At first I bought the alesis, then saw this video. Tried to make the alesis 61 key work, but the feel and unstable velocity curve was too much. I returned it, and got the oxygen 61. So much better, the feel is good just a little soft. It came with more software; Pro tools, Ableton, xpand and more. Glad I watched this video.
My concern with a lot of these keyboards out now is that the keys have no weight to them and are flimsy. Your video has really helped me out. Thank you.
Great video !!!! You convinced me to get the small M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 . Because of the bundled software , don't really need pads. I took me a while to decide but thanks to you I made my decision.
Yo, I did too! Haven’t got mine yet, but please read this; Yo! I decided on the M-Audio Oxy Pro-49! I’m Also trying to get a “Decksaver*” brand hard deck cover for it, but they don’t make it (yet)?! Anyone buying/has the Oxygen Pro-49 or 61 and want a Decksaver, perfect for carrying in a soft bag! Let them know, it takes several orders for them to tool one up! Please! I WANT one! Hard plastic cover, fits exact! *Decksaver* thanks!
Thanks for putting this overall comparison video together for these 'mid' priced midi control keyboards. I'm in the market for a good key-bed first and foremost so will go and check out the Novation in the shop before I make a final choice. My thinking is to start with one of these full-sized keyboards - which would be a progression from my current Akai MPK mini ... Then in the future be looking to invest in something with more of a systems control center capability - like the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 or the new Novation SL Mk III. Its great these days that we have so many to choose from!
I need to learn the scales and chords with a keyboard with Jane's tutorial, 4-5 octaves. I can only have 1 keyboard below 10 ponds because I live in hotels and move frequently. The m-audio's key is really not good for learners. There is even a user-uploaded video to show a black key stuck in the depressed position. So, I can only use Korg's 61 microkey. $160-170 range.
Being very inexpensive, it won't be a luxury product. But from other reviews, I read that the new keystations are much better than earlier generation keystations.
This was a good vid! I like the controls of the Nektar Impact, but when you got to the key bed, I said "snaps those keys are noisy". The Alesis would definitely be my last pick, I don't like fighting with the keys in order to play, and that what would happen with stiff key beds. Hopefully Nektar will hear you and make that next midi keyboard noise resistant. And also still have all the controls.
@@D3c3p but it's hard to find a replacement keybed let alone the price. but for the record, i just bought an arturia keylab essential 88 and i love the keybed. :D much better than my M-Audio Keystation MKIII imo.
Excellent! I´m an Mixcraft user with a choice of either Impact LX49 and Novation Launchpad 49. I guess I can live with the lower quality and feel of the Impact.
really? tell me more pls. i want the same thing. i want to chose between nektar lx49+ and launchkey 49mk2 for fl studio. and i search the internet for this matchup. what is better for fl studio or studio one 4 artist. so, you just enter the midi in the daw and you can select from fl studio this Launchkey 49 or what? pls let me know more :D ty
Thankyou for this it has made all of the searching so simple! Was decided on the oxygen as the video went on and then you chose it at the end too so i am sold haha. Thanks again
Very nice video, man! I'm a guitarist taking my first few steps in music production. I don't know what to actually look for in a midi keyboard other than 49 keys and maybe some pads, and I thought the Alesis V49 was gonna be my pick but most people say it's not very good... Would you recommend I buy it or some other brand instead? Bear in mind I'm no piano/keyboard player tho. Thank you again for your time and for your vids, John!
2 things, 1 is I had an M-Audio Axiom 49. Actually I still have it, but I can't use it because it just stopped working. I don't know if it died or is a driver issue because the drivers are super outdated and M-Audio doesn't support their midi controllers too well. The other is I would like native Bitwig support, rather than dealing with 3rd party controller scripts. Do you think it's worth getting the Nektar GX61 for those reasons? I don't want to get stuck with something that is going to leave me unsatisfied. Also I'm not sure if the GX61 works with Android 8.
Here I am at your channel AGAIN, 2nd time in one day, thanks google, ya got me to the right video info i needed, and YES John it was a blessing, thank you!
John - I have Logic Pro X and am wanting to get a MIDI controller. I am wanting a controller that quickly and easily integrates or synchs to Logic Pro X without a lot of painful mapping (I'm not "techy" and not so patient with such things). I believe you covered in another video that you would recommend the Nektar brand. I'm not planning to play Chopin etudes on this - so 49 keys should be sufficient. My main purpose would be to control virtual instruments and customize drum beats in particular. Some of the extra functionality of controlling the DAW is a plus. Having that context, would you still recommend Nektar most? If yes, which model would be best (the LX49 or another one)? Also, I have heard that the M-Audio comes with a lot of software but does not play well with Logic Pro X - but I have read a number of reviews of many people having issues even accessing the software! If the Nektar does not come with a software bundle, would you recommend just buying software separately? Thanks!
Hi man, thanks for the beautiful comparision, very helpful. just a question, So you said that the Keystation 61 MK3 has a different key feel than the Keystation 49. Do you know if is the same for the previous version like Keystation 61 MK2/ES and Keystation 49 MK2/ES ? Thanks in advance.
i use to own the m audio keystation 61 and the oxygen 49 and to me personally i felt like i had wasted my time and money on both of them. a good friend of mine was like man just stop wasting your time and money and get what you want even if you have to save up for it. and thats what i did. so i did myself some researching and i found that the akai professional mpk 61 gave me the best bang for its buck. and yes i know it cost way more then these ones but one thing i do agree with what your say the key have to have a certain feel and i found that with the akai mpk 61
After many days of cogitation, I am now favoring Roland Go:Keys as my next controller. It has velocity touch, good key bed, something you get with none of your poorly made controllers. It has usb, bluetooth, and speakers! 500 sounds with recording too. I think it is worth the extra cost to escape these dollar robbing cheaply made midi controllers.
