From a DAW Perspective this might no seem as intuitive, but for live performance this thing is killer. Pulling up to a gig with just this keyboard, keyboard stand, Laptop, and sustain pedal! No more finding a good spot for your audio interface, bringing an extra laptop stand, plus having all of your Laptop Patches! Some might say just bring a Digital Piano/Workstation, but you dont have the limitless bank of Laptop Patches. Also the Midi I/O is a huge plus considering the majority of new Midi Controllers only have a Midi out and thats if you're lucky! Not having endless knobs partnered with the little screen under is a plus as well so i dont have to have my Macro knobs pulled up all the time on Ableton Live and just have view of either song notes or Multitracks. This thing was built for the Gigging musician not the Producer !
Great review and summary, thank you again. I must admit with the words "MIDI 2.0 Controller" I was expecting to be blown away with revolutionary new features. That didn't happen. Early days for MIDI 2.0 I guess. Very happy with my Arturia Keylab Pro 61 anyway.
The big thing is bidrectional communication, which is why the knobs can import the values from the plugin without any mapping. Other features of midi 2 includes lower latency, more velocity layers, single cable etc. A lot has to be supported on the host/os side of things as well of course. But yes, we´ll probably see a lot more innovation going forward but this is already technically better than any legacy midi controllers.
I like what Korg has done with this. But honestly, I feel like some basic things are missing that really should be there, like the endless knobs. I get that they’ve made up with how their knobs work, but it’s not the same. I don’t want to have to think about “unique features.” I just want it to work, like normal.
See i'm of the opposite opinion. With endless knobs, while more universal, you loose some of the tactile usefulness in that it forces you to look at a value.
You can view the current value with endless knobs in various ways. For example, with a small display under the encoder or with a ring of LEDs around it. I still don't see the advantages of a classic potentiometer since they have a finite rotation, they will never start from the correct parameter when changing context, unless they are motorized, which is expensive to manufacture and surely more delicate to maintain over time.. @@xc68000
Great video my friend! Things I loved: chord mode… customizable chords! The 8 screens. Auto power off. Laptop stand! Komplete kompatibility?? Never saw that coming… but kool! Your patch in the arp demo. Your cat!
I'm still a fan of sliders, particularly with the (currently lacking) mix control function, so this iteration is probably not my personal cup of tea. Is the keybed at least better than that for the hardware Wavestate? Because I expleted myself in horror when I first played that. 😉 And more Sanjay K(itty), please! Appreciative of your efforts as always. 😀
I'm still waiting for Arturia to put out the mk3 for Keylab. (I already have the 61-key version of mk2). I'm hoping they will include polyAT/MPE as well as improve on some of the other features like the pads and the screens. Otherwise, I can see myself using the Keystage as an upgrade/replacement for both the Keylab and three ROLI LUMIs if push came to shove. I anticipate that as more software incorporates MIDI 2.0, this will be quite a powerful controller. I know that a forthcoming v13 for Cubase will support MIDI 2.0.
Same... but it looks like Arturia shirt the bed again... just announced the new Keylab and NO Poly AT.... So damn lame. Guess it's time to get this Korg.
Polyphonic aftertouch absolutely essential to me. I currently have a Kurzweil MIDIBoard, Generalmusic GEM S3, Infinite Response VAX77, and a CME XKey. A modern keyboard with polyAT would allow me to replace all of these older (and even more ancient!) keyboards. Also important is quality of the keybed; I currently have an NI Kontrol S88 MK3 on preorder. The ASM keybed used here and on the Hydrasynth Deluxe is OK, but I have found the Fatar keybeds to be superior. Would be interested to see what Fatar/Studiologic and Arturia come up with.
Good review. You left out 2 major competitors in this price range that offer full DAW & VST integration (via their script file or Nektarine) although they lack midi 2.0: Nektar P & T series.
Yes I prefer poly aftertouch like on previous Ensoniq ASR10/ SD1 and the new Yamaha Montage M8X! I like what I see here with the new Korg controller. Yes they need to make a 76 and 88 weighted version!
