Intuitive Instruments Expressive MPE Controller Exquis Gets an Exciting Update

video uploads by Intuitive Instruments

This unique MPE MIDI controller just got a major update
video upload by Stephen McLeod

0:00 - Intro
2:26 - Build + Controls
3:26 - Connectivity
4:37 - Note Layout + Scales
7:43 - MPE + Polyphonic Aftertouch
9:00 - MPE Arpeggiator
9:52 - Standalone Mode
11:33 - Desktop App
13:48 - Final thoughts

YOU can play this instrument
video upload by barnabydixon

Press release follows:


Both firmware and software updates are free of charge.

The version 2 of the firmware and companion software introduces several new features and a com-plete graphic redesign, offering enhanced customization options for the keyboard.

Now featuring up to 32 scales and 8 notes layouts onboard

In addition to a wide selection of factory scales and layouts, users can design their own custom scales and note layouts using Exquis’ companion software. Each key can be assigned individual MIDI values and colors, with the configurations stored directly in the keyboard’s memory for standalone use as a MIDI MPE controller. These custom files can also be shared with the com-munity, fostering collaboration and creativity..

Customizable MIDI Messages and Sensitivity Curves

MIDI CC values for the four rotary, clickable encoders and action buttons are now fully editable via Exquis’ companion sof-tware and saved to the device’s memory for standalone operation. Additionally, users can fine-tune sensitivity curves for all expressive dimensions -velocity, X, Y, and Z axes- ensuring optimal control and responsiveness.

A Redesigned Graphical Interface

The Exquis companion software now features a completely redesigned graphical interface for quick and intuitive use. With its spontaneous workflow, users can compose simple songs in moments. Designed to transform Exquis into a standalone electronic instrument, the app combines an enhanced looper (11 tracks, 44 loops) with a simple sequencer (11 events) and is compatible with all AU, VST, and VST3 plugins, running seamlessly on macOS and Windows.

Adaptable to Any Configuration
One standout feature of the Exquis application is its ability to adapt to any note layout, saving it as a track parameter or even linking it to a plugin preset. This makes it possible to create hybrid instruments tailored to specific soundscapes, unlocking new creative possibilities.


250 Expressive Presets Optimized for Exquis

The update also includes 100 brand-new factory presets for the Vital and Decent Sampler free MPE plugins, complementing the refreshed 150 presets for the Surge XT free MPE plugin. All these presets are available directly within the Exquis app, ready to load in a single click, com-plete with optimized note layouts.

https://dualo.com/en/exquis/

SUPERCHARGE your OP-XY with KOALA Sampler

video upload by Skerry Vibe

"While we patiently wait and hope for updates to the sampler in the OP-XY, the solution to many of the shortcomings can be found in our pockets, the Koala Sampler. It works well with midi and sending audio to and from it.

I hope this will give you some inspiration.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro
00:13 KOALA Sampler
00:19 Stem separation
00:43 Autochop
01:53 Time stretch
03:25 Sequence the samples
04:03 Sequence drums
05:56 Creating a dirty tape piano sound
06:44 Adding effects
11:00 Recording the sound back in to the OP-XY"

NAMM 2025: Eternal Research's Demon Box

video upload by sonicstate

"At NAMM 2025, we caught up with Alexandra from Eternal Research, who introduced the *Demon Box*, an intriguing device that amplifies electromagnetic fields (EMF). Alexandra explained that this invention, developed over a decade with the help of engineers, uncovers fascinating patterns and tones from EMFs, transforming interference into auditory experiences. The device utilizes an array of 33 inductors and features controls for levels and auxiliary inputs, allowing you to blend external signals with those picked up by the inductors. It supports integration with modular systems, exporting in control voltage, MIDI, note and CV data, as well as audio across three mono channels and a unique triphonic channel.

Alexandra also highlighted the device's organic nature, enabling exploration of novel sounds with each use. The Demon Box, currently available for pre-order, has generated significant interest following a successful Kickstarter campaign, with a target retail price of approximately $700."

NAMM 2025: Bitwig's Step into Hardware with Bitwig Connect 4.12

video upload by sonicstate

"We spoke with Frederik from Bitwig at NAMM, who introduced us to the company's first hardware product, *Bitwig Connect 4.12*. This new device marks Bitwig's transition from a software-only company to a software and hardware player.