Mark Lohnes this comment stood out to me, The software aspect of this video didn’t really do me any favours as I doubt I’d use them at the current level I am, I’d just use the midi with the software I already own (fl studio) or is the software discussed more like plug ins? Either which way the most important factors for me are the amount of keys , velocity touch and bluetooth is a nice addition. The amount of sounds doesn’t resonate with me much as id be using packs within fl.
Thks for your great review vids! I'm a long-time amateur musician (guitar, saxophone) moving into keyboard, electronic music, and recording. From your reviews, I'm deciding between the Novation Launchkey 61 or M-Audio Oxygen 61. Wondering what you think about how their drum pads compare for feel, sensitivity, response, and sensitivity adjustability - specifically for use tapping in beats? The Oxygen pads look bigger for double-tapping. What about feel? Which would you prefer? Otherwise,... the two keyboards look pretty comparable? Thanks again!
@John Mike M-audio Keystation 61 and the M-audio Oxygen 49 is my choice for first and second keyboard in a Live setup. In terms of value for money and functionally.
Hello John, I want to thank you, your video talk directly to me because it's the first one i see which talk about noise made by the keys !!! i'm a pianist like you (a midified Yamaha U1 that i can't play anymore). got 2 accidents, one for my ears (oversensite to sound, so noise made by Keys is a big problem to me) and got surgery to my left hand (right hand injured too), so can't play anymore on most keyboard. I'm searching since several years a replacement for my Irig Keys Pro 37 which is ok for me (action and Keys noise) but only 3 octaves. after trying many keyboard, (NI S61mkII = too much keys noise + action hurt ), Arturia Essential 49 = black keys make noise when hitting the keybed, IK multimedia Keys I/O = Action hurt + coilwhine etc..) I tried the Keystation MarkIII (could only try the black keys, the seller refused to remove the profection on the white keys) and noise and action were ok to me. (hopping it's the same for the white keys). the oxygen, available in 5 octaves seems to have the same action But the choice is not that easy as Lot of people complain about the quality of it, issues with velocities (even with a velocity curve setting etc..) so no idea if it can be an ok choice. - Keystation ? not available in 5 octaves and lack of a velocity curve setting (yes i have a Velocity curve VST plugin but it's very annoying to use). my question (thanks if you can anwser) is about the novation launchkey. seems to be better made, the key noise seems to be ok too, but i'm just afraid the action is maybe too heavy compared to the keystation or the iRig Keys Pro37. but it's seems to be your favorite with the keystation. what do you think ? Any suggestoin ? I would be ok to buy a more expensive keyboards, but didn't found a review like yours speaking about key noises, like on yamaha MX49/61 etc... (tried a motif XS6, great before my surgery, but not after ( :( ) One of the Solution was to know which Fatar or action the keyboard the keystation, and my iRig use but never found this info. (sorry for the long mesage). Thanks !
cool vid man. I'm looking for something to compose with in Logic Pro X. doesn't have to be weighted like a piano, but inbetween piano and synth like semi-weighted. if there is such a thing. I'm a guitarist so I'm not too knowledgeable on this stuff in piano and synth. thanks!
The alesis v series has a lot of complaints about the pads including myself, they are completely useless, the keyboard is really good and everything is really nice for the price, but if you care about pads , don’t buy the alesis.
I bought the launchkey off the recommendation that it had the best keybed out of the bunch, and it just doesn't at all. It has one of the worst keybeds I've ever felt.
If you’re looking for something simple and straightforward I highly recommend the Samson 61. I’ve used the LK49 and I could say the Samson bed is hands down quieter than LK and feels more solid than LK. The LK is so noisy, the spring, the movement side to side... I couldn’t stand it but it’s obviously got all the knobs and pads so it’s superior in that regard. But for playability, I’d go with Samson. A lotta people saying the Samson VEL is terrible. I have not found it to be true. In fact, the setting is a few button clicks away from changing it to your preference and style of recording. Don’t expect the VEL’s 4 levels to be super smooth... it’s not supposed to be an HQ performance board for stage playing. Its only a 1/10 or 1/15th of the price of a serious board. So be honest. Glad I gambled on it.
Great review! I'm looking forward to buy my first keyboard but I'm kinda unsure as I don't have any experience. I'm planning on using it mainly for composition , and as I'm a piano player, I'm mostly looking for good-feeling keys, kinda weighted but cheap, I don't really care about knobs and other stuff. My problem is, there ain't many music stores in my city to try some keys on, and I'm afraid of buying online for the same reason. What would you suggest me in that case? If I really only care about keys, what's a good to-go option within the same prince range? Thanks!
I really like the design of the Alesis 49, but have not heard great reviews. I dont love the design of the keystation, but have heard great reviews. Should I get the Alesis 49, Keystation 49, or Keystation 61. (I have the akai mpk mini because its small and portable but i want something bigger that can stay in my room)
Which of these keyboards are good as a worship piano? Songs from Hillsongs, Housefires, Chris Tomlin, Elevation Worship.....etc. Do you think the keystation 49 is okay?
