Midiplus is a Taiwanese Company specializing in MIDI based Music Gear. The X2 Mini is their 25-key offering in their compact key range.
The X2 mini features 25 velocity sensitive mini keys that are built really well for the price. While it is sized like a toy, it has the playing feel of an instrument, complete with velocity sensitivity.
It has extra controls that include four customizable knobs, and a number of buttons, which give it an important edge over other micro sized controllers like the Korg nanoKEY2. It also has pitch and modulation control via capacitive touch strips, which requires a bit of familiarization to better utilize, especially if you’re used to rotary or pitch mode wheels.
I’m not a fan of the cramped feel of mini size keys, but this is a necessary compromise given the size and control options that the X2 Mini provides.
Surprisingly, it is able to accommodate these extra controls while keeping a streamlined look and compact profile. In addition to using smart computer devices, you can use the X2 Mini to control analog synths via its 5-pin MIDI out.
MidiPlus equipped it with a metal chassis making this the best cheap MIDI keyboard when it comes to build quality in this price range.
Though not as popular as other MIDI controllers on the market today, for the price, the MidiPlus X2 Mini delivers a lot of quality and utility.
Pros
- Expanded controls
- Pitch Bend and Modulation via Touch Strips
- Streamlined look
- Durable metal chassis
Cons
- Its mini keys require some getting used to
- Touch strip is not everyone’s cup of tea
Specifications
- Keys: 25 Velocity Sensitive Synth Mini-keys
- Pads: None
- Controls: Pitch and Modulation control – capacitive touch sensitive strips, 4 customizable knobs; Default setting: T1 (Volume), T2 (Pan), T3 (Expression Controller), T4 (Reverb)
- Octaves: up/down with transpose
- Bundled Software: None
- Power: USB Bus Powered
- Connectivity: USB Type B
- Compatibility: OS X 10.7 or Later, Windows 7 or later
- Dimensions: 16.1″ x 2.01 x 5.39
- Weight: 3.4lbs.