Korg microKONTROL

$59.58 Price Tier: Budget

4.0 (15)

3 Critic Reviews

3 Reviews

Find out who is using Korg microKONTROL MC-1

3 community setups

5 wishlisted

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Page last updated Jul 01, 2026

Pricing and availability

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5.0 (2)

$59.58 6 available Used

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Average Price: $60

Budget/Beginner

$200

$501+

Price Tier

In the MIDI Keyboard Controllers category, Korg microKONTROL is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

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Description

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The Korg microKONTROL is your compact companion for harnessing full MIDI control in both studio and live settings. Designed for the musician on the move, this 37-key velocity-sensitive mini keyboard packs a punch with its versatile control options. Equipped with 8 rotary encoders, 8 sliders, and 16 trigger pads, it offers a tactile and hands-on approach to manipulating your favorite digital audio workstations (DAWs) and soft synths. Whether you're producing in a studio or performing live, the microKONTROL’s assignable joystick provides intuitive control over pitch bend, modulation, and other MIDI messages, adapting to your creative needs.

The microKONTROL’s user-friendly interface includes an LCD sub-display for each encoder and slider, ensuring you stay focused on your music instead of your screen. With 12 preset scenes and support for bus power via USB, it’s a breeze to integrate into any setup. Plus, its lightweight and portable design makes it an ideal choice for musicians who need a reliable controller on the road.

Bundled with a comprehensive software suite including Live 4 Korg Edition and SampleTank 2 Korg Edition, the microKONTROL extends its capabilities, allowing you to dive into music production with powerful tools right out of the box.

Key Features:

37 velocity-sensitive mini keys with multiple velocity curves
16 trigger pads for versatile MIDI control
8 rotary encoders and 8 sliders with individual LCD sub displays
Assignable joystick with switch for dynamic control
MIDI IN/OUT ports and USB-MIDI interface capability
Powered via USB, AC adapter, or batteries
Bundled with software including Live 4 Korg Edition and SampleTank 2 Korg Edition
Compact design ideal for mobile use and tight performance spaces

Product specs

Brand	Korg
Model	MC-1 microKontrol
Finish	Silver
Year	2010s
Categories	Keyboard MIDI Controllers, Pad MIDI Controllers
Analog / Digital	Digital
Key Size	Mini
Keyboard Action	Synth Action
MIDI I/O	MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Number of Keys	37 Keys
Number of Pads	16 Pads

FAQs

Is the Korg microKONTROL compatible with modern DAWs?: Yes, the Korg microKONTROL is compatible with most modern DAWs, including Ableton Live, Reason, and others, thanks to its included driver/librarian software and templates.
How many keys does the Korg microKONTROL have, and are they full-sized?: The Korg microKONTROL features a 37-key mini keyboard with synth-action keys, making it compact and suitable for portable setups.
What are the main connectivity options for the Korg microKONTROL?: The Korg microKONTROL offers MIDI input and output, as well as USB MIDI connectivity, allowing for versatile integration with various setups.
Does the Korg microKONTROL come with any bundled software?: Yes, the Korg microKONTROL includes a FREE dance music production software bundle featuring Live 4 Korg Edition, SampleTank 2 Korg Edition, UVI Korg Edition, Reason Adapted 3.0 for Korg, and MDE-X.
Are the pads on the Korg microKONTROL velocity-sensitive?: Yes, the 16 trigger pads on the Korg microKONTROL are velocity-sensitive, providing dynamic control for drum programming and other performance applications.

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Reviews

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PROS

Versatile connectivity options (USB, 5-pin DIN, batteries)
User-friendly hardware editing
Compatible with various devices (analog synth, volca, smartphones, Organelle)
Includes a drum pad, sliders, and encoders
Effective for creating basslines and percussion

CONS

Lacks librarian functions and update capabilities due to age
Complex driver setup
Faders lack durability

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Korg microKONTROL.

