The Best 88 Key MIDI Controller Keyboards
Author & Contributors
Alden Acosta
I'm a drummer and former lead guitarist of the band Callalily, a platinum selling multi-awarded band from the Philippines. I also studied music for 6 years majoring in percussion and jazz studies with a minor in classical piano.
Nektar Impact LX88+
Cons
- Semi-weighted keys don't feel like a real piano
- Tricky velocity curves take some getting used to
- Less straightforward integration with Ableton and Protools - manual mapping required
Pros
- Full-featured DAW controller while staying lightweight
- Excellent value for an 88-key controller with this many controls and pads
- Mechanical noise quite low for semi-weighted keys
The LX88+ may be light in terms of its weight and price, but it's a heavyweight in terms of its DAW controller functionality.
It provides deep DAW control including control over your virtual instruments. This upgraded version has standardized assignments for 100 popular VSTi plugins.
Sporting a plethora of mappable potentiometers, faders and buttons, this beast of a controller will never leave you lacking for control. Not to mention the 8 LED illuminated, multi-color velocity sensitive pads with curve options, note learn and 4 savable pad bank presets make this a multi-instrumentalist's dream. You just might be able to ditch your dedicated pad controller!
All this weighing in at only 18 pounds, it's certainly light enough to carry around fairly easily allowing you to take your keyboard controller centerpiece wherever you go - if need be.
The LX88+ has so far impressed me with its comparatively low price while still having all the bells and whistles you'd expect from a full-featured DAW controller - and it maps natively with most major DAWs too. Conspicuously lacking though is right-out-the-box integration for Ableton and Protools - 2 very popular DAWs indeed. It still works with these platforms but you'll have to do a bit of manual mapping to get them to play nice together.
Also, it's surprisingly light for all the features packed into it. What’s more is that the keys feel quite good and the mechanical noise is quite low (both factors that are often lacking in more affordable keyboards).
It's no surprise that the semi-weighted keyboard of the Impact LX88+ is no match for hammer action keys in terms of simulating an acoustic piano, but as more of a synth player, I'm quite happy with this keybed. Of more concern is the default velocity curves taking a bit of getting used to - although it comes with a generous 4 velocity curve options (and 3 fixed velocity options) it can be hard to get consistent velocity with these keys as I was consistently overshooting or undershooting my dynamics no matter which curve I chose.
Although the semi-weighted keys may not be to the liking of traditional pianists, those like myself who are looking primarily for a keyboard that doubles up as a DAW command center will find this an excellent addition to their recording setup. Get it if you're more used to using controllers with synth action keys. There are better options at higher price points if your priority is to have a more piano-like feel and response.
Specifications
- Keys: 88 velocity-sensitive semi-weighted keys.
- Aftertouch: No
- Zones: Can send on up to 3 zones simultaneously.
- Pads: 8 velocity sensitive pads with 4 colors of LEDs sporting note learn and 4 velocity curves plus 3 fixed.
- Controls: 9 30mm faders, 9 assignable MIDI buttons 8 potentiometers, MOD and Pitch wheels, 6 dedicated transport buttons, 5 preset locations store control settings and Page button (for Nektar DAW Integration only).
- Automap: It maps to the following software: Bitwig, Cubase, Digital Performer, FL Studio, Garage Band, Logic, Reaper, Reason, Sonar and Studio One. A comprehensive list specifying mapping for each DAW can be found here.
- Power: USB bus power or optional AC adapter (not included).
- Connectivity: 5-Pin MIDI out and USB MIDI. It also has a MIDI assignable 1/4” TS jack foot switch input. It connects to the iPad via the optional Camera Connection Kit.
- Dimensions: 50.25" (L) x 11" (W) x 3.5" (H).
- Weight: 18 Lbs.
- Bundled Software: Bitwig 8-Track DAW.
- Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.7 or higher and Windows Vista, 7 & 8 or higher.
| Website | Source | *Rating Value |
| Sound On Sound | Simon Sherbourne | 90/100 |
| bonedo (German) | Christian Frentzen | 90/100 |
Here's a demo of the Impact LX88+ in action:
M-Audio Hammer 88
Cons
- Slightly heavy
- Not much in terms of extra MIDI controls (knobs, faders or buttons)
Pros
- Great feeling hammer-action keys and solid overall build quality
- Great price for a hammer-action equipped keyboard controller
- Comes with a re-assignable volume fader, pitch wheel and modulation wheel
The Hammer 88 from M-Audio represents the best value way to get a hammer-action keybed.
Hammer-action keys are usually seen higher up in price but I have found the M-Audio Hammer 88's keys to be a great equivalent to acoustic pianos.
