Craig Barnes Jupiter 8 editor/assigner

video upload by Craig Barnes

"Building a cheap Jupiter 8 from two JP-08 modules I rarely use. I've tried to emulate as much of the original Jupiter 8 onto the front panel, although I've made some concessions because of the way the JP-08 is controlled over MIDI."

Meet Touchord - an Open Source Chord Generating MIDI controller

video upload by Daugdara

"Touchord is a MIDI controller especially designed with makers and musicians in mind. It makes music seem easy for those with minimal knowledge of music and for experienced musician it is a tool that can improve production and performance workflow. It's open source, with the intention of it being fully modifiable, hackable, upgradable beyond our intensions.

Support the project and buy one at:
https://igg.me/at/touchord
Help the individual behind the project:
ko-fi.com/dovker

Github: github.com/dovker/Touchord
Website: https://touchord.com
Socials: @daugdara"

Also in black pictured below.

CLICK FOR MORE »

GLT Audio PM-80 Yamaha CS-80 MIDI Controller

via GLT Audio

For many musicians, owning a CS-80 synthesizer is a dream that’s out of reach - both financially and in terms of required maintenance. While today’s VST replicas sound remarkably close, the true spirit of the CS-80 only comes alive when you have all controls at your fingertips. That’s why GLT Audio created the “Poor Man’s CS-80” — the PM-80, featuring 75 dedicated faders and a ribbon controller, offering an inspiring hands-on experience.

75 silk-smooth faders

30 cm ribbon controller

6 high quality waveform toggle switches

Slim table-top metal enclosure

Well connected

Power and MIDI-out over USB-C

MIDI-out over 3.5mm jack

Expression pedal input (converts to MIDI)

CV and Gate out, assigned to the ribbon controller

Magnetic overlays to play other virtual instruments

Use cases
Map the PM-80 to your favorite CS-80 VST, such as Cherry Audio's GX-80, Softube's Model 77, Arturia's CS-80 V, Xils Lab's The Eighty, Morphoice's Unstable or Memorymoon ME80.
Use the PM-80 for other VSTs, by adapting it's parameters using magnetic labels.
Control a virtual audio mixer. (eg. 24 x level, 24 x pan, 27 faders for effects)
Control hardware directly in a DAWless setup, using the MIDI DIN output (even allowing SysEx on customized firmware).
Connect to your Eurorack: the ribbon controller outputs to CV and Gate.
As a powerful generic MIDI controller, the PM-80 can even be used for applications like DMX light control and VJing.
Product details
75 high quality silk-smooth 30mm faders by Alps Alpine (all without detents).
30 cm ribbon controller.
6 high quality waveform toggle switches and 3 slide switches.
1 special switch: while pressed you control 75 additional CCs.
Slim table-top metal enclosure with screen printed metal faceplate and rubber feet.
We will share the source code, allowing firmware customization by the user.
Dimensions of the enclosure: 410mm x 205mm x 20mm.
Designed and assembled in the The Netherlands.

Connections
Power and MIDI over USB-C
3.5mm TRS MIDI-out (Type A)
3.5mm TRS CV & gate out (assigned to the ribbon controller)
3.5mm TRS expression pedal input (value sent out over MIDI)

Additional items
Magnetic overlay labels for:
a famous 1977 poly synth
a famous ladder filter mono synth
blank (for handwriting)
more to follow…
3.5mm TRS to MIDI DIN converter.
3.5mm to 6.3mm TRS converter for expression pedal input.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Latest Hardware Synth Programmers by Doctor Synth Devices

video upload by Demian Sanchez

"This is a small demo of my Alpha Juno programmer.
Price is $300 + shipping." [reach out on YouTube]

Ensoniq ESQ-1/m SQ80 Programmer Sneak Peak

video upload by Demian Sanchez

Doctor Synth Devices also brought us the Ensoniq Mirage Extended Programmer.

A new Minimoog VST controller: SFC-mini V4 Intro

video upload by mylarmelodies

"The SoundForce SFC-mini V4 is a new dedicated physical hardware controller for Minimoog-style VST plugins. This video introduces the device and how it works, what's new in this model, the special bonus features that work with the Arturia Mini V4 plugin, and much more.

