Best 49 Key MIDI Controller Keyboard
What would make the best 49 key MIDI controller keyboard? The answer is going to be different for each artist. I personally prefer one with at least a few buttons and some nice knobs to control your sound effects. But it really depends on what you want out of it, and what you’re going to be using it for.
In this article, I will give dispense some information about what to look out for when buying one, as well as review some of the most popular 49 key MIDI controllers available on the market today.
Alesis V49
Imagine the best sound engineers in the world just handed you a key to their musical toolkit. That’s what it feels like to use the Alesis V49 with your DAW. You are suddenly armed with game-changing control while still riding that incredible, plugged-in feeling. There are 8 backlit pads on this compact controller but no matter how many fingers you have on tap, you’ll never miss a beat. From thumping bass lines and electric guitars to slamming drums and reflective pianos–forevermore shall they belong to thee. That is why the Alesis V49 is my pick for the best 49 key MIDI controller keyboard.
- 49 Semi-Weighted Keys
- 8 Velocity and Pressure Sensitive Pads
- 4 Assignable Buttons
- 4 Assignable Knobs
- USB Powered
Editor's Pick
Alesis Q49 MKII
The Alesis Q49 is beautifully designed with precision-quality control mechanics. It’s so easy to use you’ll be composing within minutes through its multitude of panels and controls, including 4 octaves of touch responsive velocity-sensitive keys for unmatched playability, Pitch Bend, and Modulation wheels that offer continuous expressive control over any virtual instrument or DAW software. Powered by your computer’s USB port it includes an input for a sustain pedal as well.
The Q49 has all the basics you need to make every performance unique. Just plug the MIDI keyoard into Reaper (or any DAW) any start playing. That’s why it’s my budget pick for the best 49 key midi controller keyboard.
- 49 Semi-Weighted Keys
- 1 Assignable Fader
- Transport Buttons for DAW Control
- USB Powered
Best Budget
Arturia Keylab Essential 49
KeyLab Essential is the perfect next step for budding composers, producers, session musicians, or anyone looking to take their performance to the next level. With impressive plug-in integration onboard, this sleek controller keyboard can now be fully utilized as your production hub. Pair KeyLab Essential with your preferred DAW and enjoy seamless track arrangement, editing capabilities that enable harmonious instrumentals to shine through solo vocals. Imagine what you can do with this MIDI controller plugged into Ableton!
Plus, you’ll never hit a wrong note because of carefully placed premium semi-weighted keys that are not only designed to feel good under both hands but provide near-endless tactile feedback so you don’t miss a moment where you have something profound to say musically.
- 49 Semi-Weighted Keys
- 8 Velocity and Pressure Sensitive Pads
- 13 Assignable Buttons
- 9 Assignable Knobs
- 9 Assignable Faders
- USB Powered (Optional Power Supply)
Best Premium
The best 49 key MIDI controller keyboard for you
Whether you’re a professional DJ or an amateur producer, if you want to get the most control over your music-making process, then investing in a MIDI keyboard controller is one of the best decisions you can make. The Alesis V49 offers enough knobs and faders for those who don’t need all the bells and whistles of more expensive controllers. That’s why it is the best 49 key midi controller keyboard for most artists and producers.
If you don’t need all those extra buttons and just want to start playing some music, then the Q49 offers a great value for your money, therefore it’s the best affordable option for those on a budget.
Alternatively, if you have a larger budget with room for some extra features like touch-sensitive pads, drum-machine style buttons, or sliders that allow different levels of expression from subtle volume changes to dramatic octave shifts then I recommend the Arturia Keylab Essential 49.