In the realm of music production, the quest for the perfect keyboard controller can be a daunting one – a delicate balance of quality, functionality, and affordability. Amidst a sea of options, a hidden gem has emerged to shake up the status quo. Enter the Haute Board, the latest brainchild of Haute42, a miniature marvel that packs a punch in the world of MIDI controllers. At first glance, its compact design and wallet-friendly price tag may suggest compromise, but appearances can be deceiving. Does this pint-sized powerhouse live up to the hype, or will it falter under the weight of expectation? In our Haute Board mini review, we’ll delve into the nitty-gritty to uncover the truth behind this budget-friendly keyboard controller’s claim to fame.
Design and Build Quality
The Haute Board mini’s design is a masterclass in minimalism. The compact, rectangular body is constructed from a single block of anodized aluminum, lending it a solid, premium feel. The edges are smooth to the touch, and the subtle chamfers add a touch of elegance. The overall aesthetic is clean and uncluttered, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a low-key setup.
Key features of the design include:
* A sleek, brushed-aluminum finish
* Compact dimensions (5.8 x 1.25 x 0.5 inches)
* Weight: 6.3 ounces
*
| Portability | Excellent |
| Build Material | Anodized Aluminum |
| Ergonomics | Angled for comfortable use |
In terms of ergonomics, the Haute Board mini is angled for comfortable use, reducing strain on the wrists and promoting a natural playing position. While the design may not be flashy, it’s undeniably effective and exhibits a clear focus on functionality.
User Interface and Navigation
The Haute Board mini’s user interface is designed to be sleek and straightforward, allowing for effortless navigation through various features and functions. This is primarily achieved through the implementation of a 7-segment display and a set of intuitive buttons, each assigned a specific function.
<td_Store current settings and patterns for future use
| Button | Function |
|---|---|
| Encoder knob | Control various parameters and navigate through menus |
| Play/Pause | Start or stop the music, and reset the sequence |
| Save | |
| Shift | Access secondary functions for each key and button |
Key navigation is also streamlined with features like:
• Key repeat, which allows for repeated notes or actions to be performed by holding down a single key.
• Key transpose, enabling quick adjustments to the pitch of notes or patterns.
• <b octave shift, providing quick access to a broader range of notes and sounds.
• The ability to assign custom controls to specific keys, allowing for more personalized workflow and creative freedom.
Keybed Performance and Accuracy
The Haute Board mini’s keybed is undoubtedly its strongest suit. One of the most significant advantages it offers is its compact tenkeyless design, allowing users to move freely and focus on their creative workflow.
At first glance, the compact layout appears somewhat daunting, especially for users with larger hands. However, after a short adjustment period, it reveals its brilliance. The Haute Board mini boasts a key travel distance of 4 mm, ensuring a seamless typing experience, complemented by its subtle yet distinct 55g actuation force.
Key Facts About the Haute Board Mini’s Keybed Performance:
Compact design – Its tenkeyless design ensures a more focused and efficient workflow
Customizable – Integrated access to up to 4 profiles for improved user experience
* Adjustable Key Repeat Delay and Key Repeat Rate – Allowing users to tailor their experience
Key Switch Properties at a Glance:
| Key Switch Property | Haute Board Mini |
|---|---|
| Key Travel Distance | 4 mm |
| Actuation Force | 55g |
Another significant advantage of the Haute Board mini is its exceptional accuracy and precision. It supports an impressive 1000 Hz report rate and N-key rollover, making it a reliable choice for users who require rapid keyboard input, such as gamers and typists.
In addition, it comes equipped with a powerful 32-bit microcontroller, facilitating seamless integration with a wide range of devices. The controller provides advanced features, such as instant switch registration, making it easy for users to work efficiently without unnecessary typing lag.