As expected, the keys are velocity sensitive... but they don't have aftertouch. M-Audio chose to reserve this feature for the pro version of the Hammer 88 along with some other bells and whistles such as a control panel (MIDI faders, buttons, pads and knobs) and a graded hammer action which means a heavier resistance on the low notes that gets progressively lighter as you go higher on the keyboard, much like a real acoustic piano.
But even with the release of the pro version (at around $300 more), the Hammer 88's value proposition remains intact - great feeling hammer-action keys at a great price and not much else to distract you from your playing.
Although taking a more minimalist approach by choosing to focus on providing a high quality key feel - it does come with some creature comforts such as the re-assignable volume fader, pitch and modulation wheels.
Even with aftertouch absent on this keyboard, you can still use 3 pedals with it; sustain, soft, and expression - the classically trained pianists I've worked with prefer this traditional pedal expression suite over aftertouch.
Obviously the stand out feature of this keyboard is the hammer-action keybed. The playing experience is authentic and pleasurable, and its tank-like build quality makes it even more of a bargain for what it is.
A compromise that has been made to accommodate the nice feeling hammer-action keys and sturdy build quality is that it is quite heavy at 38.5 lbs, although not as heavy as the hefty Kawai VPC1.
My senior colleagues here at Gearank predicted in an earlier edition of this guide that the Hammer 88 was on its way to becoming a classic. In the current market, and with M-Audio showing no signs of halting production and giving continuous updates to this keyboard, the Hammer 88 is easily the best value option for an 88 key controller with hammer-action keys.
For those more used to the feel of a real piano, this is a good pick for not that much money. I see this working especially well for teachers and students. If portability and weight is a concern, give this a shot and you may find that the feel is worth the compromise. If you need a ton of buttons, faders and other control niceties, you'll have to look elsewhere.
Specifications
- Keys: 88 velocity-sensitive hammer action weighted keys.
- Aftertouch: No
- Zones: Can send on up to 4 zones simultaneously.
- Pads: None.
- Controls: Pitch bend, modulation, volume and ± button.
- Automap: No.
- Power: USB bus power or optional 9V DC 800mA adapter (not included).
- Connectivity: 5-Pin MIDI out and USB Type-B MIDI. It also has 3 1/4" inputs for Sustain, Soft and Expression pedals.
- Dimensions: 55.9" (L) x 11.9" (W) x 5" (H).
- Weight: 38.5 Lbs.
- Bundled Software: Ableton Live Lite, Mini Grand virtual piano, DB-33 Tonewheel Organ, Velvet virtual electronic piano, Eight-Eight Ensemble (a 9-foot CD327 Steinway piano emulation), Skoove (interactive piano lessons) and the Hammer 88 Preset Editor.
- Compatibility: OS X 10.8 or later. Windows 7 SP1 or later. It is Class Compliant so it works with the iPad via the Apple Camera Connection Kit..
| Website | Source | *Rating Value |
| Sound On Sound | Nick Magnus | 85/100 |
| MusicRadar | Keyboard Magazine | 90/100 |
Here is a review from a pianist's perspective:
Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII
Cons
- Keybed not the closest feeling to a real piano
Pros
- Highly generous amount of software instruments bundled in
- Aesthetically pleasing and reassuring build quality
- Several improvements over the previous version including the addition of CV/Gate connectivity, ability to connect five pedals and better DAW integration
- Copious amounts of faders, buttons, pads and knobs on tap while retaining a relatively light weight
The Keylab 88 MKII is the second iteration of the model and it carries over several loved features as well as the bundled Analog Lab software: virtual versions of synths such as the Mini V, Modular V, CS-80 V, ARP 2600 V, Jup-8 V, Prophet V, Prophet VS, SEM V, Matrix-12 V, Solina V, B-3 V, Vox Continental V, Farfisa V and more totaling over 5,000 available sounds.
It still comes bundled with UVI Acoustic Grand Piano which is a Steinway Model D Concert Grand model and Piano V which has 9 acoustic piano models.
What's new is in the layout and hardware with several improvements over the previous version, quite notably the addition of CV/Gate connectivity, provisions to connect a whopping five pedals to the keyboard (three more than the mark I) including sustain, expression, and three assignable pedals, and improved integration with popular DAWs.
Like its predecessor, the Keylab 88 MKII scores high marks with me for its sheer amount of software instruments bundled in and impressive "command center" of 9 faders and 9 rotary knobs. As a finger drummer, the 16 RGB-backlit performance pads almost make me want to ditch my MPC (but not really).
