- Minilab Mk2 Knobs Not Working
- Minilab Mk2 Knobs &
- Arturia Minilab Mk2 Knobs
- Minilab Mk2 Knobs Parts
- Minilab Mk2 Knobs
The modern DAW is one of the most powerful tools artists and producers have to create music.
But with all this power comes some pretty severe limitations and pitfalls.
Working on a computer screen solely with a mouse and keyboard just doesn’t offer the same tactile experience of the analog consoles of studios’ past.
The MiniLab MKII has eight memory banks and number 8 is dedicated to working with Ableton Live and is setup to automatically control certain aspects of Live. The picture at the top of this post shows what the knobs do when using this setting, which works with Live 9.7.2 and up, including Live 10. Arturia MiniLab MkII 25 Slim-Key Controller 25-Note USB Mini Keyboard Controller with 16 Encoders with Gravity Magnet Phone Holder Bundle 4.3 out of 5 stars 28 $109.00 $ 109. At a low price, is tempting. Same sounds ship with the cheaper $99 MiniLab controller. Quite tempted myself, along with the Korg Taktile-Triton, another controller bundled with tons of sounds, but untested in linux as of yet. (you get a PIN for the excellent.
Working on a computer screen solely with a mouse and keyboard just doesn’t offer the same tactile experience of the analog consoles of studios’ past.
That’s why MIDI-enabled DAW controllers are hugely popular with producers from beginner to professional.
In today’s DAW controller market there’s something out there for everyone, no matter what your specific needs are for producing your tracks.
In this article, we’ll look at the best DAW controllers for producers at all levels.
Here’s the 10 best DAW controllers on the market right now.
1. Ableton Push 2
Coming in at number one is the Ableton Push 2.
This MIDI controller does a lot more than just control parameters in Ableton.
It essentially makes it possible to move everything about your production workflow off the computer screen.
The user-friendly interface makes it easy to perform a variety of tasks like writing drum loops, chopping samples, playing scales, mixing and performing live–to name a few.
It’s the most well-integrated DAW controller on this list because it was designed specifically for Ableton.
It’s the most well-integrated DAW controller on this list because it was designed specifically for Ableton.
If you want an all-in-one DAW controller that can do just about anything and keep you from staring at a computer screen, the Ableton Push 2 should be high on your list.
Pros:
- The best-optimized controller for Ableton
- Groundbreaking technology that takes you completely out of the DAW
Cons:
- Only works with Ableton
- Somewhat expensive
2. Arturia Keylab Mk2
The Arturia Keylab series is an excellent place to start if you’re looking for a MIDI keyboard that doubles as a DAW controller.
The Keylab Mk2 comes in a variety of keyboard sizes, so depending on your budget and needs you can get a 49, 61 or 88 key version.
The Mk2 version comes in a solid aluminum build and even includes aftertouch to distinguish itself from its more affordable plastic-cased Keylab Essentials cousin.
The Keylab series all come with pads, sliders and knobs that are mappable to your DAW.
In the Mk2’s case, it comes with 16 pads and 10 sliders and knobs.
Any of Arturia’s Keylab series is a great option for controlling your DAW because they come bundled with access to Arturia’s V plugins, a big selection of re-imagined vintage synth VSTs.
For a solid DAW controller with a great keyboard that integrates with any DAW, you should definitely consider the Mk2 or any more affordable member of the Keylab family.
Pros:
- Rock-solid design and smart interface
- Free access to Arturia VSTs
Cons:
- Expensive but there are less pricey Arturia Keylab options that are comparable
3. Icon QCON
The Icon QCON is the Cadillac of DAW controllers.
It essentially turns your DAW setup into a professional-looking studio with the look and feel of a vintage Neve console.
It’s perfectly designed for mixing and postproduction with automated sliders that physically move according to the levels set in your DAW.
It also comes with a transport section and navigation wheel that makes it easy to find and zoom in on the precise section of track you’re working on.
With flashy level meters, meticulously built faders and knobs, you’ll want the Icon QCON if you’re looking to use your DAW as a commercial console without investing in an expensive analog console.
The Icon QCON is the Cadillac of DAW controllers.
