Apps with virtual pianos for composing music on mobile devices just don’t feel the same — or inspire creativity — like the real thing. So the folks at Keith McMillen Instruments have created an ultra-portable 13-inch USB MIDI keyboard compatible with all USB tablets and laptops. (An Apple USB Connection Kit is required for iPads and other iOS devices and is not included.) The plug and play 13-inch by 3.3-inch by .43-inch-thick K-Board has an LED-backlit keyboard with touch-sensitive sensors imbedded in the fabric under each of the 25 playable keys. The sensors can detect pressure, tilt and velocity, and you can shift octaves with the touch of a button. The K-Board can be used in collaboration with popular music-making apps and software, such as Apple Garage Band, Ableton Live, Animoog and NI Komplete, and is built tough for rough rides in a backpack or other rugged treatment. Weighing less than a pound, the K-Board draws its power from the device to which it is connected so you’ll want to monitor the battery level of your mobile device not plugged in to an outlet. An external rechargeable power pack would be a good support player.
KMI 13-inch USB MIDI K-Board Keyboard is $99. .
Judi Dash, Gear & Gadgets Syndicate
