Finding the best 61-key MIDI controller is about striking the perfect balance, enough keys to express yourself musically, without taking over your entire studio or backpack.
The Best 61 Key MIDI Controller Keyboards in the World | The Best 61 Key MIDI Controller Keyboards in the World Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
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*Gearank = Rating score out of 100.
**Sources = Number of gear owner and user opinions analyzed for these product Gearank Ratings.
Research Process: How Gearank Works
I’ve used everything from compact 25-key controllers to full 88-key behemoths, and over time, I found myself always coming back to the 61-key format. It hits that sweet spot: five octaves of range, enough for two-handed chords, basslines, and leads, without needing to clear your whole desk or bring a second roadie to your gig.
Here’s the thing, some controllers are easy to carry but barely playable, while others play like a dream but hog every inch of studio space. My 61-key setup felt just right. It was portable enough to take to sessions and rehearsals, yet powerful and expressive enough for serious composing and live performance. Whether you’re tracking MIDI parts, controlling soft synths, or triggering samples, a solid MIDI keyboard 61 keys wide gives you space to create without getting in your way.
Today’s 61-key MIDI keyboard options come loaded with features—velocity-sensitive keys, aftertouch, customizable pads, and hands-on DAW control. They double up as a keyboard controller for studio workflow, letting you tweak your plugins and virtual instruments without reaching for a mouse every few seconds. If you’ve ever asked, what is a MIDI controller, it’s essentially the bridge between your playing and your software instruments—and a 61-key board gives you enough scope to make real music with real expression.
So with that in mind, let’s dive into the best 61-key keyboard picks available today. These selections are based on what real musicians are using in studios and on stages, backed by our Gearank data and hands-on experience.
Best 61-Key Midi Controller Keyboards
The Nektar Impact GX61 is a simple and compact 61 key Keyboard MIDI controller. It provides essential keyboard functionality at a very good price point, with a few extras thrown in. It doesn’t have much in the way of bells and whistles, but it provides what you’d expect in the price range.
At its core is its decent synth-action keybed with 61 full-size velocity-sensitive keys. The keys are light and easy to use.
Note that this soft playing feel may put off those who prefer action similar to acoustic stage piano keys. But it is unreasonable to expect an ultra-premium feel in this price range. Considering the extras you get and DAW transport controls, it presents excellent value.
These extras include 7 assignable buttons for controlling 14 MIDI functions with the shift button. It also has a large MIDI-assignable potentiometer knob (volume by default). It has a MIDI-assignable modulation wheel.
The Impact GX61 comes with octave up/down buttons with multi-colored LED indicators that show the exact status. It also has Transpose up/down buttons with LED indicators, assignable to send Global MIDI Channel or Program).Rrun-of-the-mill pitch bend wheel is included, along with the 1/4” TS jack foot switch input that’s also MIDI assignable.
Pairing with popular DAWs is a breeze, this includes Cubase, Reason, Nuendo, Garageband, Sonar, Logic, Bitwig, Reaper, Studio One, and FL Studio. However, being a class-compliant device makes this work with virtually any DAW or OS. You can even pair this with an Apple Camera Connection Kit to use with an iPad!
Nektar was able to pack all these features without compromising portability with its small profile and lightweight.
I find myself pleasantly surprised with the overall quality of the Nektar Impact GX61 right out of the box. Its weight and portable size are just right for mobile use, and I’m impressed with how easy it is to set up. I recommend this to guitarists or bassists like myself who want a compact piano in their home studio. Its ease of use makes this perfect as your very first MIDI controller as well.
The key action is a bit on the light side and I wish they produced a version of this keyboard with semi-weighted keys for those (like me) who prefer that feel. Also, I was hoping for regular 5-pin MIDI data connectivity – you’ll have to consider other controllers if you want this option.
The overall feel of the controller can be described as “toy-like” but not enough to feel low quality. During fast runs, odd notes pop out here and there in terms of velocity level.
If you prefer a minimalist setup with light synth-action keys and you don’t need 5-pin MIDI, then the Nektar Impact GX61 should be high on your list.
- Keys: 61 / full-size / synth-action / velocity-sensitive
- Pads: None
- Power: USB Bus powered
- Bundled Software: Bitwig 8-Track
- Connectivity: USB, 1/4” TS Jack Foot Switch Input
- Controls: Power Switch, Controls, 7 x Transport Buttons (MIDI Assignable 2 functions per button), Assignable Knob and Modulation Wheel, Pitch Bend
- Automap: Most DAWs (Bitwig Studio, Cubase, Digital Performer, Garageband, Logic Pro, Nuendo, Reason, SONAR, Studio One, FL Studio, Reaper)
- Octave: up/down 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
The M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 has everything you need to get started with music production.