Pros:
- Comprehensive control of your DAW
- Console-like feel
Cons:
- Very expensive
4. Novation Launchpad Pro
The Novation Launchpad Pro is the predecessor to the Ableton Push 2.
Anyone who compares the two will instantly notice their similar look and feel.
It has the same number of push pads less the interactive LCD screens that the Ableton Push uses to put its capabilities into the hardware space.
While it’s not a Push, the Launchpad Pro has a ton of functionality because it integrates with all DAWs and even hardware, not just Ableton.
It also includes useful buttons that map to different functions like a sequencer, chord mode, pan, sends, and a lot more.
It’s a more affordable version of the Push 2 but it still packs a lot of punch and is a great option for anyone looking to produce music without relying so heavily on the DAW interface.
Pros:
- Affordable alternative to the Push
- High-quality build
- Integrates with most DAWs
Cons:
- Not quite ready to completely move you out of the DAW
5. MPK Mini MkII
The Akai MPK Mini is one of the more popular DAW controllers on the market right now.
It’s an affordable MIDI keyboard that comes with eight drum pads and eight mappable knobs.
While it’s easily compared to the Launchkey MINI and the Minilab, it sets itself apart with its joystick control that can be used to modulate pitch and other parameters.
Another defining feature is its sustain input which makes it possible to hook up a foot pedal for added control.
It also includes an arpeggiator sequencer, which makes it very useful for working with hardware synths.
Pros:
- Uses legendary MPC drum pads
- Good keyfeel and controller stick
- Sustain input
Cons:
- Cheaper quality build
- Less optimized for Ableton than the Launchkey Mini
6. Launchkey Mini Mk3
There’s a handful of mini key DAW controllers on the market right now, one of the most notable is Novation’s Launchkey.
Like most mini DAW controllers it comes with two octaves in mini keys, sixteen pads and eight mappable knobs.
However, the Launchkey Mini has all the trappings of a modern DAW controller which puts ahead of some of its older competition.
Just like the Launchpad, the Launchkey’s pad’s come with color-coded lights that map to reflect different parts of Ableton’s interface.
It also comes with a good arpeggiator and while it’s best optimized for Ableton, it also comes with great integration with other DAWs as well.
Pros:
- Well rounded MIDI controller with good features and integrations
- Optimized for use with Ableton
Cons:
- Not as good of a key feel as other mini controllers
- Better suited to finger drummers than keyboardists
7. Minilab Mk2
The most direct comparison to the Launchkey Mini Mk3 is the Minilab Mk2.
These are two very similar DAW controllers in terms of quality and build. Except that the Minilab comes with more knobs and fewer pads than the Launchkey.
The Minilab Mk2 doesn’t have a built-in arpeggiator like the Novation, so it’s not quite as good for controlling hardware synths–Arturia’s Keystep controller however is more set up for this application.
It makes up for not having an arpeggiator by bundling itself with the Analog Lab–a VST plugin collection with over 6000 synth sounds.
Pros:
- Great key feel
- Access to Arturia’s VST collection
Cons:
- Less drum pads than other mini controllers
- No arpeggiator
8. FaderPort 8
The Presonus FaderPort 8 is a DAW controller that focusses on the mixing side of music production.
It’s an affordable comparison to the Icon QCON.
It comes with eight fader controls that mechanically map to the settings in your DAW, meaning they move as you adjust them in your DAW.
Each fader comes with controls for adjusting pan, mute, solo and even editing plugins.
The FaderPort also includes a transport section and full console for zooming, scrolling, navigating your channel bank and more.
Considering its small footprint this console-style controller is quite versatile, of course, if you want more faders to get your hands on you can always upgrade to the larger format FaderPort 16.
Pros:
- Affordable alternative to the more advanced QCON
- Good transport and navigation controls
Cons:
- Not a ton of faders unless you upgrade to the Faderport 16
- Best optimized for Studio One over other DAWs
9. Launch Control XL
The Launch Control XL is a very simple version of the console-style DAW controller.
It has eight fader channels with three accompanying knobs for two sends and panning.
However, it’s possible to map to more sends and effects with the send select and device control buttons.
The Launch Control XL is mostly optimized for Ableton, but it can also be used with any DAW.
Its main weakness is that it lacks a dedicated transport and navigation section.
