MIDI Keyboards

CME has just release their brand new intelligent keyboard controller - VX series. It’s the first keyboard with motor fader controller as well as multi-function expansion slot in the world. As the first keyboard with ‘PadStyle’ intelligent MIDI songs and styles in the world, it is available to update via USB. It’s also the first keyboard with unique Game mode, Multi-scale and U-CTRL function in the world.Not only a MIDI keyboard controller, VX also supplies many unique functions to meet the need of 21 century’s new musicians. Firstly, VX supplies both USB MIDI and USB audio functions. Users do not need extra audio interface when they using VX with music software. VX also builds in many MIDI songs and accompaniment in different styles, including loop variation and chord change, which are elaborate made by professional musicians and can be sprung by VX’s unique ‘PadStyle’.

All MIDI songs and styles can be downloaded from Internet and transferred into VX via USB. VX supplies a brand new Game mode, users could use this function and music books with VX to test their skill of performance, and students could learn many tips in this mode. VX is the first keyboard that has build in muiti-ethical scales in the world, and it will surprise you, no matter you want to play Arabian music of Asian music. U-CTRL is a brand new concept by CME, it provides the easiest way to communicate between controller and music software.

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You do not need to load template or presets, just press U-CTRL button and all the controllers for software you may use will be ready. VX’s multi-function expansion slot gives you many option for expanding your VX, including sound module with sample function, analog synthesizer module, firewire audio interface module, digital mixing console module and etc, with these expansion cards, VX will bring you a all-in-one music production platform.

Same as UF series controller, VX uses CME’s famous and long-tested professional graded hammer action weighted keyboard (VX and semi-weighted keyboard (VX5/6/7) with initial and after touch, velocity sensitive. These keyboards were broadly used by many famous professional synthesizers and digital pianos in the past few years. VX supplies up to 64 controllers in different types, including motor faders, encoder for data entry, knobs, trigger pads, ribbon controller, buttons, pitch bend, modulation wheel, SEQ transport buttons, pedals, breath controller and all these controllers are programmable.

Although VX supplies many incredible functions, it will still keep CME’s competitive price. VX will be the new standard of keyboard controller.

Main Features:

- Built-in 32bit CPU
- Intelligent keyboard built-in USB Audio and MIDI, multi-function expansion
- Graded hammer action weighted keyboard (VX and semi-weighted keyboard (VX5/6/7), initial and after touch, velocity sensitive
- ‘PadStyle’ MIDI songs and styles help you to play live music easily
- Interactant mode to improve skill of your performance
- Multi-scale of the key to fit more kinds of ethnic music
- U-CTRL function makes you work with music software perfectly
- 12 x programmable trigger pads, velocity sensitive
- 8 x knob controllers (potentiometer)
- 9 x knob controllers (endless encoder)
- 9 x 60mm motor fader controllers
- 1 x ribbon controller
- 1 x pitch bend and modulation wheel
- 27 x function and number buttons
- 6 x SEQ transport buttons
- All controllers are programmable
- 1 x endless encoder for data entry
- Music software control templates with user bank memories
- 2 x 16 characters LCD display
- Firmware upgradeable via USB
- Multi-function expansion slot
- 4 x MIDI OUT, 1 x MIDI IN to supply real master keyboard function
- 2 x universal pedal connectors, full compatible with switch and expression pedal
- 1 x breath controller connector, full compatible with YAMAHA BC3
- 2 x Mic/Line input with gain knob, 1/4” phone jack
- 2 x Line output, 1/4” phone jack
- 2 x headphone outputs with volume knob, 1/4” phone jack
- USB Audio and MIDI, class-compliant with Windows XP and Mac OS X
- USB Hub, USB bus-powered

Ableton and M-Audio are pleased to announce that Live will soon be updated to support the new Axiom series of keyboards, which will automatically control many of Live’s features via built-in mapping.

When a user selects an Axiom keyboard as a Remote Control Surface in Live’s preferences, the Axiom will automatically follow device selection and know whether a user is in Session or Arrangement view. The mapping is further customizable using the intuitive programming features of the Axiom line and M-Audio’s free Enigma software.

