"Surface32 is a groundbreaking, multitimbral control surface ecosystem that completely removes the friction between tactile hardware sound design and modern digital workflows. By seamlessly fusing a premium physical controller with a suite of synchronized software clients, Surface32 brings total bidirectional editing to the electronic musician's studio.
Surface32 is the system's brain. Featuring 36 continuous rotary encoders paired with 36 dedicated OLED screens, it holds up to 16 complete hardware synthesizer parameter sets (Instrument Definitions) in its memory at any given time. It bidirectionally updates your synthesizers and your software clients screens instantly, allowing you to work exactly how you want.
Surface32 operates on a dual-tier communication network. It talks to your hardware synthesizers using pure MIDI CC, NRPN, or SYSEX, while simultaneously communicating with the software clients using high-speed NRPN and SYSEX. If you turn a knob on the hardware, the software fader moves. If you move a software fader, the hardware OLED updates. All with zero feedback loops.
You can find the full technical specifications, architecture diagrams, and the different DAW/DAW-less workflows on synth_nyc here.
"We’re excited to unveil the latest generation of our most compact control surface, Launch Control 3 - available to order now. This video gives you an overview of everything our new Launch Control can do for you and your unique workflow.
Our new controller packs the most powerful features of Launch Control XL 3 into a smaller footprint and is perfect for adding an extra layer of tactile control to any studio or stage setup. Launch Control is a compact and highly portable MIDI control surface designed to integrate with all major DAWs, software synths, effects, and external hardware. Connect via USB or MIDI I/O and adjust parameters with 16 endless rotary encoders, eight assignable buttons, and a new OLED display.
Launch Control comes bundled with studio-grade software to get you started. Ableton Live Lite lets you record, launch and perform, while Cubase LE is ideal for songwriting and production projects. You also receive a selection of plugins from Klevgrand, Baby Audio and Output.
Chapters:
00:00 - Introducing the new Launch Control
00:24 - Launch Control Feature Overview
00:55 - Launch Control's DAW Integration
01:17 - Launch Control's DAW Control and Mixer Features
01:53 - Launch Control's Hardware Integration
02:08 - Launch Control's Custom Modes
02:19 - Launch Control: The DAW, Plugin, and Hardware Control Surface"
Launch Control | Everything you need to know | Livestream
"Launch Control is a compact and portable MIDI control surface designed to integrate with all major DAWs, software synths, effects, and external hardware. Connect via USB or MIDI I/O and adjust parameters with 16 endless rotary encoders, eight assignable buttons, and a crisp OLED display.
Key features
16 endless encoders
Eight assignable buttons
MIDI routing via USB and 5-pin DIN
Store up to seven Custom Modes
The Creative Control Surface
Get hands on with your DAW, plugins, and hardware from a portable-yet-powerful controller with 16 endless rotary encoders; eight assignable buttons; and a crisp OLED display for essential info. Mix and sculpt sounds right out the box, and create up to seven Custom Modes to fit your specific workflow in the studio or on stage.
16 endless encoders
Launch Control’s smooth-feeling endless rotary encoders each feature a dedicated RGB LED that indicates its relative value. Pan tracks, adjust sends, or do anything else you want via Custom Modes — all with adjustable response curves."
1. Tutorial | KeyStep 37 mk2 | Overview
2. Arturia KeyStep 37 MK2 // All the new features it unlocks // Review & Tutorial - loopop
3. Arturia KeyStep 37 Mk2 Review - Molten Music Technology
4. Arturia KEYSTEP 37 MK2 — My New Favorite MIDI Keyboard! = BoBeats
5. Arturia Keystep 37 Mk2 Review and Demo - Starsky Carr
Check with dealers on the right on pricing and availability.
KeyStep 37 mk2 is the go-to compact controller and sequencer. Combining extended playability, enhanced hands-on control, visual feedback, and deep connectivity. It makes it ideal for jamming, live performing, and finding new musical ideas with any hybrid setup.
_Features
KeyStep 37 mk2 builds upon the original with new generative tools like Mutate, a clearer OLED interface, extended connectivity, a more powerful sequencer and arpeggiator and a refreshed design.
_Sequencer with pattern chaining and unquantized recording
From live feel to locked grooves, edit or evolve your ideas
_Mutate, Spice, Phrase Arpeggiator
Transform sequences instantly without stopping the music.
_Scale and Chord Modes
Stay musical, create harmonies, or keep it experimental.
_What’s new?
KeyStep 37 mk2 has more physical controls:
5 more keys, 2 additional buttons and 4 knobs to control sub-menus.
This drastically enhances the overall playability of the instrument while keeping the same amount of functionality.
