Choosing Your portable but versatile MIDI Controller

Selecting the right, portable MIDI controller can feel like navigating a maze of features, specifications, and marketing promises. As someone who’s spent countless hours in both home studios and live settings, I understand the challenge of finding that perfect balance between functionality and usability. Whether you’re a bedroom producer or a performing artist, the choice of your primary MIDI controller can significantly impact your creative workflow. In this article, we’ll examine two popular options – the Akai MPK mini Plus and the Arturia KeyStep 37 – breaking down their features, connectivity options, and creative capabilities to help you make an informed decision.

Main features

MPK mini Plus

The main features of the MPK mini Plus include:

1. Keybed: A 37-note, velocity-sensitive keyboard that can control a ten-octave range, with additional commands accessible through the keys.

2. Drum Pads: Velocity-sensitive pads for triggering drum hits or samples, with two banks for samples and eight Programs.

3. X-Y Controller: A 4-axis thumbstick for sending MIDI pitch bend or MIDI CC messages.

4. Pitch Wheel: Used to bend notes up or down, allowing for expressive playing like guitar-style riffs.

5. Modulation Wheel: Adds variation to the sound, akin to adding vibrato on acoustic instruments.

6. Arp On/Off / Config Button: Turns the Arpeggiator on or off and allows access to configuration settings.

7. Tap Tempo / Clear Drum Button: Sets the tempo for the Arpeggiator or Sequencer and clears drum events from the Sequencer.

Arturia KeyStep 37

Arturia is known for producing a range of music production hardware and software. Some of the main features of Arturia products, particularly their MIDI controllers like the KeyStep series, include:

1. Sequencing Capabilities: Arturia devices often feature built-in sequencers, allowing for the creation and manipulation of musical sequences directly from the hardware.

2. Versatile Connectivity: Many Arturia products offer a range of connectivity options, including MIDI, USB, CV/Gate, and sync connections, making them compatible with a wide range of other musical equipment.

3. Compact and Portable Designs: Arturia’s controllers are generally designed with portability in mind, making them suitable for both studio use and live performances.

4. Integration with Software: Arturia provides software control centers that allow for deep integration and customization of their hardware, including importing and editing device settings.

5. High-Quality Keybeds: Their keyboards are known for having high-quality, velocity-sensitive keys that provide a responsive playing experience.

6. Advanced Control Features: Features such as arpeggiators, chord modes, and various control knobs and pads for real-time manipulation of parameters.

These features make Arturia products popular among musicians and producers looking for flexible and powerful music production tools.

I/O and connectivity

MPK mini Plus

The MPK mini Plus has several input and output ports:

Input Ports:
1. MIDI In: Connects to the MIDI output of an external MIDI device using a standard 5-pin MIDI cable.
2. Sustain Input: For connecting a sustain pedal.
3. Clock In: Receives control voltage (CV) timing signals to set the internal arpeggiator and sequencer clock.

Output Ports:
1. USB Port: Delivers power to the keyboard and transmits MIDI data to a connected computer.
2. MIDI Out: Connects to the MIDI input of an external MIDI device using a standard 5-pin MIDI cable.
3. CV/Gate Out: Sends CV and/or Gate signals to external synths or sequencers, with outputs for Pitch, Gate, and Modulation/Velocity.
4. Clock Out: Sends control voltage (CV) timing signals from the internal arpeggiator clock or incoming MIDI clock.

Arturia KeyStep 37

The Arturia KeyStep 37 has several input and output ports:

Input Ports:
1. USB/DC IN: Provides power and data connections to a computer or can be used with a USB mobile phone charger.
2. 12V DC IN: Allows the device to be used as a stand-alone unit with an optional power adapter.
3. Sustain Pedal Input: Connects a momentary footswitch for sustain control.
4. Sync Input: Interfaces with pre-MIDI technology for synchronization.

Output Ports:
1. Pitch/Gate/Mod Outputs: Send electrical signals to external devices such as analog synthesizers.
2. Sync Output: Allows synchronization with various clock types.
3. MIDI Output: Sends MIDI data to external MIDI-compatible devices and from your computer.
4. Sync Source Selector Switches: For selecting synchronization options.

Additionally, it has a Kensington Lock Port for securing the device to a surface.

