All user reviews for the Korg microKEY 37

The Korg MicroKey is a USB - bus powered midi keyboard that comes in 3 different key - options.

1) Original 37 key model.
2) 25 key model.
3) 5 octave 61 key model.

The keys are extremely velocity and touch sensitive, which is one of the main attractions of this keyboard that pushed me to get this one. The 61 key model is essential for live keyboard performance, having a pitch and modulation wheel knob along with the octave UP/DOWN buttons (+3/-3). The 37 key model also has the previously mentioned wheel knobs with octave shifts up-to +4/-4. The 25 key model is a smaller version of the 37 key version, but has a joystick that acts as the modulation/pitch-bend along with the sustain and arpeggiator function, having an octave shift of +4/-4. The MicroKey is designed to replicate a natural touch performance similar to the microKORG XL and the microARRANGER.

The 2 extra usb ports (Type A) available in the 37 key version was one another reason why I purchased this midi keyboard. You can connect any of your other Korg midi devices (for e.g, the NanoKey or NanoPad) to the MicroKey and expand your production setup a step further.

Plug your MicroKey into your Mac (From OS X 10.5 and onwards) or PC and start playing. No driver needs to be installed or any additional software needs to run to use this. Plug and Play! This weighs around 1 kg only and is a very light weighted device (Have to feel it and experience yourself).

Another feature that caught me was that you can now connect the MicroKey to an iPad (At-least iOS 5.0) with any core MIDI supported application and start playing and recording. This is very helpful for mobile musicians who are always on the go.

Using the Korg Kontrol Editor software (provided with the purchase and also available for download), customise the MicroKEY for your personal taste. Choose from eight velocity curves and/or fixed velocity, specify the control change number of the modulation wheel or joystick and specify their maximum and minimum values.

UTILIZATION

Using the MicroKey takes only around 1 minute of your time and is that simple. Plug and Play. Start playing and recording according to your requirements and enjoy the velocity sensitive performance. The configuration is absolutely easy. Since this is a digital midi keyboard that can only recognise numbers and only be used to transform digital information via your system to trigger your sounds, there are no inbuilt patches or specially made sounds produced from within the MicroKey.

The Manual is very clear and well taken care of. Ranging from general precautions from how to use the keyboard, explaining and defining every single part of the midi keyboard, Korg makes sure, the user inherits a complete idea of safeguarding this device. I have not faced any situation leading to troubleshooting this device or for a factory reset stage. Anyways, Korg explains and instructs us what to do in these situations as well.

OVERALL OPINION

The quality of the hardware construction of MicroKey is, of-course, having the Korg signature style. Sleek and smoothly black in colour. Performing on the MicroKey gives you a disciplined playback. As some of you might already now the pricing tags made by Korg is usually very high (even for the smallest products), the MicroKey is also not behind in this. With $125, I would say, this is fairly priced (For me). Though there are cheaper midi keyboards that I have used earlier, the MicroKey is well made, tough and durable. For travelling and mobile applications, this is very efficient and user friendly.

Pros

1) Extremely touch sensitive. Natural velocity reproduction.
2) No driver needs to be installed for use.
3) Very user friendly. Smoothly accommodates into your travel/work bag.
4) The pitch-bend and modulation wheel is very detailed giving you even the slowest movement bend.
5) Light weighted.
6) Additional Korg bonus software coupons available for download upon purchase (Discount coupons vary with the model purchased)
7) Optional travel case available for purchase.
8) Two additional USB hubs.
9) USB cable provided along with the keyboard.

Cons

1) A bit over - priced.
2) 3 models could confuse the purchasers (Should I buy the big, small or smaller one?)
3) Comes only in 1 colour.

After conducting fair amount of research only, I had resorted to the MicroKey. I love working with this and will stick to it for another couple of years, hopefully.

I love its compact size because it doesn't take up too much space on a desk.
The keys are big enough to play them.
Very easy to use.
USB connections

UTILIZATION

Nice and responsive piano keys.
I'm not a pianist, I have two pianos but only for basic accompaniment
And this one I can take with me anywhere easily.
It is easy to set up and, for me, the software included is more than enough.
No manual, but it's plug and play.
It's easy to set up but you can also take it very far (I use the basic setup).
The Korg software suite allows you to have fun and create musical lines to accompany yourself.
It works seamlessly with fruity loop, as well as with Guitar Pro 6.

