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The 61 key midi controllers seem to be very similar to synthesizers as well as digital pianos. However, they have differences in the way they work. Actually, the synthesizers and digital pianos operate independently, while MIDI-keyboards work together for better sounding.
With the 61 key weighted midi controllers, you can play more complex parts with your hands. Therefore, it’s a good consideration for those who are going for a sound very close to the sound of the piano. Keep reading this article, we will show you a detailed review of the top 5 best 61 key midi controllers out there.
61 Key Midi Controllers Comparison Table
| Product Image | Product Name | Brand | Value | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Novation Launchkey 61 | Novation | $$$ | |
 |
Nektar Impact GX61 | Nektar | $$$ | |
 |
Akai Professional MPK261 | Akai Professional | $$$ | |
 |
Samson Carbon 61 | Samson | $$$ | |
 |
Nektar Panorama P6 | Nektar | $$$ |
Top 5 Best 61 Key Midi Controllers Reviews
Novation Launchkey 61
This model is small and very light. Therefore, you haven’t to concern about its portability. That’s why this midi controller is listed on our list today.
This 61 key midi controller comes with a new design and rich functionality. They include three InControl buttons, 8 rotary controls over the pads section, nine sliders to control the mixer, 8 Mute / Solo buttons, and large Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels.
This unit doesn’t require external software or drivers. Especially, it doesn’t come with additional ‘wall wart’ power supply because the unit runs off of USB power. It just operates with one cable, so it’s easy to transport.
However, this model also has some downsides. Actually, the keys are softer. It also comes with only one accessory port.
Nektar Impact GX61
This option is ideal for iOS devices as MIDI controllers. The Nektar Impact GX61 has a compact design, so it fits comfortably in front of the computer. It offers high functionality compared to other full-fledged controllers.
It comes with a 61 note keyboard, a modulation wheel, a pitch bend wheel, and a footswitch jack. This unit is greatly supplied by the transposition keys. There is some setup included in the other buttons. However, it’s easy to get going.
This unit is great for all versions of Windows from XP and later. This one works well with the iPad thanks to connecting via the optional USB Camera Connection Kit. You can get comfort when playing it because of the Black keys. With this controller, you can easily play B or D flat major scales.
Akai Professional MPK261
If you want to work more efficiently with the software, you should try the Akai MPK 261 MIDI Controller 2014 Series. This one fits iOS devices. Also, it comes with a special energy-saving mode.
This one is known as one of the best 61 key midi controllers in its price segment. It comes with a USB port, two inputs for connecting the expression, 5-pin MIDI input, and output. This product is to replace the last generation. It can be used to add convenience to the hardware control of your software.
This controller has 16 trigger pads. There are also colored LED backlighting. Moreover, it’s equipped with 8 rotary knobs, a bright LCD display, and 8 faders. There are lots of lights. However, it doesn’t come with X-y touchpads. Moreover, you will have to take the time to map.
Samson Carbon 61
The Samson Carbon 61 is designed with a special stand, so you can place the iPad on the keyboard. Especially, it allows you to power it from the tablet. This model is known as one of the best light, portable, and small 61 key midi keyboards.
If you like to play simple organ music for 1 manual, it will be great for you. It operates well with software synths. It has simple velocity adjustment settings.
This model comes with solid-feeling Mod as well as Pitch wheels. Moreover, there are also Transpose and Octave buttons. It comes with an assignable knob along with an edit button. Therefore, it allows you to assign functions to software if you want.
This unit has smaller sizes compared to an average of 61 key controllers. However, it should have more control.
Nektar Panorama P6
The last name on our list is the Nektar Panorama P6. This one is not light or flimsy. It is designed with a plastic case. However, it’s still chunky and durable.
It comes with the TFT. It’s clear and bright. It’s easy to get the CC assignments and velocity curve, while you needn’t check the manual. You can save it to a new default profile quickly without a single problem or complaint.
It is equipped with a clear 3.5-inch color display, so you can get all the necessary information about each mode and menu. In addition, the unit is also designed with an extended panel of 11 transport control buttons. They include Forward to R, Return to L, Click on / off, Undo, Cycle on / off, Record Mode, Back, Forward, Play, Stop, and Record. However, the keys are noisy.
Conclusion
A Midi keyboard is popular for its versatility and portability. Therefore, you can manage almost any modern equipment as well as software. You can transport some models even in a laptop bag.
With that, we come to a close in this article to purchasing the best 61 key MIDI controller. We’ve let you know every essential review you need to know. They will impact your purchase decision. Just to recap, the top 5 products on our list is the best 61 key midi controllers on the market today. You can consider and choose any of them as your preference.