Nektar, 88-Key (Impact LX88+)
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Product Description
Questions & Answers
There is no way to connect this 'keyboard controller' to an amplifier or speaker. There are no sounds coming from within. It simply sends MIDI data, such as which key was pressed and how hard it was pressed, to a computer or iPad via a USB cable. You can also use the sliders, knobs, and switches on the keyboard to control any programmable parameters in the software instrument you're working with. The headphone/output jack on a computer or iPad provides the signal to an amplifier. Because that is the location of the sound source.
It comes with a bit of wig daw, but it's basic, so you'll need to upgrade it.
It's intended for use with computer music software, but it can also be used to control external MIDI devices like sound modules. In that case, a USB power supply or a 9v power supply would be required. There is no requirement for internet access.
Yes. Both sides have three.
Selected User Reviews For Nektar, 88-Key (Impact LX88+)
I began tinkering with it over the next few weeks and discovered that it is an extremely high-quality controller. This device has incredible functionality. You can make this thing sound like a real Steinway, Yamaha, Rhodes, Hammond, Moog, or whatever you want it to sound like with the right setup. This is merely a controller, and the sound will be provided entirely by your computer and sound system. br>br>I bought this because I wanted to get serious about playing keys in a band without spending thousands of dollars on a Nord, Roland, or similar instrument. I connect it to my laptop. The laptop is connected to a Scarlett sound card, which is in turn connected to a Yorkville M8 85-watt powered mixer and two PA speakers via a Scarlett sound card. It has a badass ring to it. br>br>I was disappointed in the spring loaded keys because I intended to use this for a serious project. It didn't end up being a problem because the keys have excellent dynamics. I can hold my own in a large band with two guitars, two drummers, and horns if I have a good sound card and a PA. Until I can afford a better live rig, it's perfectly adequate. br>br>One aspect of it is the live sound. This thing can turn you into a one-man band when connected to a DAW and a good sound system, and the included Bitwig software is fantastic. I'm going to buy the full license because it's a fraction of the price of Ableton and, as far as I can tell, it's just as good. The keyboard works in unison with the rest of the system. I'm still figuring out how to record, arrange, and play back loops. I'm starting to get the hang of it, and I have a feeling that once I've climbed the learning curve, I'll be able to do some amazing things with live looping using this as a controller. br>br>Now that I've had it for almost a month and have figured out how to use it, I'm giving it a 5 star rating.
It'll set you back under $350. Here's your ax for a job well done. Second revision: The pitch wheel started to behave strangely. I reached out to Nektar and he agreed to meet with me. There was a simple solution to the problem —- swiping the pitch wheel back and forth at a high rate It appears that the issue has been resolved! If that didn't work, I'd move on to the next step. They had a new solution: They sent a new pitch wheel assembly, which they claimed was simple to put together. So, I'm very pleased — thank you, Nektar, and I'm reinstating my five-star rating! Original review: br>br> The construction is extremely sturdy. It's simple to connect to your DAW. I use Cubase and Reaper and have Komplete 11 Ultimate. I was using a different keyboard setup that didn't work well with Komplete. The Nektar is a dream come true! br>br>I read in one review (not on Amazon) that the keys were about 1/2 inch shorter than a standard piano. Could this be true? I've been playing pop and rock piano since I was about eight years old, and I'm now sixty years old. It also makes me feel great! br>br>Some people have complained about the black keys, but I think they're great - The tempo is also consistent. The Organ Drawbar Sliders - br>br> Excellent work! The knobs are connected to every feature of your VSTs. br>br>It doesn't have hammer action, so if you need it, you'll have to get something else. It isn't going to be what you are looking for. br>br>However, if you need a board with 88 keys, look no further. is under the weight of 20 lbs. and it'll set you back less than $350. . . here's your axe!.
Construction quality is mediocre (but then again, what do you expect?). Very well done. Construction quality is mediocre (but then again, what do you expect from the cheapest 88-key controller available?). br>br>Keys, on the other hand, are fantastic. That is all that matters. It was simple and painless to integrate FL studio. br>br>(More advanced custom integration is difficult, but that's FL's fault, not the controller's)br>br>I will say that when playing the entertainer, I noticed a small knock/rattle in the keyboard when you play an octave (the lower key will rattle a little). You won't notice if you're wearing headphones, but if you're not, you might. br>br>Otherwise, as a first-time 88-key buyer who mostly plays ragtime and produces, it's a very solid keyboard. br>br>Also, if you're using it with your computer, there's no need for a power plug; USB power suffices!.
I'm not sure if I got a bad set, but the keys are all over the place. The velocity curve of one key differs from that of another. So I'll be playing along, and one note in particular will be hammered, despite my best efforts to play softly. It's not a deal breaker, but for nearly $300, I don't want to have to go back and edit every single one of my velocities because they all trigger differently. br>br>Apart from that, it's a fantastic keyboard with some unique features. The pads are also cool. However, based on other reviews, it appears that nektar's key design needs improvement. (Perhaps this has been addressed in newer models. ).
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