Sanjay, can you please comment more on the feel of the keybed (I don't have nor have I tried a Hydrasynth or this Keystage)? For example, I had a Native Instruments S49 Mk2 but returned it because it felt so cheesy and springy. I've owned various 88-key hammer action hardware and like you much prefer it. I also played a rea Fender Rhodes suitcase in the 70's and 80's and that was fine. So maybe can you compare this Keystage to the NI S Mk2? For that matter, how does the NI S series Mk 3 feel compared to the Mk 2? I know, I should ask that question in the Mk 3 review that I just watched 🙂
It's nice to see that more Synths and controllers starts comming with poly AT and Midi 2.0. But I want to see more "Quality" keybeds. Even I havn't tried the ASM keys it's easy to see that it's a fairly cheap feeling keybed, especially how the keys bend when you press down for the aftertouch. Btw are these full size keys ? They look kinda small. But not as small as the Hydrasynth Explorer. Seen the Hydrasynth Deluxe and that seems bigger, but it has a really high clunky noise when played. From how it "looks" when you play this I couldn't give the Korg/ASM more than a 2 on a 10 scale for the keybed. Very nice demo Sanjay. the display and knobs seems ok, but would expect better overall Quality from Korg. Overall it looks more like a 2-300$ product
Would like to see big brother with more controls and that they havn't bothered to include support for the whole Korg collection at launch is kinda disapointing, but that will propably come in the future. Think it's a bit too steep compared to the new controllers from NI that seems much more finnished and with lot more features.
I feel like this is so close to what I want. I've never been a fan of these DAW-controller-style midi keyboards that just have way too many features that I'll never use. Some small quality of life improvements would make this a huge contender.
Couldn't agree more. I have to admit I got the 88 Arturia controller this spring, and after 6 months, I can honestly say to you that I still use a mouse to select an instrument and just play the keys. Even with all these features in front of me, most days I just load up Keyscape and just play.
I wonder if it would work with (for example) a current iPad (Air or Pro), like a class compliant device.Did you happen to test this option, Sanjay? When used in combination with those, the audio out could be indeed pretty helpful. A somewhat compact and lightweight solution - for som. Apart from, this one could be a nice piece of kit for those who intend to travel light when playing a gig, I would imagine. Just keys, notebook …
Yes!!! You took the words out of my mouth! This keyboard with an iPad is the best pair for me! The best minimalist combination without loosing too much.
Knobs instead of encoders is a deal breaker. As for (combined) Komplete Kontrol and Ableton, the whole range of NI keyboards (S-/A-/M32) have a better integration.
If the screen reflects parameters on iOS synths accurately I'm in. Would really like a nice dedicated board for iOS purposes, and the way it can output the sound in a self-contained way is really great.
Looks nice.. but man.. I don't understand any controller today especially $500+ in price that doesnt provide more knobs, faders and pads. Arturia and novation seem to be doing the right thing. Komplete MK3 is nice but no pads, no faders.. though I like my external fader setup now, but even so why not offer all the things in one controller to avoid needing more. Novation and Arturia make it happen, and have great keybeds as well. What we need is a modern day RGB per every note, every dial/fader, etc.. along with 8/8/8 (pads, knobs and faders) for 25/37/49 keys and 16/16/16 for 61/76/88 key setups. There is plenty of space on the larger controllers to fit 16 of each even good sized pads. LCD screen that provides details like what the Kontrol MK3 does, but also we need X/Y pad and sliding ribbon.. all in one unit. Give us everything so we can be done with buying separate devices. If someone comes up with that, its an easy $1K buy for just about anyone. Oh.. and ofcourse Midi 2.0 support today.
You promised an introduction as soon as it’s available! And here it is. Thanks! Is it available already? Very cool keyboard controller, but is it best for Ableton? I use Logic. Which 61 keys controller is the best for Logic?
Interesting... I love Korg gear, but I wish there would be a return to 76 key synth action. Also, polyphonic after-touch is a cool thing, but it isn't new. Ensoniq had been doing that as early as 1989 with the VFX.
Agreed. Synth action 73/76 and or 88note hammer or synth. Poly aftertouch is a game changer especially if it has depth of feel. Midi in and out absolute must and pedal inputs
There’s a worrying amount of flex of the case whilst using the poly aftertouch, fitting a wood brace along the bottom would be a wise move. I also wish they’d use metal pots not plastic ones, I’m pretty sure Korg could afford that without bumping the price. Love the look and features just think something marketed for stage use should be a bit more rugged. Ideally a metal case to 👌
I didn't hear you address the biggest thing I wanted to know - how does MIDI 2.0 integration with OTHER software - like Arturia's V Collection or NI's stuff - compare to the NKS experience of Arturia or Korg's stuff? I sold my NI keyboard and got a Keylab 88 because honestly I wasn't at all impressed with NKS - have the time the filter and cutoff were buried 2 or 3 screens deep, when everyone knows you need access to those constantly. But I really want PAT, so it looks like this Korg is going to be the way to go; I'm just curious of MIDI 2.0 is an equal or better experience with competitor's software compared to how NKS was.
