The best 88 key controller is the Nektar Panorama P4. It is a USB MIDI controller that is compatible with all major DAWs. It has an aluminum body and a sleek design. It also has velocity-sensitive keys, pitch and mod wheels, and a built-in arpeggiator.
10 Best 88 Key Controllers
![Novation Launchkey 88 [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller for Ableton Live](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/218XftBYyYL._SL500_.jpg)
Alesis Q88 MKII – 88 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Full Size Velocity Sensitive Se…
Alesis Q88 MKII is a 88 key USB MIDI keyboard controller that allows you to control your music production software with your keys. The key layout is weighted and semi-weighted, providing a more responsive and responsive experience. The controller also has a standard MIDI in and out port, so you can use it as a left-handed keyboard or right-handed controller.
Feature
- Music Production and Beat Maker Essential – USB powered MIDI controller with 88 full size MIDI keyboard velocity-sensitive keys for studio production, virtual synthesizer control and beat production
- Complete Control – Octave / Transpose buttons to access the full piano range; Pitch bend and modulation wheels; Assignable volume knob and transport controls for tactile DAW and virtual synth control
- Universal Compatibility – Complete compatibility with any music production app that accepts a MIDI controller including Ableton Live, Cubase, Logic, MPC Beats and more
- Make Music Anywhere – Works with iOS devices for use with apps including Garageband, via the Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter (sold separately)
- Professional Software Suite Included – Akai Professional MPC Beats including seven expansion packs: Producer Kits, LoFi Producer Collection, Trap Soul & LoFi Beats, Soulful Drums, Deep House, F9 Instruments Library, Urban Roulette, and 60 free MIDI controller lessons from Melodics
Icon ICOK-IKEYBOARD8X iKeyboard 8X – 88-Key MIDI keyboard semi-weighted keys with single c…
The Icon ICOK-IKEYBOARD8X iKeyboard 8X is a weighted MIDI keyboard with 88-key keys and a single channel DAW controller. It is a great for recording and mixing applications.
Feature
- 88-key midi keyboard controller with a single channel DAW controller in a rugged metal enclosure
- Full sized piano keys are semi-weighted to provide realistic piano action
- Controller provides pitch bend and modulation wheels, and Octave and Transpose up/down buttons
- Backlit LED touch fader reacts in real-time with DAW
- Class-compliant with macOS Big Sur (M1 and Intel Compatible), Windows 10, and Windows 8/7 (32 & 64-bit)
- Built-in presets for Pro Tools, Cubase, Nuendo, Samplitude, Logic Pro, Ableton Live
- Includes free recording software, such as Harrison 32C Vocal Intensity Processor, a “greatest hits” collection of features from Harrison’s analog console heritage, Harrison AVA plugins and Mixbus32C workstation; Tracktion DAW Essentials, a collection of 16 contemporary FX plugins for use with any DAW; Dotec Audio plugins for streaming, podcasting, recording and mixing; and Bitwig Studio 8-Track, the trim and effective digital audio workstation to start producing, performing, and designing sounds like a pro, all available via download upon purchase and registration
Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII 88 Key Weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller — Aftertouch, Velocity…
The Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII 88 Key Weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller is a great way to add touch and feedback to your music. With 16 drum pads, 9 faders, 9 knobs and analog software included, this controller is perfect for use with real-world drummers. The key weighting system ensures that you have the control you need to create the music you want.
Feature
- 88 note Fatar TP/100LR keybed
- High quality, aftertouch, velocity sensitive, hammer-action, piano feel keyboard
- 16 RGB-backlit performance pads
- Control bank with 9 faders and 9 rotary knobs
- Please note: stand not included
M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 – 88 Key Semi Weighted MIDI Keyboard Controller for Complete Com…
The M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 is a weighted MIDI keyboard controller that lets you control virtual synthesizers and a complete command of synthetic parameters with real-time monitoring and velocity-sensitive control. With its included 88 keys, this keyboard is the perfect companion for controlling complex sounds with real-time range and accuracy.
Feature
- Music Production Essential – MIDI keyboard controller with 88 full-size velocity-sensitive semi weighted keys for MIDI control of virtual instruments, software samplers and plug-in synthesisers
- MIDI Keyboard Must-Haves – Volume fader, transport & directional buttons; pitch & modulation wheels, octave up & down buttons and sustain pedal input for expressive performances
- Immediate Creativity – Effortless plug-and-play USB connectivity to Mac or PC—no drivers or power supply required; compatible with iOS devices via the Apple to USB Camera Adapter (sold separately)
- Your Music Studio Equipment Centrepiece – Slimline design fits any desk, studio or stage setup perfectly and advanced functionality customizes your controls for your recording software
- Everything You Need for Pro Music Production – MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Mini Grand, and Velvet
M-Audio Hammer 88 – USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 88 Hammer Action Piano Style Keys In…
The M-audio Hammer 88 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 88 Hammer Action Piano Style Keys includes a studio grade recording software suite, making it the perfect choice for music professionals who need to record quickly or send feedbacks and other audio signals to a computer or guitar Effects on the go.
