The best Cubase MIDI controller is subjective to the user’s personal preference and needs. However, popular choices include the Nektar Panorama T4, Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol, and the Arturia KeyLab Essential.
When it comes to producing music in Cubase, having a reliable and efficient MIDI controller can significantly enhance the workflow. The right MIDI controller can greatly improve the recording, editing, and mixing process, allowing for more creativity and precision. While there are numerous MIDI controllers available in the market, it is crucial to select one that seamlessly integrates with Cubase.
We will explore some of the best MIDI controllers for Cubase that provide ease of use, flexibility, and advanced features to help you produce music efficiently.
Criteria For Choosing The Best Cubase Midi Controller
Choosing the best Cubase MIDI controller can enhance your music production experience. Consider the number of keys, knobs, faders, and pads it offers, as well as its compatibility with your computer’s operating system. Look for models with quality construction and responsive controls to take your music-making skills to the next level.
Criteria for Choosing the Best Cubase Midi Controller Selecting the right MIDI controller for Cubase can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. With the wide range of models available in the market today, choosing the best one can be challenging. This blog post will help you identify the essential criteria to consider when choosing the best Cubase MIDI controller. The following H3 headings will guide you through the key aspects to consider: Compatibility with Cubase, Number of Keys, Pads and Knobs, and Portability.
Compatibility With Cubase
The first and most important criterion to consider when choosing a Cubase MIDI controller is compatibility. Not all MIDI controllers work with Cubase. Therefore, you must check the compatibility of the MIDI controller with your Cubase version before making a purchase. Cubase controllers that offer plug-and-play functionality for Cubase are the best. Some of the best Cubase controller brands include Steinberg, Akai, Korg, and M-Audio.
Number Of Keys
The number of keys is also an essential criterion when choosing the best Cubase MIDI controller. In most cases, MIDI controllers come in three sizes: 25, 49, and 61 keys. The size of the keyboard you choose will depend on the type of music you want to create. If you are a beginner, a 25-key MIDI controller may be the best choice as it is more portable and straightforward to use. However, if you are an experienced player, a 61-key MIDI controller will give you more room to play.
Pads And Knobs
The next essential criterion to consider is the number and quality of pads and knobs. Pads are essential for drum programming and rhythmic functions, while knobs are used for parameter control, such as volume and effect levels. The more pads and knobs a Cubase MIDI controller has, the more versatile it is. Brands such as Akai and Novation offer some of the best MIDI controllers with high-quality pads and knobs.
Portability
Finally, portability is another essential criterion when choosing the best Cubase MIDI controller. Portability is especially crucial for musicians who travel frequently or work in small spaces. A lightweight and compact MIDI controller that can easily fit into a backpack is the best option. MIDI controllers with a built-in USB interface are also favourable as they require less wiring and are easier to transport. In conclusion, when selecting the best Cubase MIDI controller, you should consider compatibility, number of keys, pads and knobs, and portability. By keeping these essential factors in mind, you can be sure to choose a MIDI controller that fits your needs and budget.
Top 5 Best Cubase Midi Controllers
Discover the top 5 best Cubase Midi Controllers that will elevate your music production. With seamless integration and comprehensive control over your production, these controllers are perfect for any level of music production expertise.
If you are a Cubase user, you know how important it is to have a reliable and functional midi controller. It saves time, enhances creativity, and makes the whole music-making process much more enjoyable. There are dozens of midi controllers on the market, but not all of them are suitable for Cubase. In this post, we will look at the top 5 best Cubase midi controllers that will help you take your music production to the next level.
The Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 is an ultra-compact and portable midi controller that is specifically designed for Cubase users. It features 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys, 8 backlit drum pads, and 8 assignable knobs. The MPK Mini MK3 also comes with an arpeggiator, a sustain button, and a built-in OLED display that shows the current parameter values. It is USB-powered, and it comes with a comprehensive software package that includes Cubase LE, AIR Music Tech Hybrid 3, and SONiVOX Wobble.
The Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 is a highly customizable midi controller that offers an intuitive workflow and seamless integration with Cubase. It features 49 velocity-sensitive keys, 8 backlit pads, 9 faders, and 9 rotary encoders. The KeyLab Essential 49 also comes with a dedicated DAW control section that allows you to control Cubase directly from the controller surface. It comes with the Analog Lab software that gives you access to over 6,000 synth sounds and 20 classic keyboards.
The Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 is a versatile and feature-packed midi controller that is perfect for Cubase users who want a more hands-on approach to music production. It features 49 velocity-sensitive keys, 16 RGB drum pads, 9 faders, and 8 rotary encoders. The Launchkey 49 MK3 also comes with a powerful arpeggiator and chord mode that allows you to trigger chords with a single key. It is USB-powered, and it comes with a comprehensive software package that includes Ableton Live Lite, Splice Sounds, and AAS Session Bundle.
The Nektar Panorama T6 is a premium midi controller that offers unparalleled integration with Cubase. It features a 61-note synth-action keyboard, 12 backlit drum pads, 16 encoders, and 9 motorized faders. The Panorama T6 also comes with a high-resolution TFT display that shows the current parameter values and a dedicated transport section that allows you to control Cubase’s transport functions directly from the controller surface. It is USB-powered, and it comes with the Nektarine 2.0 software, which gives you quick and easy access to your VST plugins.
The M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKIV is a versatile and affordable midi controller that is perfect for Cubase users who want a reliable and functional controller without breaking the bank. It features 49 velocity-sensitive keys, 8 trigger pads, 9 faders, and 8 rotary knobs. The Oxygen 49 MKIV also comes with a comprehensive software package that includes Cubase LE, SONiVOX Twist, and AIR Music Tech Xpand!2. It is USB-powered, and it comes with a built-in LCD screen that shows the current parameter values.
Akai Professional Mpk Mini Mk3
The Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 is a popular choice for music producers and Cubase users. This compact MIDI controller packs a punch, offering the necessary tools for music production at an affordable price point. In this section, we will provide an overview of the Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3, its features, pros, and cons.
Overview
The Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 is a powerful MIDI controller that can be used with Cubase. It features a compact design with 25 velocity-sensitive keys, eight backlit MPC-style pads, and eight assignable control knobs. The controller includes a variety of features such as arpeggiator, note repeat, and full level buttons. It also comes with access to virtual instruments, plugins, and samples from Akai Professional and other top manufacturers, making it easy to get started with music production.
Features
The Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 offers several features that make it a great choice for Cubase users:
- 25 velocity-sensitive keys
- Eight backlit MPC-style pads
- Eight assignable control knobs
- Arpeggiator, note repeat, and full level buttons
- Access to virtual instruments, plugins, and samples from Akai Professional and other top manufacturers
- USB powered and class-compliant, making it easy to use with your computer or mobile device
Pros And Cons
Like any product, the Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 has its pros and cons.
| Pros | Cons |
| Compact and portable designIncludes a variety of useful featuresEasy to use with CubaseAccess to virtual instruments, plugins, and samples from top manufacturersUSB powered and class-compliant | Keys may feel small or stiff for some usersPads may feel too sensitive for some usersControls may not offer enough precision for some usersMay require additional configuration for optimal use with CubaseLimited to controlling one MIDI channel at a time |
Overall, the Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 is a great choice for Cubase users who are looking for a compact MIDI controller that is easy to use and offers a variety of features. While it may not be the perfect fit for everyone, its affordability and portability make it a popular choice among beginner and intermediate music producers.
Credit: www.sweetwater.com
Arturia Keylab Essential 49
The Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 is one of the best midi controllers for Cubase enthusiasts. It features an intuitive interface with backlit drum pads, faders, and rotary encoders that allow for precise control over virtual instruments and effects. With its ergonomic design and seamless integration with Cubase, this midi controller is a must-have for producers and musicians.
The Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 is a MIDI controller that has won many people over with its outstanding features. It is one of the best Cubase MIDI controllers currently on the market. This controller comes with top-of-the-line features suitable for professional music producers and beginners alike. In this blog post, we will take you through the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49’s overview, features, pros, and cons.
Overview
The Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 is a versatile MIDI controller that comes with 49 velocity-sensitive keys and eight velocity-sensitive pads. It also has nine rotary encoders, nine faders, and transport controls. The controller’s interface is user-friendly, and it is designed for seamless integration with Cubase, one of the most utilized digital audio workstations (DAWs). The MIDI controller comes with pre-mapped controls, making it easier for music producers to navigate and control Cubase’s functions.
Features
The Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 has numerous features that make it an excellent choice for producers. Here are some of the KeyLab Essential 49’s top features:
- 49 Velocity-sensitive keys.
- Eight velocity-sensitive pads, which are perfect for finger drumming.
- Nine faders and nine rotary encoders for mixing and automation.
- The controller has dedicated transport controls, including play, stop, record, rewind, and forward buttons.
- MIDI Out and USB connectivity, allowing you to connect the controller to your computer, tablet, or mobile device with ease.