Exactly the set I ended up buying based on watching this channel about 1yr ago. It was exciting times and love the performance of these monitors to this day. Definitely a good bang for your dollar 👊🧡👍
I think just advertising about Krk Classic 8 Scott Storch Edition. We can't find White Classic and V Series, annoying. I can't move my white Rokit 6 G3s to other country, Yamaha's price is unneccessary and annoying expensive, i was angry and used credit, now i have Genelecs.
plz start making detailed reviews of digital pianos like Kawai, yamaha, roland by going into a store or something. I am sure many of your viewers into pianos would love to watch your videos coz your perspective is good. I am very interested in the amazing Kawai key action.
Yes, PAT should be standard on all synths and controllers. I don't understand why it hasn't taken off - I had it on a Kurzweil midi controller in the 80's, but since then I haven't seen PAT anywhere except for expensive niche synths.
I got an FL key 37and it's totally fine but if I have to change for a new one I should better go for the FL key 49 or 61 to use with FL Studio For now, with the type of music I compose, I don't need after-touch and I don't think I will have any extra advantage with midi 2.0 and it will be a better price for me to use the FL key
Definitely poly aftertouch. Since I played pad and strings sounds on the Waldorf Iridium in a music store I keep trying to emphasize single notes on each of my keyboards - in vain so far... 😋 definitely waiting to replace my current controller with one with poly aftertouch.
Have we really already forgotten audio interface controller keyboards of yore from Novation, M-Audio, Behringer and others? And many of those also had audio inputs and mic preamps.
🤞 By the time I’ve paid off my debts there’ll be a key stage mkii out & any kinks with the midi 2.0 shenanigans will be worked out. Definitely curious to see how this one develops 🤔
I would have thought slides and glides are assigned to velocity? Surely they can be assigned? Well that’s confusing, did you try assigning the slide like using a pitch control only it’s triggered via hitting the key harder?
I used to have a Korg Kontrol 49 Midi controller. Used to be a really cool thing with faders, rotary knobs and pads. Kinda missing some stuff here tho.
because you have tried both Komplete kontrol mk3 and korg keystage, which one has a better keybed? I know Komplete has fatar, does the same apply to korg?
Not sure how to feel about semi weighed keys. I mean poly aftertouch and midi 2.0 is kinda pro features but will be pros OK with this kind of keys? That's my question.
Maybe someone has already said it, but that's the 61 keys you got there, not the 49 😅 Great keyboard controller, and nice that it doesn't take that much of desk space, depth-wise. But $700? ouch.
Please test the midi velocity range of the keys. Korg and other manufacturers put out keyboards and midi controllers with keys not capable of reaching a max velocity of 127.
Apart from a flimsy looking poly aftertouch keybed, all those surprising features are on countless midi controllers since ages ago, for less money too. Oh, and by the way, this is already the third midi 2.0 ready controller that works exactly like a 1.0 one. The hype is running thin.
@@SanjayC they start coming out with high prices. For 600 dollars you could get a hammer action midi controller from Fatar plus a stellar interface but i have to admit that the form factor, quality of Korg is a winner!
I kind of like the audio output as I sometime run soft synths through analog effects, but the overall package doesn't seem to be worth nearly three times that of an Arturia Keylab Essential.
Love your videos, but I honestly trying to understand what is unique in re-releasing the old NI komplete kontrol mk1 from 2018. I mean all those "unique" features were there 5 years ago. Is it the build in interface ?!
I'm still rockin' Korg KONTROL 49 and it's not going anywhere. Also Arturia had a perfect midi controller and the new one is so so so UGLY ! Cheers 🥂 🥂
NI Komplete Kontrol S 49 MK1 had LED under every knob and knobs were endless MK1 has Fatar keys (not poly), but has a much better feel Looks like built quality is crap on Keystage - plastic fantastic I’ll stick to my good and trusted KK S49 MK1 for now Btw; Korg is using ASM keyboard from Hydrasynth = mushie
It would be hard to buy this over Native MK3's. Seems like you get a lot more out of NI. What we really need are a large bank of 16 or eve 32 sliders with OLEDs.
Curious to know if that keybed feels like in the Hydrasynth. And honestly, as much as I like playing with hammeraction, for, let's say, piano sounds, it really isn't that great to play String Libraries, for example.
In cubase this thing would rip. Just set those knobs to quick controls. It looks like the cheapest CS-80 type controller right? This thing with the CS 80 plug-in would be insane.
It’s beautiful and I love Korg - but at that price point I don’t see it compete with NI's Komplete Kontrol keyboards… I do like the built in interface though, but if you don’t need that it just adds to the price.
Also how good is the audio interface? I recently upgraded to a RME Babyface and it sounds way better than my other ones... it also costs more than this whole keyboard!