An innovative USB audio interface, the Bitwig Connect 4.12 features 4 inputs and 12 outputs. Notably, all inputs and outputs are DC-coupled, enabling better integration with analog gear. The unit features combined XLR/jack inputs for flexibility and includes MIDI in/out, a dedicated headphone output, and connectivity via USB-C.

The control surface on Bitwig Connect 4.12 operates as an audio, MIDI interface, and DAW controller through the UCM protocol. With monitor and transport controls, including a handy Bitwig mode button, you can efficiently manage your workflow.

Accompanying the hardware, Bitwig Studio Essentials software valued at $99 is bundled, and additional partner software is available through the Bitwig Circle program. The retail price for Bitwig Connect 4.12 is set at €499 or $549, with an anticipated release in Spring 2025."

NAMM 2025: Entropy and Sons' Recursion Studio Synth

video upload by sonicstate

"We caught up with Gene from Entropy and Sons at NAMM 2025 to discuss the latest updates to their Recursion Studio synthesizer.

Previously unveiled but now fully released, this independent device doesn't require a laptop, underscoring its plug-and-play design. Featuring multiple CV jacks and full MIDI capability, the synth integrates smoothly with a range of equipment. Unlike typical loop-based setups, Recursion Studio is generative, to provide dynamic visuals in real-time. It houses modular instruments under the hood, offering a remarkable level of control. Gene highlighted Wi-Fi updates, which make keeping the software current straightforward.

Recent enhancements include three new instruments, notably the 3D and 2D oscilloscopes, enriching its already diverse capabilities. A notable feature is video feedback simulation, illustrating the wide array of visual effects on offer. The synth, which is HD-ready, strives for production quality, suitable for live performances or studio use."

NAMM 2025: Melbourne Instruments' RotoControl

video upload by sonicstate

"At NAMM 2025, we caught up with David from *Melbourne Instruments*, who introduced us to the *RotoControl*, a motorized MIDI controller with eight touch-sensitive knobs.

Designed with 64 customizable setups, three main modes were highlighted: MIDI, Mix, and Plug-in modes. The unit offers 5-pin MIDI I/O and USB-C power, along with motion recording and standalone functionality, allowing integration with various hardware, DAWs, and Ableton Live. The RotoControl app lets you customize display labels and colors, enhance knob haptics, and streamline MIDI mapping through its simple Learn function. Users can switch between Mix and Plug-in modes for efficient control over Ableton's audio setup without scripts.

Additionally, Melbourne Instruments gave a sneak preview of Nina, an upcoming polyphonic sequencer with a multi-track feature, focusing on enhancing the studio and live performance workflow. The RotoControl retails at $419 USD plus taxes."

"More than just an audio interface": Bitwig launches its first hardware product at NAMM 2025

video upload by MusicRadar Tech

"German DAW-maker Bitwig has revealed its very first hardware product - Bitwig Connect 4/12. Ostensibly a 4-in and 12-out CV and MIDI-enabled audio interface, Bitwig states that its debut hardware product is 'far more than just an audio interface'… We caught up with them at NAMM 2025 to find out more."

Introducing Bitwig Connect 4/12

video uploads by Bitwig

via Bitwig

Bitwig Connect 4/12

More Than An Audio Interface
Bitwig Connect 4/12 is a class-compliant, 4‑in/12‑out CV- and MIDI‑enabled audio interface with monitor- and DAW-control functionalities and a unique Bitwig Mode.

Your Ultimate Studio Sidekick
Connect is a three-in-one audio/MIDI interface, monitor and DAW controller. Six mode buttons allow its 360°, touch-sensitive dial to adjust interface parameters or control software. It can set input gain, regulate the volume levels for two sets of monitors and your headphones, or even move the playhead and control any Bitwig Studio parameter with exceptional resolution.

The front panel gives you immediate visual feedback, with accurate input and output meters and a ring of 32 RGB LEDs around the dial to visualize parameter values and automation data. Plus, gain settings are accessible and saved within Bitwig Studio, so you can pick up right where you left off next time you open it.

CV Connects the Best of Both Worlds
With two DC-coupled inputs and four outputs easily accessible via 3.5 mm minijacks directly on the front panel, Connect is a superior choice for musicians with CV-enabled hardware. That means it goes both ways: To external devices from Bitwig Studio or other programs, and from hardware sequencers and modulation signals into the software realm.

