Organ players can use the nine sliders to simulate drawbar real-time editing in their software instruments while synth players may utilize the XY pad for their filter cutoff and resonance control at once. It’s also very nice that M-Audio included even an XY ribbon pad and that keys support an aftertouch feature. That improves a workflow a lot because there are no unwanted “jump value” issues when used. And if you can find it, check the white color version - it comes with functions labeled over the keys.Įncoders are always a better option than knobs because of their neutral position. Even the keybed is now praised and the backlit drum pads seem to be firm and responsive for even advanced playing. Judging from reports M-Audio has severely upgraded the build quality. In case you don’t care too much about the budget, you really shouldn’t look further. Hands down, Akai is currently offering the most versatile MIDI keyboard controller and it’s hard to find a flaw for such a well-made controller.
And thanks to the regular MIDI ports, it can be used with external devices, too. It comes with all the controllers you would need for your work with FL Studio or Ableton. This is an ideal tool for modern music producers and players for both studio and live situations.
Drum pads are the same quality as on their most famous MPC model and we especially like how compact this model looks so it can fit on any working desk.
It’s not so often that we see a full arpeggiator in the MIDI keyboard controller and we really appreciate that feature. No complaints were found about software compatibility. Keys might be a little bit heavy for some users, but it will pay off in the long run. Drum pads are reported to be very responsive and it seems to come with some neat features that improve your workflow.