Good video. I like the nektarlx49, well, interested in it. I do not play piano, but play guitar. I would not know the difference in feel I guess. With guitars, I am the same way. How does it feel. Also, because I like the idea of the auto mapping. I have never created any music before using a DAW and would have a hard time mapping stuff I do not not even know what I am mapping. Going to try Reaper I guess. I just want to create my own music for my own amusement and be able to add this and that. I have 23 more weeks off of work and the boredom is killing me. You are good at the reviews. You are fair and honest. Thank you:)
this was sooo helpful and just what i needed, thank you so much! keyboard feel is definitely the most important for me, but i'm in college and a lil broke lol so i think i'm gonna go with the m-audio 49 keystation
Great video, thanks. I own that Alexis V61, and I totally agree with what you say about it. I got it because I specifically wanted the smallest possible 61-key board with full-size keys, and it fits the bill there, but I’ve been a bit disappointed in how it plays. Biggest drawback: the controls are totally messed up. I didn’t notice until after I bought it that it doesn’t have any “switch channel” buttons! After googling and messing around, I realized that the “3” and “4” of those little clicky buttons are actually “channel up” and “channel down,” so I guess somebody at Alesis realized that they really needed those. But that led to my next problem... those buttons ONLY switch the channel of the keybed - so if you go up to channel 2, your sustain pedal and mod/pitch wheels will stop working, because they’re stuck on channel 1. I have wasted a LOT of time trying to get a sustain pedal on channel 1 to also route to channel 2. So I would really only buy the Alesis V61 (or V45) if you (a) want a very small keyboard with full-size keys, and (b) don’t ever plan on switching channels. Anyway - thanks again for the vid. Keep up the good work - your videos are super helpful and informative.
Hi Make can you only plug the M Audio 49 to the laptop without using external power source? Is it possible to bring the keyboard to the beach or the the park and just compose music with the laptop?
I am looking for a decent keyboard to learn some piano for first time, I have seen two that caught my eye, the m-audio keystation 61 mk3 and nektar gxp 61. Wich one would you recommend me?
Thanks for the video! I am looking for a midi keyboard to start learning (never played before). After watch your video, I think the best option for a beginner is M-audio Keystation 61. Are you agree with that?
very nice video. I wanted to ask you a question. I mostly care about transposing what I play on the keyboard to my DAW. What is the best choice in terms of key feel, noisiness, and can have some piano performances played on it?
I'm considering to buy the m audio keystation 49 and keystudio 49 (first and older versions) do you recommend this old models? Or I should buy the nektar GX49 ... In my country for now it's very hard and expensive get the MK3 m audio
@@shubhamchauhan5499Hope the following isn't too long and answers your question. I still have both the Keystation 49 and the Impact GX61, but I got into a beast of 75 lbs, the Kawai MP8ii. As a rank beginner I was looking for something with as close to acoustic piano feel as I could get, and I do not believe you can beat the MP8ii. Also, the voices are super-pro as it is a real gigging stage piano. The almost weightless Keystation 49 leans against a night stand here and I can grab it quickly when watching CZcams vids and want to try something small. I had to get into a DAW with the MIDI- only Keystation 49 and I never really got too good with that. I think once I get another year of training under my belt, coming back to the Keystation will be less of an extra effort. If you are going to be playing around with a DAW to make music, the keystation is great - I think it can take someone pretty far. I liked the Kaway MP8ii key action and voices so much I just bought another one from eBay that is in pristine condition - they haven't made this in some time and grabbed it while I could. The new Kawais don't have all the features of the MP8ii, either - they mixed up the voice selection. One thing I did pick up used which would be great for the Keystation is a Roland voice module to avoid having to depend on the DAW.
As a primary board for a light weight rig, would you consider 49 keys as an inconvenience? Would you rather recommend 61 keys or does 49 keys do the job? I play straight-ahead jazz mainly but I'm looking to branch out into other genres and use DAWs as well...
for a keyboard with 61 keys I don't know which one to choose between the Alesis V61, the M-audio Keystation 61 and the Swissonic EasyKey 61, what do you think? I would like to have sensations which approach a real piano (I use fl studio 20)
I want to start learning how to play the piano. Which one would you recommend for a beginner?? I was thinking of getting the m audio keystation 49 but idk what to really get
Because I used to be a piano teacher...I always recommend learning on an actual piano or something that has a piano like feel...but that depends on your reason for learning to play...if it’s to produce music then learning on a controller isn’t that bad...if you are trying to be a concert pianist then get a piano lol....but if it’s to produce get the keystation it comes with the best software package
Thanks butty, big help. New to this so this his helping me starting making some beats, or something. Totally tone deaf but looking forward to avin a go. Just bought a baby board. Axiom air32 fir a start to see what happens first,but would like probably a 49 coz 61 is a bit big and I only got 10 pork sausage fingers see.
Nice in-deep info about these products. Whatabout a video on usb Midi controllers with aftertouch ?. I am currently looking for something nice good quality controller with aftertouch for my Korg Kronos 73 to play synth parts on. Really not into the micro key controllers. Hard to play on when you are used to (allmost) full size yamaha synth keys with aftertouch. only positive in the ultra compact controllers is that they can fit on the right side of the Kronos with some velcro
I am inclining towards buying the M audio Keystation 61/49 MK3, should I go for it or should I wait for Oxygen pro? My requirements are keybed should be good enough for learning piano as well as for recording all types of midi. Don't really need faders as I have Korg nanokontrol2 for it.
Hi! Thanks for the review!! I hope you can guide me a little bit... I'm thinking of buying either the 'M-Audio Oxygen 61 MK4' or the 'Native Instruments Complete Control A61' Midi keyboard. What would you advice? They have both pros and cons... Thanks for your opinion!!
Hey! I'm getting started with Logic Pro X and I'm a bit scared that I get a keyboard that does not feel good enough and does not have enough sensitivity range, since I also play piano. I'm also concerned about the pads feel and sensitivity. I think I'm between the M-Audio Oxygen 61 and the Nektar Impact LX61. I like the features of the Nektar and I the pads seem good, but I think that you mention the Oxygen keys feel better. However I saw that the Oxygen keys are "half-empty" and I'm scared that I might not like that, since the pianos I've tried with keys like those felt horrible, but maybe it was because they were bad keyboards. In any case, I'm wondering if the Oxygen really feels much better than the LX61, and whether the pads are better or worse - I also really care about the pads being good. Also, do I lose many features if I go for the oxygen? Would you choose another option? Thank you so much!