Thanks to factory calibration, Connect plays pitch-perfect and without offset with Bitwig Studio right out of the box. And since jacks can also be used for audio signals, they can act as additional ins and outs for line-level signals, making them useful to all types of users.

Bring Bitwig Studio to Life
Connect's unique Bitwig Mode puts Bitwig Studio at your fingertips with DAW controller functionalities. Seamless integration makes writing automation, fine-tuning settings, and navigating the timeline in Bitwig Studio with Connect's main dial intuitive and precise. Get quick access to any control with the high-resolution dial by hovering over it with your cursor, and lock a selected parameter to Connect by double-tapping. The LED ring indicates its current task by matching the color of the parameter or track in Bitwig Studio so you'll never get lost.

You can find additional details at https://www.bitwig.com/connect/

NAMM 2025: Deft Audio's LumaOne and Luma-Mu

video upload by sonicstate

"At NAMM 2025, we caught up with Joe from Deft Audio, who shared insights into their latest product, the *LumaOne*. Joe explained that LumaOne is a meticulous recreation of the iconic LM-1 drum machine. Its original was notably influential in the '80s music scene, appearing in tracks by Human League and Prince. However, with only 500 units produced, it became difficult to find. Joe recounted his journey to revive its legacy, which began during the COVID period when a rare LM-1 came into his possession, allowing him to create an accurate clone using vintage components.

LumaOne combines the classic sound of the '80s with modern enhancements like LumaTools for custom sound editing and MIDI integration. Joe also introduced Luma-Mu, a Eurorack module derived from the LM-1's voice architecture, bringing its unique sound into the modular world. Both products offer hand-built craftsmanship with LumaOne retailing at $4,500."

Melbourne Instruments ROTO-CONTROL: Motorized MIDI Controller for Software and Hardware

video upload by Melbourne Instruments



Press release follows:

Introducing ROTO-CONTROL, motorized MIDI controller for software and hardware

Following the debut success of their revolutionary analog synth NINA in 2023 and the hybrid polysynth DELIA in 2024, Melbourne Instruments announce ROTO-CONTROL, a motorized MIDI controller for software and hardware. Roto-Control brings Melbourne Instruments’ motorized knob technology to a MIDI controller in a powerful, portable, affordable tool for studio and live applications.

Roto-Control is now shipping. [check with dealers on the right for avialability]

Introducing a truly unique motorized MIDI controller, unlike anything seen before. Rethink software and hardware interactions via fully assignable motorized touch-sensitive knobs, user definable haptics for detailed control, high-res screens providing easy-to-read labels for every control, and internal memory with storage for over 8000 assignments. Powerful, compact, and portable, Roto-Control features three main modes of operation: MIX, PLUGIN and MIDI with Motion Recorder.

CLICK FOR MORE »

NAMM 2025: Roland V-Stage

video upload by sonicstate

"At NAMM 2025, we caught up with David from Roland, who introduced us to the latest release, the *Roland V-Stage*. This all-in-one keyboard is tailored for keyboard enthusiasts, featuring dedicated sections for various sounds, including organ, acoustic piano, and dual synthesizers.

It supports quick operational functionality enhanced by multiple sound engines. The V-Piano section offers virtual piano capabilities utilizing modeling instead of sample-based methods, featuring brand new sounds like the upright V-Piano.

You can explore the Supernatural E-Piano, with its blend of sampling and modeling technologies, or delve into the virtual tone wheel organ, equipped with harmonic bars and advanced rotary effects. Additional features of the V-Stage include unlimited polyphony for organ and V-Piano, and a shared 256 voices for synthesizer parts. It also includes a USB-C audio/MIDI interface, effects section with over 90 types, and a microphone input fitting for stage performers. The V-Stage is now available in 76 and 88-key versions."

CME Unveils the C2MIDI Pro: The MIDI Cable Redefined

Press release follows:

[Amsterdam, 23 January 2025] – CME is excited to announce the launch of the C2MIDI Pro, a revolutionary dual-purpose USB-C MIDI cable that also functions as a standalone MIDI filter, mapper, and router. Designed for musicians, producers, and engineers, the C2MIDI Pro delivers groundbreaking performance and precision, redefining what a MIDI cable can do.

