A MIDI controller is one of the most important pieces of equipment for every music producer. When it comes to quality, the midiplus AKM320 is a solid choice for any studio. A great controller for beginners, this mid-size keyboard is affordable and includes all of the basic features software musicians need. The controller’s lightweight, portable design makes it a great option for musicians who already have a full size MIDI controller but want a portable one for traveling, performing, editing, recording and composing on the go.
midiplus AKM320
The midiplus AKM320 boasts impressive features including 32 full-size, velocity sensitive keys, a pitch wheel, a modulation wheel, an up and down octave button, an up and down transpose button, and a volume slider. It is USB operated and compatible with any MIDI device, Mac or PC. The keyboard also has an input jack for an optional sustain pedal.
Features We Love
Compact. At only 1.6 pounds and 18” long, this MIDI keyboard takes up little space in a music studio and is small enough to fit in a backpack for easy travel. Musicians can have a MIDI controller available to record, remix, edit or compose any time inspiration strikes. The USB port means no bulky drivers or external power adapters will be taking up extra room.
Extended Features. While this MIDI keyboard may be described as basic when it comes to the quantity of controls, it does include a few gadgets that other small MIDI controllers lack, such as the pitch and modulation wheels that provide more in-depth sound and expression. The transpose and octave buttons are also useful functions, and they make up for the lack of other keys and knobs by allowing the musician to cover more octaves and keys with fewer controls.
Plug and Play. Unlike many other MIDI keyboards, this keyboard has a plug and play feature, meaning the musician is not required to install any drivers or undergo any complicated set-up or installation processes. Musicians can simply plug the device into any computer and begin their musical creations immediately.
Cons
Stiff keys. The velocity sensitivity on the controller keys could stand to be improved, as the keys on this keyboard are a little stiff. Users of this product have complained that they have to press down very hard to get enough volume from the keys. While this would not be problematic for electronic music and simple chords or melodies, musicians wanting to play more complex compositions may have difficulty.
Volume-slider. The volume slider seems to consistently cause problems, as it will not reach minimum or maximum volume, operating only between 30% and 80%.
Compatibility issues. Although the midiplus AKM320 advertises that it is a plug and play device compatible with any computer, some users have reported that their computer has trouble detecting the MIDI controller. This issue only affects a small number of people, but the complaint has not been resolved. Most users with this issue have had to return the device.
Basic controls. While this MIDI controller is a great option for beginners or musicians on a budget, there are many features this keyboard lacks as opposed to more sophisticated models. Seasoned music producers may find there are not enough controls, knobs or pads to meet their production or performance needs.
Software not included. Unlike many other MIDI controller models, there is no music software included with purchase. This means these programs will need to be purchased in order to have more advanced editing and remixing abilities as well as virtual instrumental sounds.
The midiplus AKM320 is one of the most cost-efficient MIDI controllers on the market, and with great reviews and a quality design, it’s a steal at only $37. The midiplus AKM320 can be purchased on Amazon here.
The midiplus AKM 320 is a great MIDI controller for beginner musicians, traveling musicians and those who want a smaller keyboard to accompany a larger one. It’s also a perfect choice when space is limited in the music studio. While this keyboard may be considered basic when it comes to controls and specs, the extended features and affordable price more than make up for what it lacks. The midiplus AKM 320 is a great choice for any software musician.