While the words portable and affordable describe the K-Series USB-MIDI Studio Controllers, they by no means define them. Each model features solid, full-size keys, and a selection of four velocity curves. Available in 25, 49 and 61 key versions, their octave shift keys provide access to the full range of notes, and the key transpose function lets you reach them comfortably – or instantly match the range of another performer. Authentic baroque and classical temperaments add even more versatility.

The K25, K49, and K61 are graced with a variety of sophisticated controllers, including Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels, a joystick (used either as an X/Y joystick or as a USB mouse), two assignable switches that can be set to either momentary or toggle operation, an assignable slider, and an assignable foot switch input on the back panel.

Using the free editor software that comes with the K-Series, you can create and save custom controller assignments – or scenes – in an easy, visual manner. The new K-Series controllers even come with a free M1 Le software synthesizer. Prices and Availability TBA.

Today, Edirol pushes the price/performance envelope again with the new UA-4FX. The portable USB audio/MIDI interface sets a new standard for affordable Mac/PC interfaces with its ultra-fast, low-latency audio and MIDI performance, 24/96 audio resolution, and built-in effects.

Route audio in and out of the UA-4FX via analog I/O or take advantage of its S/PDIF optical output. The Edirol UA-4FX features built in COSM tube mic-preamp simulator, multi-band compressor/limiter for mastering, amp simulator and distortion/chorus/delay for guitar, center cancel, reverb, noise suppressor and more.

The first release from the new Digidesign Advanced Instrument Research Group, Xpand! is a free RTAS sound factory workstation synthesis/sample-playback and effects plug-in that provides fast, efficient ways to access and manipulate thousands of high-quality sounds directly from within Pro Tools.

Start with any of the more than 1,000 factory patches and then fine-tune the four component sound parts to craft anything from pristine-sounding acoustic instruments to complex synthesized soundscapes or loop-driven techno tracks. Built for songwriters, film composers, DJs, electronic musicians, music producers, and sound designers, Xpand! is a sonic powerhouse that will become an indispensable component of any Pro Tools environment.

Alesis announced forthcoming audio/MIDI firewire interfaces, the iO|14 and iO|26 (pity for us, what a name!). Both interfaces have:
- DICEII FireWire chips for state of the art technology, dual ports to help cascading connectivity.
- Power thru Firewire or an AC adapter.
- One MIDI in/out interface.
- Stereo 24-bit S/PDIF connector.
- Switchable high impedance input on channels 1 and 2 for recording guitars and basses - All I/O is balanced / 24-bit—with support for 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, and 192 kHz sample rates.
- Five-segment signal/clip LED ladders on each input.
- Two headphone outputs with individual level control.

Dave Smith will release hopefully in April a mono version of the Evolver Keyboard. It's a small one voiced (hence the mono…), 37 keys keyboard, and as all the Evolver family, it can be linked with its little fellows to add voices. The PolyEvolver Keyboard was luxurious and drool-worthy, this one is the version me, myself, and I was longing for!

Expected price $1,199