It's still compatible with many of Arturia's hardware synths as a controller. Other than that, the build quality is a step up over the previous version, the looks of this keyboard is just stunning with its wooden accents. Also, the new layout feels more intuitive to use. The included sheet music stand and integrated laptop shelf are also cool low-tech additions and have been implemented to my liking.
Though the Fatar TP/100LR keybed feels quite good, I still find it not the closest feeling to a real piano. I feel some compromises have been made in this department to keep its weight down.
The Keylab 88 MKII is a stellar command center keyboard with beautiful aesthetics and industry respected Fatar hammer-action keys. This is the best way to control Arturia's Analog Lab software and hardware synths. If you want a controller close enough to a piano in terms of feel without completely letting go of how modern MIDI controllers work (hello aftertouch), get it. If you're still left hankering for something more realistic in response, you might be best served by the Kawai VPC1.
Specifications
- Keys: 88 note Fatar TP/100LR keybed
- Aftertouch: Yes
- Zones: No
- Pads: 16 RGB-backlit performance pads
- Controls: 9 clickable encoders, 6 transport switches, 10 DAW Command buttons, 1 modulation wheel, 1 pitch bend wheel, Octave/Chord/Transpose encoders, 3 Pad mode buttons, 9 multipurpose faders, 7 Transport buttons and 3 control buttons
- Automap: Automatically maps to KeyLab but you have to use the MIDI Learn feature for custom mapping.
- Power: External AC adapter
- Connectivity: 5-Pin MIDI in & out and USB MIDI. Pitch/Gate/Mod outputs, Aux 1/2/3 Pedal Inputs, Expression Pedal Input, Sustain Pedal Input, CV In
- Dimensions: 50.9" (L) x 12.7" (W) x 4.4" (H).
- Weight: 32.4 lbs.
- Bundled Software: Ableton Live Lite, Analog Lab Software
- Compatibility: OS X 10.11 or later, 64-bit/Windows 7 SP1 or later, 64-bit
| Website | Source | *Rating Value |
| Strong Mocha | Thorsten Meyer | 100/100 |
| Sound On Sound | Simon Sherbourne | 93/100 |
Here is an overview of the controller:
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2
Street Price:
Manufacturer:
Product Links:
Cons
- No included pads nudges multi-instrumentalists to get a Maschine
- Beholden to Native Instrument's "walled garden" approach - control for many DAWs is a bit tedious to set up
Pros
- Best feeling (and the only hammer-weighted) keyboard controller for the Native Instruments ecosystem
- Comes with 16 premium NI instruments and effects
- Unmatched visual feedback in the form of 2 high resolution screens and light guides above the keys
- Included 5-Pin MIDI in & out feels like a bonus
The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2 is a specially designed piece of hardware that goes hand in hand with their KOMPLETE software and audio library. Don't let that fool you though, since the Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2 is still versatile enough to work with other software including DAWs in a pinch.
A cool feature are the 2 high-res color screens that allow you to browse sounds, tweak controls, and mix and edit your NKS projects – straight on the hardware.
Another is the light guide above the keys that can display lots of information on the fly such as scale, chord and key zones.
This keyboard also comes with KOMPLETE 13 SELECT, a free taste of KOMPLETE with16 premium instruments and effects, including The Gentleman, Massive, Monark, Hybrid Keys, and Raum.
Also, buying this keyboard gets you a discounted upgrade to KOMPLETE 13 or KOMPLETE 13 ULTIMATE if you choose to get deeper into the Native Instruments fold.
The Fatar hammer-weighted keybed adds great feel and response to the controller, and is tuned to feel weighty with a fast recovery for repeating synth lines.
Hardware integration via MIDI enables you to control synthesizers while having piano-esque feel.
This is the "pianoest-feeling" controller native (no pun intended) to the Native Instruments ecosystem. Having weighted keys adds to the expressiveness and dimension to the many wonderful software instruments in the NI lineup.
One gripe I have is the obvious exclusion of any kind of pads. It's hard to not think this is purposefully done by Native Instruments so you go buy an additional Maschine pad controller from them. Also, although fully-featured as a compositional and instrument suite, the Komplete Kontrol "walled garden" is in full effect here. You can integrate with most popular DAWs (NI lists Pro Tools, Bitwig Studio, Cubase/Nuendo, FL Studio, Ableton, Garageband, Logic Pro and Studio One on their website) but be ready to take a couple of extra steps for even just the basic functionality such as transport controls via the KOMPLETE KONTROL plug-in (VST, AU, AAX).
