Behringer Teases $200 Polykeys 61 MIDI Controller With Polyphonic Aftertouch
Behringer has shared another sneak preview – this time for the POLYKEYS 61 mini MIDI controller. Details are still to come, but it looks like the POLYKEYS 61 will offer 61 mini keys with polyphonic aftertouch, plus a ribbon controller.
Polyphonic aftertouch allows each key to transmit its own pressure information, rather than applying one pressure value to the entire keyboard. That makes it possible to introduce independent modulation to individual notes in a chord, when controlling synthesizers that support polyphonic expression.
The ribbon controller adds another continuous performance dimension, while the large number of faders, knobs, and pads suggests that Behringer is positioning this as an inexpensive control keyboard.
The POLYKEYS 61 will also feature open source firmware, opening the platform to community development.
Specifications (Preliminary):
- Keyboard 61 controller with mini keys, polyphonic aftertouch
- Ribbon controller
- 16 Pads 16
- 9 Faders
- 9 Rotary controls
- Display
- Pitch and modulation wheels
- Firmware announced as open source
The Behringer POLYKEYS 61 has a target price of $199 USD. The release date is to be announced.