@@Johnmike Thank you so much! Are the Oxygen pads worse than the LX61? Do you think it would be worth spending a bit more for better feel and pads - What would you choose between 200-250? I only use Logic Pro X. Thank you so so much!
Great vid ! So i'm looking for a budget midi keyboard to learn piano as well as making music, i dont need much control, just want a solid key feel. Any suggestion?
I can almost conclude by seeing this summary and after going through specific reviews of some models. That if I want to have effective control of several DAWs with a good feeling and quality action on the keyboard, I must raise the range between 200$ and 300$.
This is a great vid dude! So I'm looking for 49 keys full size semi-weighted, a keyboard that fundamentally feels the best to play and is versatile across all the common DAWs. I'm not planning to use it for live performances rather production/songwriting. Forgetting price, which would you choose? Thanks a lot!!
Thanks for the review. I know the Korg Microkey-49 isn’t in this but comparing this to the M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 which one has a better keybed? Would appreciate the feedback!
Really helpful video! I’m looking to buy something to start producing in logic, but I’m classically trained in piano and I heard I would feel limited on less than 61 keys. Is that true for production or just for playing piano pieces? And any input on nektar impact lx61+ vs keystation 61 vs arturia keylab essential 61?
It is true...which is why I keep a 88-key weighted controller in the studio...because I MUST have the weighted feel when I play piano...and out of those 3 I would go with the Keylab
With this video being so old some of the products aren't available on the market anymore. Ive included links to some of the newer versions:
Sweetwater Links:
Alesis V49: imp.i114863.net/MXr4oo
M-Audio Oxygen: imp.i114863.net/Vy1r0O
M-Audio Keystation 61: imp.i114863.net/oer2BO
M-Audio Keystation 49: imp.i114863.net/n1mOBA
Nektar Impact LX: imp.i114863.net/RyexWN
Nektar Impact GX: imp.i114863.net/4e4kqn
Novation Launchkey: imp.i114863.net/yRVDB3
Amazon:
Alesis V49: amzn.to/3Tgcz99
M-Audio Keystation 49: amzn.to/3UdlfOF
M-audio Keystation 61: amzn.to/3fPwMom
M-Audio Oxygen 49: amzn.to/3WFJOFF
Nektar Impact LX: amzn.to/3NMxwYg
Nektar Impact GX:amzn.to/3fLSdXG
Novation Launchkey: amzn.to/3FVnGRW
Zzounds:
Alesis V49: www.zzounds.com/a--3980668/item--ALEV49MK2?siid=316877
M-Audio Oxygen: www.zzounds.com/a--3980668/item--MDOOXYGEN49V?siid=299490
M-Audio Keystation 61: www.zzounds.com/a--3980668/item--MDOKEYSTATN61MK3?siid=247675
M-Audio Keystation 49: www.zzounds.com/a--3980668//item--MDOKEYSTATN49MK3?siid=247674
Nektar Impact LX:www.zzounds.com/a--3980668/item--NEKIMPACTLX49PLS?siid=189142
Nektar Impact GX: www.zzounds.com/a--3980668//item--NEKIMPACTGX61?siid=187866
Novation Launchkey: www.zzounds.com/a--3980668/item--NOVLNCHKEY49MK3?siid=281696
One of the best presentations. THE best for showing all keyboards together! Nice work!
Thanks!
At first I bought the alesis, then saw this video. Tried to make the alesis 61 key work, but the feel and unstable velocity curve was too much. I returned it, and got the oxygen 61. So much better, the feel is good just a little soft. It came with more software; Pro tools, Ableton, xpand and more. Glad I watched this video.
Can I use the Oxygen with GarageBand?
My concern with a lot of these keyboards out now is that the keys have no weight to them and are flimsy. Your video has really helped me out. Thank you.
A solid comparison. Very well done sir. Thank you for helping me decide. I went with the M -Audio Keystation 49es!
Hey, ik im a little late but is the keyboard good? Im planning on buying it.
this is exactly what i was looking for. thank you for the comprehensive overview!
Great video !!!! You convinced me to get the small M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 . Because of the bundled software , don't really need pads. I took me a while to decide but thanks to you I made my decision.
Simp
Yo, I did too! Haven’t got mine yet, but please read this; Yo! I decided on the M-Audio Oxy Pro-49! I’m Also trying to get a “Decksaver*” brand hard deck cover for it, but they don’t make it (yet)?! Anyone buying/has the Oxygen Pro-49 or 61 and want a Decksaver, perfect for carrying in a soft bag! Let them know, it takes several orders for them to tool one up! Please! I WANT one! Hard plastic cover, fits exact! *Decksaver* thanks!
How is your experience so far with the MK3?
@@robertsteinberger5667 2 years later all good.
These videos are just pure gold. Thanks!
Please have a look at Arturia's keyboards as well, looking into getting them. 🙈🙈
Need a seasoned specialist to cut the keyboards for me.
I needed to replace my midi keyboard today and your reviews really help. Thanks for making them! I think I'm going to get the M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk4.
John Mike is the first place that I trust if looking for controllers! Thanks for your help!
2nd video of yours I've watched and have now subscribed because you are good and honest and deserve all kudos given to you!
Thanks for putting this overall comparison video together for these 'mid' priced midi control keyboards. I'm in the market for a good key-bed first and foremost so will go and check out the Novation in the shop before I make a final choice. My thinking is to start with one of these full-sized keyboards - which would be a progression from my current Akai MPK mini ... Then in the future be looking to invest in something with more of a systems control center capability - like the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 or the new Novation SL Mk III. Its great these days that we have so many to choose from!