The advanced 25, 49, and 61-key USB mobile MIDI controllers feature both semi-weighted action and assignable aftertouch, plus eight rubberized trigger pads that put drum programming and performance at your fingertips. Eight endless rotary encoder knobs let you get your hands on synth parameters, virtual mixer controls, and more. Six transport controls can also be assigned to control other MIDI parameters.

A new generation of Edirol’s popular Keyboard MIDI Controllers has also been introduced. In addition to providing more physical controls than previous models, the PCR-300, PCR-500 and the PCR-800 also offers new innovative and intuitive controls. All three models are solidly built, and optimized for both music production and live performance.

from left: PCR-300, PCR-500, PCR-800

The new ultra-sensitive keyboards provide a wider dynamic range under the player’s fingertips, while new aftertouch sensors allow the keyboardist to play more expressively. Smooth key action, keys shaped for comfortable glissando playing, silent operation, and stable key mounting all contribute to the enhanced playability of these keyboards.

The new PCR series has all the existing controls of the previous range, but adds exciting new features, such as velocity pads — perfect for playing drums and triggering sampler phrases. These precision pads can operate as buttons or velocity pads, and the handy LED indicators identify if they are velocity or fixed-velocity.

Setting New Standards in Portable MIDI Control

Introducing the next generation of EDIROL’s popular MIDI keyboard controllers. In addition to providing more physical controls than previous models, the PCR-300 also offers new innovative and intuitive controls. This controller is solidly built, and optimized for both music production and live performance.

Models incude…

Edirol PCR-300

A 32-note velocity-sensitive MIDI Keyboard Controller with 50 assignable MIDI controllers, 18 velocity pads, a crossfader, a software editor, MIDI input and output, and both sustain and expression pedal connection.

Edirol PCR-500

A 49-note velocity-sensitive MIDI Keyboard Controller with 50 assignable MIDI controllers, 18 velocity pads, a crossfader, a software editor, MIDI input and output, and both sustain and expression pedal connection.

Edirol PCR-800

A 61-note velocity-sensitive MIDI Keyboard Controller with 50 assignable MIDI controllers, 18 velocity pads, a crossfader, a software editor, MIDI input and output, and both sustain and expression pedal connection.

50 x Assignable Controllers

The new PCR Series offers all the controls of previous models, but with the addition of even more controls that allow players to maximize the playability and operability of their MIDI hardware and software.

Assignable Controls & 18 x Velocity Pads

The new PCR Series has all the existing controls of the previous range, but adds exciting new features, such as velocity pads — perfect for playing drums and triggering sampler phrases. These precision pads can operate as buttons or velocity pads, and the handy LED indicators identify which of the two modes is selected.

Unique Crossfader & Long-Throw Sliders

The new Crossfader allows control of two parameters at the same time, and can be used to control synthesizer filters, DJ gestures and more. The new longer-throw sliders can control eight track faders and one master fader, or function as organ drawbars.

High-Quality Keyboards with Aftertouch

The new ultra-sensitive keyboards provide a wider dynamic range under the player’s fingertips, while new aftertouch sensors allow the keyboardist to play more expressively. Smooth key action, keys shaped for comfortable glissando playing, silent operation, and stable key mounting all contribute to the enhanced playability of these keyboards.

Intelligent “Dynamic Mapping” and Editor Software

Dynamic Mapping allows the PCR to automatically assign its physical controls to the most important parameters (e.g. in the current window of the software being used). Fifteen user memory locations are provided for storing your favorite setups. When using software that’s not compatible with Dynamic Mapping, you can manually configure the Control Map settings from the PCR itself or the included PCR Editor Software (Mac or Win).

Side Panel Connections for Streamlined Routing

The rear panel of the keyboard is free of connections so that you can easily have a computer display (e.g. LCD monitor), ASCII keyboard, mouse & mouse pad, or laptop computer behind the keyboard — in the ideal position for use. This is especially beneficial for educational users in classrooms where space is often restricted. All connections are located on the left side - USB, MIDI IN/OUT plus separate Hold and Expression pedal ports. The PCR keyboard works with USB bus power. AC adaptor not required. (The optional PSB series AC Adaptor is sold separately.) A MIDI Merge capability from the MIDI input to either the MIDI output (or to the computer via USB) is also provided, and is convenient for advanced MIDI systems.

Electronic music guru Myles MacInnes (aka Mylo) has been one of the busiest men in the music business for the last three years, playing with his band on numerous sell-out headline tours and at all the major festivals, as well as DJing across the globe. Now, Myles has decided to settle back into his studio for a while to work on his new album, armed with Novation controllers and soft synths.

Unlike performing with his band, in which he plays with a quartet of sonic pioneers, in the studio Myles works alone. In the centre of his rig sits a ReMOTE 25 SL, which he uses to navigate his way round Propellerheads Reason and Ableton Live. Myles was blown away by the simplicity of Automap and the amount of time he saved not having to assign parameters on his MIDI controller:

I’m not very technical so I’m always full of wonder when things just work. It’s magical! I couldn’t believe how easily the ReMOTE SL connected up with both Reason 3 and Live 6. Tweaking parameters was always such a hassle with the mouse - not any longer. I think I’m going to make an acid-house album.

Amongst his arsenal of software plug-ins lives a Novation Bass Station and V-Station, which now form much of the primary ingredients in his new album material. About the Bass Station, Myles comments:

I wish I’d had this when I was making the first album! It’s fantastic! Hundreds of fat, squelchy bass sounds and a simple and intuitive interface. What more could you want?.

M-Audio has announced a significant price reduction across the entire line of popular Oxygen MIDI keyboard controllers.
The Oxygen 61 has been reduced to £119. The price of the Oxygen 49 has decreased to £89.99 and the Oxygen 8 v2 has been reduced to £59.99.

Adam Castillo, marketing director at M-Audio told Sonicstate, “The Oxygen8 started the mobile controller revolution and our recently expanded Oxygen line is one of the best known and best selling brands of keyboard controllers in the industry. M-Audio is also known for ongoing dedication to optimizing our cutting-edge manufacturing techniques to offer the best value possible in the marketplace. We are pleased to pass the latest Oxygen manufacturing innovations on to our customers.”

Line 6 TonePort KB37 is the latest addition to the award-winning TonePort line of USB recording and modeling interfaces. TonePort KB37 delivers world-class Line 6 guitar, bass, and vocal tone with the added convenience of an integrated 37-note keyboard controller. Compatible with both Mac and Windows computers, TonePort KB37 allows any musician from beginner to pro to easily record studio quality tracks.

TonePort KB37 comes with Line 6 GearBox modeling software, which provides a must-have collection of 18 guitar amp and 5 bass amp models, 30 stompbox and studio effects, and 6 high-end studio microphone preamp models. Plus, with Line 6’s exclusive ToneDirect™ monitoring, guitarists can record in real-time with amps and multiple effects without the latency associated with standard computer plug-ins. TonePort KB37 also includes an expression input for controlling GearBox’s wah and volume pedal effects.

“TonePort KB37 enables musicians to create and capture whatever they need from guitar and bass, to vocals and now keyboard parts easily with world-class studio results,” said Mark McCrite, POD® and PC Product Line Manager, Line 6.

Features include two high-quality XLR microphone inputs with phantom power, a guitar/bass instrument input, stereo line inputs and outputs, stereo digital S/PDIF out, stereo headphone jack, analog VU meters, dual footswitch jacks, expression pedal jack, patch select and transport control buttons, pitch bend/modulation wheels, and four assignable real-time knobs and buttons.

On stage or on the run, producing or performing, wherever your music takes you, the new K-Series controllers can go there with you.

Each model features solid, full-size keys, and a selection of four velocity curves (including a fixed level - great for mimicking organs and early mono synths) that tailor the keyboard response to match any performer. Available in 25, 49 and 61 key versions, their octave shift keys provide access to the full range of notes, and the key transpose function lets you reach them comfortably - or instantly match the range of another performer. Authentic baroque and classical temperaments add even more versatility.

And portability isn’t just about size and weight. The K25, K49 and K61 can be powered directly from the same USB connection that allows it to communicate with your computer, so you can grab your K-Series controller and a laptop and make music anywhere. For more permanent applications, an optional AC adapter is available. In addition to the power plug and USB port, the rear panel also features a MIDI out port for controlling synthesizer hardware modules and other MIDI devices.

The K25, K49, and K61 are graced with a variety of sophisticated controllers unusual for an instrument in this class. Performers will be happy to see a set of Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels, just like in our RADIAS, MS2000B and microKORG synthesizers.

Our innovative ClickPoint™ performs double duty, as either as an X/Y joystick or as a USB mouse to navigate through your softsynths or DAW software. This dynamic controller is a 3-axis, spring-loaded, fingertip joystick-trackball that is difficult to describe, but easy to use. Two assignable switches can be set to either momentary or toggle operation, and both On and Off values can be set, opening up extended performance possibilities. These switches can even be set as Program Change up and down buttons. A pair of knobs can be assigned independently to any controller, and both transmit the full range of values.

Next to the keyboard you’ll also find an assignable slider. And if you run out of hands operating all these controllers, the K-Series also includes an assignable foot switch input on the back panel. Even with all these individual controllers, the stylized K-Series retain a simple, intuitive and uncluttered presentation.

Using the free editor software that comes with the K-Series, you can create and save custom controller assignments - or scenes - in an easy, visual manner. This editor software allows you to load the scene that matches your application into the K25, K49 or K61, so that you don’t have to reassign the same controllers manually - a real time saver! In addition, a number of pre-programmed template scenes are included, so you can instantly be up and running with many popular software synthesizers and music production programs.

The new K-Series controllers also come with a free M1 Le software synthesizer. The M1 was introduced back in 1988 and went on to become the best selling synthesizer of all time - and defined the workstation category in the process. This software version perfectly reproduces the original M1 while taking advantage of the power and benefits of your computer interface. The M1 Le contains all of the preset sounds and all of the PCM waveforms of the original, and a new browser/search function makes it easy to find that ”perfect sound.” In addition to stand-alone versions for both Mac and Windows, the M1 Le can be used as an RTAS, VST or AudioUnits plug-in instrument.

Want more? A special upgrade offer allows M1 Le owners to purchase the entire Korg Legacy Collection - DIGITAL EDITION at a very special price. Even more? We’ve included powerful demo versions* of software from Applied Acoustic Systems (Lounge Lizard EP-3, Ultra Analog VA-1, and String Studio VS-1), Ableton Live, Korg Legacy Collection and Propellerhead Reason 3.0 to give you even more to enjoy right out of the box!

Up until now, musicians wanting a quality MIDI controller keyboard built for long term reliability and the strength to stand up to life on the road were forced to pay for a hi-end synth-workstation with a synth engine that was surplus to requirements since the advent of virtual studio technology. The CME UF Series changes all this…

The CME UF5, UF6, UF7 and UF8 MIDI Master Controller keyboards were designed for professional musicians to use in the studio or take on the road. As such they have a body that is made of metal. This results in a MIDI master controller keyboard that both looks good and has the strength required by demanding musicians.

It’s not just the superior casing that sets the CME apart - you will notice the solid and comfortable nature of the controls, not to mention the superior action of the weighted keyboards too. The CME quality extends throughout.

Semi Weighted or Hammer Action?

The UF5, UF6, and UF7 feature CME’s semi-weighted synth-action keyboard. Each key features a weight inside which provides a much more sold feel when playing and results in a much more natural performance too - it is far easier to control your playing dynamics with a semi-weighted keyboard and far easier to play fast passages. Once you have used a semi-weighted keyboard for a short time, you will not want to go back to an all-plastic design. Such semi-weighted keyboards are normally only found on much more expensive synthesizers and controllers.

The CME UF8 takes things further still with a top-notch hammer-action weighted keyboard with several international patents. This emulates both the feel and response of a real grand piano action making the UF8 the only choice for pianists and those who want the ultimate playing experience.

To tailor the UF Series to your playing style and connected sound source, all models feature an adjustable velocity curve.

Don’t let the compact size of the M-Audio Axiom 25 fool you. This advanced 25-key USB mobile MIDI controller features both semi-weighted action and assignable aftertouch, plus eight rubberized trigger pads that put drum programming and performance at your fingertips. Eight endless rotary encoder knobs let you get your hands on synth parameters, virtual mixer controls and more. Six transport controls can also assign to control other MIDI parameters. Virtually everything is freely MIDI-assignable—and the backlit LCD screen makes programming easy and intutive. You get 20 memory locations for on-board storage, plus free Enigma editor/librarian software to manage an unlimited number of setups via computer.