Pros And Cons
Like any other MIDI controller, the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 has its pros and cons. Here are the KeyLab Essential 49’s main pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comes with a vast array of features that enable seamless integration with Cubase. | The build quality could be better. |
| The controller is easy to use, even for beginners. | The knobs and faders do not have LED indicators. |
| The KeyLab Essential 49 is compact and lightweight, making it easy to move around with. | The velocity-sensitive pads could be more responsive. |
In summary, the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 is an excellent MIDI controller with top-of-the-line features. Its integration with Cubase makes it an ideal choice for music producers who use Cubase as their main DAW. Despite a few cons, the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 is worth every penny spent on it.
Novation Launchkey 49 Mk3
Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 is the ultimate Cubase MIDI controller. With its intuitive layout, seamless integration, and extensive performance features, this MIDI keyboard allows musicians to create music effortlessly. The Launchkey 49 MK3’s powerful software package and plug-in controls make it a must-have for any studio or live performance setup.
Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 is an excellent Entry-Level MIDI Keyboard Controller designed to cater to the needs of beginners. It is one of the best Cubase MIDI controllers available in the market. This keyboard is the third version of the Launchkey series by Novation. It comes with an array of features that make it easy to use and highly versatile. The keyboard is lightweight and enables beginners to create music easily, even when they are on the move.
Overview
Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 MIDI Keyboard is a highly popular product among beginners in music production who use Cubase. It comes with a wide range of features that make it an ideal option for those who want to explore music production. This keyboard is designed to help beginners create music easily and boost their productivity. With its excellent functionality and easy-to-use interface, the Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 is a solid investment for those looking to get started with music production.
Features
The Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 is packed with features that make music production a breeze. Here are some of the key features:
Full-sized Velocity-sensitive Keys:
This keyboard features 49 full-sized keys that are highly responsive to touch. This gives musicians the feeling of playing a piano, making the music creation experience more enjoyable.
16 Launch Pads:
The Launchkey 49 MK3 also features 16 RGB backlit Launch pads. These pads provide a very intuitive and hands-on approach to making beats and triggering clips in Cubase. The pads are used to assign samples, loops, and other effects to create unique and creative sounds.
Transport Controls:
The Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 comes with transport controls that enable musicians to control their DAW software with the keyboard. This feature saves a lot of time since musicians don’t need to switch between their keyboard and the computer mouse while working on a track.
USB-Powered:
This keyboard is powered entirely by a USB connection. With no need for additional power sources, this keyboard is highly portable and can be used on-the-go.
Pros And Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Extremely lightweight | – Fewer controls than higher-end keyboards |
| – Easy to use with Cubase | – No Aftertouch |
| – Bus-powered, no need for an adapter | – No 5-pin MIDI connectivity |
| – Highly portable and easy to transport |
Overall, the Launchkey 49 MK3 is a great MIDI controller for beginners in music production with Cubase. It comes with a wide range of features that make it easy to use, and it is backed by Novation’s reputation for quality. However, advanced music producers may feel limited by the number of controls. Nonetheless, the Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 stands out as one of the best entry-level MIDI keyboard controllers and has a lot to offer for beginners.
Nektar Panorama T6
The Nektar Panorama T6 is the best MIDI controller for Cubase, offering seamless integration with its extensive control options. Its 61-key format, velocity-sensitive keyboard, and numerous assignable controls make it an ideal choice for musicians and producers seeking a versatile MIDI controller.
Overview
If you’re in need of a powerful MIDI controller for Cubase, the Nektar Panorama T6 is a great option to consider. This MIDI controller is designed to work seamlessly with Cubase, offering a range of features and capabilities that make it a top choice for many professionals.
Features
One of the standout features of the Nektar Panorama T6 is its deep integration with Cubase. With this controller, you can access all of Cubase’s features and functions directly from the controller, making it easier to work quickly and efficiently. Other notable features of the Nektar Panorama T6 include:
- 61 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch for a high-quality playing experience
- 16 encoders, 9 faders, and 10 LED buttons for customizable control
- Integration with VST instruments and effects for easy access to a range of sounds and effects
- DAW navigation controls for easy transport and timeline control
- Automap 4 software for quick and easy mapping of parameters
Pros And Cons
As with any MIDI controller, the Nektar Panorama T6 has its pros and cons. Here’s a closer look: Pros:
- Deep integration with Cubase for seamless control of all features and functions
- The semi-weighted keys and aftertouch offer a high-quality playing experience
- Customizable control with a range of encoders, faders, and buttons
- Integration with VST instruments and effects for easy access to a range of sounds and effects
- DAW navigation controls make it easy to control transport and timeline functions
- Automap 4 software makes it quick and easy to map parameters
Cons:
- The 61-key configuration may be limiting for some users who prefer more keys
- The price point is higher than some other MIDI controllers on the market
- The learning curve may be steep for some users who are unfamiliar with Cubase
Overall, the Nektar Panorama T6 is a powerful and versatile MIDI controller that is well-suited to Cubase users. With its deep integration, customizable controls, and high-quality playing experience, it’s a top choice for professionals who need precision control over their music-making process.
