Korg KeyStage Review // MIDI 2.0 finally works - let’s see what it can do
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How does KeyStage (KS) compare to NI's Kontrol MK3 (KMK3) - as of the making of this video:
► KMK3 is more expensive than KS
► Both have polyphonic aftertouch that feels more or less the same, maybe slightly finer control on the KMK3
► Key action is softer, quieter and with less travel on the KMK3
► KMK3 has touch-sensitive endless encoders, a better choice for automapping parameters compared to KS's pots. The pots also seem to have lower resolution.
► KMK3's screen is way better, larger, has color graphics, letters are bigger, clearer
► KMK3 is quite larger in terms of depth, leaving less room on your desk
► Currently MIDI 2.0 is implemented in way fewer places than NI's NKS, and therefore NKS is more useful
► Ableton Live integration has device controls on KS but no levels/sends, and vice versa on KMK3 (I'd prefer device controls, personally)
► KMK3 doesn't support MIDI 2.0 currently, but has that option in one of the settings menus, so there's a good chance NI might support it - though not clear which part of it and whether NI will support property exchange
► KS has on board arp and chord modes, KMK3 doesn't yet, but NI has committed to implementing it.
► More pedal inputs and touch slider on KMK3
► KMK3's build feels more premium (buttons, encoders, wheels)
TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:15 Overview
2:55 MIDI 2.0
4:15 Wavestate
5:40 Gadget
7:15 Poly AT
9:05 Keybed
9:25 Ableton
11:40 Arp
14:05 Chords
15:55 MIDI CCs
16:30 Scenes
16:55 I/O
17:15 The plate
17:35 Pros, cons
19:00 Outro
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