This video serves as an official intro to the SFC-mini V4, and was funded by SoundForce. Based in the Netherlands, SoundForce have been in business for more than 10 years making controllers and eurorack modules."

CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Why Does this Exist?
02:23 - Minimoog: From Bass to Pad
04:39 - Whats new in V4?
06:59 - Build and Feel
07:25 - How does the integration work in a DAW
08:02 - Mini V4 Smoothing Catchup
08:55 - Mini V4 Jump & Pick-up Catchup Modes
09:43 - Hopping between plugin instances
10:28 - How do you set up a Plugin?
10:52 - UA Minimoog
11:34 - Dump (Manual Control)
11:56 - UA Minimoog Play
14:01 - Extra Control at the Bottom
14:54 - Changing Presets (Mini V4)
15:46 - User 1 & 2 Mapping
16:41 - Mapping Another Plugin (MS-20)

Press release follows:


SoundForce is introducing the SFC-Mini V4, a high-end, dedicated MIDI controller designed for the world’s leading Minimoog software emulations. Featuring more than 65 hands-on controls arranged in an authentic Minimoog-style layout, it delivers a true analog-inspired workflow for modern producers. Representing over a decade of SoundForce MIDI-controller innovation, the SFC-Mini V4 is the most advanced and accurate Minimoog-focused controller yet.

Build quality
The SFC-Mini V4 is assembled in the Netherlands using high-quality components sourced from Europe and Asia. Its case is built entirely from powder-coated sheet metal. Both sides are fitted with elegant 8 mm walnut wood panels for a vintage-inspired look.

Backed by over ten years of MIDI-hardware expertise, the SFC-Mini V4 is part of SoundForce’s newest generation of controllers. Its pots, sliders, and switches were chosen after extensive research and experimentation to deliver outstanding tactile response, long-lasting performance, and rock-solid reliability during assembly.

Plugin support:
Because the SFC-Mini V4 outputs standard MIDI CC messages, it can be paired with any software or hardware that supports MIDI CC mapping. However, since each plugin has its own UI and MIDI implementation, the firmware provides dedicated plugin modes to ensure proper integration. The SFC-Mini V4 has specific plugin modes supporting the following plugins:

Arturia Mini V4 (incl 2-way)
Arturia Mini V3/iMini
GForce Minimonsta 2
Cherry Audio Miniverse
UA Minimoog
Softube Model 72
NI Monark
Synpase Audio The Legend HZ
Plugiator Minimax

2-way communication:
Two-way communication means the SoundForce controller and a supported plugin can talk to each other in both directions, instead of the controller only sending MIDI data one-way. At this point, this feature is supported with the Arturia Mini V4.

In practice, that creates a far more “hardware-like” experience when using software synths. Change a preset, load a new instance on another track, move a parameter with your mouse and the controller automatically syncs its LED switches, and ingest the pot data in memory. When the received pot data from the plugin differs from the actual pot position on the controller, 3 options similar to Ableton take over modes can be chosen from: jump, pick-up and smoothing.

For more technical details: consult the manual.

Where to buy:

EU: SoundForce store

UK: Signal Sounds

US Perfect Circuit

Kraftor hosting Nexus

video upload by Polaxis

"Sentence prepared with https://www.polaxis.be/nexus-serial-m...
and triggered via MIDI using a custom MIDI keyboard designed by https://learn.adafruit.com/usb-keyset"

Info on the USB Chorded Keyset #3dprinting #circuitpython
video upload by Adafruit Industries

"Build a 3D printed USB chorded keyset inspired by the original Doug Engelbert "Mother of all Demos" keyset from the 1960's. This 5-finger keyset lets you type without moving your hand, entering full words and phrases by pressing multiple keys simultaneously as a chord."

TOTAL CONTROL : OXI E16

video upload by OXI Instruments

"Meet the OXI E16, our new performance-focused MIDI controller designed for precision, speed and expressive control.

16 metal encoders with LED crowns, a bright display, powerful mapping, snapshots, grouping, scenes and more — all in a compact aluminum unibody.