Features and functionality

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The Korg MicroKontrol includes both USB and MIDI In/Out connections, allowing it to interface with a variety of synth modules without needing a computer.
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The microKONTROL can store configurations as "scenes" with 12 memory locations, enabling easy switching between setups.
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The front panel of the microKONTROL allows for programming of controls directly, offering flexibility without relying on software drivers.
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Selecting DC on the back and connecting a 9V power adapter allows the microKONTROL to function independently as a MIDI controller via 5-pin DIN MIDI Out.
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Use cases and applications

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The Korg MicroKontrol can effectively control Korg Volca series synths, which have MIDI IN and offer a range of sounds like bass, drums, and samples.
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The pads on the MicroKontrol can be used to control external drum machines, enhancing its versatility in music production setups.
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The microKONTROL's settings can be adjusted directly on the instrument's panel, which is beneficial when software drivers are unavailable.
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Software and compatibility

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Ableton Live offers a free demo, useful for beginners to explore synthesis and integrate the MicroKontrol with DAWs for sound creation.
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The Korg microKONTROL lacks updated drivers for MacOS M3, but using a standard MIDI to USB interface can circumvent this issue.
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Users found that using a generic USB MIDI interface bypasses the need for Korg's specific drivers, facilitating connection with modern computers.
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Value and pricing

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Purchased at $60, the MicroKontrol is considered a budget-friendly entry point for exploring MIDI control and synthesis without immediate need for additional gear.
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Setup and maintenance

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Factory scenes can be reloaded into the microKONTROL to restore default settings, useful for troubleshooting configuration issues with DAWs like Ableton.
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Issues with key responsiveness on MacOS suggest using a generic USB MIDI interface could resolve the problem, as direct USB connections may lead to erratic behavior.
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User experience

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Owners have noted erratic key behavior when connected via USB to newer MacOS systems, indicating potential hardware-software compatibility issues.
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Critic Reviews

Korg Microkontrol

soundonsound.com

The Korg MicroKONTROL is a stylish, compact MIDI controller that impresses with its intuitive design and versatile functionality. Its integration of a three-octave mini-keyboard with multiple rotary encoders and faders offers a robust control surface, making it suitable for various music software. The device's USB MIDI capabilities and included software editor enhance its usability. However, the small keyboard might not appeal to everyone, and its reliance on Windows XP and Mac OS X limits compatibility. Additionally, with only 12 internal Scene memories, it may fall short for those using multiple virtual instruments. Despite these drawbacks, the MicroKONTROL effectively balances cost and usability, making it a commendable choice for musicians seeking a compact yet capable MIDI controller.

positive

Full Review

Korg MicroKontrol review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Korg's microKONTROL offers a feature-packed experience in a compact form, making it a versatile choice for musicians. Its rugged build and multiple controller options, including velocity-sensitive pads and rotary encoders, provide a wealth of programming possibilities. The inclusion of bundled software like Reason Adapted and Live Lite 4 boosts its appeal. However, its mini keys could deter those with larger hands, limiting its usability. Overall, while the microKONTROL's small keys may not suit everyone, its extensive capabilities make it a tempting option for those who can adapt.

neutral

Full Review

Korg microKONTROL Review - InSync

sweetwater.com

The Korg microKONTROL impresses with its sleek, sturdy design and intuitive layout, making it a functional yet simple MIDI controller. Despite its compact size, it offers extensive customization options with 37 customizable controls and the ability to store multiple scenes. It's a powerhouse in a small package, offering simplicity without sacrificing features.

positive

Full Review

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4.0 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 15 Ratings

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meb

2822

over 2 years ago

Cheap & Useful & Good Quality

I've bought this Korg MicroKontrol for 60€. It have a drum pad and a lot of sliders and encoders. A problem I got with using the MicroKontrol, is that it's a bit tricky to get in hand with its way to work, because the drivers are really made weirdly.

Preferred Settings + Usage:

If you want to push a new config, or new scenes to your MicroKontrol, you will need the microKONTROL EDITOR LIBRARIAN software, and have your computer started with the MicroKontrol already turn on. Afterwards you just can just head to the software, and push your new configs. Afterwards, you can launch your DAW softwares. If you want to modify something on the keyboard, you will have to close your DAW software, to avoid using the MIDI, and then you can modify everything on the software.

Roles:

Keyboardist Composer DJ

Genres:

Deep house Ambient Experimental

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