We announce new keyboard and related gear as it is released. Pro Keyboards, Synths, Samplers, Sequencers and related accessories.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Yamaha KX-61 USB Keyboard Studio Controller
Yamaha KX-61 USB Keyboard Studio Controller!
The KX Series USB Keyboard Studios were conceived and designed to support creativity and MIDI music composition without getting in the way. Based on a range of innovative features with advanced software integration and connectivity via a single USB cable, these control keyboards help create an efficient environment that supports traditional music production workflow.
They also feature a range of drum, guitar, bass, keyboard, and other musical phrases built in, minimizing the need for complex manual MIDI data programming. Complete compositions can easily be created with just one finger. Of course Yamaha keyboard know-how, which was acquired and refined through years of experience, offers feel and response that provide optimum musical control and comfort for smooth production.
The KX Series USB MIDI Studio was built for discerning keyboard players for use on stage or in the studio, featuring a high-quality Yamaha keyboard, numerous creative control features, and advanced integration with Steinberg DAW products. The KX Series is the next step in Yamaha's philosophy of hardware and software integration. Discerning keyboard players will appreciate the genuine Yamaha keyboard action while composing and recording seamlessly with Steinberg Cubase AI and its many creative options.
The KX Series enables easy song creation with its built-in arpeggio function. Inspired by the Motif ARP phrases, these arpeggios can be played back by the included HALion One softsynth using sound content from the Yamaha Motif or the VST Mega Pack Bundle featuring exclusive content from IK Multimedia, BFD, and Arturia. A dedicated control section on the KX enables complete control of sounds and content.
The KX USB Studio includes Cubase AI, a special "Advanced Integration" version of Steinberg's legendary music production software. Cubase AI is conveniently controlled via a dedicated control section on the KX, turning it into a complete music production solution.
The KX Series is also bundled with the X Factor DVD from Yamaha. This DVD contains a massive collection of sounds and VST instruments from industry leaders like IK Multmedia, Sonic Reality, FXpansion, Arturia and Keyfax. In addition to the bundled sounds there are thousands of dollars worth of rebate coupons and added values from Antares, ASK Video, Broadjam, Electronic Musician , Electrix, Garritan, KeytoSound, Obedia, Steinberg and Tunecore.
Advanced feature and software integration
The design of the KX series control keyboards is based on in-depth research into the latest software-based music production and workflow approaches. Control capability has been refined for optimum compatibility with DAW software, software-based tone modules from major manufacturers, and the workflow methodologies they involve. There are transport functions to control DAW recording and playback, assignable buttons that can be assigned to a range of functions to suit individual needs, control templates for 30 different types of software tone modules everything needed for smooth music production is right at your fingertips.
AI functions provide high-level Cubase integration
In addition to the bundled Cubase AI4 software, the KX series provides high-level integration with Steinberg Cubase 4 and Cubase studio 4 DAW applications. You can open any edit window with a single button, add instrument tracks right from the controller keyboard, and automatically switch control templates for different software tone modules when tracks are switched, as well as other advanced functions to facilitate a smooth, efficient workflow. Quantize and delete functions are pre-assigned to the assignable keys so you can start MIDI production without the need for complex setup procedures.
Phrase factory offers an extensive range of built-in one-touch phrases
The KX series features a built-in arpeggiator with more than 500 pre-programmed phrases. Select an instrument and style, then simply hold the appropriate notes on the keyboard to play or enter the MIDI phrase data. For example, a guitarist could create a demo by entering all the required parts other than guitar by using the arpeggiator, and then overdub the actual guitar tracks. The KX series makes it easy to create background music for your home page, backing for solo practice, and much more.
Four control knobs plus templates for 30 software tone modules
In addition to advanced control of DAW software, the KX series keyboards feature control templates for 30 different software tone modules built in. The most commonly used parameters for all 30 tone modules are automatically assigned to the keyboard's four real-time control encoders. When using Cubase the appropriate control templates are automatically selected when switching tracks, so you won't be distracted by having to change settings manually.
KX editor for versatile parameter assignment
The KX editor application, downloadable from the Yamaha website, allows detailed parameter assignment and editing for the four encoders and assignable buttons. You can create different parameter sets for production and performance, or for different types of music, and simply switch them as required.
Velocity curve control for optimum response with individual tone modules
Keyboard velocity response can be adjusted in six steps to match a wide range of tone modules and sample players. Optimum matching of player, keyboard, and tone module means maximum playing comfort and fluid performance.
USB power compatible
Since the KX series keyboards are compatible with USB bus power, they can be simply plugged into a USB port and used without a separate power adaptor.
Expression pedal and external MIDI tone generator connectivity
Since the KX series keyboards are compatible with USB bus power, they can be simply plugged into a USB port and used without a separate power adaptor.
Yamaha KX-61 USB Keyboard Studio Controller Specifications:
* Keyboards: 61 keys (Initial Touch)
* Sequencer: Arppegio, each 342 type
* DAW Software compatible with the remote control function
* Windows CUBASE 4, CUBASE Studio 4, CUBASE AI, SONER 6
* Macintosh CUBASE 4, CUBASE Studio 4, CUBASE AI, Logic 7.2, Digital Performer 5.1
* * Function to be controlled differ depending on the software
Controllers
* Pitch Bend Wheel: 1
* Modulation Wheel: 1
* Assignable Encoder knobs: 4
* Panel Switches: 37
* Power Switch: 1
Connectors
* MIDI Connectors IN x 1, OUT x 1
* FOOT SWITCH Phone Connector x 1 (Not availavle FC3)
* USB Connector TO HOST Connector x 1 (USB bus Powwered)
* DC-IN 1
Display: LCD 16 x 2 Characters backlit LCD
* Power Consumption: AC Adapter 3.5 W, USB Bus Power 0.6 W
Dimensions (W x D x H): 937 x 343.9 x 114.6 mm
* Weight: 4.5kg
Accessories: AC Adapter PA-130(U) or PA-3C(others), CD-ROM x 2, USB Cable x 1, Owner's manual
KX Series Keyboards System Requirements
* Windows Vista
* Computer: 1 GHz or faster Intel Core/Pentium/Celeron family processor, with USB terminal
* RAM: 1 gigabyte minimum
Windows XP Professional/XP Home Edition
* Computer: 750 MHz or faster Intel Core/Pentium/Celeron family processor, with USB terminal
* RAM: 128 megabytes minimum
Macintosh
* Compatible OS: Mac OS X 10.3.3 or later
* Computer: PowerPC G3 or later processor, with USB terminal
* RAM: 128 megabytes minimum
Cubase AI System Requirements
* Windows
* Compatible OS: Windows XP Professional SP1/XP Home Edition SP1/Windows Vista (32-bit)
* CPU: 1.4 GHz or faster Intel Core/Pentium/Celeron family processor
* RAM: 512 megabytes minimum
* Hard Disk: 400 megabytes free space, minimum
Macintosh
* Compatible OS: Mac OS X 10.4 or later
* Computer: 1 GHz or faster PowerPC G4 or later processor, or 1.5 GHz or faster Core Solo or later processor
* RAM: 512 megabytes minimum
* Hard Disk: 400 megabytes free space, minimum
Yamaha KX-61 USB Keyboard Studio Controller Features:
* Advanced feature and software integration
* AI functions provide high-level Cubase integration
* Phrase factory offers an extensive range of built-in one-touch phrases
* Four control knobs plus templates for 30 software tone modules
* KX editor for versatile parameter assignment
* Velocity curve control for optimum response with individual tone modules
* USB power compatible
* Expression pedal and external midi tone generator connectivity