OVERALL OPINION

It's almost two years since I have it. My partner bought it for me as a birthday present and I'm satisfied with it.
I was looking for a USB piano to connect to my PC and "create" music.
I'm originally a guitar player and it works great when I want a percussion line to accompany myself.
The value for money is quite good. Its price corresponds to its quality.
It's very good as a complement to my old Roland.

It was launched in July 2013. I needed a small, 3-octave keyboard to accompany my M-Audio Axiom 49 (with the goal of playing pads and accompaniments on the 4-octave M-Audio but most of the leads on a small, sensitive, 3-octave keyboard with mini-keys). There are quite a few options for 37 mini-keys keyboards on the market... but as soon as you start comparing them, the options start shrinking more and more and this Korg is always on top. In the end, this is the only one left standing. Absolutely everything about this keyboard is done to please you. Among the advantages that made me fall for it:
- It's velocity-sensitive in a very fine and adjustable way
- The keyboard is extremely soft but with a clean Note On triggering, with no odd action.
- Octave transposition (it has a range of 7 octaves!)
- The two indispensable wheels
- There's no need for any particular drivers (you plug into an available USB port, Windows 7 installs straight away its internal driver and you are good to go!)
- It doesn't need power supply (unless you use it with an iPad)
- It has one USB output and TWO(!) USB inputs! Which broadens the possibilities when you have a micro-computer lacking USB ports for other MIDI devices (it works as a sort of hub for two additional MIDI devices).
- It comes with the Korg Kontrol Editor software, which allows you to program it entirely (you can program MIDI messages, assign Control Changes to any key, for example, split the keyboard and assign them to different MIDI channels, modify at will the velocity, create patches, etc.)
- A bundle of free software that are no toys, but true VSTIs distributed by big and well-known names (a free license for Korg M1 LE, a free license for Toontrack EzDrummer Lite, a free licesnse for AAS Strum Acoustic Session, a free license for AAS Lounge Lizard Session, a free license for AAS Ultra Analog Session. More than enough to keep you busy for quite some time and it's all of good quality! Plus, 50% off the full Korg Legacy Collection (which is the best of the best when it comes to vintage synths and you can get for only $130!))

UTILIZATION

The keyboard is VERY nice. It's truly the best mini-keys keyboard I know. It responds perfectly to velocity, the keys don't have any play, release is instantaneous, you can play really fast (that was my goal when looking for a 37-keys) with perfect control. Even the two wheels are sturdy, perfectly adjusted, without any play and not flimsy at all.

There's no aftertouch, but is it really necessary on a keyboard conceived to play fast a fluently? For pads, long sustains and aftertouch I use my M-Audio Axiom 49. Mini-keys with aftertouch is nonsense. Lots of people confuse aftertouch and velocity (which is important on a keyboard with mini-keys to play leads).

And the shell of this keyboard is not made of soft plastic like on other models by well-known brands! This small Korg is almost an all-purpose keyboard, despite its 37 keys. I can take it with me when I go into town and also on weekends to the countryside in any bag and I can even take it on holidays without the fear of it getting damaged! Even the two wheels are as solid as on a normal-sized keyboard. One year later it is still in perfect condition despite using it every day for several hours.

It is extremely easy to set up: Just plug it in and that's it! (If you want o do more specific things with MIDI messages you can install the Korg Kontrol Editor software and it all works seamlessly).

MIDI channel selection is done automatically by all software programs so you don't have to worry any more than you would for any other keyboard.

The manual is perfectly clear (in 5 languages).

OVERALL OPINION

I've been using it every day for several hours since July 2013.

What about the value for money, you ask? Unbeatable! I bought it last summer for $150... And now, in March 2014, it sells for only $120 (and in some stores even $110).

Would I buy it again based on my experience? Yes, for sure! If I ever need another 3-octave mini-key keyboard in the next months I'll buy this one without wasting any time comparing it to any other products!

I bought it due to its size.
I didn't have the space for a 49-key keyboard, besides, I'm not a pianist. But 25 keys is not enough. The 37-keys format is a good compromise.

The MIDI connection via USB is a good point given the built-in hub that I use to connect a launchpad mini, which works perfectly.

It's very light. It fits inside a bag. Responsive pitch wheel.

