Akai SynthStation49 iPad MIDI controller unveiled at NAMM 2011

[OllyW]

Akai Professional have announced the SynthStation 49 for the iPad.

Working seamlessly with Akai Professional's heralded SynthStation software, SynthStation49 provides unparalleled music creation capabilities, including direct in-app MIDI recording from its velocity-sensitive keyboard, nine MPC-style drum pads and array of transport controls.

In addition to its integration with the SynthStation app, SynthStation49 is also completely iOS CoreMIDI compatible, making it instantly compatible with dozens of music apps already in the App Store and hundreds more on the way.

http://www.musicradar.com/news/tech...tation49-ipad-midi-controller-unveiled-358474

 

[NeuralControl]

That's pretty neat for individuals who use the iPad for music production. Is this also compatible with the iPhone/iPod Touch?

I'm glad to see Akai made sure to keep this useable as a regular MIDI controller. Any word on pricing? Hopefully it isn't outrageously overpriced just because it's "meant for iPad."

 

[OllyW]

That's pretty neat for individuals who use the iPad for music production. Is this also compatible with the iPhone/iPod Touch?

I'm glad to see Akai made sure to keep this useable as a regular MIDI controller. Any word on pricing? Hopefully it isn't outrageously overpriced just because it's "meant for iPad."

They already make a two octave MIDI keyboard for the iPhone and iPod touch which is reasonably priced (£74 in the UK). The iPad version is a lot better specified so I think it's going to be around £200+.

 

[NeuralControl]

I've seen the iPhone version at Guitar Center (the largest US music retail store).

The new iPad version seems to be much more like a genuine MIDI controller as compared to the iPhone controller.

I have to agree with you on the approximate price of this particular model.

 

[OllyW]

Alesis have also announced the StudioDock MIDI dock for the iPad.

The world’s first pro audio dock for iPad

• Connect microphones and instruments including guitar, studio monitors, PA speakers, headphones, and MIDI controllers
• Universal device works with virtually every audio and MIDI app in the App Store; Core MIDI compliant
• Perform, craft, create and play back music in virtually any conceivable manner or location
• Video output for connection to TVs and projectors
• Inputs: two combo XLR-1/4" for use with audio gear, instruments, and computer audio
• Input channel gain controls and switchable phantom power for use with condenser microphones
• Guitar-direct switch for use with amplifier- and effects-modeling app
• Outputs: pair 1/4" and 1/4" headphone with separate volume controls
• Control: MIDI In, MIDI Out, USB MIDI, and assignable 1/4-inch footswitch input

 

[NeuralControl]

That's a really neat concept. Have you noticed an increase in quality music production software since Apple added extra MIDI functionality into iOS?

 

[Seamaster]

Pity its only 49 keys. If it had been 61, I'd have been all over that like stink on a monkey.

 

[OllyW]

Digital Village have priced it at £164.99, a bit cheaper than I expected.