In this video I walk you through the main features, the workflow, and real-world use cases to show how E16 can become the center of your setup.

Learn more about E16 here:
http://oxiinstruments.com/oxi-e16"

Sid Station driven by Lightreft Monolit exploring SID textures and grit

video upload by HANJŌ

"Afternoon exploration session with 3 silver boxes, the Elektron Machinedrum handling the beat and the classic SID Station led by the Lightreft Monolit on the 2.0β firmware.

Machinedrum keeps things tight and mechanical while the SID Station focuses on texture. Bit-grit, noise edges, and shifting timbres.

Just experimenting, seeing how far the monolit can take Midi Automation over an IDM groove. #machinedrum #sidstation #idm"

####

The LightReft Monolit made its first appearance on the site earlier this month in another video by HANJŌ.

The following is a playlist featuring dditional demos, followed by some pics and details further below.

Lightreft Monolit Sequencer Demos

video uploads by Sasha DZA

Playlist (in most recent order - video 7 is from one year ago):

1. Monolit Sequencer

2. Machinedrum + Monolit : Simple Setup

3. MONOLIT x DECKARD'S DREAM MK2

4. Monolit: Quick Tips for Hardware Users

In this video, we demonstrate how Monolit connects seamlessly with synths, grooveboxes, and samplers — no computer needed.
No deep menus, no distractions — just a clean interface and immediate control.

We explore different scenarios where Monolit shines: real-time MIDI control, clock generation, note and CC mapping, automation, and even gamepad integration.
Hand-built in Japan, Monolit is a minimal yet powerful tool for artists seeking intuitive, hands-on control.

Chapters:
00:00 — Intro
00:23 — Octatrack MK2 DJ setup ideas
02:42 — Scratching on Octatrack MK2
03:07 — Note-sliders / Quantisation
03:56 — Monomachine Drone
04:45 — External controller macros setup
05:08 — Double Monolit setup
05:47 — Retro game controller
06:36 — Advanced Game controller

5. Monolit Firmware 1.2.0: Unlocking New MIDI Control Features!

In this video, we dive into the new features introduced in Monolit firmware v1.2.0. From advanced MIDI routing to external slider control and dynamic button functions — Monolit just got a serious upgrade. We’re showcasing a dual-Monolit setup, where one unit controls the other, which is connected to an Elektron Monomachine.

6. Monolit × Octatrack — Live Performance Control Demo | LightReft

7. LightReft - MONOLIT v.1.0.0

00:00 - INTRODUCTION
04:36 - EDIT MENU
07:22 - CC MODE
13:12 - NOTES MODE
17:26 - LFO MODE
20:33 - MOTION MODE
23:07 - SETTINGS
24:53 - PRESET MANAGER
26:13 - MAX/MSP
30:26 - TOUCHDESIGNER
33:29 - EURORACK MODULAR
41:29 - MODEL:SAMPLES
45:02 - CONCLUSION

Welcome to the first tutorial on the MONOLIT device! In this 40+ minute video, you’ll get acquainted with the essential settings, programming, and MIDI control on MONOLIT, while exploring the device’s unique capabilities. This session covers the key aspects of working with MONOLIT, making it an ideal guide for musicians and producers who want to master its full potential.

Main topics covered:
Initial setup and connecting MONOLIT
Programming and MIDI control
Using functions and operational modes

Dive into the world of sound with this introduction to MONOLIT! Tutorial by Tim Shatny.

"MONOLIT by Light Reft

A smart, modular MIDI computer built for live performance and smooth integration with any setup. ​

Monolit is not a controller you map once to forget.
It is a playable instrument - a physical interface that lets you shape sound through motion, record gestures as automation, and turn parameters into something alive. ​

Designed for those who don’t just adjust sound, but perform it.

WHY MONOLIT?

