra boxes to your studio to make your keyboards speak to modular gear.
If you have already got CV-controllable gear it is a nice bonus and if you don’t, it could encourage you to get into that world. The capability to connect and control external hardware with this keyboard is amazing!
- LC-Display
- Category function
- Pitch and Modulation wheel
- Chord and Transpose function
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Arturia Keylab MK II |
9. Novation Impulse 49
The Novation Impulse 49 comes geared up with tons of actually cool options onboard for the worth. You get an array of knobs, faders, and buttons for mapping to your DAW, in addition to a transport part for controlling parameters corresponding to “play” and “stop”.
The faders aren’t the nicest feeling on this planet, although, on the value, we can’t complain. You continue to get full-sized semi-weighted keys that are geared up with an aftertouch for added playability.
The eight backlit drum pads are multi-functional, permitting you to set off clips and samples, warp arpeggios, roll beats, and so on. The Automap 4 function works inside a number of DAWs, enabling you to manage completely different parameters without having to go in and map manually, basically expediting your workflow. Past that, you get expression and sustain pedal inputs, a 5-pin MIDI output, and USB output for your computer.
Novation’s Impulse 49 might be one of the vital expressive MIDI keyboards of their line and is an absolute pleasure to play. It’s easy to use, extraordinarily versatile and provides you with a lot of worth.
- 9x 55 mm Faders
- 9 Mute / Solo buttons
- 8 Encoders
- 6 Transport controls
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Novation Impulse 49 |
Best Midi Keyboards with 49 Keys – 2023 Additions
10. Alesis V49
With a modern, trendy design consisting of rounded corners and a matte black end, the V49 will look proper at home in your studio. In a world of overstimulating, online-gamer connoting RGB lights, the minimalism of the ice blue and black color scheme is refreshing.
At 2.75 kilos, it’s moveable enough to take wherever you’ll take your laptop computer, but constructed with a reassuring sturdiness that it may possibly survive the inevitable bumps of normal transportation.
A single USB cord each provides power to the V49 and transmits MIDI data, saving litter in your setup. There’s even a Kensington Lock Detector for theft safety, in case you get rolled on your gear on the late-night trip home.
The 49 keys have a decidedly springy and synth-like motion to them. That is excellent for a newbie to intermediate players that both don’t want to be intimidated by an extremely delicate piano action-type controller or need something that feels nearer to most synthesizers, as full-weighted actions are principally reserved for flagship models and digital pianos.
At 49 keys, you will want to make use of the handy octave buttons to open up the total range of your MIDI-controlled instruments, but most customers will probably be glad to avoid wasting the precious desk real estate.
- Gate and Swing
- 4 Assignable knobs
- Pitch bend and modulation wheels
- Octave selector switch
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Alesis V49 |
Conclusion on Best 49 key MIDI Controller
Many midi controllers, like these on the list above are part of every studio. They usually don’t come with MIDI music software dedicated for themselves only (except for NI version) but you will have the option to connect them with any DAW you use.
On the models that we shared above, we gave our honest opinion on each model. Our personal favorite on the list is the Arturia KeyLab 49 MK3, but other keyboards that we like are the Native Instruments model and the Alesis V49 for beginners. The Yamaha MX49 V2 is great if you wanna have a touch more options in terms of production because it has some synth features.
In case you are having any questions in regards to this topic, please let us know in the comment section!