Innovative Features:
Dual-Functionality: Operates as a USB MIDI Interface or a Smart MIDI Cable.
Future-Proof Performance: Powered by a cutting-edge 32-bit processor, it ensures ultra-accurate transmission with high-speed optocouplers and four times the standard processing speed.
Advanced MIDI Tools: Includes free UxMIDI Tools software (compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android) to configure the C2MIDI Pro as a filter, mapper, or router.
Universal Compatibility: Works seamlessly with macOS, iOS, Windows, Android, Linux, and Chrome OS.
Ultimate Precision: Guarantees 100% exact transfer of dense MIDI data without latency, jitter, or dropouts.

“The C2MIDI Pro combines innovation, precision, and ease of use in a single cable. It’s not just a MIDI cable; it’s a game-changing tool for every MIDI enthusiast,” said Zhao Yitian, CEO of CME.

The C2MIDI Pro is designed to meet the needs of the modern music industry. With its retractable USB-C plug, dual-color MIDI connectors, and seamless integration with any MIDI setup, it empowers users to explore their creativity without limits.

Visit CME CEO Zhao Yitian at Booth #10302 of the MIDI Association.

Availability
The C2MIDI Pro will be open for presale and shipping at the beginning of February 2025. MAP: US$ 29.99

For additional details, visit our website: https://www.cme-pro.com/c2midi-pro/"

HAPAX 2.10 – NEW FEATURES

video upload by Squarp instruments

"In this video, we dive into the key features introduced in the latest 2.10 update of Hapax OS.

HapaxOS 2.10
January 23, 2025

Features
Fine-tune note length (hold a step with a note inside, click encoder, then rotate to edit the length)
Pitch of drum events can be transposed (hold a drum event, and transpose it)
Mono editing mode (in a POLY track, press 2ND+TRACK and enable MONO)
REC hard quantize (in REC settings, enable the quantize and hold+rotate this encoder to select if you want to keep the note OFF position, or keep the note original width)
STEP-INPUT REC mode (SH101 style) (press LIVE+STEP to enter this mode)
New ALGO: Shuffle (randomly rearrange notes in several ways)
FX Arpeggiator : new hard-sync mode
FX Randomizer : new parameter "base chance on note velocity"
Looper: auto-length can be set to 1 step (in addition to 1 bar)
Autom mode: when holding a step to edit its value, you can now reset the value to default by holding the encoder
Chord Mode: modifiers saved per track
Chord Mode: pressing a modifier retriggers the chord
Chord Mode: Relatch mode added
New SETTING : pedal = BPM
New SETTING : cv out type = HZ/V
New SETTING : default PATTERN TRIG mode (FREE or RESTART)

CLICK FOR MORE »

Xfer Serum Takes Hyperpop to the NEXT LEVEL! 50 Presets Demo

video upload by Anton Anru

"Xfer Serum - Dreamy Decibels is a bank of presets created in the Hyper Pop, EDM, Retrowave, Darkwave, Synthwave genres, inspired by artists such as SOPHIE, A.G. Cook, Bladee and old Charli XCX.
📦 The bank includes 50 Patches: 11 Basses, 7 Leads, 10 Pads, 5 Plucks, 10 Percussion Sounds, 7 Synths.
This set offers you all the necessary tools to create bright, energetic and memorable music that expands the boundaries of traditional genres and immerses the listener in the world of neon sounds.

🌠 Get this soundset: https://antonanru.sellfy.store/p/seru...

Since the genre is quite diverse, the bank contains both metallic overdriven synths, drums and atmospheric pads, which can greatly complement and saturate your track with experiments!

👤 The author of the soundset is skendi (Arseniy Pushkov).

🎛 Macros can change tone, stereo width, modulation depth and rate, noise level, distortion, detuning, space/echo/reverb, effects mix, envelope parameters, and others.
You may control them via MIDI controller, use them for automation, or map the macros to your DAW modulators like LFO, Shaper, and others.
ModWheel adds expressiveness to the timbre.

💡 Ensure that you are using the latest plugin version. Version 1.368 or higher is required.
Installation: Open the Serum menu and click "Show Serum Presets Folder." You will see folders containing different Serum content. Open the "Presets" folder and place the new bank of presets there.
I added drum loops to some demo tracks. They are not included into the soundset.