Is polyphonic aftertouch an expensive technology to make? To me it seems those new midi controllers seem to have a very high price for only having small (in my eyes) improvements over previous versions… This one seems a lot more like a Komplete Kontrol from the A-series with aftertouch and 8 30 pixel displays or so. And for that prize…🧐 Am I missing something here? Also the new S-Series from NI seems like an incremental improvement, but they had to wait like 5 years to come out with something that is not really different and is quite expensive… I’m really trying to see the positives in these new MIDI controllers , but can’t really justify them… What am I missing?🤔
I like the new native instruments kontrol s49, it has all of the same features and has a on board computer That can have updated new features. Instead of these fixed features.
Its more than a software upgrade for older keyboards.. They would have to actually upgrade the WHOLE keybed and the module chip.. If the keyboard was built with Midi 2.0 in mind then yea a firmware update is all that would be needed.. Example the new NI KK S series MK3 keyboards.
Rubber-coating on pitch wheels is crap. It will come off sooner or later like on any rubber-coated product. Happened on my crapps MPK261, too. I like the plastic buttons instead of rubber buttons. But I'd like to see a 88 key version with hammer action and motorized knobs. I wanted to buy this one first, but now I am not so convinced anymore. So I put an eye on the S88 MK3, knowing well it's not perfect either (too focused on NI). And yes, poly AT is a must these days. Same goes for MIDI 2.0.
Looks versatile having mpe poly at. But i am still waiting for a company to do a zero clutter top row midi keyboard 61 which can act as an organ lower tier keyboard with poly at. M audio keystation 61 is the only board i know that has zero clutter full size keys (just a shame there is no after touch). If m audio did a keystation 61 with poly at i would give them my wallet. Korg make microkey 61 which is a great design with side mount usb port, sustain and no clutter, just keys are too small. 😂 roli lumi keys has no mod wheel, roli seaboard is too expensive.
⬇ Links ⬇
1. Korg Keystage geni.us/hWob
2. Arturia Keylab Essential MK3 geni.us/lSIiN
3. Novation Launchkey MK3 geni.us/rGqe8Hh
4. Native Instruments S88 MK3 geni.us/rd5k
From a DAW Perspective this might no seem as intuitive, but for live performance this thing is killer. Pulling up to a gig with just this keyboard, keyboard stand, Laptop, and sustain pedal! No more finding a good spot for your audio interface, bringing an extra laptop stand, plus having all of your Laptop Patches! Some might say just bring a Digital Piano/Workstation, but you dont have the limitless bank of Laptop Patches. Also the Midi I/O is a huge plus considering the majority of new Midi Controllers only have a Midi out and thats if you're lucky! Not having endless knobs partnered with the little screen under is a plus as well so i dont have to have my Macro knobs pulled up all the time on Ableton Live and just have view of either song notes or Multitracks. This thing was built for the Gigging musician not the Producer !
You can do that in an iRig Keys withe the benefits of the pads :)
You can already achieve this w/o this keyboard if your end result is using the laptops audio card...
Sanjay- your reviews are clear and non biased. Your channel will gain Global expansion and merit!
🙏🏽♥️🎉 That is so kind!!!
I appreciate that so much. Thank you 🙏🏼
Already has, approaching 500k subscribers!
Great review and summary, thank you again. I must admit with the words "MIDI 2.0 Controller" I was expecting to be blown away with revolutionary new features. That didn't happen. Early days for MIDI 2.0 I guess. Very happy with my Arturia Keylab Pro 61 anyway.
The big thing is bidrectional communication, which is why the knobs can import the values from the plugin without any mapping. Other features of midi 2 includes lower latency, more velocity layers, single cable etc. A lot has to be supported on the host/os side of things as well of course. But yes, we´ll probably see a lot more innovation going forward but this is already technically better than any legacy midi controllers.
Some nice mid-week content to help me get through all the coursework. Perfect timing Sanjay!
I like what Korg has done with this. But honestly, I feel like some basic things are missing that really should be there, like the endless knobs. I get that they’ve made up with how their knobs work, but it’s not the same. I don’t want to have to think about “unique features.” I just want it to work, like normal.
See i'm of the opposite opinion. With endless knobs, while more universal, you loose some of the tactile usefulness in that it forces you to look at a value.
You can view the current value with endless knobs in various ways. For example, with a small display under the encoder or with a ring of LEDs around it. I still don't see the advantages of a classic potentiometer since they have a finite rotation, they will never start from the correct parameter when changing context, unless they are motorized, which is expensive to manufacture and surely more delicate to maintain over time.. @@xc68000
That’s a 61 key version… just saying…
Great video my friend! Things I loved: chord mode… customizable chords! The 8 screens. Auto power off. Laptop stand! Komplete kompatibility?? Never saw that coming… but kool! Your patch in the arp demo. Your cat!
