Nektar SE25 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller, Black, 25 Mini Keys

Product Information

In terms of knobs and sliders – the control side of a keyboard – again these come in all shapes and sizes. If you just want to play instruments like virtual pianos and synths, you don't need to have too many extra controls. However if you want to play soft synths and tweak their dials and knobs, having a hardware rotary on your MIDI keyboard assigned to a virtual synth knob certainly makes for a better and more tactile experience.

As you can see, the beginner's MIDI keyboard market is a crowded one, with many models vying for your cash. Broadly speaking, though, there are just two types to choose from: more portable devices with 25 keys, and the larger, desk-based options with 49 or more keys. The keyboard is equipped with 25 velocity-sensitive keys, allowing for expressive and dynamic playing. It also includes octave up and down buttons, giving users the ability to access a wider range of notes. Additionally, there are pitch bend and modulation buttons for added versatility in sound manipulation.First, take a look at the Audio settings in your DAW. You will find a buffer size or latency setting, either in milliseconds (ms) or samples. A buffer size less than 512 samples or ~20ms is needed to play sound without audible delay. If your computer can handle a lower buffer size than that, set it as low as possible.

We found the aluminium case to feel reassuringly robust, and the Pro-Feel keybed felt fantastic, delivering excellent sensitivity across the full range of velocities. The metal pitch and mod wheels are light and responsive. KeyLab MkII is operationally intuitive, with three distinct modes: DAW, Analog Lab and User (there are ten user configurable presets) – selected via dedicated mode buttons in the centre. If an item can not be repaired, a similar alternative product or cash discount (as defined in this policy) will be offered The microKEY Air runs on just two AA batteries and can also be connected via a traditional USB cable. Since the microKEY is USB bus-powered, you only need a single USB cable to connect it to your computer.The microKEY Air-25 bases most of its appeal on the fact that it supports Bluetooth Smart “Apple Bluetooth Low Energy MIDI”. There is a utility called Audio MIDI Setup (AMS) built into OS X. This utility has a basic test tool which can detect some types of incoming MIDI messages. Nektar are known for their hassle-free DAW integration. The SE25 is no exception, offering simple access to your DAW transport so you can get hands-on with your project. It’s compatible with most major DAWs, including Logic Pro X, Cubase, Bitwig and many more! Specifications Additionally, the Chord Modes change the Launchkey MK3’s keys and pads into an interactive control surface where every note you play is tonally and harmonically associated. The arpeggiator lets you explore new ideas while the Mutate function reshuffles your patterns creatively. The included Komplete Kontrol software features pre-mapped control of Komplete instruments and effects, plus hundreds of Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) plug-ins from leading manufacturers.