UTILIZATION

The keyboard is fairly good in the sense that you have a decent sensitivity. It's nothing spectacular, but with my level of piano it's ok. And the keys aren't that small. You won't hurt your hands playing chords

I haven't read the manual, it's plug & play. Apparently it comes with a software bundle... I'll have to check that later.

OVERALL OPINION

I received it today. Time will tell.

I've had several synths, including the NL2X, which isn't well-known for its keyboard. I love the mellow side of this Korg Mini.

Pros: mini dimensions, 37 keys, responsive pitch wheel, quality ok
Cons: time will tell

For the price, it's a chance not to be missed.

37 keys: this is the minimum for my taste.

Pitch bend and modulation wheels: essential to enjoy all synth.

No arpégiatteur or MIDI CTRL function keys ... But honestly, who really uses this feature on this type of keyboard? Other controllers or synths and sequencers themselves are largely better job. They are false selling on other mini-keyboards.

UTILIZATION

I'm keyboardist and I have hitherto been very disappointed with all the mini keyboards. Akai are horrible for my taste at this level it is impossible to have a quick game on, and touch is very unpleasant.

You should know what you want though: it's still a mini keyboard, whose main asset is to be small and light. But it is in my opinion the only mini keyboard on which you can really play live. Others serve no other purpose than 2-3 test stuff.

The pitch bend and modulation wheels are real wheels, usable and robust. The pitch bend is a bit too strong for my taste, but this is quibbling for this size for this price.

Configuration is very simple: you plug in usb and voila.

OVERALL OPINION

I bought it today.

I tested the Akai LPK25, Akai the APK Mini Korg nanoKEY. This is by far the best after only a few hours of improvisation above. Others allow only really worth playing the keyboard, so good ...

I also tested larger midi keyboards, but it is not the same product: here we look for a feather weight and minimum bulk. Personally I bought it because I wanted to make some improvisations on my live, without having to carry a real keyboard.

The value for money is ok. It could have been a cheaper hair, but I do not regret my purchase: it will replace all others when I have to move. And I have full confidence in Korg: none of their products has dropped beneath my fingers. To believe that by giving the low-cost, they finally know how to deal.

Note that this keyboard is also a USB hub: very convenient because if you want knobs and faders must add another micro-controller (the nanokontrols are excellent for this).

An important detail: the keyboard does not slide when playing. It has mini-rubber feet, which hang just enough to be full play without fear of the keyboard from before when playing too loud.

Finally: the design is simple and classy. It is a small notch above other mini keyboards, which are very playmobil. This is a nice object that inspires confidence.

The microKEY 37 has been around for a while now, you can get it in to different versions. It comes with the classic style or the limited edition version that cost more. Either way, they both come with Korg M1 LE VST that you can use as a plug in for any DAW that you use to create with. The software alone is worth more than the price of the 37 key USB controllers itself. This is a great buy with this controller because for 70 dollars you are getting a great portable controller that you can use wherever you go and you are also getting a software bundle of sounds and awesome presets.

UTILIZATION

It does come with a manual, but you would only really need the manual that comes with the Korg software so you can set it up and get it running. All of the basic functions of the keyboard controller are easy to use and understand.

OVERALL OPINION

This controller is BUS powered so you don’t have to worry about having it plugged into a wall jack because the power is provided right from your USB port. It is one of the most portable keyboard controllers you will every own. You can even purchase this controller in the 25 key version for about 70 bucks.
When you purchase this controller you will have everything you need right out of the box to get it up and running and start using it right away. It does not have any transport controls on it nor does it have any assignable knobs or sliders. But it does have a modulation stick to tweak your sounds with. The keys are velocity sensitive and have a nice feel to them. They are not weighted though and feel rather cheap but that is because they whole unit is rather inexpensive. But it is still the ultimate portable controller.

I needed a small keyboard controller for travel but there is usually only 25 to format large enough so restricted or without wheels. It has 3 octaves enough without limit as do two octaves. It has two wheels, it is rarely found on small keyboards and compact it fits easily into a travel bag sized.

UTILIZATION

It should be the size of mini keys and after, no problem. The velocity sensitivity is correct, the wheels are nice. One can easily change the octave. This keyboard is basic but well thought out and pleasant to use. Very light, great for traveling, a little less to play on the legs where it obviously moves a lot.

