I am beginning to produce both hip hop and electronic music on Ableton Live 9 and I take piano lessons as well. As a beginner, I'm not sure which would be better to start out with. Someone please help me!
It's quite simple actually. Do you want a pad controller or a keys? The Mpk49 has pads/keys, but you can't compare it to maschine, they're not in the same league
If you like Live, get a controller that will let you get your hands on the software. A $99 Launchpad mini would be my weapon of choice. You get pads to bang out your drums, it's also got a user mode that allows you to play pitched instruments, much like a keyboard..... if you play by ear, you'll be fine. Don't really need keys. If you already know how to play "piano" I'd say get a novation sl, or a novation launchkey.