Hey Jef!! :-D Gotta love the cat antics in videos!!
I'm still a fan of sliders, particularly with the (currently lacking) mix control function, so this iteration is probably not my personal cup of tea. Is the keybed at least better than that for the hardware Wavestate? Because I expleted myself in horror when I first played that. 😉
And more Sanjay K(itty), please!
Appreciative of your efforts as always. 😀
I'm still waiting for Arturia to put out the mk3 for Keylab. (I already have the 61-key version of mk2). I'm hoping they will include polyAT/MPE as well as improve on some of the other features like the pads and the screens. Otherwise, I can see myself using the Keystage as an upgrade/replacement for both the Keylab and three ROLI LUMIs if push came to shove.
I anticipate that as more software incorporates MIDI 2.0, this will be quite a powerful controller. I know that a forthcoming v13 for Cubase will support MIDI 2.0.
I thought the Astrolab was the new arturia keylab Mk3.
Same... but it looks like Arturia shirt the bed again... just announced the new Keylab and NO Poly AT.... So damn lame. Guess it's time to get this Korg.
Well … still waiting for that expressive keyboard =[
Polyphonic aftertouch absolutely essential to me. I currently have a Kurzweil MIDIBoard, Generalmusic GEM S3, Infinite Response VAX77, and a CME XKey. A modern keyboard with polyAT would allow me to replace all of these older (and even more ancient!) keyboards. Also important is quality of the keybed; I currently have an NI Kontrol S88 MK3 on preorder. The ASM keybed used here and on the Hydrasynth Deluxe is OK, but I have found the Fatar keybeds to be superior. Would be interested to see what Fatar/Studiologic and Arturia come up with.
these keys look short from back to front... I like long keys like the osmose
Key Bed is Fatar? how does it feel compare komplete S61 MK3 semi weight series
Good review. You left out 2 major competitors in this price range that offer full DAW & VST integration (via their script file or Nektarine) although they lack midi 2.0: Nektar P & T series.
Yes I prefer poly aftertouch like on previous Ensoniq ASR10/ SD1 and the new Yamaha Montage M8X! I like what I see here with the new Korg controller. Yes they need to make a 76 and 88 weighted version!
Sanjay, can you please comment more on the feel of the keybed (I don't have nor have I tried a Hydrasynth or this Keystage)? For example, I had a Native Instruments S49 Mk2 but returned it because it felt so cheesy and springy. I've owned various 88-key hammer action hardware and like you much prefer it. I also played a rea Fender Rhodes suitcase in the 70's and 80's and that was fine. So maybe can you compare this Keystage to the NI S Mk2?
For that matter, how does the NI S series Mk 3 feel compared to the Mk 2? I know, I should ask that question in the Mk 3 review that I just watched 🙂
It's nice to see that more Synths and controllers starts comming with poly AT and Midi 2.0. But I want to see more "Quality" keybeds. Even I havn't tried the ASM keys it's easy to see that it's a fairly cheap feeling keybed, especially how the keys bend when you press down for the aftertouch. Btw are these full size keys ? They look kinda small. But not as small as the Hydrasynth Explorer. Seen the Hydrasynth Deluxe and that seems bigger, but it has a really high clunky noise when played. From how it "looks" when you play this I couldn't give the Korg/ASM more than a 2 on a 10 scale for the keybed. Very nice demo Sanjay. the display and knobs seems ok, but would expect better overall Quality from Korg. Overall it looks more like a 2-300$ product
Would like to see big brother with more controls and that they havn't bothered to include support for the whole Korg collection at launch is kinda disapointing, but that will propably come in the future. Think it's a bit too steep compared to the new controllers from NI that seems much more finnished and with lot more features.
I feel like this is so close to what I want. I've never been a fan of these DAW-controller-style midi keyboards that just have way too many features that I'll never use. Some small quality of life improvements would make this a huge contender.
Couldn't agree more. I have to admit I got the 88 Arturia controller this spring, and after 6 months, I can honestly say to you that I still use a mouse to select an instrument and just play the keys. Even with all these features in front of me, most days I just load up Keyscape and just play.
Integrated audio interface in midi controllers meant for stage is a no-brainer really. Eliminates the need for more cables
I would be interested how it works with Logic Pro. Do the plugin parameters also automatically map to the Keystage?
I wonder if it would work with (for example) a current iPad (Air or Pro), like a class compliant device.Did you happen to test this option, Sanjay?
When used in combination with those, the audio out could be indeed pretty helpful. A somewhat compact and lightweight solution - for som.