If your compositional workflow revolves around the Native Instruments ecosystem and you want a controller that feels convincingly close to a piano, there are no alternatives to the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2 for pure integration, control and feel.
Specifications
- Keys: 88 Fully hammer-weighted, velocity sensitive Fatar Keys with aftertouch
- Aftertouch: Yes
- Pads: no
- Controls: Pitch bend, Mod Wheel, Touch Strip Controller, 4-directional push encoder, 8 Touch sensitive knobs
- Automap: All of Native Instruments KOMPLETE software, Ableton Live, Cubase, Nuendo, Logic
- Power: External AC adapter
- Connectivity: 5-Pin MIDI in & out and USB MIDI. 2 x 1/4" (sustain/expression, assignable)
- Dimensions: 54.7"" (L) x 13.6" (W) x 4.5" (H).
- Weight: 29.1 lbs..
- Bundled Software: Komplete Select, Komplete Kontrol (downloads)
- Compatibility: MacOS 10.12 or later, 64-bit/Windows 10 Anniversary Update or later, 64-bit
| Website | Source | *Rating Value |
| Sound On Sound | Nick Magnus | 84/100 |
| AudioTechnology | Preshan John | 92/100 |
Here is a demo of the Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2:
Kawai VPC1 Virtual Piano Controller
Cons
- Heavy compared to other MIDI controllers
- No DAW control features
Pros
- Supreme wooden, simulated ivory-touch keybed that simulates grand piano feel with intricate physical mechanisms
- Comes with a three-pedal unit that includes a damper (with half-pedal support), soft and sostenuto
- Outstanding velocity curve presets approved by top piano software developers with granular customization via the included software
- Renowned, 95-year-perfected Kawai build quality and craftsmanship
The Kawai VPC1 Virtual Piano Controller has been designed specifically for concert pianists who want a grand piano feel and action in a MIDI controller.
Its ultra premium "RM3 Grand II action" keybed features grade-weighted hammers, simulated ivory surfaced wooden grand piano keys, a grand piano let-off/escapement function (that notch feeling you get when playing a grand piano very lightly), 3-sensors (1 sensor more than most premium MIDI controllers) for authentic dynamics and sensitivity and even counterweights to balance the weight of the hammers. That's a lot of mechanical intricacy for a digital instrument - they really pulled no stops with this keybed.
Along with 5 outstanding preset velocity curves approved by some of the top virtual piano software companies and more that can be loaded, the VPC1 allows you to edit individual key velocities and create your own touch curves with its included software for extra granular customization.
All this housed in a sleek aluminum, slab format case with a wide, table-like empty top surface perfect for placing other controllers, laptops, interfaces or any other stuff you might need to aid in your music creation.
Aftertouch? Forget about it. The VPC1 is all about piano realism and to that end comes with a triple pedal unit that includes a damper (with half-pedal support), soft and sostenuto.
The action is simply put, the closest to an acoustic piano of any MIDI controller I've ever played. This is expected from the brand that builds Boston Pianos for Steinway and Sons, the original purveyors of the 88-key standard back in the 1880's.
All this realism comes at a heavy cost - namely it's 65 pound bulk. Although nothing compared to the in-between 500 and 800 pounds of an upright piano (don't get me started with actual grands), you must really be a stickler for feel to lug this baby around. And since Kawai isn't really a software company, it should come to no surprise that this doesn't come with any virtual instruments. Factor in the best of the best piano software instruments in your budget if you're looking to buy this beast, anything less and you should probably get another MIDI controller as this would simply be overkill.
It's kind of cute that this tanky thing is able to be powered by USB bus power.
If you're a concert pianist who wants a MIDI controller with an action very similar to an acoustic grand piano, then this is definitely the best option for you. If budget, space and mobility aren't issues, or if you can't lug around an actual grand piano and absolutely need that kind of action, abandon all hesitation and get it. This is as piano as a MIDI device can get.
Specifications
- Keys: 88 wooden keys with Ivory Touch key surfaces and RM3 Grand II Graded hammer weighting + counterweights - Triple-sensor key detection - Let-off simulation. You can see an interactive demonstration of the key action here.
- Aftertouch: No
- Zones: No.
- Pads: No.
- Controls: 3 grand piano pedals - Damper, Sostenuto and Soft.
- Automap: No.
- Power: USB bus powered (1.0 W) or .AC adapter powered (3.0 W) - both USB cable and power adapter are included.
- Connectivity: 5 pin MIDI in & 5 pin MIDI out + USB MIDI
- Dimensions: 54 ⅓" (W) x 16 ¾" (D) x 7 ⅓" (H).