A motion driven MIDI instrument for live sound shaping, expressive sequencing, and gestural automation.
​
8 banks with 64 controls per preset
Real-time MIDI automation and parameter morphing
Seamless DAW + hardware integration
USB, TRS-MIDI, external device support
​
Customizable, minimal, and fast.
​
MEET MONOLIT, YOUR NEW MULTIFUNCTIONAL MIDI COMPANION!
​
MONOLIT by Light Reft is a cutting-edge, multifunctional MIDI-computer that transforms your music production experience. Designed for musicians who seek precision and flexibility, MONOLIT offers seamless integration with all DAWs and hardware devices, customizable presets, and an intuitive interface for effortless control and creativity.
​
Whether you're diving into your DAW or jamming out with external hardware instruments, MONOLIT has you covered. An endless library of presets at your fingertips—each one offering 8 banks, with 8 sliders and 8 buttons per bank. That's a whole lot of control!

For each slider and button, we present a range of versatile options. You can record MIDI automation, set delay times for slider movements, send notes and LFOs, and adjust various parameters directly within the device. This flexibility ensures that you have complete control over every detail of your setup.
​
But it doesn't stop there. MONOLIT is as versatile as you are, allowing you to connect other devices like Gamepads, Keyboards, Monome Grid , or any MIDI device you fancy. This means you can take command of your entire setup, all through one sleek, powerful interface. Whether you're crafting the perfect beat, tweaking synths, or anything in between, MONOLIT is the tool that brings your musical ideas to life with ease and style.
​
Designed and assembled in Japan, MONOLIT is ready to be shipped worldwide.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Introducing Timepod by Modern Midi

video upload by Modern MIDI

"Timepod is an innovative MIDI controller with 16 high-resolution endless knobs, built around an advanced integrated snapshot system."

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:52 - Recall Modes
01:48 - Mixing Demo
03:00 - Sequencing Demo
03:56 - Outro

Timepod - Full Reveal

video upload by Modern MIDI

"After a year of design, testing, and feedback from our amazing Kickstarter backers — Timepod is finally real.

In this video, we’re giving you the first full look at the finished product — the design, the features, and the journey that brought us here.

Limited Time $100 Off Preorder Sale 👇
https://www.modernmidi.io/products/timepod

0:00 Intro
0:25 Next-Gen Knobs
0:55 Modern LED rings
1:06 Innovative Snapshot System
1:51 Auto Morph
2:10 Manual Morph
2:43 Random Morph
3:21 Desktop App
3:30 Outro"



Next-Gen Resolution
16 ultra-high resolution (1024 steps per revolution—8x the resolution of standard encoders) endless knobs with touch-sensitivity for unmatched precision and control.*

Perfected Feel
Custom-tuned knobs for optimal torque, uniform resistance, and silky-smooth response for a truly premium feel.

Sleek Visual Feedback
Seamless LED rings powered by high-quality LEDs for rich colors, crisp feedback, and outdoor-visible brightness.

Deep Control
8 banks of 16 mappable knobs give you complete tactile control over your projects.

Innovative Snapshot System
Save, recall, and morph between sound sets creatively and effortlessly, with up to 8 snapshots per bank and 3 different morph modes.

Frictionless Workflow
Play Timepod like an instrument with its streamlined interface, intuitive controls, and creative features.

Customize Everything
Use the companion desktop app to configure colors, mappings, brightness, and more.

Connect Anywhere
USB-C and TRS-A In & Out ports unlock new creative possibilities in any setup.

Engineered with Passion
Timepod is the product of years of community-driven development, refined through countless iterations and meticulous attention to detail.

Each Timepod is hand-assembled in the United States.

*14-bit MIDI CC communication is natively supported by Timepod and most DAWs, allowing you to take advantage of the higher resolution with minimal setup.

Meet Osmose 61

video upload by Expressive E

Check with dealers on the right for availability.

"🎹 Meet Osmose 61
The new 61-key version of the Osmose adds an extra octave for more freedom to explore, compose, and perform ✨. A fully expressive keybed lets you press, bend, glide, and shape sounds naturally, whether as a standalone synth or controller."

osmose 49/61 - the ultimate expressive synthesizer

video upload by Expressive E

"Discover Osmose, the new standard for musical expressivity — now available in 49 and 61 keys! 🎹
Experience a new level of musical freedom with intuitive gestures that let you press, bend, shake, strum, and shape sound like never before. Whether you’re a seasoned keyboardist, a workflow-driven producer, or a bold sound designer, Osmose will take your creativity to uncharted places.

