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News / Synths

WNAMM10: Cakewalk Announces Keyboard Controllers

A-PRO Series is a new line of USB MIDI Controllers for Mac and PC 21-Jan-10
WNAMM10: Cakewalk Announces Keyboard Controllers


Cakewalk has announced the launch of the A-PRO Series of USB MIDI Controllers for Mac and PC. The A-300PRO, A-500PRO and A-800PRO are a brand new line of keyboard controllers developed in conjunction with Roland. Here's what they have to say in their press release:

The A-PRO series focuses on intuitive real-time performance and ergonomic playability, making it a must-have controller for soft synths in a live or studio setting. This new line combines the best of both worlds: Cakewalk's legendary ease of use and Roland's world-class engineering and keyboard expertise. The respective keyboards are:

  • A-300PRO--A 32-key USB MIDI keyboard
  • A-500PRO--A 49-key USB MIDI keyboard
  • A-800PRO--A 61-key USB MIDI keyboard

All A-PRO series keyboard controllers feature:

  • The feel of a Roland-quality Instrument

    • A superior key mechanism providing aftertouch and increased sensitivity for a wide range of expressive dynamics
    • Rounded key assemblies for smooth and comfortable glissando
    • Selectable velocity curves to fine tune the A-PRO to your playing style
    • Roland's proprietary FPT (Fast Processing Technology) USB driver provides ultra-low latency and ensures subtleties of performances are captured

  • Eight Dynamic Pads

    • Precise velocity sensitivity makes the A-PRO a formidable controller for finger drumming
    • Hold function is perfect for triggering loops and sequences

  • Ergonomic design puts everything at your fingertips

    • Ultra-bright, backlit LED display makes it easy to monitor settings, especially when on stage
    • Controls and onboard settings are easily accessible and intelligently laid out
    • Over 45 fully assignable controls, including knobs, sliders, and buttons
    • Dedicated Transport section
    • Sure-grip Pitch Bend/Modulation Stick offers expressive control of both parameters simultaneously
    • Easy and streamlined connection with side panel ports

  • Total control

    • A-300PRO Editor for Mac and PC makes it a breeze to customize the controller for use with your favorite synth or DAW
    • When working in ACT (Active Controller Technology) mode, DAWs like the included SONAR LE will remap parameters automatically
    • Trigger clips, video effects and transitions from your A-PRO musical performance using any video hardware with V-LINK support
    • Expand playability with Sustain & Expression Pedals (available separately)

  • The Production Plus Pack

    • Three inspiring virtual instruments for Mac & PC:
      • Rapture LE
      • Cakewalk Sound Center
      • Studio Instruments Drums
    • SONAR 8.5 LE, a special version of Cakewalk's professional recording software for Windows

"The new A-PRO series MIDI controllers have everything the Mac or PC-based keyboardist needs," said Brian Desmond, Cakewalk's product manager for the A-PRO series. "Their dynamic pads, ergonomic layout, brightly-lit display and intuitive menu make these keyboards ideal for the pro-level player who performs live."

Also making its debut is the A-500S, an inexpensive 49-key USB MIDI keyboard that shares many of the same design elements as the A-PRO series keyboards. The A-500S comes with the Production Pack Plus 3 software bundle. It has three power options -- USB, AC and also battery (4 x AA) -- and features a 3-digit, 7-segment LED screen to easily monitor settings. Compact and portable, the A-500S is perfect for anyone making music at home or in a project studio with a computer, academic settings needing great sound at low cost, or live performances and mobile recording applications.

Pricing and Availability:
The A-PRO series and A-500S will be available at select music and sound retailers worldwide in late April, 2010.

More information:
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