Which one did you end up picking? I'd like to hear experiences :)
I need to learn the scales and chords with a keyboard with Jane's tutorial, 4-5 octaves. I can only have 1 keyboard below 10 ponds because I live in hotels and move frequently. The m-audio's key is really not good for learners. There is even a user-uploaded video to show a black key stuck in the depressed position. So, I can only use Korg's 61 microkey. $160-170 range.
Thank you!
Which ones feel like pianos the most? I had the Keystation 49 and it felt cheap. The keys were too light and the volume control was flimsey.
Being very inexpensive, it won't be a luxury product. But from other reviews, I read that the new keystations are much better than earlier generation keystations.
This was a good vid! I like the controls of the Nektar Impact, but when you got to the key bed, I said "snaps those keys are noisy". The Alesis would definitely be my last pick, I don't like fighting with the keys in order to play, and that what would happen with stiff key beds. Hopefully Nektar will hear you and make that next midi keyboard noise resistant. And also still have all the controls.
still waiting for their next gen LX+ haha. we need a V2 with an improved keybed. the controls are perfect.
@@joeltan8925 pull it apart and put a new keybed in and BANG , it's all good :)
@@D3c3p but it's hard to find a replacement keybed let alone the price. but for the record, i just bought an arturia keylab essential 88 and i love the keybed. :D much better than my M-Audio Keystation MKIII imo.
Thank you so much for this video! Great video, well put together, very helpful, thoughtful, and concise.
Excellent! I´m an Mixcraft user with a choice of either Impact LX49 and Novation Launchpad 49. I guess I can live with the lower quality and feel of the Impact.
Novation launch key mk2 actually integrates with fl studio 20 nicely now(still needs a little mapping though). I bought mine and its super useful
really? tell me more pls. i want the same thing. i want to chose between nektar lx49+ and launchkey 49mk2 for fl studio. and i search the internet for this matchup. what is better for fl studio or studio one 4 artist.
so, you just enter the midi in the daw and you can select from fl studio this Launchkey 49 or what? pls let me know more :D ty
Thankyou for this it has made all of the searching so simple! Was decided on the oxygen as the video went on and then you chose it at the end too so i am sold haha. Thanks again
You’re welcome!
the mix on this beat tho 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Lol
Hey John, thank you so much for making this cool stuff man. Love ya❤️
Please do an updated version :) Your reviews are the best!
Lol
Very nice video, man! I'm a guitarist taking my first few steps in music production. I don't know what to actually look for in a midi keyboard other than 49 keys and maybe some pads, and I thought the Alesis V49 was gonna be my pick but most people say it's not very good... Would you recommend I buy it or some other brand instead? Bear in mind I'm no piano/keyboard player tho. Thank you again for your time and for your vids, John!
I would go for the m-audio oxygen...it’s the most balanced of all...best price..good software package...good feeling keys and lots of control options
2 things, 1 is I had an M-Audio Axiom 49. Actually I still have it, but I can't use it because it just stopped working. I don't know if it died or is a driver issue because the drivers are super outdated and M-Audio doesn't support their midi controllers too well. The other is I would like native Bitwig support, rather than dealing with 3rd party controller scripts.
Do you think it's worth getting the Nektar GX61 for those reasons? I don't want to get stuck with something that is going to leave me unsatisfied. Also I'm not sure if the GX61 works with Android 8.
For every "uh" he said 1 shot jajaja
JK, nice video broo !
That's ur take away from it lool
Here I am at your channel AGAIN, 2nd time in one day, thanks google, ya got me to the right video info i needed, and YES John it was a blessing, thank you!
John - I have Logic Pro X and am wanting to get a MIDI controller. I am wanting a controller that quickly and easily integrates or synchs to Logic Pro X without a lot of painful mapping (I'm not "techy" and not so patient with such things). I believe you covered in another video that you would recommend the Nektar brand. I'm not planning to play Chopin etudes on this - so 49 keys should be sufficient. My main purpose would be to control virtual instruments and customize drum beats in particular. Some of the extra functionality of controlling the DAW is a plus. Having that context, would you still recommend Nektar most? If yes, which model would be best (the LX49 or another one)? Also, I have heard that the M-Audio comes with a lot of software but does not play well with Logic Pro X - but I have read a number of reviews of many people having issues even accessing the software! If the Nektar does not come with a software bundle, would you recommend just buying software separately? Thanks!
Hi man, thanks for the beautiful comparision, very helpful. just a question, So you said that the Keystation 61 MK3 has a different key feel than the Keystation 49. Do you know if is the same for the previous version like Keystation 61 MK2/ES and Keystation 49 MK2/ES ? Thanks in advance.
Great video. It helped me narrow my choices down to the M-Audio 49. I am going to use it with the Akai MPC-X. Thank you.
i use to own the m audio keystation 61 and the oxygen 49 and to me personally i felt like i had wasted my time and money on both of them. a good friend of mine was like man just stop wasting your time and money and get what you want even if you have to save up for it. and thats what i did. so i did myself some researching and i found that the akai professional mpk 61 gave me the best bang for its buck. and yes i know it cost way more then these ones but one thing i do agree with what your say the key have to have a certain feel and i found that with the akai mpk 61
Novation launchkey61 or M-audio oxygen61 which one is better
Bro thanks for this vid cuz I’ve been looking into getting one and this vid helped a lot🙏
After many days of cogitation, I am now favoring Roland Go:Keys as my next controller. It has velocity touch, good key bed, something you get with none of your poorly made controllers. It has usb, bluetooth, and speakers! 500 sounds with recording too. I think it is worth the extra cost to escape these dollar robbing cheaply made midi controllers.
Mark Lohnes this comment stood out to me, The software aspect of this video didn’t really do me any favours as I doubt I’d use them at the current level I am, I’d just use the midi with the software I already own (fl studio) or is the software discussed more like plug ins? Either which way the most important factors for me are the amount of keys , velocity touch and bluetooth is a nice addition. The amount of sounds doesn’t resonate with me much as id be using packs within fl.
