WNAMM10: Cakewalk Announces Keyboard Controllers

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:

• cakewalk.com

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  3 Comments...  Post a comment    original story

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  Ins0mniak    Said...

  Really!?!? Yet another USB controller and again no 88-Key true hammer action and weight?

  I was looking forward to someone making one to replace my Keystation.

  Make a version with aftertouch and 16 pads, and I'm in!

  22-Jan-10 12:46 PM

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  Ins0mniak    Said...

  ... an 88Key Hammer action (NOT semi weighted) version!

  The rest are a dime a dozen...

  22-Jan-10 12:47 PM

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  Steve    Said...

  The ACT support for Sonar is a major bonus. The design looks nice a well.

  23-Jan-10 12:32 PM

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