- Weight: 65 lbs.
- Bundled Software: VPC Editor - this lets you edit touch curves, edit individual key velocities, and change MIDI routing with the settings stored in one of the VPC1s 5 internal memory slots.
- Compatibility: VPC Editor runs on Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10 and Mac OS X 10.8+.
| Website | Source | *Rating Value |
| Audiofanzine | David Studhalter | 100/100 |
| YouTube | PianoManChuck | 85/100 |
The following video review provides an excellent overview of the Kawai VPC1:
Things To Consider When Buying An 88 Key MIDI Controller
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Key Size, Weight & Action. Nearly all 88-key controllers currently available have full sized keys. Only some have hammer-action keys and weights that feel like an acoustic piano. If you're a pianist who's not used to synth-action or semi-weighted keys then you should select one with full weighted hammer-action keys.
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Number of Zones. One of the features of full sized keyboards is that you can split them into multiple zones so that different zones send on different MIDI channels. For example you can do your best Ray Manzarek impersonation by splitting the keyboard so that your left hand is playing a bass synth while your right hand is playing an organ synth.
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Transport Controls. If you will be controlling DAWs frequently then you'll speed up your work-flow by getting one with transport controls because these let you stop, play, record, pause etc. on your DAW without having to use a mouse or trackball.
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Pads, Mod Wheels, Aftertouch, Motorized Controls. These features are important for computer based musicians but not necessary for pianists who primarily want to control virtual pianos.
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Auto-Mapping. This is another feature very important to computer based musicians. If you're mainly going to be controlling DAWs, Plugins and other software then pay close attention to the specifications to see if the keyboard you want has auto-mapping for the software you use. If it doesn't have this feature then you'll have to manually set your assignable controllers such as knobs and pads.
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Connectivity. Using MIDI over USB is only applicable when using your controller in conjunction with a computer, if you are going to be controlling other hardware directly without a computer then you must ensure your keyboard has a 5-pin MIDI Out port.
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Power Supply. Although many can be powered directly via USB you will need an external power adapter if you're going to be controlling hardware sound modules or synths without a computer - you'll also need one if you intend to use your keyboard with an iPad.
Best 88 Key MIDI Controller Selection Methodology
The first edition was published in 2016.
We looked at all the 88-key MIDI controller keyboards widely available from US retailers and put 13 of them on the short list for producing ratings - you can see them in our Music Gear Database. We then collected reviews and feedback from retailers, YouTube, major publications and forums, and data that was used by the Gearank Algorithm to produce the Gearank Rating scores out of 100 for each one - over 3,300 sources were processed, an increase of 27% over the previous edition. Finally, we selected the highest rated options to recommend above. For more information about our methods see How Gearank Works.
About the Author and Contributors
Here are the key people and sources involved in this guide's production - click on linked names for information about their music industry backgrounds.
Lead Author & Researcher
Alden Acosta
I'm a drummer and former lead guitarist of the band Callalily, a platinum selling multi-awarded band from the Philippines. I also studied music for 6 years majoring in percussion and jazz studies with a minor in classical piano.
I studied music for 6 years majoring in percussion and jazz studies with a minor in classical piano. Although unable to complete due to an early start in my professional music career, my basic knowledge in piano has helped me arrange, produce and collaborate with some very accomplished local pianists in the contexts of musical theatre and contemporary pop music. 88-key MIDI controllers are the weapons of choice of the film composers and arrangers I have worked with and every professional studio should have one.
Contributors
Raphael Pulgar: Supplemental writing.
Jason Horton: Editing and Illustrating.
Media
Main/Top Image: Created by Gearank.com using photographs of the Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII and Kawai VPC1.
The videos have been embedded in accordance with YouTube's Terms of Service.
The individual product images were sourced from their respective manufacturers' websites, promotional materials or supporting documentation.
Comments
The following keyboards came
Submitted by Jason Horton on
The following keyboards came off the recommended list when we published the September 2022 Edition:
It's beyond comprehension
Submitted by Mike Roberts (not verified) on
It's beyond comprehension that the Arturia is the top rating here. Irrespective of numbers of controls etc. the No 1 feature of any 88 key weighted controller, first and foremost, is that the feel should be the absolute best - and I'm afraid that the Arturia keyboard has the worst feel of any 88 weighted keyboard I've ever played - and I tried for over a year with it. I say this as a gigging keyboard player of 30 years. It truly is spongy, totally inconsistent and none of the curves make any real difference to this. From this damning starting point, all the other frills and features mean absolutely nothing. If you're a serious player, don't waste your time on this - you'll regret it!