So helpful! Going with the Novation Launchkey 61, best keyboard and Ableton option. Thanks!
Thank you very much for this information. Truly appreciated and I am a beginner so it helped a lot.
Thks for your great review vids! I'm a long-time amateur musician (guitar, saxophone) moving into keyboard, electronic music, and recording. From your reviews, I'm deciding between the Novation Launchkey 61 or M-Audio Oxygen 61. Wondering what you think about how their drum pads compare for feel, sensitivity, response, and sensitivity adjustability - specifically for use tapping in beats? The Oxygen pads look bigger for double-tapping. What about feel? Which would you prefer? Otherwise,... the two keyboards look pretty comparable? Thanks again!
Yup there are pretty comparable...if I had to choose based on drum pads I would go with the Oxygen
I'm frugal and this vid helps a lot. Thanks.
@John Mike M-audio Keystation 61 and the M-audio Oxygen 49 is my choice for first and second keyboard in a Live setup.
In terms of value for money and functionally.
Hey Mike should i buy the m audio 49 mk3 or nektar gx61 in term of keybed and feel?
Hope you answer soon!
M-audio
Awesome break down & comparisons. Thanks man!
Hello John, I want to thank you, your video talk directly to me because it's the first one i see which talk about noise made by the keys !!!
i'm a pianist like you (a midified Yamaha U1 that i can't play anymore).
got 2 accidents, one for my ears (oversensite to sound, so noise made by Keys is a big problem to me) and got surgery to my left hand (right hand injured too), so can't play anymore on most keyboard.
I'm searching since several years a replacement for my Irig Keys Pro 37 which is ok for me (action and Keys noise) but only 3 octaves. after trying many keyboard, (NI S61mkII = too much keys noise + action hurt ), Arturia Essential 49 = black keys make noise when hitting the keybed, IK multimedia Keys I/O = Action hurt + coilwhine etc..)
I tried the Keystation MarkIII (could only try the black keys, the seller refused to remove the profection on the white keys) and noise and action were ok to me. (hopping it's the same for the white keys).
the oxygen, available in 5 octaves seems to have the same action But the choice is not that easy as Lot of people complain about the quality of it, issues with velocities (even with a velocity curve setting etc..)
so no idea if it can be an ok choice.
- Keystation ? not available in 5 octaves and lack of a velocity curve setting (yes i have a Velocity curve VST plugin but it's very annoying to use).
my question (thanks if you can anwser) is about the novation launchkey. seems to be better made, the key noise seems to be ok too, but i'm just afraid the action is maybe too heavy compared to the keystation or the iRig Keys Pro37. but it's seems to be your favorite with the keystation. what do you think ? Any suggestoin ?
I would be ok to buy a more expensive keyboards, but didn't found a review like yours speaking about key noises, like on yamaha MX49/61 etc... (tried a motif XS6, great before my surgery, but not after ( :( )
One of the Solution was to know which Fatar or action the keyboard the keystation, and my iRig use but never found this info.
(sorry for the long mesage). Thanks !
cool vid man. I'm looking for something to compose with in Logic Pro X. doesn't have to be weighted like a piano, but inbetween piano and synth like semi-weighted. if there is such a thing. I'm a guitarist so I'm not too knowledgeable on this stuff in piano and synth. thanks!
The alesis v series has a lot of complaints about the pads including myself, they are completely useless, the keyboard is really good and everything is really nice for the price, but if you care about pads , don’t buy the alesis.
What is wrong withthe pads?
Much love and respect! This helped me a lot! ❤️
Lol
I bought the launchkey off the recommendation that it had the best keybed out of the bunch, and it just doesn't at all. It has one of the worst keybeds I've ever felt.
Did you get the mk3 (newest version) or the mk2?
@@mercedesescobarmusic is the mk3 worse than the mk2 by any chance?
@@edierllamasfixedthis Ha, I ended up not buying it. However, the mk3 is a huge step up from the mk2.
Thanks for this video, it has helped me a lot!
this is exactly the video i need. yes. fire.
If you’re looking for something simple and straightforward I highly recommend the Samson 61. I’ve used the LK49 and I could say the Samson bed is hands down quieter than LK and feels more solid than LK. The LK is so noisy, the spring, the movement side to side... I couldn’t stand it but it’s obviously got all the knobs and pads so it’s superior in that regard. But for playability, I’d go with Samson. A lotta people saying the Samson VEL is terrible. I have not found it to be true. In fact, the setting is a few button clicks away from changing it to your preference and style of recording. Don’t expect the VEL’s 4 levels to be super smooth... it’s not supposed to be an HQ performance board for stage playing. Its only a 1/10 or 1/15th of the price of a serious board. So be honest. Glad I gambled on it.
Very in-depth and important info. Thanks.
Great review! I'm looking forward to buy my first keyboard but I'm kinda unsure as I don't have any experience. I'm planning on using it mainly for composition , and as I'm a piano player, I'm mostly looking for good-feeling keys, kinda weighted but cheap, I don't really care about knobs and other stuff.
My problem is, there ain't many music stores in my city to try some keys on, and I'm afraid of buying online for the same reason. What would you suggest me in that case? If I really only care about keys, what's a good to-go option within the same prince range? Thanks!
Which one did yiu buy? Im like you im a piano player and want then nice feeling keys
Excellent review, thanks!
Thanks for the review, I think I'll get M-Audio keystation 49 then
I really like the design of the Alesis 49, but have not heard great reviews. I dont love the design of the keystation, but have heard great reviews. Should I get the Alesis 49, Keystation 49, or Keystation 61. (I have the akai mpk mini because its small and portable but i want something bigger that can stay in my room)
I love the feel on the Keystation 49...I think it’s one of the best in its class
finally a clear onpoint video. Thanks man
Very useful and detailed! Thanks.