This USB bus-powered keyboard controller is class-compliant. So, it works with almost all operating systems, including iOS, when paired with a lightning camera connection kit.
It is ideal for those who are transitioning from piano to MIDI controller. The full-size, semi-weighted keys will feel more familiar than synth-action keys more commonly found at this price point. And since it is a 61-key MIDI keyboard, you have more range than smaller controllers.
It also includes a generous suite of bundled software, including Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First, AIR VST instruments, and more.
The M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 is one of those rare cases of “less is more”. The design is streamlined and simple. Also, I give props to the feel of the keys and the bundled software that offers great value.
Getting it to work with analog synths has a bit of a learning curve. Its keyboard can double up as many of the advanced system buttons. But it takes a bit of trial and error to make sure the settings are right on both devices. But nonetheless, having a 5-pin MIDI output and the ability to do so is a Godsend.
The M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3 is a great starter pick. Perfect if you’re looking for your first simple MIDI keyboard controller with semi-weighted keys and need a suite of software.
- Keys: 61/ full-sized / semi-weighted / velocity sensitive
- Pads: No
- Power: DC power supply, USB bus powered
- Bundled Software: AIR Music Mini Grand/Velvet/Xpand!2, Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First, Skoove, Touch Loops, Melodics Tutorial
- Connectivity: USB, Sustain Pedal Jack
- Controls: pitch/mod wheels, volume slider, octave +/-, cursor keys, and transport controls
- Octave: up/down fully assignable buttons
- Compatibility: Mac OS 10.10+, Win 7+ PC, iOS via Apple Camera Connection Kit
- Dimensions: 7.44″ x 39.2″ x 2.68″
- Weight:9 lbs.
Having the best 61-key keyboard isn’t always about the sheer amount of assignable knobs and faders. The Arturia KeyLab Essential 61 MkIII has taken the features of the Keylab 61 but made a much more affordable version.
The MKII, compared to the MKII, now has a larger LCD screen and a silver knob in the middle. This allows you to change patches from your LCD or your laptop. Typically, cheaper MIDI controllers would have a smaller or no LCD screen. Here, Arturia has done a great job in making each patch easily navigable through the LCD.
In the Essential version, you get 8 Pads (which can be used as percussion or drum pads) and 9 knobs and faders at your disposal. The 8 pads have an aftertouch to allow more flexibility in sound. The assignable knobs have a good resistance to them which is always usable for fine-tuning in increments. The 9th fader is always pre-assigned to any active track selected.
All of its features, from the knobs to the pads, can be pre-mapped through any DAW like FL Studio, Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Cubase, and Bitwig Studio. This 61-key MIDI keyboard can also be assigned via MCU/HUI.
The synth action of the essential 61 doesn’t feel clunky. While it’s indeed on the lighter side, the velocity and response are accurate. This velocity-sensitive keyboard doesn’t jump around abruptly, and soft to hard touches are consistent.
For further adjustments, you can select a velocity curve that will fit your style of playing through Arturia’s software.
One feature that stuck out to me is the 1 button arpeggiator. It gives you the option to play and hold a note and change the speed of the arpeggiation by dialing the silver knob left or right. I find this very useful in running synth sounds through this app because I’d normally program them from scratch in a plugin.
Keylab Essentials 61 key is a perfect, budget-friendly fit for music producers. And it’s also good for a session piano player who wants a balance of simplicity and assignability.
- Keys: 61 Keys Velocity Sensitive Synth Action
- Pads: 8 x RGB, Velocity Sensitive Pads with Aftertouch
- Power: USB bus powered
- Bundled Software: Analog Labs V, 2 Pianos (UVI Model D, NI The Gentleman), Loopcloud, Melodics
- Connectivity: USB, Sustain Pedal Jack
- Controls: 1 clickable encoder, 9 rotary encoders, 9 x 30mm faders, 8 transport switches, 4 command switches, 1 modulation wheel & bend wheel
- Octave: up/down with transpose
- Compatibility: MacOS 10.13 or later + Windows 10 or Later
- Dimensions: 2.76″ x 35″ x 9.45″
- Weight: 6.8 lbs.
I’ve always been a fan of Native Instruments’ seamless software integration, and the Komplete Kontrol A61 delivers exactly that. Right out of the box, the semi-weighted keys feel premium, responsive but not too stiff, great for expressive playing.