Publication of our June 2021
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Publication of our June 2021 Edition resulted in the following keyboard coming off the recommended list above, but you can still see our analysis of it: Doepfer LMK4+.
Is there any 88 keys
Submitted by Khalid (not verified) on
Is there any 88 keys Controller that Comes in the Middle
in between the Heavy piano Keys and the Light Keyboard Feel
with High Quality manufacturing ?
It sounds like you're looking
Submitted by Jason Horton on
It sounds like you're looking for one with semi-weighted keys - one of the recommended keyboards above has them: Nektar Impact LX88+.
I wish you asked me about the
Submitted by Richard Harvey (not verified) on
I wish you asked me about the Doepfer. Like many other composers I bought one because you can take it out of its flight case and build it into your desk. I have one (wish I didn't) but it has been a disaster. The velocity output from the black notes is higher that that of the white notes and you can't fix that in a meaningful way. I don't know the Kawai but Roland and Yamaha 88 notes keyboards are brilliant. The LMK4 was the worst purchase I've made since buying a Prophet 10 in the last century!! (PS don't read anything into the fact that HZ uses one - he has the same issues as the rest of us!)
I think Kawai VPC1 is an
Submitted by Robert. (not verified) on
I think Kawai VPC1 is an excellent piano, but pants as a midi controller especially for DAW set up. I think if this came out as up the list then your demographics are just wrong. All others have the NI S88 and Arturia at the top with StudioLogic a few places behind. Studiologic grand uses the top TP/40 Wood, slightly higher than the Doepfer mentioned. So I would question your pool of voters or where you perceive this data comes from
There may be some confusion
Submitted by Jason Horton on
There may be some confusion here over the term 'controller'.
We agree that the Kawai VPC1 is 'pants' as a DAW controller because it's not made for that purpose and has no DAW controller features.
However when it comes to being a controller that sends MIDI note information that can be used to trigger sounds generated by hardware or software, or used for recording MIDI, then it is an excellent keyboard.
As part of our May 2020
Submitted by Jason Horton on
As part of our May 2020 update we removed the Special Mention of the Korg D1.
Why was the special mention
Submitted by Jonathan Rodgers (not verified) on
Why was the special mention removed??
The special mention wasn't
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Special Mentions, Author's/Editor's Picks and Additional Items aren't part of our main recommended lists and are included in our guides sometimes when we think they offer something the recommended list doesn't.
In this case we didn't think we needed to re-include the special mention of the Korg D1 which can be used as a MIDI controller but is really a digital piano.
Just a couple of comments on
Submitted by Rod (not verified) on
Just a couple of comments on the above list.
I had a Nektar LX88+ briefly last year but sent it back after noticing the keybed was sloped upward toward middle C like a wave. I wasn’t confident in the quality control of the company to order a replacement. One thing to mention is that you can buy a unit that will allow for a dual pedal but I believe it needs to be plugged into the USB port.
I decided on a new Arturia Keylab MKii 88 which I have a love-hate with. For all the buttons and switches, there are not enough modifiers for assigning to effects such as Tremolo and Chorus on a Rhodes sample. Instead you have to enlist a pad that’s on the other end of the keyboard. I play grand pianos for a living so I’m less than satisfied with the action – although it’s the same as in my former Studiologic SL88 Studio, it feels slightly more responsive. However, I’m currently looking for an 88 controller with lighter action than the Fatar TP100 LR but heavier than semi-weighted. Starting to think I should pick up a used Yamaha DGX-660 which seems to be the right all around feel – but then it’s a digital piano with a ton of other sounds, which kind of mitigates all the work it takes to use MIDI in the first place.
Like the reviews of the Kawai
Submitted by Smitty (not verified) on
Like the reviews of the Kawai VPC1. However, does it make sense for composers vs. performers? Is it designed for use with DAWs like Cubase 10.0? Are it’s best features translatable when using it to compose orchestral compositions with Spitfire strings, brass or woodwinds? I love the way the piano sounds and the key action, however the piano is just 1 instrument in a multi piece orchestra. So I wonder if the Doepfer LMK4+ would be a better choice. Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you.
As a result of our November
Submitted by Jason Horton on
As a result of our November 2019 update the following keyboards came off our recommended list above but you can still see our analysis of them:
Handy list thank you!
Submitted by John (not verified) on
Handy list thank you!
Wish I had found this earlier
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on
Wish I had found this earlier as it covered models I was considering, but were never all compared to each other in one place. In light of my use, I’m still happy with my choice of the Nektar LX+. I’m curious why no Native Instruments. However, since I already own Komplete why would I want to pay for it again? I may pick up an Akai, NI, or Keylab as well in the coming year.