Apart from, this one could be a nice piece of kit for those who intend to travel light when playing a gig, I would imagine. Just keys, notebook …
Yes!!! You took the words out of my mouth! This keyboard with an iPad is the best pair for me! The best minimalist combination without loosing too much.
A music stand! YES! That imo instantly puts it ahead of lots of competition.
Knobs instead of encoders is a deal breaker. As for (combined) Komplete Kontrol and Ableton, the whole range of NI keyboards (S-/A-/M32) have a better integration.
If the screen reflects parameters on iOS synths accurately I'm in. Would really like a nice dedicated board for iOS purposes, and the way it can output the sound in a self-contained way is really great.
without question
And how good is the Keybed?
Velocity sensitivity and even more important. How noise is the keybed? What other synths does the keybed compare too?
Polyafter touch for synth is needed. CS80. It’s built for that.
Just picked one up at GC the other day and I love it. Great review Sanjay!
BTW the Studiologic SL series also has really good laptop attachment stands.. Used to have the SL73
Looks nice.. but man.. I don't understand any controller today especially $500+ in price that doesnt provide more knobs, faders and pads. Arturia and novation seem to be doing the right thing. Komplete MK3 is nice but no pads, no faders.. though I like my external fader setup now, but even so why not offer all the things in one controller to avoid needing more. Novation and Arturia make it happen, and have great keybeds as well. What we need is a modern day RGB per every note, every dial/fader, etc.. along with 8/8/8 (pads, knobs and faders) for 25/37/49 keys and 16/16/16 for 61/76/88 key setups. There is plenty of space on the larger controllers to fit 16 of each even good sized pads. LCD screen that provides details like what the Kontrol MK3 does, but also we need X/Y pad and sliding ribbon.. all in one unit. Give us everything so we can be done with buying separate devices. If someone comes up with that, its an easy $1K buy for just about anyone. Oh.. and ofcourse Midi 2.0 support today.
You promised an introduction as soon as it’s available! And here it is. Thanks! Is it available already? Very cool keyboard controller, but is it best for Ableton? I use Logic. Which 61 keys controller is the best for Logic?
You do the best Product reviews Sanjay! Do you have a favorite so far of the latest gen 49+ key midi controller keyboards?
Great video ❤️ Does this keyboard work with iPhone 14 ?
Thanks 🙏🏼
How does it feel compared to the good old Triton or DX7 action? Same heft - or just spongy spring action?
Interesting... I love Korg gear, but I wish there would be a return to 76 key synth action. Also, polyphonic after-touch is a cool thing, but it isn't new. Ensoniq had been doing that as early as 1989 with the VFX.
Agreed. Synth action 73/76 and or 88note hammer or synth. Poly aftertouch is a game changer especially if it has depth of feel. Midi in and out absolute must and pedal inputs
There’s a worrying amount of flex of the case whilst using the poly aftertouch, fitting a wood brace along the bottom would be a wise move. I also wish they’d use metal pots not plastic ones, I’m pretty sure Korg could afford that without bumping the price.
Love the look and features just think something marketed for stage use should be a bit more rugged.
Ideally a metal case to 👌
I didn't hear you address the biggest thing I wanted to know - how does MIDI 2.0 integration with OTHER software - like Arturia's V Collection or NI's stuff - compare to the NKS experience of Arturia or Korg's stuff? I sold my NI keyboard and got a Keylab 88 because honestly I wasn't at all impressed with NKS - have the time the filter and cutoff were buried 2 or 3 screens deep, when everyone knows you need access to those constantly. But I really want PAT, so it looks like this Korg is going to be the way to go; I'm just curious of MIDI 2.0 is an equal or better experience with competitor's software compared to how NKS was.
Wow.. Midi controller having audio jack is totally a game changer i guess ❤
Yeah I’m interested to know if you think you’ll actually use it. Let me know. 😊
Have you all noticed that Sanjay C has changed his monitor speakers?
Rokit 8
👀😁
Exactly the set I ended up buying based on watching this channel about 1yr ago. It was exciting times and love the performance of these monitors to this day. Definitely a good bang for your dollar 👊🧡👍
Working On Best Studio Monitors Of 2023
I think just advertising about Krk Classic 8 Scott Storch Edition. We can't find White Classic and V Series, annoying. I can't move my white Rokit 6 G3s to other country, Yamaha's price is unneccessary and annoying expensive, i was angry and used credit, now i have Genelecs.
plz start making detailed reviews of digital pianos like Kawai, yamaha, roland by going into a store or something. I am sure many of your viewers into pianos would love to watch your videos coz your perspective is good. I am very interested in the amazing Kawai key action.
