Gearank

Gearank High Notes

• 2022.08: Highest Rated 88-Key MIDI Controller Keyboard
• 2022.07: Highest Rated MIDI Controller Keyboard from $500 to $1000
• 2021.06: Highest Rated 88-Key MIDI Controller Keyboard
• 2021.06: Equal Highest Rated MIDI Controller Keyboard from $500 to $1000
  Tied With:
  Yamaha MX61 V2
  

• 2020.05: Equal Highest Rated MIDI Controller Keyboard from $500 to $1000

Gearank Recommended

Specifications

• Keys: 88 hammer action, Weighted Fatar TP/100LR Keybed
• Pads: 16 x RGB Backlit Performance Pads
• Controls:9 x Rotary Encoders, 9 x Faders, Pitchbend, Mod Wheel
• Octave: 2 Octaves (+/-)
• Automap: Yes
• Connectivity: 1 x 1/4" (sustain), 1 x 1/4" (expression), 3 x 1/4" (aux pedals), MIDI In/Out/Thru/USB, CV; Pitch out, Gate out, Mod 1, Mod 2, CV in,
• Control Hardware Directly: Yes
• Compatibility: OS X 10.11 or later, 64-bit , Windows 7 SP1 or later, 64-bit
• Power: External AC adapter
• Dimensions: 50.9" x 12.7" " x 4.4"
• Weight: 32.4 lbs.
• Bundled Software: Ableton Live Lite, Analog Lab Software

User Feedback

Glowing reviews are all focused on how good the keys feel to the touch.

One reviewer noted that the response feels similar to his Steinberg Grand Piano.

A lot of the reviewers said they were more than happy with the amount of control they can get with the KeyLab 88.

While many found the keys to feel great, others found them to be a bit "spongy", particularly for players used to synth-action keys.