MIDI Controller Keyboard Recommendations

Installation & Configuration Linux
#1

Can anyone recommend a good make and model of MIDI controller keyboard which works well with Ardour ‘out of the box’ i.e is supported well by a control surface protocol or MIDI binding map included in Ardour 8?

Ideally I’m looking for something which has:

  • Transport controls
  • Faders and knobs (I’m flexible on the number but at least four of each would be nice)
  • Pads for drums (at least 4 but the more the merrier)
  • 2 to 4 octaves on the keyboard
  • Velocity output from keys
#2

I want to recommend a Novation Launchkey mk 4 (there are several different models).

However, it turns out that there are issues with current Linux kernels and these devices. I’ve been in touch with Novation about it … I don’t know if/when/how it will be resolved.

#3

Ok, I wasn’t expecting the kernel to be a factor! Where do the variables end?!

Do you know if there are other manufacturers whose controllers are more likely to work well?