Pairing it with Komplete instruments is super easy; the pre-mapped controls, light guides, and smart browsing system make navigating the sounds effortless, which is a huge time saver when I’m in the middle of a creative flow.
One thing I really appreciate is how intuitive the controller feels, especially with the OLED display and touch-sensitive encoders. Assigning parameters is easy, and I don’t have to reach for my mouse when tweaking sounds constantly. The build quality is solid, though slightly lighter than I expected, which is good for portability but might not feel as premium as some higher-end controllers. The integration with other DAWs outside of Komplete isn’t as deep, but it still works well with Logic, Ableton, and others.
If you’re a Native Instruments user, this is a no-brainer. It truly enhances the workflow and makes navigating your sound library a breeze. But if you rely on third-party software, you might not get the same seamless experience.
While the lack of drum pads and faders might be a downside for some, I find that this controller shines where it matters most: playability, software integration, and intuitive sound browsing.
- Keys: Semi-weighted
- Pads: N/A
- Power: USB bus powered
- Bundled Software: Komplete Kontrol, Maschine Essentials, Komplete Instruments and Effects
- Controls: Pitchbend, Mod Wheel
- Octaves: Octave Up and Octave Down
- Connectivity: USB
- Compatibility: MacOS 10.12 or later, Windows 10 Anniversary Update or later
- Dimensions: 3.5″ x 38.7″ x 10.1″
- Weight: 10.4 lbs.
The Yamaha MX61 V2 is a hybrid of a synthesizer and MIDI controller with some DAW Control features.
As a contender for the best 61-key keyboard controller, it is a class-compliant device, which makes it plug-and-play compatible with major operating systems, including iOS, with an Apple camera connection kit.
DAW controls include transport, mixer, and even virtual instruments.
Being a synth that doubles as a MIDI controller is certainly the star feature of the Yamaha MX61 V2. It’s fairly uncommon to find a hybrid device in this category where there are no compromises with regard to its function as a controller. The AI Knob’s ability to tweak controls that you mouse over is also a cool plus.
Although the focus of this guide is MIDI Controller functionality, I’m very pleased with the sound quality of the MX61 V2’s synth and sound library, borrowing select sounds from the MOTIF XS, Yamaha’s more expensive synthesizer workstation line.
There’s no such thing as a free lunch, and the MX61 V2’s rather expansive feature set has a bit of a learning curve, and I had to look up tutorials online to make the most of the unit.
If you’re looking for a Synth/MIDI Controller hybrid and are ready to dig deep to maximize its functionality, the Yamaha MX61 V2 is right up your alley.
- Keys: 61 Synth action, touch sensitive
- Pads: None
- Power: 12V DC power supply (included)
- Bundled Software: Cubase AI included, FM Essential iOS synth app
- Controls: 9 knobs and 40 Buttons, Pitch and Mod Wheels
- Octaves: Octave Up and Octave Down Controls
- Connectivity: 1 x 1/8″ (aux in), 2 x 1/4″ (main out), 1 x 1/4″, USB 1 x Type B, 1 x Type A, MIDI I/O 5-pin
- Compatibility: Mac OS X 10.11 or higher, Windows 7 SP1 or higher, iOS
- Dimensions: 38.7″ x 4.4″ x 11.7″
- Weight: 10.6 lbs.
Things to Consider When Buying a 61-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller
Key Size & Weight
In my experience, most keyboard controllers come with semi-weighted, synth-action keys, and for good reason. They offer a great balance of feel, dynamics, and portability. It’s why many musicians and producers think of MIDI keyboards as the best portable keyboard piano, especially for setups that need to travel or fit on a tight desk. That said, if you’re a pianist looking for something closer to an acoustic piano feel, there are 61-key options with fully weighted keys. Just keep in mind, they usually come with extra weight, more bulk, and a higher price tag.
Keybed Sensitivity and Aftertouch
One of the first things I look for in a 61 key MIDI keyboard is velocity sensitivity. It tracks how fast or hard you press the keys, which gives your playing way more expression, especially if you’re working with dynamic virtual instruments. Most controllers have this built in now, and the better ones even let you adjust the velocity curve to match your touch. Aftertouch is another layer of expression. Pressing a key down a little harder while it’s held can trigger effects like vibrato or filter sweeps. It’s a great feature for synth and orchestral work, though it usually bumps the price up a bit since it requires more complex hardware.
Pads, Mod Wheels, and Motorized Controls
Extra controls can really elevate your workflow. Pads are great for triggering drums and samples, while modulation and pitch wheels let you add real-time flair to your playing. Some advanced models even have motorized faders and knobs, which is slick if you do a lot of automation or mixing from your controller. Just be aware, more features often mean more setup time, more menu-diving, and a steeper price. Still, for producers and performers who like tactile control, these extras can be well worth the investment.