Choose between the compact 49-key version or the extended 61-key model for more range and comfort. Both deliver the same unmatched expressive experience. 🤍

49/61-key gesture-sensitive keybed (semi-weighted)
Custom expressive sound engine (by Haken Audio)
More than 500 presets with custom macros
Built-in Effects: Reverb, Delay, Compressor/Drive/2 convolution engines, pre & post reverb/delay, EQ
External MIDI control w/classic & MPE keyboard configurations
Large color screen & ergonomic UI
Built-in MPE arpeggiator & innovative glide control
Custom sensitivity controls
Sleek & rugged design

Everything you need to know about Osmose: https://www.expressivee.com/2-osmose"

"Take your expression further than ever before with the Osmose 61, an expanded range version of Expressive E's advanced MPE keyboard synthesizer and controller. Adding another octave to Osmose, this 61-key version provides ample room for a wider range of melodic and harmonic playing, supporting two hand performance with plenty of room for dynamic performance across the Osmose's uniquely capable 3D keybed. Beyond this expanded range, the Osmose 61 delivers every innovation that made the original 49-key version a mainstay for musicians around the world. Deep control with MPE-enabled keys that add nuance to every touch, premium build quality, and the vastly powerful EaganMatrix synth engine are all at your fingertips, now with even more room to make your musical mark.

Now built in Expressive E's Polish manufacturing center, the Osmose 61 offers a premium standard for build quality, ensuring an uncompromising experience that's built to last. From rich and velvety acoustic tones to daring and dreamy synth patches, the EaganMatrix engine under the hood is your window to a world of captivating expression, now with an optimized interface for intuitive sound design and control. Physical modeling, FM, classic subtractive synthesis, and so much more are at the ready, bending deftly to every keypress, lateral wobble, and aftertouch press for a playing experience akin to the nuanced feel of acoustic instruments. Expressive E's mighty MPE control goes beyond even this core sound engine, readily expanding with Expressive E's software ecosystem of original and third-party developed sound libraries, proprietary instruments, and more. Whether you're using the Osmose 61 as a dedicated performance instrument or integrating its powerful expressive features into your DAW workflow, the Osmose never misses a beat to empower your creative vision.

If you're ready to dive into a lifetime of expressive control, the Osmose 61 is here to offer a dedicated platform for performance and control that's designed to grow with you. Twenty-four voices of polyphony, built-in effects, and 580 factory presets with 2048 slots for saving your own creations provide a deep well of musical possibilities to explore right out of the box, while the powerful engine, expanded software ecosystem, and premium build ensure a lifetime of sonic exploration. For MPE mastery without limits, look to the Osmose 61 from Expressive E.

OSMOSE 61 FEATURES

61-key MPE keyboard synthesizer and controller

3D keybed provides deep expressive control

Gestural controls include press, pitch bend, vibrato, aftertouch, pressure glide, and note off control

Expressive arpeggiator for nuanced sequence performance

EaganMatrix sound engine by Haken Audio enables vast sound design options with physical modeling, FM, subtractive, and more

24 voices of polyphony

Built-in effects processing

Intuitive interface with color LCD screen, 6 encoders, pitch and mod sliders, and octave & preset buttons

Expanded ecosystem of sounds and synths made specifically for Osmose by Expressive E and third-party partnerships for limitless sound exploration

MIDI input, output, and thru

USB type B connectivity for direct DAW control

2x continuous pedal inputs for sustain or parameter control

Balanced audio outputs for professional sound on stage and in the studio"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Greaten AP-500 Pro EWI Review: 120 Sounds, Voice Control & USB MIDI Demo! - an overall upgrade

video upload by Floyd Steinberg

Also see: Greaten AP300 pro EWI demo and review

"The Greaten AP-500 Pro Electronic Wind Instrument ( https://greaten-music.myshopify.com/c... ) is the powerful successor to last year's AP-300. In this video, I explore all the new features, enhancements, and sound upgrades that make the AP-500 Pro a serious contender for wind synth enthusiasts.



🎷 What's inside the box?

