Nektar SE25 25-key Keyboard Controller Reviews

I'm mainly a guitar player that records and needed a midi controller for virtual instruments. I was thrilled with this little keyboard because it's so small and cheap yet feels good enough to do what I need and has simple controls. Doesn't take up space on the desk and works instantly with my DAW. It comes with it's own downloads but I've got no need since my DAW has everything. Only down side is where it's made... Chynah.

*** I'm not a piano player, just use it for making demos and using virtual instruments in ProTools***


Needed a simple, small MIDI keyboard (one that wouldn't break the first time i used it)
What can i say, its perfect! A few octaves, somewhat responsive keys, and a few standard keyboard features. Does what I need it to do, but if you are a real piano player and need responsive keys for your scales and melodies, I would look into the $300-$500 range. For a bedroom producer or novice keyboardist, it is totally the right fit.

I don't see how anyone could ask for more, at this price! This thing is perfect, for noodling around on the go, or for serious composition. And the Bitwig 8-track software that is included, is amazing!
I would recommend this to anyone, who needs a portable midi controller, that does not take up a lot of space, yet delivers on the big end.

This was easy to set up and useful. My first midi controller and it couldn't be any easier

...with Garageband on a MacBook Pro. This is quite a change from earlier controller...

I like it!!!!

This little unit is perfect for recording on the go and is very well made!

I've never used a mini-keyboard before. So, it is taking me a little time to get used to the size of the keys... but I do really enjoy the feel of them. The touch sensitivity is really nice and a great step up from the keyboard I used to have (M-Audio Keystation 49e). The main reason I got this board was for the info I was reading on how it is instantly recognized by programs like 'Reason' (the major problem I was having with my old board). And they were right. It is instantaneous and has been problem free. I have not messed around with too much of the functionality of the board but the 'octave' keys have a nice feel to them and work very well. Overall, for the price, this is a very solid little board at a decent price. And, it's nice to have a board that can fit inside my laptop bag. :) Hope to keep this thing for years to come.

The SE25 Mini USB Controller Keyboard has been perfect for an extended visit away from my larger keyboard. The little thing fit easily into my carry on suitcase with room left over for my other travel belongings. The controls – octave buttons, transport buttons, sustain button... – are very intuitive and the keyboard comes with digital instructions. Also included in the purchase is a year-long subscription to Bitwig studio. I haven't taken advantage of this as I'm still a beginner when it comes to digital music creation and Bitwig seemed pretty professional/bare bones. In all the music creation softwares I tried the keyboard out in, the integration was seamless and my computer automatically recognized the keyboard.

My only two complaints would be that because I have thicker fingers, it can sometimes be difficult to play dynamics on the condensed 25-note keyboard. The keys themselves are narrower and shorter than a standard piano. The keys really are velocity sensitive, which is terrific. Overall, I have to remind myself that my intention with purchasing this was portability and already while playing it I'm becoming accustomed to the smaller keys.

It's slightly weighted, which helps make a more realistic sound. Great for beginners. I play piano with my right hand mostly so this is perfect. It makes music making on a DAW soooo much easier! It's so portable. I'm so happy with it. Four stars because I wish it came with a protective case. I really enjoyed the candy that came with the package. Would definitely buy from this store again!

I bought the B-Stock version of this Nektar SE25. It came with the very last key a little funky so I can tell that the keys aren't going to last very long with long-term use. I needed something to get me running, low budget so I chose this one. I think overall it was a good purchase. Although, It feels like if I ever accidently dropped it, it would break pretty easily BUT I believe that with some EXTRA care I can make this last more than 6 months (hopefully). On another note, It syncs up very quickly and nicely with FL Studio. Drivers are downloaded automatically. I would recommend for those who are getting their studio equipment back together and need to start somewhere. If you have a bigger budget, maybe go for the 49 key instead or maybe another brand all together.

Pro: Works great out of the box & easy setup
Con: Breaks very easily - DO NOT RECOMMEND for classroom use

Keys are brittle plastic and pop off, used 4 times and its already broke. USB jack is in the worst place.