But, considering its affordable price this could be the right DAW controller if you’re getting started.
It’s a bit older so I’d especially recommend looking at the used market for this specific controller.
I’d especially recommend looking at the used market for this specific controller.
Pros:
- Cheapest option for a mixing console controller
- Decent integrations with most DAWs
Cons:
Minilab Mk2 Knobs Not Working
- Small interface with limited features
10. Professional Fire
If you’re an FL Studio user you should take a look at the Akai Professional Fire since it’s the only DAW controller specifically designed for FL Studio.
This controller is mainly designed to match the sequencer interface that FL Studio is known for, it makes it easy to program beats on multiple channels and visually see your arrangement.
It also comes with knobs for adjusting the level, pan, filter and resonance of each mixer channel so you can use it within your mixing workflow too.
Also included is a transport section to help with streamlining production and recording.
The Professional Fire also functions as a MIDI keyboard and drum pad with it’s dedicated key and drum buttons.
Finally, you can use it for playing tracks in a live setting with its live performance mode.
For the aspiring FL Studio producer, this is an excellent option.
For the aspiring FL Studio producer, this is an excellent option.
Pros:
- The best option for controllers specific to FL Studio
Cons:
- More oriented for writing and creating than post-production
Arturia is a company based in Grenoble, France, specializing in the development of music software and hardware, with products aimed at both amateurs and professionals. In this post, I first list the features of this Arturia MiniLab MKII keyboard. Then you have a video or two, purchase links and useful comments from other users and then you have one of the most useful parts: comparison tables with similar keyboards so you can compare.
- 25 speed-sensitive mini keys
- 16 rotary encoders (two of them are clickable)
- Two banks of eight-speed and pressure-sensitive pads with RGB backlight
- Touchstrips for pitch bend and modulation.
- Connection for sustain pedal
- USB connection
- Bus-powered
- Dimensions: 355 x 220 x 50mm (width x depth x height)
- Weight: 1,5kg
- Includes license for Analog Lab Lite software with 500 sounds in V-Collection Five quality, Ableton Live Lite and UVI Grand Piano (software requires a download from manufacturer’s site)
It also has 16 assignable knobs, very useful when recording or mixing, and to control more specifically the parameters of the plugins to be used. We also have 8 sensitive backlit pads to tune percussive rhythms or other samples.
Minilab Mk2 Knobs &
We also have touch strips to control the pitch bend and modulation of the notes in real-time (at the moment they sound). The Arturia MiniLab MKII also has a sustain pedal input and is USB powered, so no external power supply is needed.
Finally, it’s worth remembering that it includes licenses for the Analog Lab Lite software with 500 sounds in V-Collection Five quality, Ableton Live Lite and UVI Grand Piano, which are highly valued by beginners above all.
Now that we have seen the features of this Arturia MiniLab MKII keyboard, watch these related videos to learn more.
Posts you may be interested in
Arturia MiniLab MKII vs Novation Launchkey Mini MK3
What will you find in this post?
- 7 Where to buy the Arturia MiniLab MKII keyboard
The Arturia MiniLab MkII MIDI Keyboard is priced at €91/£82/$91 while the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 is priced at €98/£89/$99, but the difference is so small that this may vary depending on the shop where you ask.
- Both have 25 speed-sensitive mini keys (intensity according to MIDI language).
- The Arturia offers 16 assignable rotary encoders (knobs), 8 sensitive pads with RGB feedback (RedGreenBlue), and pitch bend and modulation touch strips. In contrast, the Novation gives 8 assignable encoders and 16 RGB pads with sensitivity.
- Both have input jacks for sustain pedal, USB port, and USB power, the miniplay also runs on 3 AA batteries.
- The Arturia includes the Analog Lab Lite software license with 500 sounds in V-Collection Five quality, Ableton Live Lite, and UVI Grand Piano. The Novation includes the Bundle software.
- The Arturia Minilab MKII has the dimensions of 317 x 181 x 44 mm and a weight of 1.5 kg, while the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 has the dimensions (W x H x D): 330 x 41 x 172 mm and a weight of 689g.
Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare
Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 | |
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These are very similar MIDI controllers, where the Novation stands out because of its fixed-chord mode and transport buttons (to go back, stop, forward, etc). The Arturia is licensed as a V-Collection Five, Ableton Live Lite, and UVI Grand Piano. Besides having such a similar price, it gives us a greater difficulty to lean for one as a better controller. However, if you want to have more encoders in your controller, go for the Arturia MiniLab MKII and if you want to have more pads, your choice will be the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3.
And here’s a video of the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3
If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 review.
Arturia MiniLab MKII vs Akai MPK mini MK2
The Arturia MiniLab MkII MIDI Keyboard is priced at €91/£82/$91 when the Akai MPK mini MK2 white is priced at €79/£70/$81, but the difference is so small that this may vary.
- Both have 25 speed-sensitive mini keys (intensity according to the MIDI language).
- The Arturia offers 16 assignable rotary encoders (knobs), 8 sensitive pads with RGB feedback (RedGreenBlue). The Akai offers 8 assignable encoders and 8 RGB pads with sensitivity. In addition to a four-way thumbstick control.
- Both have an input jack for sustain pedal, USB port, and USB power.
- The Arturia includes the Analog Lab Lite software license with 500 sounds in V-Collection Five, Ableton Live Lite, and UVI Grand Piano quality. The Akai includes Hybrid three by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Wobble, and Akai Pro MPC Essentials software.
- The Arturia Minilab MKII has the dimensions of 355 x 220 x 50mm and a weight of 1.5 kg, while the Akai MPK mini MK2 has the dimensions (W x H x D): 317 x 181 x 44 mm and a weight of 748 g.
Arturia Minilab Mk2 Knobs
Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare
Akai MPK mini MK2 | |
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And here is a video of the Akai MPK mini MK2 white keyboard
Again we have two very similar controllers, where the Arturia has twice as many assignable knobs, reaching 16. In downloadable licenses, the Arturia offers Analog Lab Lite with five hundred sounds in V-Collection Five quality, Ableton Live Lite, and UVI Grand Piano, while the Akai offers a four-way thumbstick control and licenses Hybrid Three by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Wobble, and Akai Pro MPC Essentials.
If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Akai MPK mini MK2 white review.
Arturia MiniLab MKII vs Alesis V25
The Arturia MiniLab MkII MIDI Keyboard is priced at €91/£82/$91 and the Alesis V25 is priced at €75/£66/$73, but the difference is so small that this may vary.
- The Arturia has 25 speed-sensitive mini keys (intensity according to MIDI language). While the Alesis has 25 full-size keys also sensitive.
- The Arturia offers 16 assignable rotary encoders (knobs), 8 sensitive pads with RGB (RedGreenBlue) feedback. The Alesis offers 4 assignable encoders, 4 assignable buttons, and 8 RGB pads with sensitivity.
- Both have an input jack for sustain pedal, USB port, and USB power.
- The Arturia includes the Analog Lab Lite software license with 500 sounds in V-Collection Five quality, Ableton Live Lite, and UVI Grand Piano. The Alesis includes Ableton Live Lite software (download) and xpand!2 by Air Music Tech software (download)
Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare
Alesis V25 | |
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And then a video of the Alesis V25 keyboard
We now have good MIDI controllers, with notable differences between them. The Alesis has, as we saw in the face-to-face, 25 full-size keys, 8 backlit pads, and 4 assignable knobs and buttons, plus pitch bend and modulation wheels. In the Arturia we have 25 mini keys, 8 pads, and 16 assignable control knobs. I would go for the full-size keys on the Alesis.
If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Alesis V25 review.
Arturia MiniLab MKII vs Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32
The Arturia MiniLab MkII MIDI Keyboard is priced at €91/£82/$91 when the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 is priced at €105/£98/$108.
- The Arturia has 25 speed-sensitive mini keys (intensity according to MIDI language). When the Native Instruments has 32 mini-keys equally sensitive.
- The Arturia offers 16 assignable rotary encoders (knobs), 8 sensitive pads with RGB feedback (RedGreenBlue). The Kontrol M32 offers 8 assignable encoders and two touch strips for pitch bend and modulation. In addition to a 4D push-button encoder.
- Both have an input jack for the sustain pedal, USB port, and USB power.