Contents:
00:00 PD Grace / BS Synthy Shot / LD Chill Saw
01:02 PD Hyper Dreams / LD Cleany / SY Digi / BS Jax Reese
02:47 BS Lazy Active / PD Chopped / SY Digi
03:46 PD Good Times / PD Grace / LD Wavy / BS Friendly Monster / BS Crunchy
05:24 PL Beaty Orbit / LD Acid Glide / BS Synthy Shot / BS Hyper Guitar / BS Mario / PL Nostalgic / LD Chill Saw / PR Dirty Kick / PR Muddy but Metalic / PR Xeon Snare / PR Metalic Hat
07:09 BS Lazy Active / PD Blade Runner / PL Beauty Orbit
08:15 SY Sonic / PL Shadow Metallic / SY Guitar / BS Turn it Up / PR Snow Kick / PR Laser Snare / PR Flangered Hat 09:32 BS Ball / PD Good Times / PL Arcade
10:43 PD Landscape / SY Angel Wave / BS Lazy Active / LD Rhytm / LD Belly Saw / PR Laser Kick
11:48 LD Acid / SY Dirty / PL Nokia / PR Metalic Snare / SY Cosmo / PD VHS Memories / PR Metalic Hat / BS Stomp / PR Hard Kick / BS Gas Reese"

Creating and Transferring Wavetables - Novation Peak

video upload by Mad Robot

Anaheim, CA – January 22, 2025: Native Instruments is making it easier than ever for music producers to explore new sounds on their favorite controllers by launching its Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) Hardware Partner Program, announced today at NAMM 2025. Industry leaders Akai Professional, Novation, Nektar, Korg, and M-Audio are adopting the NKS ecosystem to power seamless integration with Native Instruments software. This connects music makers to over 2,000 NKS-compatible instruments and effects from more than 250 brands.

“This expansion highlights the impact of collaboration,” says Simon Cross, Chief Product Officer at Native Instruments. “It marks an important milestone in our mission to provide musicians with an open, connected platform, making professional-grade tools, instruments, and technology more accessible to creators everywhere.”

Native Kontrol Stand"Wavetables are a fantastic tool to expand your sonic horizons.
But sometimes the ones built in the Peak aren't enough.
And how cool would it be to 'bake' one of your favorite VST's patch down to a wavetable that you can then play around with inside the Peak ?

This video is based off knowledge shared by @StarskyCarr in a super well made tutorial [see here, and here]. I decided to make my own specifically for the Peak/Summit since the workflow is a bit tricky.

Although the video is 25 minutes long it takes only 4-5 minutes to transfer a new wavetable when you're used to it.

Here are the steps to reproduce :

1- Find a patch in any VST that you'd like to create a wavetable for.
2- Automate parameters over a few seconds of this patch playing using a midi clip and a linear envelope(s)
3- The note playing needs to be an F2 detuned by -23ct. This is how we're gonna get the right amount of samples (256) per cycle
4- Record the note and automation using an audio track listening to the VST's track output
5- Send the recorded audio to Audacity
6- Change Audacity's sample rate to 44100 and its time display units to "samples" (bottom left corner)
7- Copy / paste on a new track a small portion of the beginning, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4 and end of the recording.
8- Analyze how one shape might morph into the next, and use that knowledge to determine the starting position of the waveform selections.
Ideally the selection starts when the waveform crosses the 0dB line.
8.1- Manually enter "256" in the audacity selection box to have exactly the right amount of samples. Ctrl+c to copy, then delete the sample crop, and paste it back in the track to have only your 256 samples selection.
9- Do that for the 5 samples and make sure they're one after another without space in between. Delete the first track.
10- Select the 5 samples by clicking on the first one and manually typing "1280" in the selection length.
11- Go to File - Export - Export Selected Audio , and export as a .wav
12- In Novation Components, after selecting "Manage Peak", in the wavetable editor, create wavetable and then "import" - "Audio File" - select the wav you just created - Import as Wavetable
13- Save your wavetable and send it to a free slot. That's it !"