🎛️ Hardware upgrades: lighter body, better screen, more octave rollers

🎚️ New features: 120 sounds, voice control, Bluetooth audio & MIDI, USB MIDI for VST and hardware synths

🎵 Sound comparisons: Soprano Sax, Clarinet, Trombone, Shakuhachi — old vs new

🎹 Effects: reverb, chorus, filters, layering, patch saving

🎤 Bonus: @XavierRadix demo with Tenor Sax




Whether you're a saxophonist, EWI player, or synth lover, this deep dive shows how the AP-500 Pro pushes expressive control and connectivity to the next level."



📌 Chapters:

CLICK FOR MORE »

ARTURIA Introduces KeyStep mk2 | Step Into Your Next Idea

video upload by Arturia

Check with dealers on the right for pricing and availability.

"The KeyStep DNA, evolved. With expanded connectivity, real-time generative tools and hands-on OLED control, KeyStep mk2 refines every detail of the original - letting you shape, transform, and perform ideas faster than ever."

Tutorial | KeyStep mk2 - Overview

video upload by Arturia

"Join Brendan for an introductory tour of KeyStep mk2. Discover its core features from advanced sequencing and generative sound creation to OLED control and deep CV/MIDI/USB-C connectivity - a centrepiece for hybrid setups and keeping your ideas evolving.

_CHAPTERS
00:00 Intro
00:54 Front Panel
01:51 Sequencer
03:50 Sequencer & Mutate
06:04 Scale Mode
06:22 Chord Mode
06:57 Arpeggiator
10:11 Extra Features & Back Panel"

User videos:



Playlist:

1. Talking New Keystep MK2 with Arturia’s Product Manager | Generative Arp, Mutate & Sequencer Upgrades - Noisegate
2. Arturia KEYSTEP MK2 // It's not an update, it’s a new composition workflow // v2 Review, tutorial - loopop
3. Arturia KeyStep Mk2 Review - Did they ruin it? - Molten Music Technology
4. Is this cheating? Arturia Keystep MKII // Generate and Mutate at will!! - Starsky Carr

_Step into your next idea

The original KeyStep became a modern classic by giving musicians a simple, reliable way to bridge modular, hardware, and software instruments.

With KeyStep mk2, that formula has evolved in every way that makes sense - becoming more creative, more connected, and more immediate than ever. It introduces Mutate and generative tools, a bright OLED display, and a redesigned sequencer and arpeggiator that make idea generation effortless. KeyStep mk2 is priced at $139 in the USA and 129 € (or $129) in other regions.

_What’s new with KeyStep mk2

Patch into modular, trigger drum machines, and control synths from past and present. With USB-C reliability, DIN MIDI I/O, assignable CV outs, and pedal support, KeyStep mk2 is ready to command any setup - live, in the studio, or on the move.

More creative idea generation

Mutate, Spice/Dice, and real-time transforms for instant variation.

Hardware-first control

OLED display + clickable encoder reduces reliance on MIDI Control Center.

Better connectivity

USB-C, power switch, and an extra CV out (Mod 2) alongside MIDI DIN, Sync I/O, and pedal input.

Upgraded sequencer

8× more memories, unquantized recording, Bend & Mod automation, Undo, step edit, pattern chaining.

Smarter arpeggiator

Classic Arpeggios, Arp Reset to turn arps into phrases, Generative "Arp Pattern" mode provides all sorts of fresh melodies, basslines, chords, using the keys that are pressed.

CLICK FOR MORE »

PopuPiano’s LED Keys: Smart Learning Meets MIDI Control in a Colorful Portable Keyboard

video upload by Floyd Steinberg

"#popupiano ( https://go.sjv.io/MA7Ld3 or https://www.popumusic.com ) is a battery-powered, multicolored keyboard that teaches piano lessons with an app available for IOS and Android. It's also a MIDI device with detachable left-hand devices, a chord pad and another 2 octave keyboard. Please watch the video before setting the comments section on fire. ;-)

Table of contents:

00:00 hello
00:22 what's this / what's in the box
01:32 hardware features
02:48 the chord pad (plus demo)
03:39 the app - overview and piano sound
04:47 the piano course and color sync
06:21 play & sing mode with licensed music
07:21 free play mode / chord pad customisation
08:06 AI mode (loop generator)
08:37 using it with a DAW
09:51 some internet controversy (or maybe not)
11:01 conclusion: the good ...
11:35 the mid ...
12:08 ... and some improvements that would be very nice to have
12:46 it's good!
13:05 used with a hardware synthesiser (Zynthian 5.1)
14:03 do the youtube thing :-)

Blog post links: https://www.popumusic.com/blogs/news/... and https://roli.com/blog/best-smart-keyb...

