Impact LX49+

This is a a great value and a very versatile midi controller. It works will all major DAW software including Ableton Live (despite some of the descriptions to the contrary about it being difficult to use with Ableton Live). I had no issue using it with Ableton Live or Reaper however, it works best with PreSonus Studio One Version 5 and the included license for the Bitwig DAW. The Nektar seems easier to setup completely (apart from the piano keyboard, the volume and mixing controls are easier to setup in Studio One and Bitwig but I also got them to work in Ableton. Reaper was the most difficult setup but it does work.) within those DAWs and it also has no issue with notation software like Musescore, Sibelius and Notion.The keyboard itself has semi-weighted keys so it is easier to play than a regular piano so if you're looking for a more piano-like keyboard, try a keyboard with fully-weighted keys (the Nektar is semi-weighted).The drum pads work very well as do the mixing controls.This is an excellent, feature-rich value at the <$200 range so I highly recommend this Nektar LX49.

Setup was easy and painless with Reaper. I installed some really old versions of Reaper and had to use a generic set up and still it worked great/works great. I had to delete the roaming data to reinstall it on reaper's newer version after my tinkering in old versions. It feels solidly built. I am glad I didn't go with a cheaper model or one that was harder to set up. I am able to buy Reaper for $60 and play with free VSTs to my heart's content. I looked at more expensive software and synths but really for my level of expertise and dedication, Reaper and free VSTs is where I need to stay. But the keyboard worked with lots of different software without a problem for the basic features. I am not experienced enough to comment on the extra bells and whistles this comes with as I have not played with them that much. But they seem to be working. I feel like it will last and it was not much more to buy this instead of a less well made keyboard. I'm happy with this one.The 49 key is as large as I can fit on my desk. I ended up getting a mini keyboard and mouse to use while it is out. My husband added a shelf above my desk for it when I am not using it. The shelf is 2x10 and it overhangs slightly with the cord removed. I am using a powered USB hub with it and have had no issues with power being interrupted. The keys themselves seem full size, not skinny little things. It has some weight to it. I am really happy with this product and would buy from this company again in the future if I wanted to upgrade. I love having the extra keys so I can get a range of sounds out of the synths, for me the 49 key is perfect for now.

Great keyboard and works great with Studio One. However, don't purchase the keyboard relying upon the included Bitwig Studio software. It is terrible and actually its inclusion gives Nektar a bad reputation. It doesn't load properly on MANY computers and attempts to get it to work, to contact support are Very time consuming and didn't fix the loading problem. Again, I'd give the keyboard a 5, but they need to replace the included software!

First of all this has turned out to be a great midi keyboard. I searched for a couple of months for something that would be a good fit for an iMac/ Logic Pro set up and was close to buying the Arturia brand but I felt when finally comparing Nektar to Arturia they were very similar products however Nektar had the edge both in value for money and ease of use.The Nektar looks good and all the buttons and knobs do something. Once you go through the software integration process you will discover that the track volume controls are already mapped to Logic. Very handy. The knobs for control of your synthesizing needs are not and I am yet to manually map these.The keyboard feels fine. There is good enough sensitivity to the keys for loud and quiet play. I’ve played piano for thirty years and the keys were as expected for a midi. Plastic. Surprisingly I have used the pads. They are fun and if you like creating your own drum beat then they are good to have.To summarize I’m very happy with this midi. I’m still learning all the functions of Logic and Nektar but it’s good value, easy to use and FUN!!