Nonlinear Labs C15 - Firmware Update 2025

video upload by Nonlinear Labs

"We are pleased to release a major firmware update for the C15 just in time for the NAMM 2025.
One of the major changes is that the polyphony will be increased from 24 to 48 voices at the previous sample rate of 48 kHz. Alternatively, a higher sample rate of 96 kHz with 24 voices is offered.
The C15 audio engine has been expanded to support polyphonic modulation sources. In the first step, polyphonic aftertouch can now be received via MIDI.
Pitch bend and sustain functions can now also be used independently of macro controls, freeing them up for other modulations.
A sostenuto pedal function and the ability to switch presets and banks via footswitch have also been added.
There are also a number of improvements to user-friendliness and optimizations to the operating system.

Presentation & Music: Tim Sund
Video recording and editing: Thomas Jaufmann

00:00 Intro
00:32 Global Pitch Bend Parameter
00:47 Global Sustain & Sostenuto
01:12 Footswitch to change Presets
01:28 96kHz Sample Rate
01:43 48 Voice Polyphony
02:02 Improved Internal Recorder
02:33 Graphical UI - new Zoom Buttons
02:44 Polyphonic Aftertouch via MIDI
04:11 Copy Modulation Assignments
04:26 Copy Hardware Source Assignments & Amounts
04:41 Summary"

Offward Bound Remastered

video upload by Mark (Little Gray)

MacBeth Elements V1 under the Minimoog.

"Latest project (remastered 1-21-2025) entailing a 1 pass performance, i.e. no overdubbed tracks. However, significant timing and note corrections/enhancements were made to midi tracks prior to generating some of the audio stems; especially the foot pedal bass notes - uggh! Extensive use of Reaper automation envelopes were used to control the sounds in real time.

Additional Synths Used: Cwejman S1 MKII/Voyager (funk bass & more);

Soft-Synths Used: Native Instruments The Giant/Scarbee Classic EP-88s, Sonic Projects OPX Pro-3 (arpegiated sounds), UHe Diva (lead), Arturia Mellotron V, UHe Repro 5, TAL Vocoder, Orange Tree Samples EAG Steel Strings (NI Kontact);

Offward Bound is my little play on words pertaining to major life transitions such as retirement (a popular topic in my sphere these days). It seems to be all about the moving on, i.e. what are you going to do now? But there’s also the lingering moving off components. Bla bla bla. Anyway, moving on…

The intro melody is from my last composition Sploot’n. If I was putting together an album/cd it might be more obvious."

Some rambling on the polysynth #synth #analog #synthdiy

video upload by POLYKIT SYNTH

"Here is some rambling on the last build steps of the polysynth. It took me more than two years to come this far. I finished the input section and build the acrylic case out of parts that I ordered. It was the fist time I glued acrylic and I think it turned out great!

Sorry for the quiet voice in the demo part!

Key features of the synth:
8 independent analog voices
one VCO/VCA/ADSR per voice
ADSR can modulate filter frequency and resonance
multi-mode filter (8 different filter responses)
fully programmable
store/restore patches
programmable control/input section
16x2 LCD
MIDI input

If you are interested in the build process make sure to check out the playlist: [below]

Support me on Patreon to make this and other projects possible: / polykit"

Polykit-X Voice Card Synthesizer

Native Instruments Partners with Akai, Novation and More

Akai Pro & Native Instruments | Seamlessly Integrated

video upload by AkaiProVideo

Akai Pro MPC3 with Native Instruments Integration - Overview

video upload by AkaiProVideo

"Discover the groundbreaking integration of Native Instruments with Akai Pro MPC hardware. This overview highlights how seamless workflows and expanded sound libraries redefine music creation for producers and performers alike.

Available today are three signature instruments — Analog Dreams, Cloud Supply, and Nacht — each crafted to inspire unique creative expressions. Additional instruments, including Homage and Sway, are set to launch later in February. Complementing these are five genre-specific Expansion sound packs: Faded Reels which is available now, with Lone Forest, Global Shake, Hazy Days, and Rare Vibrations to follow. All are expertly tailored for seamless integration with the MPC platform.

With this landmark collaboration, Akai Professional’s iconic MPC platform takes center stage, seamlessly integrating with Native Instruments’ creative tools to deliver an unprecedented toolkit for musicians, producers, and audio creators."