HÄLP ZIS CHANNEL
https://www.patreon.com/floyd_steinberg
https://floydsteinberg.gumroad.com/
https://floydsteinberg.bandcamp.com/"

New ellitone KeyControl_2 Midi Controller

demo video upload by ellitone instruments

"*now available at ellitone.com

The ellitone KeyControl_2 is a midi keyboard controller that features 12 velocity-sensitive wooden Touch Bars. Completely redesigned from the ground up, the KeyControl_2 is the exciting sequel to the popular KeyControl midi keyboard. After a year of user feedback and suggestions, the KC2 was created to be a superior performance midi keyboard controller that combines a streamlined user experience with exotic hardwood aesthetics.

The KC2 features 16 selectable musical scales from around the world. Inspired by hand-pan drums, these 16 musical scales each offer a different mood for your playing and exploration. The best thing about these selected musical scales is that it is impossible to hit a “wrong note”, No musical theory or piano playing ability is required to successfully enjoy this device. As seen in the demo video, the KC2 can be played like a piano using single fingers, or like a drum using both hands to trigger groups of multiple notes at once. An improved velocity tracking system allows the KC2 to be played like a digital hand drum that responds to the smallest change in play pressure!

The KC2 offers both USB-C midi output and TRS midi output simultaneously. The TRS midi output can be adapted to a classic 5-pin DIN midi cable using an inexpensive TRS to DIN midi cable adapter (TRS type A)

There are many changes, redesigns, and improvements from the original KeyControl, so lets explore each one:

CLICK FOR MORE »

Bristronica 25 - Circle Instruments - the Circle Guitar & MIDI Controller

video upload by Stromkult

"Join us at Bristronica 2025 as we explore the innovative Circle Guitar with Anthony from Circle Instruments. Discover how this self-strumming, MIDI-enabled guitar opens up new creative possibilities ."

https://circleinstruments.com/

"The player can sequence the wheel's movement with a DAW or MIDI controller such as the Morningstar MC6 Pro and MC8 Pro. All external MIDI-enabled devices and effects can be synced to the wheel's speed to adjust dynamically together."


video uploads by Circle Instruments

Playlist:

1. Circle Guitar at Distillery 2 - Episode 2 - Medley
2. An introduction to Circle Guitar
3. Circle Guitar at Distillery 2 - Episode 1 - Theme Tune
4. Circle Guitar - Promo

Akai MPK mini IV Has Arrived

video uploads by Akai Professional

Playlist:

1. MPK Mini IV | Your Next Big Idea Starts with MPK Mini
2. MPK Mini IV | Overview
3. MPK Academy | Getting Started with MPK Mini IV - Quickstart Guide


KEY FEATURES

[NEW] Updated third-generation keybed for an expressive playing experience

[NEW] Push/turn rotary encoder for effortless function navigation

[NEW] Enhanced arpeggiator with Pattern, Arp Freeze, and Mutate functions to encourage experimentation

[NEW] Expanded DAW-mapped transport section for an uninterrupted workflow

[NEW] Two distinct colorway options to match your style

[NEW] Full-color screen for real-time feedback and easy navigation

[NEW] True pitch and mod wheels for tactile hands-on control

[NEW] Pre-programmed DAW mapping for Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, and more, with 1-to-1 mapping for convenient control of preset parameters

[NEW] The Studio Instrument Collection, a VST/AU and standalone virtual instrument with over 1,000 sounds from AIR, Akai Pro, and Moog, plus MPK Mini IV integrated controls