Implementation of Advanced Features:
- 32-bit microcontroller – For increased computational efficiency and ultra-low latency
- 1000 Hz report rate – Guaranteed accurate keyboard input and report rate
- N-key rollover – Complete input support without any ghosting and lag
Assignable Controls and Customization
Assignable controls on the Haute Board mini are where things get really interesting. The device allows users to customize their setup to fit their specific workflow needs. Button and knob assignments can be changed via the Haute42 application, which is available for both Windows and macOS. This application is intuitive and straightforward to use, allowing users to easily assign various actions to each control.
Some of the actions that can be assigned include clip launching, transport controls, effects manipulation, and more. Furthermore, users can create custom presets to quickly switch between different tasks and applications. The table below provides an overview of some of the customizable actions and controls.
| Action Type | Assignable Controls |
|---|---|
| Clip Launching | Buttons 1-16, Knobs 1-8 |
| Transport Controls | Buttons 1-6, Knob 9 |
| Effects Manipulation | Knobs 1-8 |
| Navigation | Buttons 1-4 |
In terms of customization options, users can choose from a variety of settings to fit their specific needs. This includes:
- Customizable LED color options for buttons and knobs.
- Adjustable knob sensitivity and range.
- Configurable button repeat delay and repeat rate.
Integrating with Music Software and DAWs
When it comes to music production, seamless integration with your digital audio workstation (DAW) is crucial for a smooth workflow. Luckily, the Haute Board mini has got you covered. With its plug-and-play design, you can easily connect it to your music software of choice, whether it’s Ableton Live, FL Studio, or Logic Pro X. The compact controller supports USB MIDI, allowing for effortless connection to your computer.
Here are some compatible DAWs and music software:
- Ableton Live
- FL Studio
- Logic Pro X
- Cubase
- GarageBand
In addition, the Haute Board mini also works well with other music software, including virtual instruments, effects plugins, and drum machines. Here’s a table summarizing its key software features:
| Software Feature | Supported |
|---|---|
| Plug-and-Play Design | Yes |
| USB MIDI | Yes |
| Mac/PC Compatibility | Yes |
MIDI and USB Connectivity Options
Haute42 has equipped the Haute Board mini with versatile connectivity options, making it a delightful companion for music producers and composers. The back of the unit features a 5-pin MIDI Out port and a USB port that supports MIDI over USB. This means that you can use the Haute Board mini with your favorite DAW via USB or connect it to external MIDI gear using the 5-pin port.
| Connectivity Options |
| 5-pin MIDI Out port for external MIDI gear |
| USB port for MIDI over USB |
When using the Haute Board mini with a DAW, you can take advantage of plug-and-play functionality. This means that you don’t need to install any drivers or software to get started – simply connect the Haute Board mini to your computer via USB and start composing. For users who prefer to work with external MIDI gear, the 5-pin MIDI Out port offers a reliable connection point. To highlight the potential uses, consider the following scenarios:
Connect the Haute Board mini to a synthesizer or drum machine for hands-on control.
Integrate the Haute Board mini with your studio setup, including hardware sequencers and effects processors.
* Use the Haute Board mini as a remote control for your DAW, navigating tracks, scenes, and plugins with ease.
Suitability for Specific Music Genres and Styles
Suitable for Electronic and Dance Music (EDM) production, the Haute Board’s 25-key compact design and velocity-sensitive keys allow for expressive performance.
When it comes to music genres and styles, the Haute Board is an excellent choice for producers working on:
- Electronic/Synth-Pop – With its velocity-sensitive keys, the Haute Board is well-suited for creating dynamic synth lines and leads.
- Trap and Hip-Hop – The compact design and Akai MPC-style pads make it ideal for creating beats and drum patterns.
- Lo-Fi and Chillout – The expressive keys are perfect for creating mellow, atmospheric soundscapes and textures.
| Genre | Haute Board Features |
|---|---|
| EDM | Velocity-sensitive keys for expressive performance |
| Hip-Hop/Rap | Akai MPC-style pads for creating drum patterns |
| Indie/Pop | Compact design for easy transport and setup |
Comparison to Other Budget Keyboard Controllers
How Does the Haute Board Mini Compare to Other Budget-Friendly Options?