I wonder if those 8 knobs would control the "Q" links of an MPC ?
По мне лучше полноценную аранжировочную станцию ,чем Midi . KORG достойный аппарат!😀👍🇷🇺
Yes, PAT should be standard on all synths and controllers. I don't understand why it hasn't taken off - I had it on a Kurzweil midi controller in the 80's, but since then I haven't seen PAT anywhere except for expensive niche synths.
Hello and thank you for your video on the Korg Keystage! Do you know the latency with the Ableton or Logic Pro computer?
I got an FL key 37and it's totally fine but if I have to change for a new one I should better go for the FL key 49 or 61 to use with FL Studio
For now, with the type of music I compose, I don't need after-touch and I don't think I will have any extra advantage with midi 2.0
and it will be a better price for me to use the FL key
Definitely poly aftertouch. Since I played pad and strings sounds on the Waldorf Iridium in a music store I keep trying to emphasize single notes on each of my keyboards - in vain so far... 😋 definitely waiting to replace my current controller with one with poly aftertouch.
Have we really already forgotten audio interface controller keyboards of yore from Novation, M-Audio, Behringer and others? And many of those also had audio inputs and mic preamps.
🤞 By the time I’ve paid off my debts there’ll be a key stage mkii out & any kinks with the midi 2.0 shenanigans will be worked out.
Definitely curious to see how this one develops 🤔
Sanjay how you will compare this keybed to Novation SL mk 3? Thanks for video
What a great review of the Korg Keystage keyboard. You do an awesome job. Thank you. I wasn’t expecting a video from you today. Nice surprise!
KRK monitors, Ive only just noticed them in the back! Are these your new choices or are they a temp job? :)
I would have thought slides and glides are assigned to velocity? Surely they can be assigned? Well that’s confusing, did you try assigning the slide like using a pitch control only it’s triggered via hitting the key harder?
I used to have a Korg Kontrol 49 Midi controller.
Used to be a really cool thing with faders, rotary knobs and pads.
Kinda missing some stuff here tho.
I hope they'll also release an 88 key version featuring RH3 action someday...
because you have tried both Komplete kontrol mk3 and korg keystage, which one has a better keybed? I know Komplete has fatar, does the same apply to korg?
Not sure how to feel about semi weighed keys. I mean poly aftertouch and midi 2.0 is kinda pro features but will be pros OK with this kind of keys? That's my question.
is it useful for mainstage?
Even Rome 🐯couldn’t resist Sanjay C’s music in his piano playing!
Maybe someone has already said it, but that's the 61 keys you got there, not the 49 😅
Great keyboard controller, and nice that it doesn't take that much of desk space, depth-wise. But $700? ouch.
Please test the midi velocity range of the keys. Korg and other manufacturers put out keyboards and midi controllers with keys not capable of reaching a max velocity of 127.
Apart from a flimsy looking poly aftertouch keybed, all those surprising features are on countless midi controllers since ages ago, for less money too. Oh, and by the way, this is already the third midi 2.0 ready controller that works exactly like a 1.0 one. The hype is running thin.
while there were previous midi controllers with interface ( ik multimedia) this has 2 main things: midi 2.0 and of course big normal keys.
Yeah MIDI 2.0 is here. Now let’s see what other companies start coming out with.
@@SanjayC they start coming out with high prices. For 600 dollars you could get a hammer action midi controller from Fatar plus a stellar interface but i have to admit that the form factor, quality of Korg is a winner!
If KeyStage is a MIDI controller for sound generating software, is there a possibility to select tracks for live playing?
I kind of like the audio output as I sometime run soft synths through analog effects, but the overall package doesn't seem to be worth nearly three times that of an Arturia Keylab Essential.
What does it come witn??? I really don't understand these prices for midi keyboards
Love your videos, but I honestly trying to understand what is unique in re-releasing the old NI komplete kontrol mk1 from 2018.
I mean all those "unique" features were there 5 years ago.
Is it the build in interface ?!
Another great review video! Thanks SanjayC!
I am looking for a midi controller to expand the keys from Korg Wavestate sequencer. Will this work on the Keystage? Your thoughts please!
What do you need on the iOS device in order to use the audio out with it? Just any iOS auv3 plugin?
I'm still rockin' Korg KONTROL 49 and it's not going anywhere.
Also Arturia had a perfect midi controller and the new one is so so so UGLY !
Cheers 🥂 🥂
NI Komplete Kontrol S 49 MK1 had
LED under every knob and knobs were endless
MK1 has Fatar keys (not poly), but has a much better feel
Looks like built quality is crap on Keystage - plastic fantastic
I’ll stick to my good and trusted KK S49 MK1 for now
Btw; Korg is using ASM keyboard from Hydrasynth = mushie
Wondering - how many other midi controllers are also an interface? Are there any with inputs too?
It would be hard to buy this over Native MK3's. Seems like you get a lot more out of NI. What we really need are a large bank of 16 or eve 32 sliders with OLEDs.
Key Bed is Fatar? how does it feel compare komplete S61 MK3series
Does this Keyboard work with the latest Mac OS Sonoma ?
What's the ASIO latency on a 64-sample buffer?
Well that was kinda disappointing. Do you know if the encoders can transmit 32 bit resolution as stated in the MIDI 2.0 standard?
Will this work with an iPad ?
Curious to know if that keybed feels like in the Hydrasynth. And honestly, as much as I like playing with hammeraction, for, let's say, piano sounds, it really isn't that great to play String Libraries, for example.
In cubase this thing would rip. Just set those knobs to quick controls. It looks like the cheapest CS-80 type controller right? This thing with the CS 80 plug-in would be insane.
Also the deckards dream plus this thing would be crazy.
Excellent ! Love the details 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
It’s beautiful and I love Korg - but at that price point I don’t see it compete with NI's Komplete Kontrol keyboards… I do like the built in interface though, but if you don’t need that it just adds to the price.
Also how good is the audio interface? I recently upgraded to a RME Babyface and it sounds way better than my other ones... it also costs more than this whole keyboard!
Novation has similar feature 13 years ago 😅 with sl series with automap feature
Doesn't the NI Kontrol S-Series MK3 have MIDI 2.0?
They built it to have 2.0 in future firmware upgrades but currently not yet from what I have read.
Whatever happened to the pitch/modulation controller of the Triton/Kronos?
Suitable for Cubase 12 ya other Version.
Is polyphonic aftertouch an expensive technology to make?
To me it seems those new midi controllers seem to have a very high price for only having small (in my eyes) improvements over previous versions…
This one seems a lot more like a Komplete Kontrol from the A-series with aftertouch and 8 30 pixel displays or so. And for that prize…🧐
Am I missing something here?
Also the new S-Series from NI seems like an incremental improvement, but they had to wait like 5 years to come out with something that is not really different and is quite expensive…
I’m really trying to see the positives in these new MIDI controllers , but can’t really justify them…
What am I missing?🤔
How many assignable buttons and knobs to operate mainstage
very nice CL1B - my fav 🙂
I like the new native instruments kontrol s49, it has all of the same features and has a on board computer
That can have updated new features.
Instead of these fixed features.
What other keyboards have the strum and similar chord mode?
Hope there will be 76 key version
Thanks!
Thank you for the Super Thanks, Acee! What do you think of MIDI 2.0? Still some ways to go?
@@SanjayC Yeah like any new tech it will take a couple years to fully flesh out.
So we'll only be able to get Midi 2.0 via keyboards that have it but not like say some sorta software?
Its more than a software upgrade for older keyboards.. They would have to actually upgrade the WHOLE keybed and the module chip.. If the keyboard was built with Midi 2.0 in mind then yea a firmware update is all that would be needed.. Example the new NI KK S series MK3 keyboards.
Hopefully, Korg can add some of the missing features Sanjay mentioned with a firmware update.
please recommand a keyboard for cubase...
why did the monitors change are krk better than ever??
Hey Sanjay I have been loking your videos and I don't see your barefoot monitors, what happened?
Rubber-coating on pitch wheels is crap. It will come off sooner or later like on any rubber-coated product. Happened on my crapps MPK261, too. I like the plastic buttons instead of rubber buttons. But I'd like to see a 88 key version with hammer action and motorized knobs. I wanted to buy this one first, but now I am not so convinced anymore. So I put an eye on the S88 MK3, knowing well it's not perfect either (too focused on NI).
And yes, poly AT is a must these days. Same goes for MIDI 2.0.
Why not a word about the feel of the keys ? For the rest a good overview.
First it was Native Instruments with their new MK3 controllers and now Korg with this new controller. Ok Arturia - your move.
Krog bros bring competition towards NI keyboard
Looks versatile having mpe poly at. But i am still waiting for a company to do a zero clutter top row midi keyboard 61 which can act as an organ lower tier keyboard with poly at. M audio keystation 61 is the only board i know that has zero clutter full size keys (just a shame there is no after touch). If m audio did a keystation 61 with poly at i would give them my wallet. Korg make microkey 61 which is a great design with side mount usb port, sustain and no clutter, just keys are too small. 😂 roli lumi keys has no mod wheel, roli seaboard is too expensive.