Novation not only gave the Mini MK3 a built-in arpeggiator, but they also included a really useful fixed chord feature, which takes all the notes of a chord and compresses them into one single key. A beginner’s dream!

The Akai MPK Mini Mk3 is a compact 25-mini key MIDI keyboard featuring 8 MPC-style pads, assignable knobs, and a built-in arpeggiator. Choose the Novation and you’ll get access to 8 knobs. Whereas with the Arturia you’ll get 16 endless encoders.

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With this assortment of sounds, creative virtual instruments and plug-in effects, the possibilities are endless with your projects. Included Software There’s also Fixed Chord mode which helps you piece together melodies. Plus you’ll have the ability to control panning and sends. Arpeggiator The Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 is a portable, take-anywhere 25-mini-key controller, designed for seamless music production with Ableton Live or any music software. Deep and Intuitive Control on the Move With 16 RGB pads, 8 rotary encoders, mapping templates for Logic Pro and Reason, and even full HUI support for Pro Tools, this awesome MIDI controller is geared to take you where you want to go.

Whichever of these midi keyboards you opt for, you’ll get 25 mini-sized velocity-sensitive keys (2 octaves), although the Arturia’s are ever so slightly wider. Each comes with software (Ableton Live Lite for the Launchkey and MPC Essentials for the MPK) and a selection of virtual instruments and samples.

When it comes to mini MIDI controllers, the Akai MPK Mini MK3 and the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3are two of the most popular options on the market. On DAWs, the Novation features seamless integration with Ableton Live. And while the Akai does work with Ableton, the integration is nowhere near as in-depth. You’ll find 8 knobs on this midi keyboard. Notice we say knobs and not encoders. Unlike what you’ll find on a lot of portable midi keyboards nowadays, the knobs on the Launchkey Mini are not endeless, meaning that they don’t continuously spin, but instead have a start/end point. MIDI Out enables connection to synths, drum machines and other MIDI hardware for performance, parameter control and program changes

Everything about this midi keyboard just seems so well thought out. From the DAW mapping and its functionality with Ableton Live, to those 16 RGB pads and the inclusion of that midi out port. Combine this with the fact that the Launchkey Mini MK3 is by far one of the most portable midi keyboards on the market, as well as one of the most well equipped thanks to that insane software bundle, and it’s really a no brainer.Once the installer is finished open Logic with the Launchkey connected, you may be prompted to Auto Assign controls (which you can accept). If not, go to Logic Pro X > Preferences > Control Surfaces > Setup > New> Install and find the Launchkey Mini MK3 and select Add. While the MPK Mini has various DAW, it doesn’t integrate as seamlessly as the Launchkey does with Ableton. Bass Station II: Hold the 'Save', 'Patch left' and 'Patch right' buttons and power on the Bass Station II You can find a video guide on setting up your Launchkey with Logic Pro X here or please follow the steps below: The Akai comes in various colour waves, which is great if you’re after a custom look. However, you can’t get over the fact that they make it look a bit ‘kindergarten’.