Feature
- Perfect Feel, Ultimate Response – 88 fully-weighted, hammer-action velocity-sensitive keys deliver natural piano feel, faithfully replicating every subtle nuance of your performance
- Plug & Play – Driverless class compliant and USB powered specification provides seamless USB-MIDI connection for playing virtual instruments, controlling recording software and more
- Express Yourself – Conveniently located pitch bend, modulation, volume and octave controls for immersive, expressive performances
- All The Right Connections – Expanded control options for Inputs for Sustain, Expression and Soft pedals included
- Free Online Lessons – Includes FREE 3-month subscription to Skoove. The easiest way to learn piano with interactive piano lessons for beginners and advanced players
- Pro Software Suite Included – MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Eighty Eight Ensemble, AIR Music Tech’s Velvet, Mini Grand, DB33, and Touch Loops
Nektar Impact GXP88 – USB MIDI Controller Keyboard with Nektar DAW Integration
Nektar Impact GXP88 is a USB MIDI controller that allows you to control your Nektar DAWs using your standard English or American-based keyboard commands. The controller also includes an on-board Nektar soundcard with all the latest sound effects and sounds for your DAWs.
Feature
- Expressive performance MIDI controller keyboard with 88 premium quality semi-weighted full-size velocity sensitive keys + aftertouch, pitch bend and modulation wheels + octave & transpose buttons + sustain & expression pedal sockets + MIDI 5-pin Out.
- Nektar DAW integration for most popular DAWs + Nektarine PlugIn Control for Instruments and Effects
- Comprehensive MIDI functionailty. Compatible with all MIDI music software applications
- Mac and PC compatible
- Includes Cubase LE DAW + Retrologue 2 VSTi + sound content package
Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 88-Note USB MIDI Keyboard Controller, 9 Rotary Knobs, 8 Pads, …
The Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 88-Note USB MIDI Keyboard Controller is a great way to add some extra music production value to your instrument. This controller has 9 rotary knobs to adjust volume, speed, and more, as well as 8 pads for foraging for sounds with V-Moda in-Ear Headphones and gravity magnet phone holder. The controller also has a gravity magnet for adding in-game excitement and flavor to your music. This bundle is the perfect way to add some extra music production value to your keyboard, and it comes with in-ear headphones and gravity magnet for added excitement and flavor.
Feature
- Value-packed combination of Analog Lab software and a powerful 88-key controller
- Great-feeling, velocity-sensitive semi-weighted keys
- 9 rotary controls, 9 faders, and 8 backlit control pads
- MIDI Control Center software makes it easy to create custom control layouts
- Includes Analog Lab, UVI Grand Piano Model D, and Ableton Live Lite
Novation Launchkey 88 [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller for Ableton Live
The Novation Launchkey 88 MIDI Keyboard Controller is the perfect way to add live programming to your Ableton Live applications. This controller has all the features of the Novation Launchkey 96 MIDI Keyboard Controller, including both miking and automation capabilities. The Launchkey 88 also includes an include card that lets you easily add MIDI notes and chords to your applications.
Feature
- Premium full size keybed- 88 premium semi-weighted keys and 16 velocity-sensitive pads allow you to play with feeling.
- Seamless DAW Integration- Deep integration across all leading DAWs with immediate access to all the controls you need
- Powerful arpeggiator with Strum Mode- Take your music to new melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic places and unlock more creative ideas
- Creative Scale and Chord Modes-Three chord modes (fixed, scale and user) let you trigger chords with one finger
- Play anything-Use Custom Modes and the MIDI output to take control of your favourite synths and hardware
Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 88-key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller Bundle w/Adjustable Stand,…
The Arturia KeyLab Essential 88-key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller Bundle comes with an adjustable stand and a USB cable for you to use on your computer. The MIDI cable and cable make it easy to use the controller on a keyboard or console. The controller also includes the Austin Bazaar Polishing Cloth to perfect myeasterning and keep it looking new.
Feature
- Equipped with 8 pads, 9 rotaries, 9 faders, and an expressive keyboard, KeyLab Essential also makes navigating inside your recording software and browsing your presets easy with the dedicated DAW Command Center
- Sourced from every instrument contained within the Arturia V Collection, Analog Lab is like being given the keys to your very own keyboard museum, packed with the iconic analog monosynths, illustrious and exotic pianos, classic organs, digital workstations, and much more forged by some of the world’s finest sound designers, and catalogued in a clever, tag-based archive.
- Play your track, jog forwards and back, save, toggle your metronome and loop, record, and punch in on the fly. This functionality keeps your hands on the controller and your mind in the music. As well as offering ultimate control over Analog Lab, KeyLab Essential is a universal MIDI controller, meaning you can use it with any third-party instruments or software
- Simple yet highly effective, a launchpad into the exciting world of music performance and production for newcomers, and a powerful, ergonomic control solution that experienced users will love.