- The Arturia includes the Analog Lab Lite software license with 500 sounds in V-Collection Five, Ableton Live Lite, and UVI Grand Piano quality. The Kontrol M32 includes the software Monark, Scarbee Mark I, Reaktor Prism, Komplete Kontrol Software, Maschine Essentials, Komplete Start, Ableton Live 10 Lite. Plus intuitive control over the DAWs: Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, Garage Band, Cubase, and Nuendo.
- The Arturia Minilab MKII has dimensions of 355 x 220 x 50mm and a weight of 1.5 kg, while the Native Instruments Kompletete Kontrol M32 has dimensions of (W x H x D): 475 x 167 x 50 mm and a weight of 1.45 kg.
Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 | |
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In this comparison, we did find differences. The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 offers certain more functions for a really low price, starting with the 32 mini keys when the Arturia gives us 25. The Arturia has 16 encoders and 8 pads, where the Kontrol only has 8 encoders, 0 pads, but a 4D push-button encoder. If you prefer to have a 3-octave keyboard, you will go for the M32. If you prefer the pads, your choice will be the Arturia.
And here is a video of the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32
If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 review.
Arturia MiniLab MKII vs Akai LPK 25
The Arturia MiniLab MkII MIDI Keyboard is priced at €91/£82/$91 while the Akai LPK 25 is priced at €42/£37/$42. With a considerable difference in price, this will be an interesting comparison.
- Both have 25 speed-sensitive mini keys (intensity according to the MIDI language).
- The Arturia offers 16 assignable rotary encoders (knobs), 8 sensitive pads with RGB feedback (RedGreenBlue). The Akai offers octave up/down buttons, sustain button, and tap tempo. It’s really very basic.
- Both have an input jack for sustain pedal, USB port, and USB power.
- The Arturia includes the Analog Lab Lite software license with 500 sounds in V-Collection Five quality, Ableton Live Lite, and UVI Grand Piano. The Akai is Plug and Play and works with virtually all audio software.
- The Arturia Minilab MKII has the dimensions of 355 x 220 x 50mm and a weight of 1.5 kg, while the Akai MPK mini MK2 has the dimensions (W x H x D): 9.65 x 34.04 x 2.79 cm and a weight of 635 g.
Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare
Akai LPK 25 | |
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And here is a video of the LPK 25 Akai keyboard
We have a comparison, between MIDI controllers, very different. On the one hand the Arturia, with all its functions and features that give us more control comfort in the DAW to be used, and on the other hand the Akai LPK 25 with a very small and minimalist design besides being very basic, with 25 mini-classes and up/down octave buttons, tap tempo and sustain. If you have the budget to go for the Arturia, go for it. If you feel you don’t need all its features and want a more minimalist, very portable, and lightweight MIDI keyboard the Akai LPK 25 will be your best choice.
If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Akai LPK 25 review.
Which is the best of these MIDI keyboards if I am a beginner on a low budget?
Minilab Mk2 Knobs Parts
While the answer to this question lies mostly in what specific need you have, for example, if you want to have a keyboard with the widest range of notes possible, or if you want to have as many control functions as possible, or perhaps a mix between the two, that is without leaving behind the different connections and software licenses that most MIDI controllers offer, we will give an objective opinion according to our experience in music production and thus also with the price that the controllers demand, a kind of value for money.
While the Arturia MiniLab MKII is an excellent choice of MIDI controller, we can also comment that the Akai MPK mini MK2 white is a better choice, taking into account its slightly lower price and also its great set of control functions it offers, its compact and portable design, make the Akai MPK mini MK2 white one of the best MIDI controller options in its price level.
Where to buy the Arturia MiniLab MKII keyboard
Amazon
- Free Shipping and the possibility of shipping in one day with Amazon Premium.
- Full Guarantee but they are no experts in music equipment.
- Sometimes a better price.
- He’s got worse stock than Thomann.
Thomann
- Free Shipping.
- Full warranty. If you have any problems, they take care of everything.
- 100% reliable payment.
- A leader in trouble-free shipping.
- Usually the Best price.
- Best Reputation: They are the leading online store in Europe and have the best catalog and information.
Minilab Mk2 Knobs
Also, look at these models with a similar price and features: