Akai MPD 24 USB/Midi MPC Pad Controller Review

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(More customer reviews)I just love this product. I have made so much music with it. I just love the mpc style pads. I don't understand why keyboard manufactures don't use the sensitive pad system. It just feels like how an instrument should be controlled. I have a midi key board and the only reason I use it to get at more notes. This pad set up lets you pound out rhythm lines just like you would on a bass or guitar. Ones you figure out the cro matic scale set up. I want a giant one of these with like 64 keys.
I am going to sell my mpc1000 because with the mpd24 I get the sensitivity of the mpc pad but the ease of control of my computers sequencer. Mpc software is so 1990 to me.
I just adjust the swing in the sequencer on my computer and Bam! I have an mpc!
Oh and writing drum loops is just so easy with this unit.

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Designed for use with Digital Audio Workstations (DAW), sequencing, and other software applications, the Akai MPD24 USB/MIDI pad controller enables you to program drum parts in a much more intuitive and natural way than by simply playing them on a keyboard. With its array of knobs and sliders, the MPD24 allows you to control parameters on your favorite DAW or software synths, offering incredible real-time control.

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SoftStep Foot Controller Review

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(More customer reviews)This thing is amazing! It's is a huge step beyond what has been available 'til now (FCB-1010, etc).
The Max5 based software still a little buggy (as of Jan-2011, V.1.03) and could be better, and hopefully will be soon if the quality of the pedal is any indication.

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SoftStep is a leap forward in foot controller portability and functionality. Weighing in at just over a pound andfitting into many laptop and guitar cases, SoftStep has unparalleledflexibility compared to exisiting foot controllers. Whether used with an effects rack or with popular software programs, SoftStep is the most affordable, versatile and expressive controller available. Stage- Virtual Pedalboard - connect to your MIDI hardware to switch programs, control parameters, trigger samples and loops. Guitar/Bass players - control your MIDI FX hardware or software apps such as Guitar Rig and AmpliTube. Laptop musicians/DJs - trigger and process loops/FX in Live, Reason and Traktor. Keyboardists - keep both hands on your keys while switching patches, sweeping filters and tapping tempos.Studio-Control punch-in/out, levels, jog wheel, panning and transport functions in Digital Audio Workstations/MIDI Sequencers. Control multiple DSP plug-in parameters in real-time. Map each of ten multi-touch keys to six unique notes, CC\'s, program changes or OSC in your studio apps. Silent switching - click-free control of program change, patches, FX while recording. SoftStep MIDI Expander (sold separately) is a must have add-on that enables you to control your MIDI world. Program with our easy to use control mapping software, plug in your MIDI rig, and you\'re ready to use Softstep with or without a computer.

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Akai MPK25 25-key Keyboard Controller with MPC Pads Review

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(More customer reviews)The keyboard, and controlling software is great. I really like Abelton Live after taking the tutorials! This comes with a older version of Abelton Live but it is a free download to get the latest version! Works great with my Macbook!
The bad part is that the pads are not sensitive at all. I have to pound to the point of hurting my fingers to get any noise at all. And thats to get any noise.. these are supposed to have many pressure levels. I was severely disappointed by the pads until I found out you can modify them for better response. Follow instructions on youtube.
Basically you can use layers of tape to put the pad in better contact with the sensor under it. The kits you can buy off ebay to do the same thing are little strips of rubber with instructions. I'd suggest saving some money by using the youtube video and finding the right thickness of rubber instead of using tape layers.
After modification this surface is 100% what I wanted. Too bad it come from the factory so amazingly crippled!

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A portable keyboard controller, the Akai MPK25 is a powerful production tool with MPC production controls. Featuring the same MPC pads as the MPK49, the MPK25 scales down the keyboard by 24 keys and retains the utility, capability, and flexibility that makes the MPK49 one of the world's hottest keyboards. Because of its small footprint, you can create tracks whenever inspiration strikes you. Plus the portability makes it a great travel companion. All you need is your laptop and the MPK25. AC_FL_RunContent( 'codebase','http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,28,0','width','330','height','220','title','Akai MPK25 Compact 25 Key Keyboard Controller','src','http://www.americanmusical.com/ItemFiles/Flash/AKAmpk25','quality','high','pluginspage','http://www.adobe.com/shockwave/download/download.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash','movie','http://www.americanmusical.com/ItemFiles/Flash/AKAmpk25' ); //end AC code Akai MPK25 Keyboard Controller Features 25-key semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch for expressive melodic cr

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Akai APC40 Abelton Controller Review

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(More customer reviews)I've been drooling over this since it was announced, and I am so happy that I finally broke down and bought one. It's a shame that there are no reviews up yet, so let me be the first to say that this controller is amazing. Make sure that you erase any previous midi mapping that you've done and then restart Ableton, and you'll find that it has perfectly automapped itself. At first I thought that it was a little strange that there's no manual included... but after five minutes, I realized that it DOESN'T NEED A MANUAL. That's just how intuitive it is, from top to bottom.
The hardware itself is up to usual Akai standards: the knobs and faders feel weighty and responsive. This thing is both larger and thinner than I thought it would be, but after playing around with it the size feels perfect. The two-way communication is killer- just drop an audio clip into Live and it will instantly appear on the grid, color-coded to match its status. Recording and triggering loops couldn't be easier, and the entire interface perfectly emulates what you're used to seeing on the screen.
In the upper right-hand corner you have control over the pan and sends A through C for tracks 1-8, which is really nice. My only complaint is that I would have preferred to have it become all the sends for whatever track is highlighted, but I'll get used to the new workflow. Part of what makes Ableton Live great is that it accommodates so many different styles of music, so making a universal controller for the program was a bit of a challenge. Akai really stepped up and once you get your hands on it, you'll see what all the hype is about: this really is the be-all and end-all of hardware for the program.
One downside I've found is that navigating the plugins can be sort of clunky. First you highlight a track and then the knobs in the lower right are assigned to the first plugin you've placed there. Then you use the left and right buttons to scroll through each unit, and when you do the knobs reassign themselves to control the appropriate effects. I find that having to click through them all is sort of difficult, but there's nothing stopping me from using the mouse like I used to. I guess the only thing that is stopping me from handing out a 5-star rating is that the APC40 sort of forces you to use the workflow they've designed. Remapping the controls isn't difficult, but everything is laid-out and labeled in such a way that it sort of corrals you into getting used to doing things their way.
This review is starting to look a little long, so I'll just sum it up: I absolutely love this thing. I wish I had picked it up sooner and if you are AT ALL considering this purchase, just do it already. Well-constructed, well-programmed, and absolutely worth the money. Like me, you're probably used to using an assortment of controllers and you're wondering if you need to spend the cash. Well, this thing will replace all of those and more, and you'll quickly get used to the layout. Just do it!

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Working in partnership with software developer Ableton, the Akai APC40 Performance Controller offers a control surface that's specifically designed for performance with Ableton Live software. Designed to be a powerful, intuitive controller for electronic music performance artists, DJs, hip-hop producers and traditional musicians using Ableton Live on stage and in the studio, the Akai APC40 transforms your experience from one of constructing tracks with software on a computer to one of fluid, effortless, musical creation.

Key Features
Designed in partnership with Ableton for Ableton Live
Unique clip matrix with multicolor lighting displays current clip status
No mapping required; every knob, button, and fader is customizable
Bidirectional communication between APC40 and Ableton Live
Solid, professional feel with rugged, metal chassis and premium controls
Comes with Akai APC40 edition of Ableton Live Lite, free upgrade patch for full versions of Live
Works with standalone editions of Ableton Live
Works with most MIDI recording, sequencing, and performance software
USB plug-and-play connection for Mac and PC
Premium controller with rugged, metal chassis

Direct Design Because Akai Professional and Ableton designed the APC40 specifically for Ableton Live, you don't need to map its controls to talk to the software. Just connect your laptop to the APC40 via USB--thanks to its plug and play capabilities, you won't need to install any drivers. It comes pre-mapped for instant use with Ableton Live software, so if you're new to it, you'll find using the APC40 to be easy to get around on. And if you're an experienced Live user, you'll be happy to note that you can custom-map every single knob, button, and fader on the APC40 to completely customize the controls for the way you like to work.
Virtual View Because of the bidirectional communication between the APC40 and Ableton Live software, the APC40 can receive feedback from the software and display it on its clip matrix of 40 triggers and on LED rings surrounding each knob. The clip matrix gives you an instant view of clip status: what's loaded, what's playing, and what's being recorded. Each state displays on the matrix in a different color so you can get a quick picture of clip state. You can shift your clip focus and get an overview of the clips you have loaded for your set.
The APC40 has 16 knobs, each surrounded by a ring of LEDs. These LED rings make it easy to see your settings on dark stages, indicating the currently selected parameters' values.
Premium Feel The APC40 is built with a rugged, metal chassis and slip-proof rubber detailing. All of the knobs and faders are solid and precise for pinpoint performance. It even features a high quality, replaceable crossfader for transitioning between clips and loops assigned to "A" or "B."
Creative Control The APC40 comes with Ableton Live Akai Professional APC40 Edition software, which is fully functional for performance and production. Owners of standalone editions of Ableton Live 7 or 8 can also work seamlessly with the APC40. Live 7 with the latest automatic update has full support for the APC40 and all versions of Live 8 are APC40-ready.
The APC40 has two banks of eight knobs. The first set controls Global parameters so you'll always have instant access to your main sends, pans, and other essentials. The second bank of eight knobs is dynamically reassigned to the Track you select. You can control eight track parameters at a time, and as you switch channels, the Track knobs follow your focus. For example, you might be working with the Beat Decoder on track two. When you switch to track four, the eight Track knobs that you had been controlling the Beat Decoder with are now controlling the Flangeverb on track four. You'll even notice that the settings for each knob load on the light rings so you'll immediately see each knob's status.
The APC40 also enables special clip-status views and feedback that only the APC40's matrix can display. The matrix is not limited to only 40 clips: you can scroll and shift, enabling you to access, control, and perform with an unlimited number of cells.
The APC40 has a wide range of controllers. The eight Global knobs can access four banks of controls; the eight Track knobs control nine different track parameters each. This gives you a massive total of 72 controllers that are dynamically reassigned each time you switch tracks. Channel faders, bus faders, and a crossfader give you smooth control of key values. You have even more control power with special controls including Tap Tempo, Tempo Nudge, record enables, solo/cues, and two assignable footswitch inputs.
Specifications
Dimensions: 16.88 x 13.13 x 2.62 inches (WxDxH)
Weight: 5.8 pounds
Power supply: 12V 2.0A pin-positive, included
Communication: USB-MIDI with proprietary hardware/software handshake
Inputs: USB, Two assignable footswitch inputs
Mac system requirements: G4 or faster/Intel Mac recommended, 512 MB RAM/1 GB recommended, OS 10.3.9, 10.4 or later. recommended, QuickTime 6.5 or higher, DVD-ROM drive, USB port
PC system requirements: 1.5 GHz or faster, 512 MB RAM/1 GB recommended, Windows XP or Vista, Windows-compatible sound card/ASIO driver support recommended, QuickTime 6.5 or higher, DVD-ROM drive, USB port

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Korg MicroKey 37 Key USB Keyboard Controller Review

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(More customer reviews)The Microkey demonstrates that Korg learns from its failures and its successes. The Microkey's predecessor, the Nanokey, had some advantages: it was cheap and you could throw it in a laptop bag. Users soon found out that the Nanokey was too cheap. It wasn't sturdy, and the button keyboard did not win awards for usability. On the other hand, The Microkorg and Microkorg XL synthesizers have been hits with their mini-sized keys. Korg basically took the keyboard fromt eh Microkorg, put it in a no-frills controller case, and gave it a reasonable, [...] price tag. In short, the formula works.
With 37 mini-keys (3 octaves C-C), the Microkey is too big for a laptop bag, but it fits nicely in your lap or on a table. It plugs directly into your computer via USB. In my case, it was plug-and-play with Windows-7, with the computer automatically loading the driver; however I had to download a driver (no problem) for Mac OS-X. The small keys are easy to get used to, have a good feel and good velocity response. The Microkey does not transmit aftertouch. Other than the keys, the only controls are lighted octave shift + and - buttons (shifting up to 3 octaves in each direction), a spring-loaded pitchbend wheel, and an un-sprung modulation wheel. I knocked off a star for failure to include a jack for a sustain pedal, much less an additional jack for a volume pedal or continuous controller.
KORG LEGACY COLLECTION SPECIAL EDITION - This is what I really want to talk about. The Microkey is bundled with light versions of several software packages, the most notable being Korg's own M1LE. M1LE contains most of the sounds of Korg's bestselling hardware synthesizer/workstation of 1988, the Korg M1. Approximately 100,000 M1 synthesizers were sold for almost at almost [...]. In other words, the M1LE is pretty worthwhile on its own, but it really becomes worthwhile after you register your copy of M1LE online at [...], because registered M1LE owners qualify to buy a special edition of Korg's Legacy Collection software synthesizers for $99.00. The Legacy Collection Special Edition includes BOTH the analog edition and the digital editions of the Legacy collection. It includes the MS20, Polysix, Mono/Poly, Legacy Cell, Wavestation, and M1 (expanded). Recently Korg unbundled these software synths and started selling them individually for $49.99 each. So with the Legacy Collection Special Edition, you're basically buying all of these synths plus the hardware controller for $50.00 less than what you'd pay for just the software synths. Buying the Legacy Collection changes the Microkey from a good buy to a great buy. You have to download the synths one at a time from korguser.net, and the registration procedure is a bit of a pain. The license allows you to download the software on more than one computer that you own, but you can only use one at a time. Each computer that you install the software on must be individually registered. http://www.amazon.com/review/create-review There is no dongle or USB key needed for this version of the Legacy synths.
THE COMPETITION: For my money, the closest competition is Arturia Analog Experience - The Factory Hybrid Synthesizer, which, like the Microkorg plus Legacy Collection, gives you a compact controller plus thousands of sounds. Arturia's product, for just a little bit more than the Korg, Arturia gives you a more full featured controller (with aftertouch). It's a viable option that I almost bought (and might buy yet.) Another option (especially for Windows users) would be M-Audio's M-Audio Keyrig 25 25-note Synth-Action Keyboard and Midi Controller or M Audio KeyRig 49 49 Key USB Keyboard Controller I bought the Key Rig software separately several years ago. Here's a link to my review of the Key Rig Software, http://www.amazon.com/review/R1ZNFX9NE271ES. If your needs are simple, Key Rig may be all the software you need.

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Gain powerful control over your favorite music software, Korg-Style! For live performance stand alone soft-synth applications or as a music production studio tool, Korg's MicroKey is the perfect choice for controlling your computer music software. The microKEY is slim, lightweight, USB powered and compatible with all of your computer music software; use it to create your own compact and customized command center. Korg MicroKey Keyboard Controller Features USB MIDI keyboard - thin, lightweight, and USB-powered 37 velocity-sensitive mini keys Comfortable and easy-to-play Natural Touch keyboard Octave Shift and Key Transpose features access the full MIDI note range Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels add expression to your performance Dual USB connections are ideal for daisy chaining a nanoPAD or nanoKONTROL Natural Touch mini keyboard The microKEY features 37 velocity-sensing mini keys, using the same Natural Touch keybed found on the Korg microKORG XL and microSTATION. This keybed has been designed with careful attention to the touch and feel. The proportions of the black keys and white 'waterfall' keys have been adjusted for optimal playability, and the key touch makes it easy to play chords, glissandos, and rapid-fire phrases. The microKEY accurately conveys the dynamics of your performance to any software plug in. Extended Range and Expression The Octave Shift buttons extend the range of the microKEY by four octaves in either direction - up or down. The Key Transpose allows you to play in any key instantly. Used together, these two features provide access to the entire MIDI note range. For adding tasty expression to your performance, the microKEY is also equipped with both a Pitch Bend wheel and a Modulation wheel. USB versatility

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Korg microKorg Analog Modeling Synthesizer with Vocoder Review

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(More customer reviews)The MicroKorg is probably the finest synth you'll ever get at that price. It's very small (same size as many of those toy keyboards you grew up as a kid, but this is no toy), and has 37 keys, although the big criticisms here is Korg opted for toy keyboard-sized keys, rather than full-sized keys (the similar sized and similarly priced Alesis Micron, also 37 keys, used full-sized keys). It's a four note polyphonic virtual analog synth capable of fantastic analog sounds, with all the great sounds of the '70s, '80s, and '90s! It's essentially a Korg MS-2000 in a small package, but with an 8-band vocoder (instead of 16-band), and a superior arpeggiator, great for all you electronica and techno buffs out there, or those who want to create Tangerine Dream-like rhythms without the bulky gear that group had to use back in the glory days of the mid '70s. I've been aware of vocoders for ages, and of course, was a huge trademark in Kraftwerk's sound (they started using vocoders starting with 1973's Ralf & Florian, which is one album prior to their famous breakthrough, Autobahn), I am so happy to now personally own a vocoder, that is, one included in a synth. It has a condensor microphone for use of a vocoder, although you can hook up any standard microphone too. Like most any synth made in the last 20-25 years, it's MIDI, so you can have it interact with other MIDI synths, drum machines, your computer, or any other MIDI device.
Although it comes with an AC adapter for home and studio use, you'll be happy that you can use 6 AA batteries, so you can bring it with you on your next camping adventure (plus it has a headphone jack too, since hooking it up to speakers might be a bit difficult in the Great Outdoors).
It's also fully programmable, you can alter the sounds already included, or you can erase one of the settings and start from scratch. I really love the features you can do here. You can have it polyphonic, or monophonic for use of soloing, or retro-'70s analog sounds. It has two oscillators, you have many different choices of waveforms. You can edit the arpeggiator so you can get it to do different rhythms (it can do up to a sequence of 8 notes). I also really like the delay feature, to get that echo sound when you release the note, it really gives it a fuller sound. You can get it to pan for that wonderful stereo effect, or select a phasor. You can even program it to have the pitch wheel and modulation wheel do things, such as altering pitch, the resonance, vibrato, etc. There'e two edit knobs, and five more knobs to help you with the programming. But I very much suggest you read the instruction manual, or you might have a hard time programming it. But once you get a hang of it, you'll have a ton of fun programming your own sounds and see what you can do. Despite the keys itself, it's actually a fully professional synthesizer.
The MicroKorg might be geared for the younger audience, thanks to its low price and many of the techno sounds it can do, but Jean Michel Jarre uses one and he's hardly young. Not to mention you can make it do a lot of non-techno sounds too, like classic '70s analog sounds, or '80s polyphonic synth sounds (like what you hear on Van Halen's "Jump") so it doesn't just appeal to the young segment.
It's great see many professional musicians using it from Jean Michel Jarre right down to Nick Rhodes of Duran Duran. I even saw a documentary directed by Hans Fjellestad called Moog, which was about Robert Moog and of Moog synthesizers, and they showed several techno/electronic groups where the main emphasis was on their Moog gear (naturally), but one group was clearly shown with a MicroKorg.
This is no 88 key workstation, that's for sure. In some cases that's a good thing, especially if you like in a small apartment and you're concerned about space, but for such a small synth, I am completely blown away at what this can do. You really need to try and buy this synth, you won't be disappointed!

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The microKORG boasts the same dual-oscillator DSP synthesis engine found in Korg\'s critically acclaimed MS2000 and offers a wider selection of waveforms than any other modeled synth. Oscillator 1 features a total of 71 waveforms. These include traditional analog waves like saw, pulse, sine and noise, plus more unique choices like Vox wave and cross wave. Together they provide a cool selection that can be modulated to produce an extensive range of timbres. In addition, 64 exclusive DWGS waveforms from Korg\'s classic DW-8000 enable the microKORG to reproduce a broad collection of imitative sounds. Sounds like bells, electric pianos, guitars, basses and more that would be difficult reproduce on an analog synthesizer. You can also apply Ring and Sync modulation from Oscillator 2 to create the kind of complex timbres that are the true sign of an advanced synthesizer.Four filter modes are available, offering -12 dB (2-pole) low pass, high pass and band pass configurations plus an extra steep -24 dB (4-pole) low pass setting. All include resonance. Two classic ADSR envelope generators and two MIDI-syncable LFOs provide the power to shape your sounds. Add a Virtual Patch matrix that lets you create advanced modulation settings – routing the Mod Wheel to control filter cutoff or pulse width, using an LFO to control panning or amp level, etc. – and you have performance that is unheard of from a synthesizer in this price range!

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Behringer U-Control UMX610 61-Key USB/MIDI Controller Keyboard with USB/Audio Interface Review

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(More customer reviews)MIDI keyboard controllers in general fall into a gray area between computer controller and musical instrument. Most seem to focus on the integration between device and DAW and fall very short on playability. I am a piano and guitar player and have reasonably good quality equipment in my recording studio. I wanted a keyboard that I could use in a different location, primarily for polishing up previously recorded tracks during the editing process. I settled on this 61 key unit because it has a sufficient number of scales to play a composition but is not so large to make it non-portable.
Here are the things I like about the keyboard:
1. It's light (about 10 lbs), so is easy to move about
2. Because it has limited MIDI controls, it is also thin, allowing it to be placed on a desk easily, then removed. In contrast, most other MIDI keyboards are twice as deep and require a permanent stand or position.
3. With Logic 9, the keyboard is plug and play. Logic recognizes it easily (an additional scan seemed to help the volume level). I haven't spent any time trying to assign controls, but the basic stuff seems to work nicely with Logic.
4. Full size keys. These keys are full size, or very close. They are not as large as the ones on the Roland stage piano I have, and not weighted, but they are large enough so that fingers are not tripping over each other.
Here are the most significant shortcomings of the keyboard.
1. It's light. Not titanium light, but cheap plastic light. This makes it portable but also quite fragile. I have the feeling that it will break. Soon.
2. Build quality. The rotary knobs are actually quite sturdy, but the little black plastic buttons make a loud and cheap clicking noise when depressed, as if I am doing something that they weren't designed for. The red color may be eye catching (or gaudy depending on your perspective), but it's already scratched in a few places even with delicate handling.
3. The keys, though full size, have very little feel or weighting, despite the company's claim that they are semi-weighted. I imagine that there are boards with even less feel, but this one offers next to no resistance to the touch. It's not a problem if you're entering a two finger bass line, but definitely is if you're used to the normal piano weighting of an acoustic or a good stage piano. I also realize that the lack of weighting keeps the unit light and portable, so I can accept this inherent limitiation.
4. Key sensitivity is also weak. There are three settings only-light, medium and heavy, where the keyboard responds with more or less sound. On the heavy setting, I have to literally smash the keys to get much sound, and on the light setting, everything played registers as the same volume. These are not keys that one can modulate at all.
5. As a MIDI controller, it's acceptable, but for someone using a full featured DAW, the eight knobs and a few buttons will be woefully inadequate to control complex parameters. I have a separate MIDI controller, so this is not an issue.
6. There is little documentation with the unit. I had to go online and dig about to locate a pretty sketchy manual on the product. I have not tried the included software, and do not intend to.
For what is available right now, this unit is not bad. It has no sounds of its own, but plays everything that Logic has in its audio library. Just plug in the USB connection and it is ready to go. In order to get a good keybed, such as one made by Fatar or Roland, one has to not only spend significantly more money (probably well worth it) but also has to put up with a footprint that is much bigger. It is this last part that really is the Behringer's strong suit. It's pretty svelte, while the rest of the bunch are enormous. Yet, in the final reckoning, I will not keep this unit. It just doesn't seem to be that well built, and I am not optimistic about it lasting. Moreover, while the size of the keys are nice, the playability leaves a lot to be desired, at least if one is used to real pianos.


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The UMX MIDI Controller is an extremely flexible master keyboard with a control section for a wide range of applications. Do you need independent control of hardware synthesizers or general MIDI sound modules? How about control over effects devices? Maybe you just want to operate sequencing software or computer plug-ins from a convenient remote location? UMX Series controllers provide total flexibility and tremendous ease of use, allowing you to realize your ideas intuitively.

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M Audio KeyRig 49 49 Key USB Keyboard Controller Review

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(More customer reviews)This is exactly the keyboard you need if have a computer that does it all. This keyboad is compact, well made, and has all the features you need for simple MIDI entry. I don't recommend it for performance, though - not at all rugged. Great for Apple-based studio (or Wintel).

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The M-Audio KeyRig 49 will turn your Mac or PC into a virtual keyboard workstation! The KeyRig 49 package includes award-winning Key Rig software for the PC and tons of virtual instruments to play with. You can audition loops and compose songs with M-Audio's Session, Apple's GarageBand, Ableton's Live Lite (included) or other music-creation programs. Key Rig 49 includes pro features like a pitch and mod wheels, an assignable volume slider, octave +/- buttons and sustain pedal input. It's powered via a single USB cable and works instantly with computers running Mac OS X or Windows XP. The KeyRig 49 has officially replaced the popular Keystation 49e. It's simply It's a better package at the same price! Full Features 49-note, synth-action keyboard for professional feel and response assignable modulation wheel and volume slider pitch bend wheel assignable octave +/- buttons edit mode button sustain pedal input USB 2.0 and USB 1.1 compatible connection and power via a single USB cable instant installation on Mac OS X and Windows XP computers-just plug and play includes award-winning M-Audio Key Rig software (PC only) featuring: four top-quality virtual sound modules: SP-1 Stage Piano, MS-2 Polyphonic Synthesizer, MB-3 Tone Wheel Organ and GM-4 General MIDI use stand-alone or with a sequencer variable velocity and controller settings split and layer modules for performance combinations module and master effects processors compatible with most popular software includes Ableton Live Lite music creation software AmericanMusical.com is an authorized dealer of M Audio products.

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M-Audio Keystation 61es 61-Key Keyboard Review

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(More customer reviews)I was surprised at the low price of this keyboard considering it has 61 semi-weighted keys. I thought maybe it wouldn't be such great quality but I was pleasantly surprised.
I thought at first that the keys were a little bit "springy", but I soon got used to them. So much so that when I went back to my old Yamaha keyboard (not weighted), the Yamaha felt terrible. This M-Audio lets you play nice and subtle.
There's not much to this keyboard, just a couple of very smooth acting wheels (pitch and modulation), a volume slider and a couple of function buttons. It all seems well-made and the keyboard is heavier than I expected.
I was pleased to find that when I took it out of its box, plugged in the USB cable and opened GarageBand, everything worked perfectly, immediately. No messing about.
It works well with GarageBand (not tried it with anything else), and being powered by the USB cable means it's dead easy to plug in and start playing.
At this price, I can't see how you can go wrong.

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The Keystation 61e is a 61-note USB keyboard with velocity-sensitive, semi-weighted keys that is designed to easily integrate in any computer music environment. Class compliancy with Mac OS X and Windows XP delivers true plug and play setup. The KeyStation 61e is also compatible with many music education and music creation software titles, making it ideal for classrooms and studios alike.More advanced users can control software synths, external sound devices, and more with the assignable slider and pitch and mod wheels.This sleek, compact keyboard is USB bus-powered and requires no external power supply.

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Digidesign Command 8 Control Surface for Pro Tools Review

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(More customer reviews)My son is a sound recording technology student at college. I'm a computer expert. To help my son in his studies, I upgraded his Apple/Sonar DAW to a ProTools environment. We spent many thousands of dollars doing so, and it was a painful experience.
The Command|8 proved to be the most frustrating element in the entire digital sound chain, and a lack of good documentation and support from Avid (or whatever it is called today - the company appears to merge and change its name weekly) does not help.
It took weeks to get the device configured and working reliably with ProTools 8. Even after that it would constantly require recalibration or would go offline arbitrarily, requiring reinstallation of protools to bring it back. I have no idea how pro-am studios manage to survive using ProTools.
A few weeks out of warranty, the display failed and the unit refused to come online. The faders go crazy for a few minutes then park at the bottom although you can hear the fader motors still clicking wildly. This problem is posted several times on the Avid user forums, and appears to be a common defect. Repair costs might run to several hundred dollars.
Unlike most users, we read the user manuals "avidly" and followerd all user directions. As a former sound engineer myself, I insisted that all equipment in the sound chain was covered with dustcloths when not in use. This device was probably used less than 100 hours in its lifetime.
Do not buy this product.

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The Digidesign Command 8 control surface puts full control of Pro Tools TDM or LE at your fingertips more affordably than ever before - for both Windows XP and Mac OS X. Through a simple USB connection, Command 8's eight bankable channels of touch-sensitive motorized faders, rotary encoders, and LCD displays enable you to control your Pro Tools system with a fully featured, intelligent control surface. As with other Digidesign control surfaces, Command 8 gives you channel strip mixing functionality along with the ability to view and edit plug-in parameters and to automate sends, pans, track volume, and mutes. Transport controls (Play, Record, etc.) are also included, complete with a footswitch jack for QuickPunch and TrackPunch in, further increasing your independence from mouse-and-keyboard-only interaction with your sessions. Command 8 features a 1-IN/2-OUT (16 channels in/32 channels out) MIDI interface for integrating your MIDI-compatible gear into Pro Tools. Its Standalone MIDI controller mode enables you to use Command 8 with your favorite third-party MIDI applications and devices - any device or application that accepts MIDI control change messages for level, panning, solo, mute, MIDI Machine Control, and other mappable parameters. For keeping an ear or two on your mixes, Command 8 includes an onboard monitor system featuring acclaimed Focusrite audio performance and quality. It supports a Main Pro Tools Input, External source (a turntable mixer or CD player, for example) and separate speaker and headphone outputs. Along with Pro Tools TDM and LE systems, Command 8 also supports Avid products natively, including Avid Media Composer. When used with Avid products, Command 8's controls are mapped to the Automation Gain Tool for recording dynamic volume automation as well as Solo, Mute, and Snap Mode on and off. Since it connects via USB, no additional MIDI interface is required. Better yet, when utilized in su

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Behringer UMA25S U-Control 25-Key USB Midi Controller Keyboard Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased this Midi Controller when an older controller I owned no longer worked properly. I was also looking for an audio interface and found that this keyboard had both. I had never purchased anything by Behringer before and when doing my research I found that many people consider Behringer a bit of a joke. However, it seems that in recent years that Behringer has really improved the quality of their products. Specifically, I found some great online reviews for this unit that really praised the price versus performance value for this controller.
For starters, you get ALOT for your money. The device comes with a gig bag, straps, cables, a headphone/microphone and the built-in audio interface. The headphone/microphone works just fine but the build quality is a bit cheap. However, the actual Midi Controller is incredibly solid and looks fantastic. There's plenty of control built into the unit. My only real complaint is that the velocity response of the keyboard is a bit shallow. There's not a great deal of range, even though it certainly does transmit velocity information.
What I really like is that the gig bag carries everything. When I travel, I can pack the keyboard, cables, headphone/mic and there's still enough room for my netbook too. What I found frustrating, is that I found I needed to purchase a seperate mixer to really utilize the built in audio interface to its best advantage. Thankfully, there are many inexpensive mixers available that are perfect for the budget musician.
All in all however, I feel this is a really good deal and I'm very happy with it.

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The UMA25S MIDI Controller is an extremely flexible master keyboard with a control section for a wide range of applications from on-stage performance to podcasting. Do you need independent control of computer rack synthesizers? How about control over general MIDI sound modules and effects devices? Maybe you just want to operate sequencing software or computer plug-ins from a convenient remote location? The UMA25S offers total flexibility, tremendous ease of use and allows you to realize your ideas intuitively.

What is a MIDI Controller? Simply put, a MIDI controller gives you the power to take command of any hardware device or software that understands MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface). This means that MIDI-addressable effects processors (such as delays, reverbs, etc.) and audio recording and editing software can be controlled with a single piece of hardware, a MIDI controller. This can be very handy indeed when you have lots of devices spread out all over your studio or workstation space. The MIDI controller sends a control message to the device or program you're using that turns notes on and off, adjusts the volume or changes any one of many addressable parameters.
21 assignable controllers and 16 user presets When it comes to remote control, the UMA25S offers more real-time options than the competition. You get 8 knobs, 8 buttons, 2 wheels (Pitch Bend & Modulation), 2 pedal ports (Expression & Sustain) and 1 fader, for a total of 21 assignable controllers--total control of your operating environment. Once you've assigned the parameters for a particular scenario, simply store it in one of the 16 available preset locations.
Here are a few more uses for a UMA25S:
For playing external sound modules, rack synthesizers and virtual instruments
For editing sound parameters of synthesizers, sound samplers and GM/GS/XG sound generators
Controlling parameters on effects devices and software plug-ins, such as eff ects processors, compressors and digital equalizers
Remotely controlling software mixers (functions for volume, pan, mute, etc.)
Remotely controlling transport functions (Play, Fast Forward, Stop, etc., which is also known as MMC, or MIDI Machine Control) on sequencers, hard-disk recorders, drum machines, etc.
Live control of volume and sound parameters of sound modules on stage

Functionality, Functionality, Functionality There are some things that just bear repeating. Besides providing 25 velocity-sensitive keys for the slickest set of glissandos and the snappiest arpeggios, the UMA25S also functions as a full-fledged USB audio interface for recording and podcasting. This powerful interface features a built-in mic preamp with dedicated Gain control, a Phones Output with its own dedicated Volume control and stereo RCA I/O jacks for connecting external devices. The interface is so versatile, it even allows simultaneous recording of the Mic and Line inputs.
Speaking of Recording... Because you'll want to take full advantage of the UMA25S' podcasting and recording potential we've included a massive software package including Audacity, Podifier, Juice, Podnova and Golden Ear.
You're ready to go live on your PC or Mac computer right out of the box! You also get more than 100 virtual instruments and over 50 effects plug-ins, making the UMA25S a complete mobile studio from input to output.
Three Different Power Supply Options Because it needs to be ready for action in a variety of venues, the UMA25S can draw its operating power from any free USB port on your PC or Mac computer, 3 AA batteries or the optional external power supply. No matter what your performance calls for, the UMA25S is the ideal solution.
Accessories MIDI controllers don't typically come with many extras. But the UMA25S is designed to do so much more than turn things on and off , so Behringer provide gadgets galore. In addition to the expansive software package mentioned above, you also get a high-quality headset with built-in mic for podcasting and recording; a soft carry bag with enough pockets for cables, power supply, CDs, etc.; and a guitar-style strap, so you can steal the spotlight from the guitarist and start building your own bevy of fans.
What's in the Box UMA25S MIDI Controller, Shoulder Strap, Behringer HS1000 Stereo Headset, User's Manual, Software CDs, USB Cable, Gig Bag

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Line 6 POD Studio KB37 Review

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(More customer reviews)I'm new to creating music on a computer, and my research, along with tons of positive reviews from others, led me to the POD Studio KB37 as a good all-purpose starting point. In terms of flexibility, this package is very hard to beat. The built-in inputs and mic preamps let you record just about anything, from guitar/bass and other electric instruments to vocals and acoustic instruments (using your own mic, of course). For these uses alone, the KB37 is a great way to get sound into your computer with minimum headaches. Simply connect the KB37 to your computer with a single USB cable. It's USB-powered, so you don't even have to plug it into a power outlet.
The hardware's MIDI keyboard and control surface open up a whole new dimension. They allow you to add keyboard parts and adjust some software parameters via real-world knobs and buttons; this is much faster than clicking and dragging onscreen "virtual" controls.
The included software package reveals the KB37's full potential, transforming an otherwise great product into an incredible bargain. Sure, the Reason Adapted (synth, sampler, sequencer, and effects) and Ableton Live (multitrack recording) software are the "lite" versions of these programs, but even so, they're very versatile and powerful. If you're fairly new to DAW software, trust me, even the lite version of Reason is pretty incredible -- you'll get a lot of use out of it. It includes tons of sampled real-world instruments, fully functional and tweakable soft synths, drum machine, sequencer, effects, and a lot more. It takes quite a while to explore its impressive capabilities. Once you do, you'll know whether you want to upgrade to the full version, which is available at a discounted price. But again, the lite verion will be plenty for many users.
Finally, you get Line 6's POD Farm software, which gives you an arsenal of stompbox and rack effects for guitar, bass, vocals, and just about anything else. On top of that, it includes amp, cab, and mic preamp modeling. You get everything that most guitar multi-effects units provide and then some. Because it runs on your computer, naming and saving patches is quicker and easier than stand-alone multi-effects units, and you can save as many custom patches as you like. And, unlike stand-alone units, POD Farm is expandable. Line 6 claims that the KB37 allows you to monitor your tone, complete with effects, without a latency problem (a lag between playing a note and hearing the output). This is not an empty promise. On my modest laptop, which runs Windows Vista on an Intel Core 2 Duo T5550 (1.83GHz) with 3GB of RAM, I experience zero latency problems.
All told, for the price of one guitar multi-effects unit, you get everything you need to start a home studio. If you're a full-time keyboard player, this package probably isn't aimed at you. As its name suggests, the KB37's keyboard has only 37 keys. So, there are probably better MIDI keyboard controllers out there for you. Plus, as a keyboard specialist, you'd most likely want a full version of whatever synth software you prefer. On the other hand, if you play guitar or bass and you want all the building blocks for tweaking your tone, adding vocals, effects, *and* getting your feet wet with powerful synths, sampling, and multitrack recording, here it is for a laughably low price.


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POD Studio KB37 combines the stunning sound of POD Farm\' plug-in with a powerful and versatile USB interface and 37-key MIDI controller. Essential to the success of countless platinum-selling albums, these immortal Line 6 guitar, bass and effects tones are now available for recording guitarists. POD Farm, The Premium Tone Plug-inPOD Farm plug-in features the sounds of the sought-after vintage essentials and must-have modern monsters necessary for a pro-sounding recording. It includes 18 immortal guitar amps Models,24 guitar cabs, 5 bass amps and 5 bass cabs, 29 essential stompbox and studio effects. Drag and drop models into the signal flow, pre or post amplifier. The carousel-style gear browser, displaying each and every coveted model Plus, get your free FX Junkie model pack and add 35 more effect models including synths, filters, delays, and more to POD Farm!KB37, the Lowest Noise for the Clearest RecordingsKB37 boasts the lowest noise for recording guitar, 12dB more dynamic range than similar interfaces, for clear and dynamic recordings. Plus, exclusive Line 6 ToneDirect\' monitoring virtually eliminates latency allowing you to record with amp and effect modeling and without sacrificing tone or feel.Half rock-solid guitar interface, half feature-packed MIDI controller, KB37 is as versatile as it is powerful. It features 37 full-sized velocity-sensitive keys, a pitch bend wheel, octave up/down buttons and a set of software-assignable controls.Start Recording Right Out of the BoxPOD Studio KB37 includes POD Farm plug-in, Ableton Live Lite Line 6 Studio Edition 16-track recording software ideal for guitarists, and award-winning Reason Adapted production software featuring a sought-after sequencer and tons of stunningly lifelike instruments. This collection of studio-standard hardware and software provides instant pro recording, right out of the box.

