Just ordered a Novation Peak. I'm also in need of a new midi keyboard/controller. I'm currently looking at the new Novation slMK3 (I have the mk2) the NI S61mk2 & the Nektar Panorama.

I have lots of vst synths & ableton & just the peak & a waldorf waveXT my DAW is Live I also have a keystep & a push2.

I like the look of how the Nektar works with software synths but i'm not confident of the build quality plus it doesn't have & sequencer & fancy key lights.
The NI looks great but i assume works best with NI & Arturia products, also no seq.
The Slmk3 looks good but im not sure how well it works with software.

Anyone have any of these, any advice?

 

If you only want a minimalistic but really good Controller i can recommend the Icon Keyboard 5X, great building Quality, easy system integration and overall great Price.

Got it for Christmas and i'm more than happy

 

i guees its ok...
go for an old midi controller or arturia cause them have still midi out ...or the more expensive ones...eg novation

 

Also consider your needs for:

* Aftertouch (poly pressure) ?
* Key weighting... light (synth action) , medium (general styles) , weighted (piano style)
* Mechanical key noise... personally for me I prefer quiet key depressions + quiet key returns. Play keys rapidly, with no audio generated, listen how they perform.

 

Yes to all of those although i know i will have to make concessions as i want knobs & sliders & keep it under £600. The fatar keybed in the mk2 isn't that great but i could live with it.

 

Novation slMK3

 

I have an Akai mpk2 61 I like it a lot. but I know pro keyboard players like the fatar keyboard.
Like I like my strat in playing.
Fatar keybeds are really good. The Akai is nice. It does everything i want it to.