AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Novation Master Keyboards (up to 61 Keys) 2026
The top pick is Novation FLkey 2 61 MIDI Keyboard Controller ($351). Novation FLkey 61 MIDI Keyboard Controller gives you the most for the money at $256. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 4 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 10, 2026
Top 4
Full detail for the 4 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Novation FLkey 2 61 MIDI Keyboard Controller
FLkey 2 61 · Novation
11 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight4.78 kg
- Key actionSemi-weighted keys
If you make beats or music in FL Studio, you will find this keyboard set up to work with it. It has 61 semi-weighted keys, 16 pads with polyphonic aftertouch, and plenty of faders and knobs to shape your sound. It suits producers and players who want hands-on control and a big bundle of included software.
Pros
- Built to control FL Studio, with a six-month trial of FL Studio Producer Edition included
- Has 16 pads with polyphonic aftertouch for expressive finger control
- Includes integrated scale and chord modes plus an arpeggiator
Cons
- Weighs 4.78 kg and measures 895 x 93 x 263.5 mm, so it needs a fair amount of desk space
73AudioFu
Index↓ 1.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$357 · Aug 17$351 now$351€314 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Novation FLkey 61 MIDI Keyboard Controller
FLkey 61 · Novation
19 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight3.4 kg
You get 61 keys that respond to how hard you play, so harder presses give louder notes. It is optimised for FL Studio, and its 16 lit pads let you tap out drums or control the channel rack. If you make beats or songs in FL Studio, this one is a good fit for you.
Pros
- 61 velocity-sensitive keys respond to how hard you play
- 16 RGB-illuminated velocity-sensitive pads for drums and control
- Optimised for controlling FL Studio, with mixer and channel rack control
Cons
- At 952 x 77 x 258 mm and 3.4 kg, it is a large, heavy board for small desks
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$256 now$256€229 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight4.78 kg
- Key actionSemi-weighted keys
If you want one controller for keys, drums and software, this one is worth a look. It has 61 semi-weighted keys, 16 pads that respond to how hard you hit them, and plenty of knobs and faders to control your music software. It suits you if you make beats or play keys at home and want to start right away with the included software.
Pros
- 61 semi-weighted keys give you a playable feel for keyboard work
- 16 FSR drum pads with polyphonic aftertouch respond to how hard and how long you press
- Nine faders, eight rotary controls and scale and chord modes give you hands-on control
Cons
- Weighs 4.78 kg and measures 895 mm wide, so it takes up real space on a stand or desk
58AudioFu
Index↓ 4.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$323 · Aug 17$309 now$309€276 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight6.32 kg
- Key actionSemi-weighted keys
The 61SL MKIII is a powerhouse for producers and keyboardists wanting a fully-featured MIDI controller with a built-in sequencer. It’s ideal for those who live in Ableton Live but still want tight integration with other DAWs, and the sequencer really cuts down on the need for a separate DAW for initial idea capture.
Pros
- Excellent sequencer for sketching out song ideas quickly
- Robust build quality; feels solid and well-assembled
- Comprehensive DAW integration, especially with Ableton Live
Cons
- Semi-weighted keys lack the feel of a fully weighted piano action
- The TFT displays, while functional, could be brighter and higher resolution
Master Keyboards (up to 61 Keys) by the numbers
Measured across all 33 models we track, not a sample.
median of 31 models · 1.71 kg–6.8 kg
most common · 14 models
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 5 master keyboards (up to 61 keys) from the Thomann catalogue (of 33 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What should I look for when buying master keyboards (up to 61 keys)?
Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.
How much should I spend on master keyboards (up to 61 keys)?
Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.
Are expensive master keyboards (up to 61 keys) worth the investment?
Higher-priced master keyboards (up to 61 keys) typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.
What are the best brands for master keyboards (up to 61 keys)?
Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.
Should I buy master keyboards (up to 61 keys) online or in-store?
Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.