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Avid KeyStudio Review

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(More customer reviews)This is exactly what i was looking for!!! ive been searching on and off for something like this for a long time. the keyboard is very basic and easy to use but is still capable of so much. Pro Tools SE is very easy to use and fun!!! would recomend to anyone that would like to learn how to make music for fun!!

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Powered by the same technology behind many of today\'s greatest hits, Avid KeyStudio instantly transforms your Mac or PC into a full-featured recording studio. The streamlined combination of Avid hardware and software—the 49-note, velocity-sensitive M-Audio KeyStudio keyboard and Pro Tools SE music creation application—makes it easy to turn your inspiration into a professional-quality song. Just connect the keyboard to your computer, fire up the software, choose from over 100 different instrument sounds, and start playing. You can build out your composition with loops from the huge included library, then add effects, polish your tracks, and share them with the world.

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Native Instruments KOMPLETE 7 ELEMENTS Software Review

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(More customer reviews)This software is amazing for the price. I am mostly using the various features as plug-ins with Ableton Live Intro, and I'm finding the combination of these two inexpensive packages to be awesome for someone on a budget. I can't believe the realistic guitar sounds I get using Guitar Rig as a plug-in to Ableton via my Yamaha keyboard (if you're not familiar with Native Instruments, Guitar Rig is one of the included programs). I've recorded several things and played back for other people and they were astonished that I was playing the parts with a keyboard. Highly recommend.

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Packing a comprehensive selection of production-ready sounds and effects, KOMPLETE 7 ELEMENTS is the perfect introduction to the world of KOMPLETE. This collection delivers studio quality tools at an unbeatable value, and is infinitely expandable with the ever-growing range of KOMPLETE Instruments and Effects. As it is, it comes with over 12GB and 2,000 premium sounds from the KOMPLETE Instruments and Effects collection, making it a ready-to-roll professional software bundle for all production styles.VSL Orchestra, Authentic Drums, World and Band InstrumentsKOMPLETE 7 ELEMENTS boasts content from Vienna Symphonic Library Orchestra, plus classical percussion, a concert grand, and harpsichord. You also get exotic sounds from all around the world like bagpipes, flutes, sitar, kalimba, kora, steel drums, and more. Also included is a vast arsenal of band instruments: acoustic and electric pianos, guitars, organs, bass, horn sections, drum kits, plus a vintage 60s Gretsch kit beautifully recorded at Abbey Road's world famous Studio Two. The KOMPLETE World of Modern and Vintage ElectronicsWithin the vast array of premium samples you will find 25 instruments inspired by vintage analog synthesizers, keyboards, organs, string synths, or famous drum machines like the TR-808/909, CR-78, and others. KOMPLETE 7 ELEMENTS also features an exclusive selection of 21 unique contemporary synths, 6 different synthetic drum kits, plus 16 urban production kits—consisting of drum loops, single loop tracks, and the individual slices. 8 Classic Amps and 27 Effects From Guitar Rig 4KOMPLETE 7 ELEMENTS comes with 8 perfectly modeled classic amps, 19 cabinets, and the Matched Cabinet module for tried-and-true classic tone—just about every guitar sound ever recorded is at your fingertips. A collection of 27 professional effects—such as overdrive and distortion pedals, chorus, phaser, flanger, wah-wahs, reverb, and delays—can be combined in any order or quantity. 9 REAKTOR

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Tascam US-144 USB 2.0 Audio and MIDI Interface Review

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(More customer reviews)I absolutely love this product for portable recording. I have a Dell notebook computer and have used this to record solo piano and my music lessons. The microphone pre-amps are pretty decent. I have used the mic preamps directly and have compared them with the same mics used through Grace One preamps. Surprisingly decent in comparison. The recordings of piano compared to a setup with a MOTU 828 MKII and Grace One's was really pretty good. I absolutely loved the large controls for gain on the top of the unit. Very easy to manipulate and more solid than other competitive product cheap knobs. The fact that this unit is USB 2 means that the recording quality can be far superior than USB 1.1 units that are going to limit whether you can do high quality recordings on multiple channels. The midi interface works great also in Acid and Sonar. The unit definitely will cause your laptop battery to drain faster if you are using mic inputs with phantom power but that is fine by me for the great functionality. Line in works fine but if I had any minor complaint it would be that it would be nice to have an effects insert interface. Obviously, this should not be a problem for line-in devices but is more of an issue for mic recording where you might want some outboard vocal processing. The headphone interface is good and I like the ability to use a mix between the computer and the external source into the headphones.

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The Tascam US-144, their follow-up to the mega popular US-122, delivers everything you'd want in a portable audio-MIDI interface and more.Record two tracks at a time with zero latency; whether you have a PC or a Mac, your song ideas go down in real time, real easy. Its size means you can take it anywhere you take your laptop, yet it's packed with features that make buying it an audio no-brainer. MIDI input and output, high quality mic inputs, 96kHz/24-bit recording (better than CD quality)-all the stuff you'd want without the fluff you wouldn't. The US-144: the answer to your recording needs.

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