And nothing about Native
Submitted by Jimmy (not verified) on
And nothing about Native Instrument Komplete S series !!!
This is the best controller what exist !!!
The Komplete Kontrol S88 was
Submitted by Jason Horton on
The Komplete Kontrol S88 Mk I was on our short-list but didn't quite have high enough ratings for us to recommend it the last time we performed a major review of 88 key controllers - you can see our analysis of it here: Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 Meta Review.
The Mk II version will be on our short-list when we next update this guide.
Though I agree fully with the
Submitted by Sjoerd W. Bijleveld (not verified) on
Though I agree fully with the choice of VPC1 being one of the best digital keyboard controllers, I have one negative point to add: the lacquer (paint?) layer comes off way too easy! I have my VPC1 for a few years now and only used in my home studio, so no carrying around, and still by putting now and then another keyboard or computer keyboard/mouse on the top the paint wears off. I tried to contact Kawai about this, for a way to repaint it or whatever, but they never responded.
I've owned and used a lot of
Submitted by Larry Schaeffer (not verified) on
I've owned and used a lot of the controllers mentioned including the Roland A88 and M Audio Hammer. I replaced both with two Doepfer LMK2+. The Doepfer hands down has the best action plus and this is a big plus it has after touch! I ended up hating the action on the Roland A88. It felt rubbery and overly heavy and sluggish. The action on the the Hammer 88 was quite good but still not in the league the Doepfer is. Finally, I've played the Kawai several times and while the action is great I can't understand why they left off a mod and pitch wheel. That along with a rounded top which makes stacking keys problematic made it a deal breaker for me. The Doepfer is also great because you can put on the lid and it's ready for the road. My setup is two Doepfer LMK2's stacked on top of each other and a Behringer motor 61 on top. All are tied into a Steinberg midex8 going to Reaper which is the host to my VSTi's. Loving my setup.
BTW do not mix midi and usb midi using multiple controllers. I've found out the hard way they do not play nice. Just use a good Midi Controller like the Steinberg Midex 8 and forgo midi over USB.
How does the StudioLogic SL88
Submitted by Richard Gozinya (not verified) on
How does the StudioLogic SL88 Studio compare? I've heard good things about it.
It has good ratings which is
Submitted by Jason Horton on
It has good ratings which is why we included it in our recommended list above - Click here to read our analysis.
Is it possible you were asking about a different keyboard? You can see all Studiolocgic ratings in our database.
Hey, you seemed to have
Submitted by Erwick (not verified) on
Hey, you seemed to have missed the Studiologic SL88 Studio/Grand. I own one and it's brilliant IMHO.
Both the Studiologic SL88
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Both the Studiologic SL88 Studio and Studiologic SL88 Grand were considered but they didn't have high enough ratings at the time of publication for us to recommend them above, but if that changes we will add them to the list.
You can see their current ratings here.
The following keyboard has
Submitted by Jason Horton on
The following keyboard has been removed from our recommended list above because it's been discontinued, but you can still read what we have to say about it: Roland A-88.
Hi, I'm starting a film
Submitted by Ross (not verified) on
Hi, I'm starting a film scoring course at university next year and I'd like to have an 88 key controller with a reasonable amount of DAW control. I'm not too bothered by semi-weighted keys as long as they aren't synth action. The LX88+ seems like an ideal option, but are there any problems I should be aware of in the context I'll be using it? Thanks in advance!
Hi Ross,
Submitted by Denise Azucena on
Hi Ross,
When it comes to film scoring, it’s more on how much your computer system can handle in terms of RAM if ever you plan to use multiple VST plug-ins in one project (ie. scoring with the use of orchestral instruments) and not really the MIDI controller itself. The LX88+ is a good choice since it is able to integrate with different DAWs and it has the essentials you need. As long as you are able to configure and map it properly depending on the DAW you are using, you are good to go.
You should now add the
Submitted by L (not verified) on
You should now add the Studiologic SL88 studio and SL88 Grand. They both have many reviews and are worth considering. I haven't made a purchase yet but am leading toward these and would like to see them in your ranking. Thanks
Both those keyboards have
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Both those keyboards have been considered for our guides - click here to see SL88 ratings.
Good article. Good
Submitted by Dale (not verified) on
Good article. Good information. Just wondering what 88 note controller would be closest to the old Peavey C8. I don't see any that come close to its features and flexibility. I loved the C8. But, it has been dead for awhile and does not seem to be repairable. Thanks for any opinions offered.
