WORLD OF MUSIC ; PORTABLE KEYBOARD - Latest Portable Music Keyboards, Synthesizers and Music News

Launched in 2016, Arturia’s KeyStep MIDI controller was a slim and minimalistic 32-note keyboard that squeezed an impressive level of functionality into a portable, reasonably-priced package.

Today, Arturia has launched KeyStep mk2, a major upgrade that brings an OLED display, USB-C connectivity, new generative tools and a redesigned sequencer and arpeggiator to this popular controller.

Arturia is pitching KeyStep mk2 as “the ultimate compact controller and sequencer” for both DAWless workflows and computer-based set-ups, maintaining the “core essence” of the range while introducing a raft of significant improvements.

KeyStep mk2 features the same 32-key slim keybed with velocity and aftertouch as its predecessor, but this has been complemented by an OLED screen and clickable encoder, meaning all editing is now directly accessible from the hardware, a task that previously entailed the use of Arturia’s Control Center software.

On the hardware front, Arturia has added a power switch, swapped the USB Micro-B connection from KeyStep mk1 for a USB-C port and added an extra CV output. In total, KeyStep mk2 offers four 3.5mm CV outputs, MIDI In/Out over 5-pin DIN, analogue sync in/out and a 1/4″ sustain pedal jack – a healthy amount of connectivity for such an affordable controller.

KeyStep mk2 introduces a number of new tools for idea generation and manipulation, including a new Mutate function, which allows for one-touch transformation of patterns and sequences, accessible via the dedicated Mutate button.

The sequencer has been upgraded with support for unquantized recording and pattern chaining, and the arpeggiator has been bolstered with eight new modes. Scale and Chord Modes have been brought over from the KeyLab Mk3, while the new Spice and Dice functions (first seen on the MicroFreak) allow you to create randomized variations on sequencer and arp patterns in real-time.

Here’s KeyStep mk2 Overview:

Arturia KeyStep mk2 is priced at $169. Find out more on Arturia website.

The Roto-Control Bitwig Edition, a collaboration between Melbourne Instruments and Bitwig, is now available.

This special version of the MI’s unique motorized controller, featuring a Bitwig-inspired design and including a Bitwig software license. MI calls Roto-Control’s integration with Bitwig Studio its deepest with any DAW.

The Roto-Control Bitwig Edition features custom keycaps in Bitwig colors and comes with a Bitwig Studio Producer license or a 12-Month Upgrade Plan (for existing Bitwig users).

Roto-Control is a powerful, compact controller for hands-on mixing, plug-in control, and performance. Its touch-sensitive motorized knobs bring an enhanced tactile experience to Bitwig projects. MIDI mode can be used to send MIDI notes and program changes to Bitwig Studio (or other hardware or software), while two further modes offer deeper integration with Bitwig Studio.

In MIX mode, Roto-Control becomes a plug-and-play Bitwig Studio mixing interface. The Bitwig project’s track names, colors, and levels are automatically displayed and updated in real time – there’s no need to save or edit labels in the device. Adjustments made on the controller are reflected instantly in Bitwig, while the motorized knobs provide physical feedback for parameters such as volume. The integration extends to group tracks, making it possible to navigate complex mixes without manual setup.

PLUGIN mode offers hands-on control of Bitwig’s devices and third-party plug-ins. The Roto-Control automatically maps to a device’s Remote Controls, so the user can start tweaking without mapping anything at all, and can jump between pages directly from the interface. Parameters can be manually mapped with a single touch, and the Roto-Control will pull names and values directly from Bitwig Studio. It’s even possible to select parameters to map directly from a plug-in’s GUI.

The Roto-Control’s motorized knobs give haptic feedback that changes depending on the parameter you are controlling. A knob might twist smoothly up to its maximum value, or offer discrete steps with resistance in between (for a button, for example). The result is an uncanny hardware-like experience with every device controlled in PLUGIN mode. Once mapped, parameters are stored locally on the device, so Roto-Control will remember the mappings the next time Bitwig is opened, even in a different project file.

The Roto-Control Bitwig Edition features custom Bitwig-colored keycaps and includes a Bitwig software license of your choice (Bitwig Studio Producer or a 12-month Upgrade Plan). Each unit also includes a power supply and USB-C cable, a protective carry bag and cable tie, and a Quick Start Guide.

The Roto-Control Bitwig Edition is available now, priced at $499.

Five years on from the release of the MPK Mini Mk3, Akai Professional has unveiled the next generation of its compact MIDI controller keyboard: MPK Mini IV.

A major update that Akai is describing as the “most substantial redesign” in the series’ history, MPK Mini IV introduces pitch and modulation wheels, revamps the keybed and pads, adds a 5-pin MIDI output and USB-C connection and bundles the controller with a new software instrument that features more than 1,000 presets.

Among Mini IV’s array of upgrades, the headline is the pitch and mod wheels, which replace the four-way joystick found on the Mk3. The wheels are joined by an updated 3rd-gen 25-key keybed that reportedly offers “enhanced expressiveness” and eight velocity-sensitive RGB backlit pads that Akai says are more responsive than those found on the Mk3. Rounding things off in the control department are eight assignable rotary knobs.

Mini IV swaps out Mk3’s monochrome OLED display for a full-colour version and introduces a transport section for hands-on control over essential DAW functions – the controller ships with pre-made scripts for Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio and Cubase. There are new Scale and Chord Modes for staying in key and building chord progressions, and the arpeggiator has been equipped with three new modes, including an intriguingly named Mutate function.

With the release of Mini IV, Akai is introducing Studio Instrument Collection, a new software instrument that features 1,000 sounds from brands across the inMusic family, including Moog, AIR and Akai themselves. You’ll also get a license for Live Lite 12, a cut-down version of Ableton’s flagship DAW.

Additionally, Mini IV brings a full-size 5-pin DIN MIDI output, making the controller a far more versatile tool for integrating with DAWless setups and external gear. There’s also a USB-C port in place of Mk3’s USB-B connection, and a sustain pedal jack. The controller is available in two colourways: a standard black and red finish and a retro grey that’s reminiscent of classic MPCs.

“The MPK Mini IV embodies our commitment to empowering creators of all skill levels with professional-grade tools,” said Akai Pro’s Andy Mac. “We’ve completely reimagined what’s possible in a compact controller — delivering tactile, expressive controls; instant access to premium sounds; and true portability at an accessible price point. It’s designed to inspire creativity from the moment you plug it in.”

This is a proper update, bringing many of the most desirable features of the pricier MPK Mini Plus to its 25-key sibling, and making a budget controller that was already among the most appealing options in its price bracket even more of a tempting proposition.

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
• 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
• [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
• Connections:
  • Full-size MIDI output
  • Computer connection and bus power via USB-C
  • Sustain pedal input (quarter-inch TS socket)

The Akai Professional MPK Mini IV is available now for $99/€109.99/£94.99. Find out more on Akai website.