Which of these keyboards are good as a worship piano? Songs from Hillsongs, Housefires, Chris Tomlin, Elevation Worship.....etc. Do you think the keystation 49 is okay?
Good video. I like the nektarlx49, well, interested in it. I do not play piano, but play guitar. I would not know the difference in feel I guess. With guitars, I am the same way. How does it feel. Also, because I like the idea of the auto mapping. I have never created any music before using a DAW and would have a hard time mapping stuff I do not not even know what I am mapping. Going to try Reaper I guess. I just want to create my own music for my own amusement and be able to add this and that. I have 23 more weeks off of work and the boredom is killing me. You are good at the reviews. You are fair and honest. Thank you:)
Great! which is the best semi-weighted keyboard on the list?
Thanks John that really helped with my choice
Great video and reviews.
thanks for the info!
this was sooo helpful and just what i needed, thank you so much! keyboard feel is definitely the most important for me, but i'm in college and a lil broke lol so i think i'm gonna go with the m-audio 49 keystation
how is your experience so far?
Great video, thanks. I own that Alexis V61, and I totally agree with what you say about it. I got it because I specifically wanted the smallest possible 61-key board with full-size keys, and it fits the bill there, but I’ve been a bit disappointed in how it plays.
Biggest drawback: the controls are totally messed up. I didn’t notice until after I bought it that it doesn’t have any “switch channel” buttons! After googling and messing around, I realized that the “3” and “4” of those little clicky buttons are actually “channel up” and “channel down,” so I guess somebody at Alesis realized that they really needed those. But that led to my next problem... those buttons ONLY switch the channel of the keybed - so if you go up to channel 2, your sustain pedal and mod/pitch wheels will stop working, because they’re stuck on channel 1. I have wasted a LOT of time trying to get a sustain pedal on channel 1 to also route to channel 2.
So I would really only buy the Alesis V61 (or V45) if you (a) want a very small keyboard with full-size keys, and (b) don’t ever plan on switching channels.
Anyway - thanks again for the vid. Keep up the good work - your videos are super helpful and informative.
Wow! Yea that’s not good at all!
very informative 👌 thank You!
Hi Make can you only plug the M Audio 49 to the laptop without using external power source? Is it possible to bring the keyboard to the beach or the the park and just compose music with the laptop?
Yes
@@Johnmike Thank you Mike!⸜₍๑•⌔•๑ ₎⸝
I am looking for a decent keyboard to learn some piano for first time, I have seen two that caught my eye, the m-audio keystation 61 mk3 and nektar gxp 61. Wich one would you recommend me?
Very good presentation. Thanks. Very helpful
Holidays are coming up soon. Has there been enough new products to warrant an updated version of this video?
Yup...planning to do one soon!
Thanks for the video! I am looking for a midi keyboard to start learning (never played before). After watch your video, I think the best option for a beginner is M-audio Keystation 61. Are you agree with that?
Yea that’s a good buy
very nice video. I wanted to ask you a question.
I mostly care about transposing what I play on the keyboard to my DAW.
What is the best choice in terms of key feel, noisiness, and can have some piano performances played on it?
Launchkey probably has the best feel in this class...
You have new sub!.
Bro Which has better keybed the m-audio keystation 49 Mk3 or the korg kontrol komplete A49?
Hard one...if I had to choose...I’d probably go with the key station...but the A49 comes with better software
Thank you for the comparison!
I'm considering to buy the m audio keystation 49 and keystudio 49 (first and older versions) do you recommend this old models? Or I should buy the nektar GX49 ... In my country for now it's very hard and expensive get the MK3 m audio
so as a beginner which one should i choose to work with fl studio and learn how to play some songs?? Nice video btw :D
to be clear i want something solid to about 250 dolars.
But you can propose some other cheaper stuff which is worth to cop. I would be sooo grateful.
Great share, thanks. I read a review of the M-Audio Keystation 49es that said the keys aren't quite full size - is that correct?
You’re welcome...and I think that they are full-size...but if not they feel better than most boards in this price range
@@Johnmike The keyboards are on the way and will comment here when I get them.
@@boldcautionproductions9203 bro so how's your experience?? Is keystation 49 good?
@@shubhamchauhan5499Hope the following isn't too long and answers your question. I still have both the Keystation 49 and the Impact GX61, but I got into a beast of 75 lbs, the Kawai MP8ii. As a rank beginner I was looking for something with as close to acoustic piano feel as I could get, and I do not believe you can beat the MP8ii. Also, the voices are super-pro as it is a real gigging stage piano. The almost weightless Keystation 49 leans against a night stand here and I can grab it quickly when watching CZcams vids and want to try something small. I had to get into a DAW with the MIDI- only Keystation 49 and I never really got too good with that. I think once I get another year of training under my belt, coming back to the Keystation will be less of an extra effort. If you are going to be playing around with a DAW to make music, the keystation is great - I think it can take someone pretty far. I liked the Kaway MP8ii key action and voices so much I just bought another one from eBay that is in pristine condition - they haven't made this in some time and grabbed it while I could. The new Kawais don't have all the features of the MP8ii, either - they mixed up the voice selection. One thing I did pick up used which would be great for the Keystation is a Roland voice module to avoid having to depend on the DAW.
As a primary board for a light weight rig, would you consider 49 keys as an inconvenience? Would you rather recommend 61 keys or does 49 keys do the job? I play straight-ahead jazz mainly but I'm looking to branch out into other genres and use DAWs as well...
I would get at least 61 keys...
Is there any difference in brand quality? I'm looking at a 61 key Samson, Alesis, or M-Audio but not sure which would be the best brand.