Late comer to this
Submitted by EricH (not verified) on
Late comer to this conversation. I'm not looking to do anything fancy like editing touch curves. I'm just recording / editing basic piano in my home studio. Apart from having the full set of 3 grand piano pedals, is there any advantage to spending 3 times the $$$ for a Kawai VPC1 as a midi controller over, say, a basic Yamaha P-155.
Thanks in advance for your advice.
Eric
Great article, read
Submitted by Wesley Lawrence... (not verified) on
Great article, read thoroughly. Buhut.....was hoping to find something about the STUDIO LOGIC midi keyboard controller 88 w/ weighted action. Have owned 3 M-Audio 88es Keystations in as many years. (Not the longest lasting velocity pads there) but the price was to good to pass on. Now, 3 years later, I could have spent the $600 I spent for the three M-Audio's and gotten something with weighted action and durable to a pianists hands. Anyway....I like your outlook on these keyboards and it is a help to my research before buying.
All the best,
Wesley Lawrence Curry II
Hi Wesley,
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Hi Wesley,
Both the SL88 Studio and SL88 Grand were considered for this guide but neither of them had high enough ratings for us to recommend them, although the SL88 Studio came close.
You can see all the StudioLogic keyboards we have examined, along with their Gearank scores, in the Music Gear Database.
Cheers,
Jason.
This article is not
Submitted by Kaplain (not verified) on
This article is not mentionning the Lachnit MK22 Studio, the King with Fatar TP40 wood action keys, Lachnit light sensor technology, adjustable velocity curve, 4096 High Resolution MIDI dynamic with Pianoteq ... a very expensive master controller for piano softwares, but worth the investment. Each key is polished and adjusted by hand by Peter Lachnit himself. It will last a few decades in your home studio at least.
Nektar wins M audio hammer on
Submitted by AzizKeys@gmail.com (not verified) on
Nektar beats M audio hammer on faders and pads, they are needed for live performance, M audio beats nektar on the weighted hammer keyboard. Wish that M audio company would release the m audio hammer with faders and pads.
I am interested in the Nektar
Submitted by Ellis L Abram (not verified) on
I am interested in the Nektar. My biggest concern is making sure the keys at least feel like a piano. I am used to fully weighted keys.
We've now published the 2017
Submitted by Jason Horton on
We've now published the 2017 update, and although it's priced $80 higher than the Nektar, I suggest you take a look at the M-Audio Hammer 88.
Both the Nektar Impact LX88
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Both the Nektar Impact LX88 and the newer LX88+ only have semi-weighted keys which are never going to feel like an acoustic piano if that's what you're used to.
We're about to start the research phase for a 2017 update to this guide, so I'll post back here if we find a reputable option with piano style action in a similar price range to the LX88.
thank you for all of this!!.
Submitted by wilson (not verified) on
Thank you for all of this!!. I'd go with the Kawai for sure but unfortunately there is no way to buy it in my country. That's a huge shame. So I'm thinking on going with the Roland one. I just wonder if it's better, on piano key action, compared to my Yamaha P140.
The Roland A-88 did get
Submitted by Jason Horton on
The Roland A-88 did get positive reviews for its key action so it does look like a good alternative to the Kawai VPC1 in your situation - probably not quite as good as the Kawai, but definitely acceptable compared with the Yamaha P-140 digital piano.
Thank you for the review.
Submitted by LX88 Customer/User (not verified) on
Thank you for the review.
LX88 - not bad after almost year. However major problem is that black keys are more sensitive. No firmware patch available, even after latest release of the Plus model (which has the same issue). Sensitivity curve settings is not helping (well - fixed velocity helps). There is also no 'key off velocity' CC message generated.
I do not recommend.
Why is it that there are no
Submitted by Ron Kalcic (not verified) on
Why is it that there are no 88 Key SYNTH ACTION Midi controllers. The Synth Action has soooooo much better control for orchestral software.. And why do all these manufactures think 8 channels is the most you will ever use on a controller. How about 16 (slider) channels on a controller. Even if you have to go to an AKAI box...everything STOPS at 8 channels. Pretty short sighted.
Can we connect expression
Submitted by metallicareigns... (not verified) on
Can we connect expression pedal and sustain pedal at the same time?? In Nekter LX88???
The Nekter LX88 only has 1
Submitted by Jason Horton on
The Nekter LX88 only has 1 footswitch which is MIDI assignable so you can only use it for 1 function at a time.
Thanks For info
Submitted by Thanks For info (not verified) on
Thanks for all the information.
You're welcome - glad you
Submitted by Jason Horton on
You're welcome - glad you liked it.