Korg KeyStage 49 USB/MIDI keyboard

General

The number of MIDI keyboards on offer isn't exactly getting smaller, which may have left you wondering why there are so many, especially since they all seem to do the same thing. But, if you said that about the Korg KeyStage 49, it would be genuine insult. Rather than following the fixed formula of a bank of eight encoders, plus eight faders and eight performance pads, this USB/MIDI keyboard takes a more streamlined route by focussing on offering a high-grade set of keys, complete with polyphonic aftertouch - meaning that this model already gives you way more than the average MIDI keyboard.

The Korg Keystage: All Hands on the Aftertouch

In short, a keyboard with good aftertouch directly translates into better expression - crucial if you want your instruments to sound like they're actually played by mortal, human hands rather than a robot. Of course, you could always just reach for an encoder, but with aftertouch on your side, things simply sound more natural. Backed up by aftertouch, every key you press has its own aftertouch value so that, when you're working with instruments like horns or strings, every note of a chord can be given its own subtly unique timbre. Try it once and you'll never go back. Another nice detail is that this keyboard is the result of a Korg and ASM collab, which explains the quality of the aftertouch and the keyboard in general. ASM is known for giving the Hydrasynth to the world: a synthesizer that quickly gained renowned for its keyboard. The KeyStage doesn't just feature the same aftertouch as the Hydrasynth, but the same keybed, resulting in something that Korg couldn't have done better themselves.

Extra Perks

In essence, this is a basic controller, meaning that you're not getting the same array of control elements that you would with other MIDI keyboards so, while you are getting that stellar keyboard and sublime aftertouch, does it feel like anything's missing? Not really. This model is really lightweight and super-portable, so it's also fully giggable. Next to that, it features a creative arpeggiator which will pique the interest of writers and producers and, since it's also home to a 44.1/16 audio interface, the sound of your computer or laptop can be routed via the KeyStage through the line-outputs or headphone output. There's even space at the back for installing an expansion plate, so your laptop can actually be mounted on your Keystage. Flip the expansion plate over before installing it, and you have yourself a solid tilt-back tablet rest.

• Please note: The Korg KeyStage can be powered via USB or using the Korg KA350 power supply (sold separately).