Zaytoven Creates on the Akai MPC with new Native Instruments Integration

video upload by AkaiProVideo

AKAI & NI's plan for MPC & MPK // New MPC 3.4 features // Expansions & Play by Native Instruments

video upload by loopop

Press release follows:

Native Instruments expands partnerships to empower millions of music creators

Expansion of the NKS ecosystem connects Akai Professional, Novation, Nektar, Korg and M-Audio and ignites new creative possibilities for musicians and producers worldwide

Anaheim, CA – January 22, 2025: Native Instruments is making it easier than ever for music producers to explore new sounds on their favorite controllers by launching its Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) Hardware Partner Program, announced today at NAMM 2025. Industry leaders Akai Professional, Novation, Nektar, Korg, and M-Audio are adopting the NKS ecosystem to power seamless integration with Native Instruments software. This connects music makers to over 2,000 NKS-compatible instruments and effects from more than 250 brands.

“This expansion highlights the impact of collaboration,” says Simon Cross, Chief Product Officer at Native Instruments. “It marks an important milestone in our mission to provide musicians with an open, connected platform, making professional-grade tools, instruments, and technology more accessible to creators everywhere.”

Native Kontrol Standard: An inspiring experience for every music maker

CLICK FOR MORE »

Roland Introduces V-STAGE Keyboard Synthesizers

Everything You Need to Know About the Roland V-STAGE Keyboard
video upload by RolandChannel

"V-STAGE redefines the gigging keyboard, combining Roland’s latest cutting-edge sound technology with a seamless workflow for pro musicians. In this video, you’ll learn everything you need to know about V-STAGE's four advanced sound engines, intuitive controls, and exceptional playability."

Chapter Breakdown
00:00 Intro
00:52 Sounds
01:01 Acoustic Piano Engine
01:30 Electric Piano Engine
01:56 Organ Engine
02:23 Synthesizer Engine
02:55 Controls
03:54 Scenes
04:31 Sound Demo
05:35 Keybeds
05:59 I/O

Roland V-Stage Stage Piano - Advanced Tutorial with Ed Diaz

video upload by Kraft Music

"Great bundle deals on Roland V-Stage:
https://kraftmusic.com/collections/ro...

Ed Diaz from Roland demonstrates the V-Stage 76 stage keyboard, highlighting the four sound engines and hands-on controls which are perfect for live performance.

00:25 Introduction
00:55 Four sound engines
01:27 V-Stage 76 and V-Stage 88
02:27 Center screen and scenes
04:28 Scene chain function
05:10 EX scene
07:05 Organ section
12:53 Acoustic piano section
19:40 Electric piano section
26:50 Synthesizer section
31:40 Roland Cloud and model expansions
33:06 Total effects section
34:37 Master section
35:36 Inputs and outputs
37:09 Signing off

Roland V-Stage Stage Piano - All Playing, No Talking with Ed Diaz

video upload by Kraft Music

"Great bundle deals on Roland V-Stage:
https://kraftmusic.com/collections/ro...

Ed Diaz from Roland plays the V-Stage 76 stage keyboard, using the four sound engines and hands-on control.

Roland V-Stage keyboards elevate the all-in-one gigging keyboard to a new dimension of creative power and control, fusing Roland's premium sound technologies with a speedy workflow purpose-built for the needs of serious pro players. Experience a world of sonic expression with four advanced sound engines, elegantly intuitive interfaces, and exceptional playability for the best performance every time.

Designed for professional stage performers, V-Stage is available in two models: V-Stage 88 with 88 weighted hammer-action piano keys and V-Stage 76 with 76 semi-weighted keys and organ-style waterfall feel.

Get more for your money with an exclusive Roland V-Stage keyboard bundle from Kraft Music. These package deals include the accessories you'll need to get the most out of your new performance keyboard/stage piano, all for one low price. If you have any questions, please contact us. Our knowledgeable Sales Advisors will be happy to assist in choosing the bundle that's right for you!"



V-STAGE elevates the all-in-one gigging keyboard to a new dimension of creative power and control, fusing Roland’s premium sound technologies with a speedy workflow purpose-built for the needs of serious pro players. Experience a world of sonic expression with four advanced sound engines, elegantly intuitive interfaces, and exceptional playability for the best performance every time.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Glass | MiniFreak 3.0 Performance | ARTURIA

video upload by Arturia

"Glass, a French experimental electronic duo, dives into otherworldly tones in this live performance, using only MiniFreak's granular engines.

The setup includes two MiniFreaks receiving MIDI from a laptop. The laptop also plays three instances of MiniFreak V to complement the performance."