Acorn Instruments tell us that they are taking no-fuss USB controllers to a new level with the Masterkey 25 and Masterkey 49 keyboards. Here's their press release:
The Masterkey series unlocks musician's creativity by offering more control, great dynamics, fast workflow and amazing DAW software. The full-size synth style keybed is designed to satisfy both keyboard players and non-keyboard players alike. The fast response is excellent for programming drums or any repeat notes while the dynamic velocity curve adds real expression to computer music performance and composition.
Two rubberized performance wheels provide control over pitch bend and modulation for further real time articulation. Both can be assigned to any MIDI CC message and bring the total assignable real-time controls to 7 including a fader and 4 programmable pots.
Programming is made easy by the addition of a 3-digit LED display provides parameter and value feedback. No need to refer to the manual in edit mode, the display shows the parameter options available.
Even better, 2 function buttons just below the LED display can be assigned on the fly to any of 4 parameters. Quickly flip between Program Change, MIDI Channel, Octave shift and Transpose assignments for these buttons, without lifting your right hand off the keyboard.
Masterkey is fully USB class compliant so there are no complications with driver installations for supported operating systems such as Windows XP, Vista and 7 or Mac OS. Just plug and play.
For users who are looking for a complete all-in-one solution, Masterkey ships with a full version of the incredible Presonus DAW, Studio Artist. This amazing DAW offers complete unlimited audio and MIDI recording capabilities, full editing, 25 native effects and virtual instrument plug-ins, 4 GB+ of additional content and much more.
Masterkey 25 and Masterkey 49 offer identical feature sets with a choice of 25 note or 49 note keyboard respectively.
Acorn Instruments is a division of Nektar Technology, Inc, a privately held company registered in the state of California.
Pricing and Availability:
Masterkey 49 is available in the UK immediately at an anticipated selling price of £74.99. Masterkey 25 will be available September 2011 at an anticipated selling price of £51.99. More information:

• www.acorn-instruments.com

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