KVR Audio

pyllmusik · Post by **pyllmusik** » Sun Oct 29, 2017 3:19 pm

Hey everyone,

I have been browsing the web for quite some time now, looking for a great 49-key MIDI keyboard to use with Ableton Live. Some controllers that stand out are:

- AKAI MPK249
- Novation Impulse 49

They both have aftertouch and MIDI out to control other synths, which sounds great for my needs.

I was ready to buy the MPK249, but some more browsing and searching revealed that people had trouble mapping it to work well with Ableton (to the point of even mentioning having to write or install some custom scripts?). I want a controller to make music, not to troubleshoot. So the following questions arise:

- If you have an MPK249 and use Ableton Live, what has your experience with the controller been like? Is it easy to set up?
- If you use Ableton Live with a MIDI keyboard controller other than the two mentioned here, what controller do you use? I am open to other options that have pads, faders and dials.
- AKAI or Novation? Which brand has better support in your opinion?
- And lastly, the Novation Impulse looks great, but it's been out for quite some time. Would it still work well with the latest versions of Ableton? Do Novation have a follow-up around the corner? Should I hold off and see if they release something new before the end of the year?

Thanks a bunch.

alexfalcao · Post by **alexfalcao** » Sun Oct 29, 2017 3:36 pm

I had the same dilemma you do, I bought the AKAI MPK261 and I'm happy with it. I use with Ableton Live 9 and Cubase 9 Pro, it comes with presets for Ableton Live 9, Cubase, Bitwig, Studio One FL Studio, Etc.. plus you can make your own custom configuration. Also comes with some free stuff such; SONiVOX Twist 2.3, AIR Hybrid 3.0.4, SONiVOX Eighty Eight Ensemble and the new VIP 3.0 SOFTWARE.

thecontrolcentre · Post by **thecontrolcentre** » Sun Oct 29, 2017 4:06 pm

I use a ReMote 25SL and Push2 with Live. The ReMote works perfectly with Live (no need for Automap), and I've not found anything better over the 10 years I've owned it. Push2 is superb and (of course) works with Live straight out of the box. I wouldn't want to be without either.

Xandie · Post by **Xandie** » Fri Nov 03, 2017 11:50 am

Hi there! I am using M-Audio Oxygen-49 for ableton for almost 3 years. Works fine, and no settings required. Just put usb to computer and use it. There are many controllers, aftertouch, pitch wheel and other cool features. Despite, I am not a pianist, it makes easier to work on my EDM tracks.
I don`t have experience with keyboards you mention, so I can`t really compare its pros and cons in your case. But there is a lot of tutorials on youtube, for example this one

Hope that helps

Ask me, if you have questions about oxygen 49.

dandezebra · Post by **dandezebra** » Mon Nov 13, 2017 2:30 pm

I was in the same boat as you... Ended up after tons of research getting s Roland A-800...

RichieWitch · Post by **RichieWitch** » Mon Nov 13, 2017 5:23 pm

I have been using my Novation Impulse25 with Ableton Live since version 8, and it continues to work flawlessly with Live 9.7.4.

As for customer service, it would be hard to beat Novation. I have contacted them a number of times over the years about different pieces of gear. They are always very responsive and helpful. In fact, they once sent me spare parts for an early serial number BassStation Rack I was repairing. Shipped from the UK at no cost.

thecontrolcentre · Post by **thecontrolcentre** » Mon Nov 13, 2017 5:56 pm

I've heard that about Novation. They sent a friend of mine a replacement knob for his Bass Station free of charge. Their X-Station is a good midi controller too, as well as being a synth & soundcard.

Winstontaneous · Post by **Winstontaneous** » Tue Nov 14, 2017 5:13 am

Another option would be an Ableton Push with a separate keyboard.
More to carry but better integrated than 3rd-party controllers.

Also, haven't tried the MPK249, but the first-gen MPK49 I borrowed had literally the worst keyboard action (stiff, noisy) of any controller I've ever used.

Tj Shredder · Post by **Tj Shredder** » Fri Dec 01, 2017 7:31 am

Since I got a LinnStrument I not only stopped touching normal keyboards, I have fun with synths again. A small Seaboard could be also interesting for those hooked on a normal keyboard layout. I would not choose anything without that extra expression...

rod_zero · Post by **rod_zero** » Fri Dec 01, 2017 5:20 pm

Roland A49, forget the extra controls and get an Ableton Push for integration.

ARNK · Post by **ARNK** » Mon Dec 04, 2017 4:41 am

Tj Shredder wrote:Since I got a LinnStrument I not only stopped touching normal keyboards, I have fun with synths again. A small Seaboard could be also interesting for those hooked on a normal keyboard layout. I would not choose anything without that extra expression...

Is your LinnStrument 200 or 128?

zenophilix · Post by **zenophilix** » Tue Dec 05, 2017 12:59 am

I like the M-Audio and Arturia stuff. Code series and Keylab series are my favorite keyboards out there, although the MPK2XX is pretty rad aswell, even if it's a bit more expensive.

chk071 · Post by **chk071** » Tue Dec 05, 2017 1:15 am

I read a lot of praise about the Code's keyboard. Guess they upped their game, because i wasn't too fond of the keyboard on my Axiom 2nd gen, had somewhat of a stiff feel about it that i didn't like to much... the general processing of the keyboard seemed really good though, no creaking, no different space between every key, or higher and lower keys... only the endless encoders once again weren't up to the task, and jumped in value after very modest use.

zenophilix · Post by **zenophilix** » Tue Dec 05, 2017 3:45 am

chk071 wrote:I read a lot of praise about the Code's keyboard. Guess they upped their game, because i wasn't too fond of the keyboard on my Axiom 2nd gen, had somewhat of a stiff feel about it that i didn't like to much... the general processing of the keyboard seemed really good though, no creaking, no different space between every key, or higher and lower keys... only the endless encoders once again weren't up to the task, and jumped in value after very modest use.

If it's any help, my Code is still holding up great after over a year of use.

What is the best MIDI keyboard controller for 2017?