The Nektar Panorama P6 is a MIDI keyboard controller that covers all bases, and does so effectively. With 93 real-time controls, you'll find it hard to run out of things to do, and all of this is provided for without compromising the quality of the keys and its overall build. With its combination of traditional feeling keys and modern control features, this MIDI keyboard is designed to cater to a wider audience. Pianists will be more than happy with the Panorama P6's weighted piano style keys that are true to the shape and feel of acoustic pianos. On the other hand keyboardists and electronic musicians will appreciate the wealth of controls available, especially the pads and faders. It's nice display monitor is also noteworthy, providing excellent visual queues that complement both live performance and studio recording work.

Key Features:

• Keys: 61 weighted / piano-style / velocity-sensitive / aftertouch
• Pads: 12 pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity
• Octaves: 10 by using Octave Up and Octave Down controls
• Controls: 16 knobs and 10 faders with 1 motorized fader
• Automap: Bitwig Studio, Cubase, Nuendo, Logic Pro, Reaper and Reason
• Power: USB powered / Optional power adapter (sold separately)
• Connectivity: USB, USB Micro (for additional power), 5-pin MIDI ports, Footswitch and Expression pedal jacks
• Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.6 or higher, Windows Vista, 7 & 8 compatible
• Dimensions: 42 x 5.9 x 15.4 inches
• Weight: 17 lbs

Pros

The Nektar Panorama P6 continues to gather positive reviews and ratings, with its build quality and playing feel as its best traits. Reports are consistent in saying that it integrates really well with their software of choice, with Cubase and Reason getting the top mentions. Interestingly, instead of complaining about its relatively high price, there are some who praise it for its value for money.

Cons

There are some keyboardists who complain about the action difference between the white and black keys, but it may very well be due to their muscle memory being used to a different playing feel.

Overall

This is an excellent feature packed MIDI keyboard controller for anyone who wants more control and musical expression. Well worth its price tag considering its easy software integration and control capabilities.

Having been made by Akai Professional, the company that pioneered the use of pads as controllers, it's no surprise that the MPK261's most notable feature is its expressive pads. But its not just about that because it also features 61 semi-weighted synth style keys, a combination that caters to modern music styles. Guaranteed iOS compatibility is also a plus for added versatility.

Key Features:

• Keys: 61 / semi-weighted / synth style / velocity-sensitive keys / aftertouch
• Pads: 16 RGB-illuminated velocity-sensitive pads with four banks each for a total of 64 sounds controllable
• Octave: 10 with Octave Up and Down
• Controls: 24 assignable Q-Link controllers that include 8 knobs, 8 faders, and 8 switches
• Bundled Software: Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0, Ableton Live Lite
• Power: USB powered, an optional power adapter is sold separately*
• Connectivity: USB, 5-pin MIDI ports, Footswitch and Expression pedal jacks
• Compatibility: iOS (via Apple Camera Connection Kit) Mac OS X 10.5 or higher, Windows XP, Vista, 7 & 8 compatible
• Dimensions: 12.3 x 36.6 x 3.4 inches
• Weight: 15.1 lbs

*You need the optional power adapter if you want to connect to devices using the 5-pin MIDI port because it can't use USB Bus power in this configuration.

Pros

Satisfied and impressed users continue to rate the Akai Professional MPK261 highly, and in this market where keyboards are normally rated poorly, getting this much acclaim is quite an accomplishment in itself. As expected, the pads get a lot of thumbs up. To Akai Professional's credit, even the synth action keys are well received, with many reviews noting how much of a dramatic improvement they are compared to others in the market.

Cons

Software integration is something that the company should definitely improve on, because majority of the complaints on the product (which are few nonetheless) are pointing towards inconvenience when it comes to integration. Logic Pro X in particular got special mention, with users saying that the keyboard does not integrate well with this DAW. Also worth noting is the lack of power options other than being USB bus powered.

Overall

With its sleek appeal, extensive control set and reasonable price tag, the Akai Professional MPK261 is highly recommended. If you're not sure what to get and you have the budget for it, this is the safest pick.

Korg is known for pushing the boundaries when it comes to music gear technology, and the microKEY AIR-61 is an excellent example. This MIDI keyboard offers true wireless operation with its built-in Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to control your software instruments without having to plug-in any cables. It is an ideal match for the iPad and Laptops, great for mobile recording and for capturing ideas while on the go. Running on a pair of AA batteries, the microKEY AIR-61 gives you up to 30 hours of wireless use, much more than the operating times of most laptops and mobile devices. In addition, it can also work as a regular MIDI Keyboard by removing the battery and connecting it via USB, which also powers the unit. Since it is meant for portability, it is stripped down to just the keybed, a pitch wheel, a mod wheel, and octave buttons. As the label implies, it has 61 mini-keys with Korg's natural touch feel, their version of synth action which many users prefer.

Key Features:

• Keys: 61 / synth-action / velocity-sensitive / mini-keys
• Bundled Software: Free software from Propellerhead, Ableton and Korg
• Power: USB Bus powered or 2 x AA Batteries
• Connectivity: USB, 1/4" Footswitch Jack
• Controls: Pitch Wheel, Mod Wheel, Wireless Switch
• Octave: Octave Up/Down buttons
• Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.10 or later / iOS 8 or later / Bluetooth 4.0 (for wireless) / Windows 7 or later
• Dimensions: 5.47 x 33.46 x 2.13 inches
• Weight: 3.77 lbs

Pros

Many of the positive reviews for the Korg microKEY AIR-61 are from iPad and iPhone users. They reported that it works really well while wirelessly connected, with very minimal latency. The feel of the keys also got a lot of commendations, even from non-keyboard musicians.

Cons

Most of the complaints center on the smaller sized mini-keys, which require technique adjustments if you are used to playing regular size pianos and keyboards. There were however others that loved the smaller size, especially since it makes for a compact partner instrument for their mobile device. Some users also cautioned that the bundled software are outdated and can be annoying to install/un-install, they recommend that you just use your existing DAW.

Overall

If you are always on the go, or you just want a keyboard that works wirelessly, then get the MicroKEY AIR-61.

Behringer is known for the incredible value that their products bring, and this is exemplified by the MOTÖR 61. For the price, you are getting a full featured MIDI keyboard controller complete with velocity-sensitive pads, transport controls, encoders, and buttons - but what sets it apart is its motorized faders, something that's normally only seen on expensive keyboards and mixers. As for the keys, Behringer equipped it with 61 semi-weighted synth-action keys that are velocity sensitive and feature aftertouch.

Key Features:

• Keys: 61 / semi-weighted / synth-action / velocity-sensitive / aftertouch
• Pads: 8 backlit pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity
• Controls: 9 x 60mm Motorized Faders, 8 Encoders, Transport Controls, Multiple Buttons, Pitch & Mod Wheels
• Automap: Most DAWs (Ableton Live, Cubase, Logic Pro X, Reaper, Tracktion
• Bundled Software: Bundle Software from Behringer (Plugins, Recording, Editing Etc)
• Power: 12V DC power supply
• Connectivity: USB, 5-pin MIDI Connectors (IN & OUT), DC IN Jack, Footswitch and Expression pedal jacks
• Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.8 or higher, Windows 7 or higher
• Dimensions: 39.2 x 3.5 x 12 inches
• Weight: 15.7 lbs

Pros

Value for money is easily the best feature of the Behringer MOTÖR 61, and this is reflected in reviews. With its many features, it is not surprising to find many reviewers impressed with its versatility. Its full spread of controls make it ideal for music production, especially with its motorized faders. Surprisingly, there are also some who are happy with its build quality, a testament to Behringer's improving production processes.

Cons

There are a few who are not too happy with the bundled software, while some are not impressed with the feel of the keys.

Overall

The Behringer MOTÖR 61 is a great value 61-Key MIDI keyboard controller that can be a great addition to any musician or producer's gear.