Transport Controls
Having dedicated DAW controls right on your keyboard might not seem like a big deal until you’ve tried it. Play, stop, record, rewind, it’s all right there at your fingertips. It might seem small, but not having to move back and forth between your keyboard and computer can keep you in the zone and help capture inspiration while it’s fresh.
What Do You Want to Control?
If you’re mainly working on a computer or tablet, a USB MIDI keyboard controller is your best bet. Most models these days are class-compliant, so they work right out of the box with iOS, macOS, and Windows. That means you can hook them up to an iPad, iPhone, or laptop with no extra drivers. But if you’re planning to connect with standalone gear, like a hardware synth or a vintage rack module, look for something that also includes a traditional 5-pin MIDI out. If you’re new to all this, it helps to understand What is MIDI and how it works with your setup.
Auto-Mapping
Auto-mapping can be a lifesaver, especially if you’re just starting out. It allows the keyboard to automatically assign its knobs, sliders, and pads to your DAW or plugins. Some manufacturers even include custom templates or installers to make the process nearly plug-and-play. Not every controller will support every DAW out of the box, but if it works with your main software, it’s a huge time-saver compared to assigning everything manually.
Power Supply
It still amazes me how some 61 key MIDI controllers can run entirely off USB power. But for more advanced boards, or setups using mobile devices like iPads, it’s smart to have backup power options. Some controllers offer the ability to plug into wall power or even use batteries, which adds a lot of flexibility for live shows or mobile rigs. Just remember, iPads and some laptops can’t always deliver enough juice through their USB ports, so having external power as a fallback is a big plus.
61-Key vs 88-Key MIDI Controllers
For most of my studio work and even live sets, 61 keys have been plenty. It gives you a solid five-octave range, enough for serious playing, without taking up too much space. Even a lot of pianists I know keep a 61-key board in their setup just for convenience. But if your focus is strictly on traditional piano technique, then an 88-key model with fully weighted keys might be a better fit. It really comes down to what you play and how much room you’ve got.
Alternatives
There are some arranger keyboards, workstations, and synths that can double as MIDI controllers, which is useful if you also want built-in sounds and extra features like audio interfaces or expanded outputs. But these usually add a lot of weight, complexity, and price. They also don’t always have the intuitive mapping and plug-and-play ease of a dedicated 61 key MIDI controller. If you’re looking for simplicity, focus on the gear that’s made specifically for MIDI.
Best 61 Key MIDI Controller Selection Methodology
The first edition was published in 2016. This current edition was published in 2025.
When we started putting this guide together, we combed through every 61-key MIDI keyboard controller we could find from major US retailers. After hours of research, we narrowed it down to 26 models that really stood out—those with solid reputations, useful features, and enough buzz to earn a spot on our shortlist. You can find all of them in our Music Gear Database.
From there, we gathered thousands of data points—ratings, customer reviews, forum posts, and feedback from players and producers who’ve actually used these boards. We ran all that through the Gearank Algorithm, which crunches the numbers to produce a rating score out of 100 for each model. For this guide alone, we processed over 18,800 individual sources.
The keyboards we recommend above earned their place not just through specs or brand hype, but from real-world performance and consistent user satisfaction. If you’re curious about how we put it all together, you can check out How Gearank Works for the full breakdown.
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
I am a multi-instrumentalist and bedroom producer who owns a Behringer UMX25 25-Key MIDI controller that I have quickly outgrown. I have had the privilege of using MIDI controllers of all formats, including 49-key up to 88-key keyboards. I find that the 61-key format is perfect for my needs in electronic music production and supporting roles in ensemble performance.
Contributors
Allen Articulo: Supplemental writing.
Jerry Borillo: Research.
Alexander Briones: Supplemental writing and editing.
Raphael Pulgar: Supplemental writing.
Jason Horton: Editing and Illustrating.
Media / Image Credit
Main/Top Image: Created by Gearank.com
The individual product images were sourced from websites, promotional materials, or supporting documentation provided by their respective manufacturers.
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Comments:
29 responses
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The following controllers came off the recommended list when we published the August 2022 Edition:
- Midiplus i61
- Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 MK2
- Nektar Impact LX61+
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Publication of our June 2021 Edition resulted in the following keyboards coming off the recommended list above, but you can still see our analysis of them:
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As a result of our June 2020 update, the following came off the recommended list above, but you can still access our analysis of it:
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Today we removed the following due to a lack of availability, but you can still read our analysis of it: Behringer MOTÖR 61.