25 velocity-sensitive mini keys with 10-octave up/down range

8 assignable 360° rotary knobs for tactile sound-shaping

USB Bus-powered for hassle-free connectivity

Scale and Chord Modes for playing in key, adding harmonies, and building progressions with ease

8 Velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB backlit MPC pads for responsive, expressive feel
Connections:
Full-size MIDI output

Computer connection and bus power via USB-C

CLICK FOR MORE »

Synido Tempokey W25 review - battery powered MIDI controller with lots of features

video upload by Floyd Steinberg

"This is a review of the SYNIDO TempoKEY W25 MIDI Keyboard which comes with USB, Bluetooth and TRS MIDI and a lot of other functionality. Get it here:
SYNIDO TempoKEY W25 MIDI Keyboard: [on Amazon]
Discount Code (10% off): 10W25FLOYD
Expires On: Oct 22, 2025 | 23:59 PDT



For orders on synido.com (available for Europe delivery): https://bit.ly/46n3wM3
15% OFF Discount Code: W2515

Contents:
00:00 guess whose bag!
00:23 I have to mention this
01:52 hardware overview
03:36 firmware features: everything can be configured on the W25 itself
04:04 chords ands scales
05:09 recording a loop: arpeggiator + drum pads
06:11 using the knobs to send cc
06:34 changing channels
07:24 2 banks of encoders and pads / pad cc, note, program change modes
07:56 note repeat
08:08 adjusting the velocity curve
08:32 DAW playback/stop/recording
08:40 bluetooth
08:55 control app & firmware updates
09:03 conclusion + another short loop
10:20 bye, please do the YouTube thing

HÄLP ZIS CHANNEL
https://www.patreon.com/floyd_steinberg
https://floydsteinberg.gumroad.com/
https://floydsteinberg.bandcamp.com/"

First look at the redesigned MIDIKalimba

video upload by MIDI IN

"Over the last few weeks I've been prototyping a redesigned MIDIKalimba - a touch-pad Kalimba-like MIDI controller. I'm now very happy with this and it's a joy to play.

MIDIKalimba's home page:
https://peacockmedia.software/kalimba"

"MIDIKalimba is a MIDI controller played like a kalimba with fingers or thumbs on touch-sensitive pads and can output:

- MIDI over USB
- MIDI over TRS (a TRS-5-pin DIN lead gives MIDI over 5-pin DIN)

You can set any scale/mode, octave and root note, for example C6 Mixolydian or G4 Minor Pentatonic, and then you'll be able to effortlessly play the notes in that scale and key.

It features velocity-sensitivity for expressive playing."

See https://peacockmedia.software.. for additional details including the user manual.

The Moon Performance System by LI ZILU

video upload by matrixsynth

A 2025 MIDI INNOVATION AWARD entry

Meet the Neoharp! Simpler Than a Keyboard Synthesizer

video upload by Neoharp

A 2025 MIDI INNOVATION AWARD entry

"The Neoharp is the intuitive digital instrument for those who dream of playing. Accompany yourself and impress friends in minutes, not years."

via Neoharp

Pre-set chord buttons ensure every note fits perfectly in harmony — no more worrying about wrong notes!

Control of chords and rhythm
This electronic instrument's settings allow anyone to play perfectly tuned chords without needing to know music theory.

Ergonomic Tone Keys Layout
Use tone keys in various combinations and rhythmic patterns to enrich chords with layered notes.

The tone keys produce only the notes of your selected chord from low to high. By combining and repeating these chord sounds, you can create rich musical textures.

Neoharp is easier to master and offers the same range of digital samples as keyboard instruments.

Dedicated App
Dedicated synthesizer application with visualization and other unique features.

Features
Playing 3 or more digital instruments simultaneously
3 Chord buttons modes:
Change chord
Chord and/or Bass accompaniment
Arpeggio
2 Tone keys modes:
Chord note
​Strum simulation in guitar mode
15 chord types available instantly
Ergonomic chord buttons arrangement: related chords are close to each other
Built-in protection against playing incorrect notes of a chord
Settings and visualization via mobile app

Colors: OAK Wood Black & Walnut Natural