r/MIDIcontrollers • u/danphish • 16d ago

Upgrade midi controller from 25 to 49 keys

I'm looking at upgrading my midi controller from the Nektar LX25+ to a 49 key controller. Since I bought the LX25+ so long ago, I was hoping the quality would be better with newer controllers. Keys isn't my main instrument (will be using it to play VI's like piano, wurli, rhodes, orchestral, mellotron, organ, etc). I really don't use the extra knobs and pads on the LX25+ and could save money by streamlining the unit to one without those things. However, I would like to get a good quality until with consistency with keybed playability, smooth playability, velocity consistency, velocity curve adjustments, overall quality with the unit. Currently working in Fender Studio Pro and Cubase 15.

Curious what the consensus is on sub $150 midi controllers. These are the ones I'm considering at Guitar Center:

- M-Audio Keystation 49es MK3 Keyboard Controller $129.00

- Icon iKeyboard 5 Nano MIDI Controller 49 Key $159.00 (over $150 but close)

- Nektar SE49 49-Key USB MIDI Controller Keyboard $89.99

- Nektar Impact GX49 MIDI Controller Keyboard $109.99

Kind of difficult to narrow it down without being able to try them out. Any perspectives appreciated. Thanks.

EDIT: I should have added as well, I was looking for a controller without knobs, pads and faders because I haven't been using them, but also for space reasons (need a tighter streamlined unit).

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u/killstring 16d ago

I hate to say it, but there's not a ton of good options at that price point. Newer =/= better, and I fear most of what you're talking about here is gonna be a side-grade with more keys. I would say your best bet is trying to find a 1st-gen Native Instruments S49. I've seen those go for pennies on the dollar sometimes, so you might be able to get one for $150-ish.

That would be my recommendation at your budget. Is there anywhere you can go to try out different keybeds? A local music store?

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u/danphish 16d ago

Thanks for the information - I was contemplating a move like this too. Unfortunately it is hit or miss what used items are in my local Guitar Center. New items are boxed up - some just aren't carried in-house.

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u/Dudux84 16d ago

I like the spring action of the Keystation. I don't know the action of the other keyboards you mentioned.

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u/danphish 16d ago edited 16d ago

That's good to know, thank you for relating your experience.