- This bundle includes an Adjustable Stand, a USB Cable, 1 10ft MIDI Cable, a Deluxe Sustain Pedal, and a Austin Bazaar Polishing Cloth
Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 – 88-Key Semi Weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
The Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 is a semi-weighted USB MIDI keyboard controller that offers a great combination of features and flexibility. It includes a wide range of key感面+++, a 88-key semi-weighted semidefaulting-free memory DSP bank, and a new input device support for your choice of alphanumeric keyboard or a standard alphanumeric keyboard keypad. The controller also includes a great overall design and is perfect for use with a variety of music and video games. The KeyLAB is the perfect way to grow your MIDI music playing skills and can be used for free or with a subscription.
Feature
- Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 Keyboard Controller: 88 note, velocity-sensitive keyboard
- Features: 8 pads, 9 rotary knobs, and 9 faders
- Software: Comes with Analog Lab, Arturia’s multi-award-winning software suite that gives you access to thousands of incredible synth and keyboard sounds
- Universal MIDI Controller: You can use it with any third-party instruments or software
- Express your Creativity: Every aspect of KeyLab Essential has been carefully chosen to give you the best possible experience when creating
How To Choose A 88 Key Controller
Budget
The best 88 key controllers can vary widely in price, so you need to know your budget before you get started. When buying online, you can’t see what the 88 key controller looks like, so it’s important to find out if you’re comfortable with the cost you’ll be paying for it.
The cost will play a big part in your decision, so make sure you know how much you can afford before you start shopping.
Brand Reputation
The brand is one of the most important things to consider when buying a 88 key controller. Why? Because it’s the only way you can really find out the best 88 key controller. A good brand will always come with the guarantee that its products are high-quality and long-lasting.
It also should stand behind its products and offer customers the chance to return them if they don’t like them. The brand name itself should also make you feel good about the product. In addition, it should be trustworthy, reliable, and offer a decent level of customer service.
Durability
Durability is essential for any 88 key controller because it will impact its lifespan, so you need to know what you’re buying before you buy it. This is especially true if you’re purchasing a 88 key controller online. Some models may last even longer and some may only last a few months. This is why it’s so important to buy a 88 key controller that is designed well.
You’ll want to be sure to pay attention to the durability specifications of the 88 key controller you choose, as this will greatly impact its lifespan. So it’s important to know exactly what your needs are before buying a 88 key controller, as this will help you to decide the best 88 key controller to choose.
Specifications
The number of components in a 88 key controller is just one of the factors you need to consider when you’re looking to buy a 88 key controller online.
You’re going to want to think about a few things when you start shopping for your 88 key controller – what’s it made of? How much did it cost? What’s the warranty? These are all important questions to ask before you make a purchase.
Customer Reviews
It’s also important to consider customer reviews when buying a 88 key controller.
While there are no hard and fast rules, the more reviews a model has, the better, as this indicates it’s been tried and tested and is therefore more likely to work well in the long term.
Design
As a consumer, there are some things you need to think about when it comes to buying a 88 key controller. First, consider how much you want to spend on your 88 key controller.
If you’re going to be regularly buying, then it’s okay to spend a bit more. On the other hand, if you’re planning to keep one for decades, it may be wise to invest in something that will last longer.
This isn’t easy when buying a 88 key controller online. So it’s important to know exactly what you’re looking for in a 88 key controller before you choose one of these models.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to 88 key controller
1. What is a 88 key controller?
A 88 key controller is a type of electronic musical instrument that is used to produce sound by pressing keys on a keyboard. It usually has a built-in sound system and can be connected to a computer or other electronic devices.
2. What are the benefits of using a 88 key controller?
There are a few benefits of using an 88 key controller. One is that it can give you a wider range of notes to work with, which can be helpful if you’re composing music or trying to play a particularly difficult piece. Additionally, having more keys can make it easier to play two-handed parts, or parts that require a lot of hand-over-hand movement. Finally, some people simply prefer the feel of a larger keyboard under their hands.
3. How do I choose the right 88 key controller for my needs?
There are a few things to consider when choosing an 88 key controller. The first is the size of the keyboard. If you have a small space, you’ll want a smaller keyboard. The next thing to consider is the type of keys. Some keyboards have weighted keys, which are great for playing piano, while others have unweighted keys, which are better for synth sounds. You’ll also want to consider the features of the keyboard, such as the number of pads, faders, and knobs. Choose the keyboard that has the features you need for the type of music you want to play.
Asking yourself these questions can help you determine whether or not a 88 key controller is good for you.
How often do I use my 88 key controller?
Does the 88 key controller fit my needs?
How much money am I willing to spend?
Does the model appeal to me aesthetically?
Does the 88 key controller feel like it’s durable and/or long lasting?
What is the best 88 key controller for my budget?
What do the reviews say about this product?
How much will this product cost me over time?
What benefits are there with buying this product?
Final Thoughts
The 88 key controller is a great way to control your music. It is easy to use and has a lot of features. It is also a great way to learn how to play the piano.