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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:
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Can you guys do a list on MIDI keyboards that include sequencers that are not just arps? I’m currently on a hunt for a midi keyboard that has a sequencer that does not work like an arp or have to be step recorded. More like an MPC type of sequencer but does not have to be made by Akai.
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Im curious to why the SL MKIII by Novation is not on any of these lists.
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The Novation 61SL MkIII was on our short-list for this guide however it didn’t have high enough ratings for us to recommend it above.
You can see all 3 Novation controllers that we considered along with their current ratings here.
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Quick question, the MAudio Code is pretty dope, was it considered for this list?
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Yes the M-Audio Code 61 was considered but didn’t have high enough ratings for us to include it in the recommended list above – you can see its ratings here.
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What about Acorn Masterkey 61? It’s a marvelous midi keyboard, synth-sized keys, and it’s about 100 USD.
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It didn’t quite have high enough ratings for us to recommend it when we published the current version of this guide.
However, I’ve just updated our ratings for it and it’s very close – it would have a good chance of making the recommended list above if we updated today and is currently on our short-list for consideration when we next update this guide.
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it says “The 61-key keybed is semi-weighted, which gives it a synth style action…” which is it? semi-weighted and synth action are 2 diff things.
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how do we know which do or don’t have full-sized keys? can we assume if it doesn’t specifically say so that they aren’t?
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As a result of our May 2018 update of this guide, the following keyboard came off our recommended list but you can still read what we have to say about it: Nektar Impact LX61+
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Has anyone used two or more of these stacked to run Hauptwerk virtual organs? If so, which one and how did it feel to play tracker organs vs other organs?
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I read all the reviews and you consistently left out the part if they have a built in arpeggiator. Do you know how hard it is to find a 61 key weighted midi controller with a built in arpeggiator that can sync to incoming midi clock and has editable patterns? Why doesn’t someone make that? Closest and only one to be found is the Novation Impluse 61, but it’s keys are only semi-weighted, and barely at that.
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if you’re buying a MIDI controller, why would you need a “built in” arpeggiator? there are tons of plugins that you can use. that’s probably why you aren’t seeing it on MIDI controllers.
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Thank you very much for your feedback Lisa.
Arpeggiators that sync to MIDI aren’t always included in manufacturers’ specifications, however we will pay closer attention to this when we next update this guide and will try to include that information for as many keyboards as possible.
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What about Arturia 61 key lab????
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Our Gear Database is available to help you answer questions like this because it lets you look up an individual piece of gear or create lists of gear to compare.
I made a list of all the 61-key MIDI controllers in our database and sorted them by Gearank from highest to lowest rated – you can view the list here.
With a Gearank score of only 69 the Arturia KeyLab 61 is currently the 2nd lowest rated option in our database and as a result we haven’t recommended it in this guide.
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Does Novation Launchkey 61 have Full size keys?
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Novation hasn’t specified it exactly, but based on the length of the keyboard I’d say tentatively yes. I’ll post back if I can get more specific information.
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I’ve sent another request to Novation, hopefully we’ll have an answer soon.
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Novation has sent me the following answer:
“The Launchkey range features a synth-style keyboard with the key depth/size being full size”.
I’ve updated the details above to make clear that the keys are full size.
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Would you recommend a beginner to begin with a 61-key controller?
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Yes. The main thing for a beginner is if it has all the controls, buttons and knobs you need to control your DAW or plugins. 61-key controllers typically have more of those than smaller options.
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Does the lAUNCH KEY 61 have Aftertouch?
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We mistakenly reported the Novation Launchkey 61 as having aftertouch keys but it does not. I have corrected the error above.
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MIDI Keyboard Guides
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 am a multi-instrumentalist and bedroom producer who owns a Behringer UMX25 25-Key MIDI controller that I have quickly outgrown. I have had the privilege of using MIDI controllers of all formats including 49-key up to 88-key keyboards. I find that the 61-key format is perfect for my needs in electronic music production and supporting roles in ensemble performance.
Contributors
Allen Articulo: Supplemental writing.
Jerry Borillo: Research.
Alexander Briones: Supplemental writing and editing.
Raphael Pulgar: Supplemental writing.
Jason Horton: Editing and Illustrating.
Media
Main/Top Image: Created by Gearank.com using photographs of the Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII and Novation Launchkey 61 MK3.
The individual product images were sourced from websites, promotional materials or supporting documentation provided by their respective manufacturers.

















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