When it comes to budget keyboard controllers, there are several options available on the market. Some popular alternatives to the Haute Board mini include the Akai MPK Mini MKII, the Novation Launchkey Mini, and the Nektar Impact LX25. Here’s a brief overview of each:
- Akai MPK Mini MKII: A compact 25-key MIDI keyboard with 8 backlit MPC-style pads and a range of controls for dialing in your sound.
- Novation Launchkey Mini: A 25-key keyboard controller designed specifically for Ableton users, with 16 RGB backlit pads and a range of controls for live performance.
- Nektar Impact LX25: A 25-key MIDI keyboard with a range of controls for adjusting sound and effects, including a modulation wheel and sustain pedal input.
| Model | Price | Keys | Pads |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haute Board mini | $99 | 25 | – |
| Akai MPK Mini MKII | $149 | 25 | 8 |
| Novation Launchkey Mini | $109 | 25 | 16 |
| Nektar Impact LX25 | $89 | 25 | – |
Who is the Haute Board Best For
Ideal Candidates for the Haute Board
The Haute Board is perfect for music producers and artists on a budget, seeking a reliable and portable keyboard controller without breaking the bank. If you’re an aspiring music producer looking to create professional-sounding tracks or a live performer searching for a robust companion, the Haute Board might be your best bet. You don’t need to be tech-savvy to get the most out of this compact controller.
The Haute Board is designed for those who appreciate simplicity and high-quality performance. It won’t overwhelm beginners but still offers valuable features for more experienced users.
.wp-block-table {font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;}
| Music Producers | Live Performers |
| • Aspiring producers | • Traveling artists |
| • Beginners | • Live event organizers |
Pros and Cons of the Haute Board
Advantages of the Haute Board
- Ultra-portable and compact design, ideal for musicians, producers, and DJs on-the-go, making it easy to fit into backpacks, tote bags, or small studios.
- Intuitive controls and layout, featuring 25 velocity-sensitive keys, 16 backlit RGB performance pads, and a range of knobs, buttons, and sliders, providing a seamless workflow.
- Seamless integration with popular DAWs, including Ableton Live, FL Studio, and Logic Pro X, allowing you to dive straight into creating music.
- Remarkable value for money, given its budget-friendly price point and the feature set provided.
Drawbacks of the Haute Board**
| Challenges | Effects |
|---|---|
| No USB-C or Thunderbolt connectivity | Might limit connectivity options for future devices |
| No pitch and modulation wheels | Can make expressive, hands-on performance difficult for some users |
| Pads have limited expressiveness | May not be suitable for advanced finger drumming techniques |
These drawbacks should be weighed against the Haute Board’s affordable price point and focused feature set.
Final Verdict on the Haute Board
A Hidden Gem in the Budget Market
The Haute Board stands out as a remarkable budget keyboard controller from Haute42. At its core, it offers top-notch performance and build quality at a surprisingly affordable price point. This makes it an excellent choice for musicians who require a reliable and feature-rich controller for their creative pursuits. With its 25-key design, intuitive layout, and compatibility with popular digital audio workstations (DAWs), the Haute Board checks all the right boxes for producers, beatmakers, and DJs.
Key Takeaways and Rating
- Impressive build quality and premium feel for a budget keyboard controller
- Excellent performance, with responsive keys and minimal latency
- Intuitive layout makes navigation and music creation a breeze
- Compact design and lightweight build ideal for music producers on-the-go
| Rating (1-5) | Score |
| Design and Build Quality | 4.5/5 |
| Performance and Responsiveness | 4.5/5 |
| Value for Money | 4.8/5 |
Future Outlook
And there you have it – a taste of what the Haute Board has to offer. In a world where music creation knows no borders, Haute42’s latest offering brings accessibility and quality to the forefront. Whether you’re a seasoned producer or just starting to dip your toes into the world of music production, the Haute Board’s compact yet powerful design makes it an exciting addition to any setup. With a price point that’s hard to resist and features that punch above its weight, the Haute Board is sure to strike a chord with producers and creators of all levels. Will it find its way onto your desk? Only time (and tunes) will tell.
