Arturia Minilab MKII Vs Komplete Kontrol M32
The best MIDI controllers aren’t cheap, but not all good controllers are expensive, such as the Arturia Minilab MKII Vs Komplete Kontrol M32, which are reliable and affordable. These controllers come with all essential features and a streamlined workflow, depending on what software you are used to. Today we will see what the two can offer, the similarities and differences so you can choose better.
In this comparison, we will talk about the following:
- What are the Arturia Minilab MKII and Komplete Kontrol M32?
- How is the Design of Arturia Minilab MKII and Komplete Kontrol M32?
- How is the Keyboard in Arturia Minilab MKII and Komplete Kontrol M32?
- How is the Pad in Arturia Minilab MKII and Komplete Kontrol M32?
- How is the Encoder in Arturia Minilab MKII and Komplete Kontrol M32?
- Arturia Minilab MKII Vs Komplete Kontrol M32
- Which Affordable MIDI Controller to Buy?
| Arturia Minilab MKII | Komplete Kontrol M32 | |
|---|---|---|
  |   |
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| Product Dimensions | 14 x 8 x 2 inches | 6.57 x 18.7 x 1.96 inches |
| Shipping Weight | 3.2 pounds | 2.2 pounds |
| Shop now at Amazon | Check price | Check price |
About the Arturia Minilab MKII and Komplete Kontrol M32
Almost everyone can create music today; you only need a computer and music software. The software is powerful enough to provide various instruments or sounds and effects you need. However, controlling software through the mouse and keyboard is unnatural for musicians, and you may want something more engaging. This is where a MIDI controller comes in handy. This keyboard-like device has touch-sensitive keys and pads, with various physical controls to navigate and trigger your music software. While they look similar, MIDI controllers vary based on features and sometimes compatibility. Read also: Arturia Minilab MKII Vs Alesis V25.
Some popular and affordable MIDI controllers for enthusiasts and musicians are Arturia Minilab MKII and Komplete Kontrol M32, which are similarly affordable but also different. As the name suggests, the main difference between these controllers is the number of keys, because you should consider the Minilab MKII if you need a compact keyboard, as it has ten fewer keys than the M32 from Native Instrument. This keyboard is also cheaper with all essential features and has been around for quite some time to build a solid user base.
On the other hand, the Komplete Kontrol M32 from Native Instrument is a bigger keyboard and is more expensive. More keys can benefit those who want wider freedom while maintaining all features. Before you get this keyboard, note that it missed the pads and thus may not be ideal for musicians who love the drumming on sensitive pads. Your preference may vary, but we prefer the Minilab MKII as it provides all essential features.
Arturia Minilab MKII and Komplete Kontrol M32 Design
Build quality is crucial in almost any electronic, especially for something you want to last for a long time. These keyboards are plastic, except for the Minilab MKII’s metal base. The feeling is solid and sturdy, but you will not see the most rugged keyboards. The M32 is a wider device if you plan on carrying them while traveling. As you can see, the layout is different, and while the M32 has numerous encoders, the Minilab MKII has dedicated pads. These keyboards come with some inclusion, including Ableton Live Lite.
Arturia Minilab MKII and Komplete Kontrol M32 Keyboard
As mentioned above, the key numbers are the main difference between Arturia Minilab MKII and Komplete Kontrol M32 because you get more from the M32. At the same time, Minilab MKII is more compact with fewer keys. It is a matter of preference because neither is better than the other. If your usage is stationary, the M32 gives more freedom with more keys and is probably more comfortable for those who used to play a full-sized keyboard, despite a huge difference between a real keyboard and a controller.
On the other hand, the Minilab MKII benefits users who often bring their controllers for live performing since the form factor is more compact. You can easily fit it in a backpack. The keyboards’ keys are similarly light and sensitive to send a varying signal to your software while adjusting the pressure. The keys are okay; they are easy to play and robust.
Arturia Minilab MKII and Komplete Kontrol M32 Pads
One of the selling points of Arturia Minilab MKII is the pads, which are missing from the M32. Not everyone uses pads, and removing them for the additional encoders is understandable when preferred. These pads are better than those in the earlier Minilab because it is now touch and velocity-sensitive, giving you more freedom in expressing your music, especially for those who love drumming on these pads. These pads are RGB-backlit and are customizable from the MIDI Control Center mapping editor. These MIDI pads have two internal pad banks for drumming or triggering other sounds.
Arturia Minilab MKII and Komplete Kontrol M32 Encoders
As for the encoders, the Arturia Minilab MKII and Komplete Kontrol M32 have a set of encoders to navigate the DAW, but generally, it is better on the M32 because it is more versatile and powerful; you also get more controls on this keyboard. The M32 has Track Mode if you use Ableton Live or Logic Pro X, providing more software control. You get toggle buttons for Loop mode and metronome, transport, a Tap tempo control, and Undo. If you use Logic, these encoders move focus between tracks. Read also: Arturia Minilab MKII Vs Novation Launchkey Mini MK3.
The same encoders in Arturi Minilab MKII are still very useful. These physical controls will be mapped for the most common functions out of the box, such as filter cut-off, envelope time, LFO depth, etc. You can also custom them for other alternatives, but they are less versatile than the M32.
Arturia Minilab MKII Vs Komplete Kontrol M32
Arturia Minilab MKII and Komplete Kontrol M32 are exciting options in the price range, but they differ based on their features and inclusion. If you like the setup, the M32 has more inclusions, giving it a higher value. We also love how it integrates with DAWs, especially for the encoders, giving you more freedom over the Minilab MKII. These MIDI controllers are USB-powered, so they are handy for traveling purposes, but the MKII is more compact when you need to fit one in the backpack.
The other difference is on the pads because the M32 is missing the entire velocity-sensitive pads, which is a crucial feature for those who love drumming. The eight pads in Minilab MKII are RGB backlit and have two internal banks, so you can use them for finger drumming and triggering other sound samples.
Conclusion
The decision is yours because we may have different preferences. We recommend the MKII for sensitive pads because this is one of the most versatile choices in this price range. On the other hand, the M32 is a bigger keyboard with more keys and better encoders, especially in how it integrates and commands the software. These keyboards are USB-powered, so they are equally handy for traveling purposes.
