What MIDI Controller Should I Get?

[Sherako]

I've been looking at the M-Audio Oxygen49, but I'm not yet sold for it yet. I'm not too picky on the key type, but AI don't really like the synth type of keys. Under $250 USD and it needs to have knobs, sliders/faders, and it needs to have some sort of modulation device whether that be a knob, ball, or those roll things. Why are there so many MIDI controllers wtf!?

[Cupitor]

Hmm. So happens I'm trying to find something similar, in the same $ range.

The issue seems to be:

-the controller has decent keys but is crap when it comes down to CC controller goodies

Or

-craptastic keys, with lots of knobs/pads...

I'm looking for one which is class compliant (works with iOS outta the box) so I can be portable. There are a few great (better than great) synths for the iPhone/iPad...Animoog (one of my favorites) was used extensively for ambient sounds in Mass Effect 3.

I'm going to presuppose you want one to sit on a desk?

Have you checked out the akai "pro" series? They heve:

Full siz-ed keys, "mpc" pads and knobs/sliders 2 boot.

They come in a variety of sizes...methinks:

Specs for the small one:

25-key semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch for expressive melodic creativity

MPC-pad section of 12 genuine MPC pads with pressure and velocity sensitivity

MPC pads access four banks each for instant access to 48 samples

Assignable Q-Link controller section for flexible control of most software parameters

Two banks of 12 Q-Link knobs and four buttons, two banks each

Dedicated transport controls for tracking and editing

MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, and arpeggiator aid in creative process

MPC Full Level, MPC 12-Level, Tap Tempo, and Time Division assist with tempo and dynamics

MIDI output over USB, bus powered, class compliant: plug and play with one USB cable

Pic and "price":

There's a new "more" "pro" version...which has features like CV (control voltage) control- something one would need if they had some olde tymey analog rack synths...it's new and probably costs a lot more:

Hmm. Check out the akai page, looks like they have Lotsa new gear.

3-4? Years ago I bought a midi-only "mpc" from akai. I was tired of "keydrumming". Picked it up for 250$ at a sale. They still go new for 300$- build quality is better than expected..

I need something which had full sized keys but is super-thin/portable. Kinda goes against physics...

Anyway, good hunting!