Main differences

When comparing the Akai MPK mini Plus and the Arturia KeyStep 37, several differences in their input and output ports stand out:

1. Power and USB Connection:

– MPK mini Plus: Uses a USB port for both power and MIDI data transmission.
– KeyStep 37: Can be powered via a USB/DC IN port or a 12V DC input, offering more flexibility for standalone use.

1. MIDI Connectivity:

– MPK mini Plus: Has both MIDI In and MIDI Out ports, allowing for bidirectional MIDI communication with external devices.
– KeyStep 37: Only features a MIDI Output for sending MIDI data to external devices.

1. Sustain Pedal Input:

– Both devices include a sustain pedal input for connecting a footswitch to control sustain.

1. Sync Capabilities:

– MPK mini Plus: Has Clock In and Clock Out for CV timing signals, useful for synchronizing with other CV equipment.
– KeyStep 37: Features Sync In and Sync Out ports, along with Sync Source Selector Switches, for compatibility with pre-MIDI and various clock types.

1. Additional Features:

– KeyStep 37: Includes a Kensington Lock Port for security.
– MPK mini Plus: Does not have a specific security feature like a Kensington Lock Port.

Sequencer

The sequencer of the MPK mini Plus allows for detailed editing and programming of both Key and Drum sequences. Users can adjust the sequence length, transpose settings, and time division to suit their musical needs. It also offers two pad recording modes: Live and Step. The Key Sequencer and Pad Sequencer each have their own MIDI channel settings, allowing for flexible routing. The sequencer interface is grid-based, with notes displayed vertically and sequence steps horizontally. Notes can be added, edited for length and velocity, or removed by interacting with this grid. The drum sequencer operates similarly, with pads displayed vertically and sequence steps horizontally, allowing for precise control over drum patterns.

The sequencer of the Arturia KeyStep 37 is a polyphonic step sequencer that can record and play back music data. It allows for the creation of up to eight different sequences, each capable of holding up to 64 steps. Each step can stack up to 8 notes, providing a rich polyphonic capability. The sequencer also allows for transposition by playing a key on the keyboard, offering flexibility that many traditional step sequencers lack. Additionally, sequences can be modified during performance, providing dynamic control over the music. The KeyStep 37’s sequencer can free the performer’s hands to adjust other parameters, such as filters and envelope settings, while the sequence continues to loop.

Features and Comparison

MPK mini Plus Sequencer:
– Sequence Length: Supports sequences up to 64 steps.
– Editing and Programming: Offers detailed editing of both Key and Drum sequences, with adjustable sequence length, transpose settings, and time divisions.
– Recording Modes: Includes Live and Step recording modes for diverse input methods.
– Interface: Features a grid-based software interface for intuitive editing, with notes and sequence steps visually represented.
– Transpose Capability: Allows for real-time transposition of sequences during playback, enhancing performance dynamics.
– MIDI Channel Flexibility: Each sequencer (Key and Drum) can have its own MIDI channel, facilitating complex routing setups.
– Polyphonic Capabilities: In Chords mode, it can play up to 8 notes simultaneously, supporting rich chord progressions and polyphonic textures.
– Live Modifications: Allows for sequence modifications during playback, enabling dynamic performances.

Arturia KeyStep 37 Sequencer:
– Sequence Length: Also supports sequences up to 64 steps.
– Polyphonic Capability: Can handle up to 8 notes per step, allowing for richer, more complex compositions.
– Transposition and Live Modifications: Facilitates on-the-fly transposition and live sequence modifications, offering a high degree of performance flexibility.
– Multiple MIDI Channels: Supports multiple MIDI channels out, enabling control of various devices or software instruments separately.
– Performance Focus: Designed with live performance in mind, allowing hands-free control to focus on adjusting other parameters.

Comparison:
– Sequence Complexity: Both devices support sequences up to 64 steps and can handle up to 8 notes simultaneously.
– Editing and Interface: The MPK mini Plus provides detailed step editing through its grid interface software, making it user-friendly for precise programming.
– Live Performance: Both offer real-time transposition and allow for sequence modifications during playback, but the Arturia KeyStep 37 has a slight edge with its focus on live performance dynamics and its interface is more accessible through numerous key press combinations but requires some learning.
– MIDI Channel Management: Both devices support multiple MIDI channels.

