It has some excellent production tools like a built-in arpeggiator and an advanced Chord Mode. On top of the many assignable controls, the MiniLab 3 isn’t short of features. It has eight performance pads (16 with two banks) that are probably second only to the MPC-style pads. We believe that the faders add an entirely new layer of dynamic and expressive performance, and we wish more manufacturers would follow suit. It comes with eight assignable rotary knobs and four faders. The MiniLab 3 has the most impressive collection of assignable controls of any controller on our list. Image: Arturia Check availability here: Sweetwater AmazonĪrturia MIDI controllers always look fantastic: sleek, modern, and ultra-cool, which also applies to the 25-key MiniLab. Although we see it as second best, it comes with a software bundle that will tempt many to place it above all others. The MiniLab 3 is one of the best 25-key MIDI controllers available and the closest to challenging the MPK for the top spot on our list.

The best assignable controls and connectivity Add an attractive software bundle, and the MPK will have you making music in no time.Ĭheck out our full Akai MPK Mini Mk3 review Arturia MiniLab 3 One of the standout features is a powerful built-in arpeggiator capable of fairly complex patterns.Ī joystick, rather than a wheel, provides pitch and modulation control, and you can view real-time feedback on a small OLED display. The MPK Mini Mk3 also has some dedicated function buttons that help create a speedy workflow. It’s worth keeping in mind that not all similar controllers offer endless knobs, meaning others are often less flexible. The pads are slightly smaller than MPC pads, but the feel and responsiveness are unmatched in any other small controller.Īlong with the MPC-style pads come some familiar MPC-style features, like Full Level, and Note Repeat, which makes creating complex rhythmic parts a simple task.Īssignable controls come in the shape of eight endless rotary knobs, which is a lot for such a compact unit. One of the biggest selling points is its eight MPC-style pads with two banks.

The Akai Professional MPK Mini Mk3 is a tiny powerhouse, thanks to an impressive feature set and a range of assignable controls. Image: Akai Check availability here: Sweetwater Amazon

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