Alesis continues its legacy of providing quality yet affordable equipment, as seen in their entry into this list, the Alesis VI61. It's major highlight is the medium tension piano-style keys with aftertouch that it comes equipped with. And it's not just about the keys, because the Alesis VI61comes packed with features, with a staggering number of buttons to boot! For the price, this MIDI keyboard comes with 16 full-color RGB backlit drum pads for controlling software drums and percussion instruments. It also features 6 transport controls, nine sliders and eight knobs, all of which allow for in-depth control of your sound parameters and your DAW, right at the controller.

Key Features:

• Keys: 61 / semi-weighted / piano-style / velocity-sensitive / aftertouch
• Pads: 16 multi-color pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity
• Controls: 16 illuminated Encoders/Pots, 16 Knobs, 48 Buttons and Dedicated Transport Controls
• Bundled Software: Ableton Live Lite Alesis Edition
• Power: USB powered and can use an optional power adapter (sold separately)
• Connectivity: USB, 5-pin MIDI out, Sustain pedal jack
• Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.7 or higher, Windows 7 & 8 compatible
• Dimensions: 12.4 x 4.5 x 44.1 inches
• Weight: 6.8 lbs

Pros

With the Alesis VI61, you're getting more than what you're paying for, and this is a sentiment shared by many of its users. Reviewers describe the keys in positive light, saying that they respond really well to playing, and can compete with more expensive keyboard controllers. The same can also be said with its 16 pads, which many electronic musicians appreciate.

Cons

It's not all sunshine and rainbows though, because there are concerns about the great feeling keys sometimes producing a squeaking friction sound. An experienced user provided a workaround that involved carefully lubing one of the supports for each key and that solved the issue for him. Still, this is not a universal issue so not much of a deal breaker. Another common concern is its lackluster software integration, it requires some legwork to get it to mapped to some DAW software.

Overall

This lightweight and affordable MIDI Keyboard controller has satisfied many users, and as such comes highly recommended. If you're looking for an affordable piano-style keyboard then you should consider getting the Alesis VI61.

The Nektar Impact GX61 is a compact 61 key midi controller that provides essential functionality at a very good price point. It doesn't have much in the way of bells and whistles, but it does provide what you'd expect in the price range, full keyboard functionality with a bit of extras thrown in.

At its core is its synth-action keybed with 61 full-size velocity sensitive keys, so the keys are expected to be light and easy to use. Note that this soft playing feel may throw off users who prefer piano like action, but it is unreasonable to expect premium feel in this price range. Other features of the Impact GX61 include 7 MIDI assignable buttons, an assignable potentiometer knob, and dedicated controls for octave switching and transpose. It is designed to conveniently pair with popular DAWs, including Cubase, Reason, Nuendo, Garageband, Sonar, Logic, Bitwig, Reaper, Studio One and FL Studio. Finally, Nektar was able to pack all these features in without compromising portability with its small profile and light weight.

Key Features:

• Keys: 61 / full-size / synth-action / velocity-sensitive
• Pads: None
• Bundled Software: Bitwig 8-Track
• Power: USB Bus powered
• Connectivity: USB, Sustain Pedal Jack
• Controls: Power Switch, Transport Controls, 7 x Buttons, Assignable Knob and Modulation Wheel, Pitch Bend
• Octave: 3/+4 Octaves with Transpose Function
• Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.7 or higher, Windows 7 or higher, iOS via Apple Camera Connection Kit
• Dimensions: 7.75 x 38 x 2.75 inches
• Weight: 6 lbs

Pros

Even those who are critical of the MIDI controller find themselves pleasantly surprised with the overall quality of the Nektar Impact GX61 after taking it out of the box. Many commend its weight and portable size to be just right for mobile use, while others are impressed with how easy it is to setup. Interestingly, many of the users who give it high ratings are guitarists/bassists who want a compact piano in their home studio.

Cons

There were a few who found the action to be too light and wished for the same keyboard to have a model with semi-weighted keys. There are a few who want traditional 5-pin MIDI connectivity - you'll have to chose another keyboard if you want this option.

Overall

All in all, if you prefer the lighter feel of synth action keys, and you don't need 5-pin MIDI, then the Nektar Impact GX61 should be high up in your list.