M-audio Oxygen 49 Mkiv
The M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKIV is an excellent choice for the best Cubase MIDI controller. With 49 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys, eight assignable knobs, and nine assignable faders, this controller offers complete control over your music production software. It also comes with DirectLink mode, allowing seamless integration with Cubase for a smoother workflow.
The M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKIV is a popular MIDI controller loved by music producers and musicians alike. It’s targeted towards novice and professional musicians looking for a reliable and affordable MIDI controller. This compact MIDI controller packs a punch in terms of features and functionalities. In this section, we’ll be exploring the overview, features, pros, and cons of the M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKIV in full detail.
Overview
The M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKIV is a stylish and innovative MIDI controller with 49 velocity-sensitive keys. It comes equipped with a variety of control options, making it easy to create music with any software. The device is sleek and durable, with a compact design that is great for on-the-go music production.
Features
The M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKIV boasts an array of features to tickle the fancy of musicians. Here is a table showcasing some of the highlights:
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| HyperControl Technology | Automatically map to popular DAWs and VST plugins such as Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase, and others. |
| Velocity-sensitive keys | Delivers a natural and responsive feel when playing, providing an expressive musical experience. |
| Eight assignable knobs and buttons | Accommodate a vast range of parameters and provide quick access to your most frequently used controls. |
| Assignable faders | Enabling precise control over your tracks and automation. |
| Transport controls | Ensuring seamless playback and recording and easy automation of DAW sessions. |
| Arpeggiator and chorus settings | Adding effects and note sequences to add to your composition. |
Pros And Cons
Like any music gear, the M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKIV has its positives and negatives. These are some of the pros and cons of the device: Pros: – Versatile control over different software setups. – Excellent compatibility with different DAWs and VSTs. – Responsive keys and pitch bend/modulation wheels for expressive and smooth playing. – A compact and robust design for portability and durability. Cons: – Lacks pads and does not have full-sized keys. – Oxygen 49 MKIV is not ideal for professional studio environments and large compositions. – The faders and knobs have a short throw. In conclusion, the M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKIV is a budget-friendly MIDI controller that offers excellent functionality, particularly for beginners and intermediate producers. With its hyper-control technology and vast compatibility with different DAWs and VSTs, the controller makes composing music smooth and accessible. Its compact size makes it a great choice for laptops and on-the-go music production. However, it may not be very suitable for professional studios and complex musical arrangements.
Credit: www.youtube.com
Credit: forums.steinberg.net
Frequently Asked Questions On Best Cubase Midi Controller
What Is The Best Controller For Cubase?
The Steinberg CC121 is the best controller for Cubase. Its features include touch-sensitive faders, AI knob, and transport controls. It has seamless integration with Cubase, and provides a more hands-on control experience for editing and mixing.
Why Is Cubase The Best For Midi?
Cubase is the best for MIDI because it has extensive tools for MIDI editing, such as quantization, transpose, and velocity modulation. Moreover, it has a range of virtual instruments that allow users to create professional-sounding music easily. Additionally, it has a flexible workflow, which makes it ideal for any music production application.
What Midi Remotes Does Cubase 12 Support?
Cubase 12 supports various MIDI remotes, including many generic and specific devices. It is also compatible with Mackie Control and Steinberg instruments.
What Is The Most Popular Midi Controller?
The most popular MIDI controller is Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII. It has 25 keys, eight backlit drum pads, and 25 assignable knobs. It is portable, affordable, and perfect for beginners or professionals. Its popularity is due to its versatility, ease of use and excellent functionality.
Conclusion
The best Cubase MIDI controller is essential for music production enthusiasts who are passionate about creating high-quality sounds. A perfect controller offers multi-functionality, seamless workflow, speed, durability, and compatibility with different versions of Cubase. The reviewed products in this post provide a variety of quality choices for you to make the right decision.
Choose a perfect fit, enjoy your music-making experience and take your music production to the next level. Happy music making!