MIDI Pad Controllers

[john]

Hey gang

 

I’ve been looking at MIDI Pad Controllers, especially the low to mid price points. There’s a lot on the market now! Some excellent mini/micro/nano models. Some of those look like excellent options for a mobile set up, like:

• Korg Nanopad 2
• Arturia Beatstep Pro
• Akai APC Mini
• Akai LPD8
• SubZero Mini Pad
• SubZero ControlPad64
• Omnitronic PAD-12

• Akai Professional MPX8 SD Sample Pad

• Novation Launchpad Mini MK3

• PreSonus ATOM USB Pad Controller

• IK Multimedia iRig Pads

 

To be honest, I would be happy to take any of those for a test drive. When the time come to add to my mobile set up I’ll be looking at them closely. Meanwhile, does any of you have experience with any of the above?

 

However, I’m looking for something for use in my studio. Until recently I had been considering the Akai Professional MPD218 Pad Controller. I don’t really want to go above the $250 mark. I am now looking at the Native Instruments Maschine Mikro MK3. I have an S61 mk2, so some of it would be fairly familiar. Native Instruments build quality tends to be pretty good.

 

 

Have any of you got much experience with a Maschine Or Maschine Mikro? If so, what is your opinion of them? Was it worth the money? Are there any major benefits or limitations to be aware of?

 

Cheers

 

John