Thanks
for a keyboard with 61 keys I don't know which one to choose between the Alesis V61, the M-audio Keystation 61 and the Swissonic EasyKey 61, what do you think? I would like to have sensations which approach a real piano (I use fl studio 20)
I want to start learning how to play the piano. Which one would you recommend for a beginner?? I was thinking of getting the m audio keystation 49 but idk what to really get
Because I used to be a piano teacher...I always recommend learning on an actual piano or something that has a piano like feel...but that depends on your reason for learning to play...if it’s to produce music then learning on a controller isn’t that bad...if you are trying to be a concert pianist then get a piano lol....but if it’s to produce get the keystation it comes with the best software package
@@Johnmike Yeah, I want to learn how to play so I can produce music. Thank you for replying!
which one of these has the best keys , probably much softer like piano feel ?
For me it’s probably the novation Launchkey....with the m-audio oxygen in second
Thanks butty, big help. New to this so this his helping me starting making some beats, or something. Totally tone deaf but looking forward to avin a go. Just bought a baby board. Axiom air32 fir a start to see what happens first,but would like probably a 49 coz 61 is a bit big and I only got 10 pork sausage fingers see.
great vid! do you happen to know if the m-audio oxygen 61 mk4 has the same, or as good of a keybed as the oxygen in this video? Thanks
Yes it’s the exact same just more keys
Thank you good sir. I appreciate this video.
Nice in-deep info about these products. Whatabout a video on usb Midi controllers with aftertouch ?. I am currently looking for something nice good quality controller with aftertouch for my Korg Kronos 73 to play synth parts on. Really not into the micro key controllers. Hard to play on when you are used to (allmost) full size yamaha synth keys with aftertouch. only positive in the ultra compact controllers is that they can fit on the right side of the Kronos with some velcro
I am inclining towards buying the M audio Keystation 61/49 MK3, should I go for it or should I wait for Oxygen pro? My requirements are keybed should be good enough for learning piano as well as for recording all types of midi. Don't really need faders as I have Korg nanokontrol2 for it.
If it’s about the keys...get the keystation...it’s the same Keybed that’s in the oxygen pro
Nektar gx61 vs m audio keystation 61 which one should i choose cause i am on a budget
AWESOME JOB,THANK YOU
M audio or nektak 61 ?? Which better ?
Depends on if you need more control or better keys
Hi! Thanks for the review!! I hope you can guide me a little bit...
I'm thinking of buying either the 'M-Audio Oxygen 61 MK4' or the 'Native Instruments Complete Control A61' Midi keyboard. What would you advice?
They have both pros and cons... Thanks for your opinion!!
A61 is the best choice in my opinion...much better software package
@@Johnmike Hi dear John! Thank you so much for your respons. Much appreciated!
the nektar has assignable pedal input, aka expression or sustain, no one mentions this... HUGE plus for nektar
Yup true! Definitely left that out
Hey! I'm getting started with Logic Pro X and I'm a bit scared that I get a keyboard that does not feel good enough and does not have enough sensitivity range, since I also play piano. I'm also concerned about the pads feel and sensitivity. I think I'm between the M-Audio Oxygen 61 and the Nektar Impact LX61. I like the features of the Nektar and I the pads seem good, but I think that you mention the Oxygen keys feel better. However I saw that the Oxygen keys are "half-empty" and I'm scared that I might not like that, since the pianos I've tried with keys like those felt horrible, but maybe it was because they were bad keyboards. In any case, I'm wondering if the Oxygen really feels much better than the LX61, and whether the pads are better or worse - I also really care about the pads being good. Also, do I lose many features if I go for the oxygen? Would you choose another option? Thank you so much!
If I had to choose between those two the oxygen would be my choice! Much better feeling!
@@Johnmike Thank you so much! Are the Oxygen pads worse than the LX61? Do you think it would be worth spending a bit more for better feel and pads - What would you choose between 200-250? I only use Logic Pro X. Thank you so so much!
Great vid !
So i'm looking for a budget midi keyboard to learn piano as well as making music, i dont need much control, just want a solid key feel. Any suggestion?
If control doesn’t matter...I would look at the keystation 49 or 61
I can almost conclude by seeing this summary and after going through specific reviews of some models. That if I want to have effective control of several DAWs with a good feeling and quality action on the keyboard, I must raise the range between 200$ and 300$.
This is a great vid dude! So I'm looking for 49 keys full size semi-weighted, a keyboard that fundamentally feels the best to play and is versatile across all the common DAWs. I'm not planning to use it for live performances rather production/songwriting. Forgetting price, which would you choose? Thanks a lot!!
Probably the keystation 49...it’s been the most reliable keyboard I’ve had in my arsenal
@@Johnmike You're a legend thanks! Will order one this week! Need to find the best UK online retail price!
Thanks for the review. I know the Korg Microkey-49 isn’t in this but comparing this to the M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 which one has a better keybed? Would appreciate the feedback!
M-audio
@@Johnmike Thank you!
You gays think, that novation launch key mk2 Will be good for begginer? I can play piano well, but im new in creating music.
Yup it would be...I like the feel of it because I’m a piano player
@@Johnmike o, thanks man. So i Will buy this keyboard . Thx for this video.
You sound like Ave mcree 😂🔥
Try the Arturia Keylab Essentials 49. Great keybed.
Dexter Battle it’s on the list
Really helpful video! I’m looking to buy something to start producing in logic, but I’m classically trained in piano and I heard I would feel limited on less than 61 keys. Is that true for production or just for playing piano pieces? And any input on nektar impact lx61+ vs keystation 61 vs arturia keylab essential 61?
It is true...which is why I keep a 88-key weighted controller in the studio...because I MUST have the weighted feel when I play piano...and out of those 3 I would go with the Keylab
@@Johnmike Thanks for your help!