Roland A-88 MIDI keyboard

General

The Roland A-88 is a piano-sized MIDI keyboard, fitted with 88 keys with a grand piano response. You can use this compact, lightweight controller to control your computer, your sound module, your synthesizer or any other MIDI-supported device. Load a realistic virtual piano, such as a VST plug-in, into the MIDI software of your PC, Mac or laptop, and you'll feel like you are playing a genuine acoustic grand piano. Of course you can also opt to play any other virtual instrument.

The Roland A88: a MIDI controller with a piano feel

Thanks to the tested Ivory Feel-G keyboard, which is also used for Roland's digital pianos, the keys of the A-88 feel and respond like those of a grand piano. Instead of a simple spring response, these keys are fitted with a Progressive Hammer Action design that uses real hammers. Additionally, the keys are equipped with a moisture-absorbing layer, which feels like real ivory. For a full piano experience, it is possible to connect a sustain pedal and two foot switches, or Roland's 3-pedal RP3U unit.

Functions and connectors

The keyboard is equipped with various controls, including transposition buttons, dual/split functionality, an expression lever and a D-Beam controller. Combine the Function button with the keyboard keys and you can also set a number of parameters. The A-88 is fitted with various connectors, including USB (which can also be used to power the keyboard), MIDI OUT and 3 pedal inputs. The MIDI keyboard is supplied with accessory Sonar LE software.

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