OVERALL OPINION

I use it for six months, I'm not disappointed. Accustomed to the master controller, it is basic but well thought out. Its more, format 37 keys, its wheels and its usb hub, its small overall dimensions and weight for travel. It is also very good in extra keyboard next to its big brothers. Negative points? The mini size allows easy transport, lightweight so as not. I would do all this choice there is not much competition in this format.

Motivation of choice:
1 / size has clearly led my decision: I wanted a small portable keyboard (master keyboard), over 2 full octaves.
2 / make: I played on a Triton for years, and Korg digital pianos. excellent reference for me.

UTILIZATION

nice touch.
the keys are small (Bontempi type of year 80), and lightly weighted (half way between touch and no heavy ballast - never tested before).
general very simple config (on vista, keyboard recognized immediately.
2 software to download from the Korg website: in 5 minutes, the case is folded.
One of the software includes the basic functions of a master keyboard, which are not available directly on the keypad: simple interface, which allows to select the midi channel, the level of sensitivity, aftertouch, etc.
Fairly simple and intuitive

OVERALL OPINION

I use it for one week, and I am very happy since served its small footprint, while remaining well made and no surprises on touch or use.
average value (90eur) but quality costs: 50 euro, would probably la'appareil been more "plastic" in appearance, with no weighting of the keys.
Nothing wrong

I already had a master keyboard nomadic than 2 octaves (I tested the Korg NANOKEY unsuccessfully for never recognized by my laptop and traded to a friend and I own the Akai LPK 25, very good but alas no wheels)
The longer key travel and the presence of pitch wheel and modulation then the 3 octaves for the coup to overthrow the agreements have motivated my purchase especially since it has a beautiful appearance.

There are the classic octave buttons with this type of keyboard.

More if it requires a USB port on your machine, it can accommodate 2 when plugged so it wins in the end.

It has no input jack for a sustain pedal and other pedals, volume, modulation, but it does him no fault must still remember that it is a portable keyboard, so we need In essence, and there he is.


UTILIZATION

Touch is very nice considering the size of the keyboard, it is equivalent to Akai LPK 25.

It suits me perfectly, a manual is provided clear and simple, not so indispensabe the keypad is intuitive (and then it's a keypad!).
I did that looked furtively and in principle not to miss the hidden functions.

OVERALL OPINION

I use it for 1 month.

as said before I tried the Korg nanoKEY (assumed to help in format to the touch but very questionable and I could not really see what it was: see above), the Akai 25 LPK very good but without knobs ( I always have for my frequent trips for the more compact it fits in a laptop bag that is no longer the case with a 3 octave).

It is more successful than the other 2 but less compact and therefore they have to choose more or note or more portability then buy a bigger backpack and there it is perfect!

The quality / price is okay but not amazing, it's certainly a novelty (especially wheels) but it is a master keyboard, not a technological revolution, a good price for me would be a 60aine euros .

I do it again without hesitation that choice if it meets a genuine need

The goal was to own a small keyboard for Master bedroom ideas with my MacBook Air 11 "
I needed a powered USB keyboard on the bus, with max 49 keys, a pitch wheel and modulation.
The game touches on being fast enough to play for a non pianist, the small size of the keys was a good point.
Finally the presence of a USB hub for connecting two devices such as dongles or Steinberg ilok or other controllers were also in favor of this choice.

Finally the lack of competition has come up my mind ..

UTILIZATION

The keyboard is very comfortable and exudes solidity unlike nanoKEY of Korg which keys come apart after a week of use!
Nevertheless there is a small detail that bothers me a bit and I could check on other copies is that the keys back up a bit. In fact the rest, they are not exactly horizontal, they are at an angle if you look at the keyboard profile that points to the edge of the top buttons.
This is not noticeable in the game too but compared to a mini keyboard akai LPK25 kind, it is less fun ..

Otherwise apart from that the installation is automatic on my Mac and the small software korg can choose from 8 profiles of velocity, which can stick well to all styles of play I

OVERALL OPINION

has been a week but is already enough to go around and give an objective opinion, apart from the long term, of course!

To give an overall opinion, I would say they are very enjoyable to play, it is relatively compact and the function became essential HUB ..
However, I do not appreciate the fact that the keypad is facing up cradles, which breaks the aesthetics and quality of the calves pitch modulation .. Very cheap and very convenient.

Briefly say that for now the lack of competition is forcing me to keep it but as soon Aker released a version of its 37 keys with a small LPK25 pitch wheel, then I resell the korg to go to the Akai & %&%&%&%