Arpeggiator

Similarities:

1. Basic Functionality: Both arpeggiators allow for creating dynamic sequences by playing a series of notes in various patterns and orders.

2. Latch/Hold Function: Both have a function that lets the arpeggio continue playing even after the keys are released, providing hands-free operation.

3. Tempo and Sync Options: Both devices offer internal tempo control and the ability to sync with external sources, such as MIDI clocks, allowing for integration with other equipment or DAWs.

4. Swing and Gate Time: Both allow adjustments to swing and gate time, enabling users to modify the rhythmic feel and note length of the arpeggios.

Differences:

1. Arpeggio Modes:

   • Arturia KeyStep 37: Offers eight arpeggio modes (Up, Down, Inclusive, Exclusive, Random, Walk, Pattern, and Order), providing a wide range of pattern possibilities.
   • Akai MPK mini Plus: Typically includes standard modes such as Up, Down, Up/Down, and Random, which are straightforward and commonly used patterns.
2. Maximal Notes in Arpeggio:
   • Arturia KeyStep 37: Supports building arpeggios with up to 32 notes using the Hold button and the Octave Minus/Plus buttons. This allows for creating complex and extended patterns across multiple octaves, providing a wide range of creative possibilities.
   • Akai MPK mini Plus: Can handle up to 16 notes in a single arpeggio, which is substantial for creating intricate and rich patterns within a more compact setup.
3. Control Interface:
   • Arturia KeyStep 37: Features a dedicated Rate knob, Tap Tempo button, and Shift button for fine adjustments, providing detailed control over tempo and feel.
   • Akai MPK mini Plus: Features a Tap Tempo button and can receive tempo data from CV Clock Input, enhancing integration with analog gear.
4. Integration and Connectivity:
   • Arturia KeyStep 37: Known for its versatility in connecting with both MIDI and CV/Gate setups, making it suitable for hybrid digital-analog environments. It offers robust connectivity options, including USB, MIDI, and CV outputs, which are ideal for integrating with a wide range of equipment.
   • Akai MPK mini Plus: Offers a CV Clock Input for syncing with external analog equipment in addition to standard MIDI capabilities. This makes it a good choice for users who want to integrate with both modern digital setups and traditional analog gear.
5. Unique Features:
   • Arturia KeyStep 37: Includes additional creative features such as chord strumming and scale quantization, which enhance its utility in both performance and composition settings.
   • Akai MPK mini Plus: Focuses on compactness and ease of use, with features tailored for quick setup and performance.

In summary, both the Arturia KeyStep 37 and the Akai MPK mini Plus offer powerful arpeggiators with unique strengths. The KeyStep 37 is ideal for users who need extensive connectivity and advanced arpeggio modes, while the MPK mini Plus is great for those who prioritize straightforward functionality and the ability to create complex note patterns within a compact form factor.

Final Thoughts: Making Your Choice

After diving deep into these two remarkable MIDI controllers, it’s clear that both the MPK mini Plus and KeyStep 37 are capable instruments with distinct personalities. The MPK mini Plus shines in its immediate accessibility and comprehensive feature set, making it an excellent choice for producers who value an all-in-one solution with intuitive drum pad integration. Its grid-based sequencer bounded software solution and straightforward arpeggiator make it particularly appealing for beat-making and electronic music production.

The KeyStep 37, on the other hand, reveals its strengths in live performance and hardware integration. With its extensive connectivity options and sophisticated sequencing capabilities, it’s particularly well-suited for musicians working with both digital and analog equipment. The more complex arpeggiator modes and support for up to 32-note patterns offer deeper possibilities for experimental and evolving compositions.

However, the “right” choice ultimately depends on your specific needs. Consider your primary use case – are you mainly producing in-the-box, or do you work with external hardware? Do you need drum pads for finger drumming, or is a more traditional keyboard controller sufficient? How important is portability versus connectivity options?

In my experience, the MPK mini Plus tends to find its home in computer-centric setups where immediate hands-on control and beat-making are priorities. The KeyStep 37 often appeals to those with hybrid setups or those who prioritize deep sequence programming and live performance features. Both are excellent instruments – the key is matching their strengths to your musical journey.