New Keystation 88es USB MIDI Controller Released88-key semi-weighted keyboard bridges gap between studio and stage
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(Click for a close-up) |
November 25, 2004
M-Audio has announced the availability of the new Keystation 88es. The Keystation 88es
joins a growing line of USB MIDI controllers that accommodate a wide variety
of needs on the part of players and educators.
With 88 semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keys, the Keystation 88es is
designed to appeal to computer users who appreciate the full range of a
piano keyboard in a lightweight package. The unit incorporates a built-in
USB MIDI interface for Macs and PCs, including a separate MIDI Out jack for
controlling MIDI hardware. Pitch bend and modulation wheels are accompanied
by an assignable volume/control slider, advanced function button for
programming and assignable data up/down buttons, as well as sustain and
expression pedal inputs.
At just 22 lbs., the Keystation 88es is equally at home on stage and in the
studio. Class compliancy with Windows XP and Mac OS X ensures easy
plug-and-play setup. This compact unit is also bus powered, so one simple
USB cable is the only connection required. The unit ships with M-Audio's
Maximum Audio Tools software bundle, as well as a 6' USB cable.
MME and Mac OS X Core MIDI technology make the Keystation 88es compatible
with most popular music education and studio software. Minimum system
requirements for PC are Windows 98SE / Me / 2000 (SP4) / XP (SP1). Minimum
system requirements for Mac are OS X 10.1.5 (native USB port required; G3/G4
accelerator cards not supported).
Programming options on the Keystation 88es include Octave Shift, Transpose,
Program Change, Bank LSB, Bank MSB, MIDI Channel, MIDI Out from USB, Reset
All Controllers, Wheel Assign and Slider Assign.
The Keystation 88es is currently shipping and carries an MSRP of USD
$299.95.
For more information, visit their web site at www.m-audio.com. | 
