Nektar launches SE61 USB MIDI keyboard controller

Nektar has launched the SE61 USB MIDI keyboard controller.

At the SE61's core is an expressive synth-action keybed with 61 velocity-sensitive full-size keys, two large pitch and modulation wheels as well as a sustain pedal connector. Four dedicated octave and transpose buttons not only extend the keyboard's range, but also double up as DAW transport controls (sending out the widely supported standard MMC transport messages). The 30mm fader is pre-assigned to MIDI volume, but is, just like the buttons, also assignable to any other MIDI CC message. Here is what they say:

What sets the SE61 apart from other entry-level MIDI controllers is the included custom Nektar DAW Integration for 12 DAWs: It instantly enhances the workflow by providing extended transport control, project navigation and volume control for the selected track. The transpose buttons can now be used to select tracks or browse plugin patches. Nektar DAW Integration turns the SE61 into a powerful – yet intuitive – control center, allowing users to record and perform without always having to reach for the mouse.

The bundled Bitwig 8-Track software license turns the SE61 MIDI controller into a complete and very affordable entry-level solution and gets users going right away with its included content of loops, samples and plugins.

SE61 MIDI controller Features:

• 61 full-size velocity-sensitive keys (synth action).
• 4 velocity curves plus 3 fixed.
• 4 buttons (Octave Up/Down, Transpose Up/Down), 1 x 30 mm Fader.
• Transpose buttons (assignable to: Transpose, MIDI Channel, Program, Track* or Patch* change).
• Wheels: Pitch Bend and Modulation.
• Transport control via secondary button function*.
• USB Class Compliant. Works with any DAW or MIDI music software.
• Connections: Footswitch, USB port (USB-powered).
• Weight & Dimensions: 98.5 cm (L) x 19.7 cm (D) x 6.9 cm (H), 3 kgs.

*= requires Nektar DAW Integration.

Nektar DAW Integration currently supports:

Bitwig, Cubase, Digital Performer, FL Studio, Garageband, Logic, Mixcraft, Nuendo, Reason, Reaper, Sonar and Studio One.

System Requirements:

• USB class compliant (no driver needed).
• Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10 or higher. Mac OS X 10.5 or higher.
• Linux (Ubuntu).
• Apple iOS (camera connection kit required).
• Nektar DAW Integration: Windows Vista, 7, 8, 10 or higher. Mac OS X 10.7 or higher.

Price: $99.99 USD / €99.99 EUR / £84.99 GBP. The SE61 is available immediately at resellers worldwide. Also available in the SE range are the 49 key version SE49 and the SE25 mini.

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