Users also get additional visual feedback on the Keystep 37 mk2 compared to the KeyStep mk2 as there's a strip of 39 LEDS over the keybed that indicates notes played by the keyboard.
"A while ago a group of enthausiasts set out to create a clone of the Zyklus MPS-1 that was made famous by Vangelis for its use on Direct (this was also the inspiration for the actual 'Direct' system he used until ca 1994). The original creators of this machine, Pete Kellock and Bill Marshall graciously allowed us to use the schematics and software to create this clone and have given us their permission to set it free for everyone who wants to make their own. So here goes:
In this GIT repo is everything you need to create your own machine. You will have to source your own parts, but there is a list for that. The parts are basic components, nothing custom, but some items may become slightly rare (like small EPROMs).
Its basically just a Z80 based computer. There are also files to have the circuit boards and panels created (we used jlcpcb for that), and some 3d printing files for various panel work. A lot of the buttons etc you can get cheaply from Aliexpress and the like. Bin files for the EPROMs are also avialable. I've been also given permission to open source the actual source code, and I will do that too, at some point, but I'm still working on a few small issues before I can do that.
There is a discord server you can join where you can chat with other builders.
The clone as we made it, is a dedicated to the memory of Vangelis and it's noted as such on the main circuit board."
See this previous post for a Demo tape on the original Zyklus. See the Zyklus label at the bottom of this post for additional posts including a documentary with Vangelis.
Pictured: Paul's white ReZyklus in the making.
Original grey Zyklus below from this post. Only 40 were made.
"We get a tour of the Chordcat. In addition to featuring "cat" in its name, this eight-track groovebox has a large library of chord progressions, and the ability to predict/suggest follow-on chords to your current harmony in a palette from which the composer can then choose. It has built-in sounds as well as the ability to export MIDI to DAWs and other software for further development of compositions.
145 Sound Presets + 16 drum kits Designed for a wide range of genres, you can spark fresh ideas during the creative process by switching between 145 sound presets and 16 drum kits. Tune your sound presets however you like them using the low-pass filter and amp envelope. These parameters can be automated for each pattern, allowing you to dynamically change the tone as well as the chord progression. This allows you to create lively phrases.
Easily make unique chord progressions
Chord Cruiser Mode Generate up to 110,000 chord combinations that you can use to create your own progressions. Put the groovebox in Chord Cruiser mode, and an exclusive algorithm selects and suggests multiple musically compatible chords from its database. You can listen to these chords and assign your favorite to a keyboard, triggering the next suggestion automatically. With this intuitive workflow at your fingertips, you can enjoy a simple process to create original tracks.
Versatile arrangement features and intuitive instrument control
3 built-in effects Manipulate 3 built-in effects intuitively using the XY pad: Arpeggiator: Creates melodies from chords. Delay: Adds depth to sounds and spatial dimension to your music. Ducker: Adds dynamics and emphasis, creating a sense of movement in your tracks.
Running Direction Feature Change the playback direction of 4×4 step-sequenced patterns by pressing a single button. Choose from 4 options — right, down, clockwise, and counterclockwise — to discover new phrases and rhythms. This feature unlocks new ideas, so you can create innovative chord progressions or explore rhythms across different genres.
Key and scale settings When you set a key and scale on Chordcat, only the notes that belong to the selected key and scale are mapped to the keyboard. The compatibility of chords suggested in Chord Play mode or Chord Cruiser mode and the selected key and scale are indicated by LED lights; perfect for beginners and professional musicians.
Versatile connectivity: Expand your creative horizons
It’s easy to integrate Chordcat with external synthesizers and DAW software on PC/Mac computers thanks to its MIDI OUT/THRU, MIDI IN, and USB Type-C ports.
Use Chord Play and Chord Cruiser modes to control and perform with your connected devices effortlessly.
"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."
"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
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.
"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.
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."
"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.
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.
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
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.
"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
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
"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"
"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
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."
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."
"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.
"#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...
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:
Combining extended playability, enhanced hands-on control, visual feedback, and deep connectivity. It makes it ideal for jamming, live performing, and finding new musical ideas with any hybrid setup.
"A while ago a group of enthausiasts set out to create a clone of the Zyklus MPS-1 that was made famous by Vangelis for its use on Direct (this was also the inspiration for the actual 'Direct' system he used until ca 1994). The original creators of this machine, Pete Kellock and Bill Marshall graciously allowed us to use the schematics and software to create this clone and have given us their permission to set it free for everyone who wants to make their own. So here goes:
These parameters can be automated for each pattern, allowing you to dynamically change the tone as well as the chord progression. This allows you to create lively phrases.
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.
