Nektar Impact GXP49 and GXP61: new USB keyboard controllers for performers
Nektar has added the Impact GXP49 and GXP61 USB keyboard controllers to the Impact GXP series. Aimed at producers and performers, the new controllers offer seamless DAW integration and intuitive control of software instruments via the included Nektarine software.
Nektar Impact GXP49 and GXP61 keyboard controllers
The new Impact GXP49 and GXP61 keyboard controllers join the Impact GXP88 in Nektar’s Impact GXP range. The Impact GXP controllers pair Nektar’s signature DAW integration with a focus on playability and intuitive performance control.
Impact GXP49 · Source: Nektar
Both new keyboards come with semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keybeds with channel aftertouch. In addition to pitch bend and modulation wheels, you can connect up to three pedals. Plug an optional Y adapter into the sustain pedal jack, and you can hook up a second foot switch for additional control. An expression pedal can be connected to a separate jack. In addition to a USB port, there’s a traditional MIDI output, so the keyboards can be used without a computer if needed. Power can be supplied via USB or an optional power adapter.
An optional adapter lets you connect two foot switches to the sustain pedal jack · Source: Nektar
A set of eight buttons to the left of the keyboard provides DAW transport functions and lets you control things like locator points, cycle and metronome and select tracks and patches without reaching for the mouse. The row of colorful, RGB-illuminated buttons serves several purposes. You can use these buttons to access the integrated note repeat feature, or recall patches and performances in the Nektarine software.
Impact GXP61 · Source: Nektar
DAW integration and Nektarine software
Speaking of software: While they don’t offer the faders and pads of the more production-focused Impact LX+ series, the Nektar Impact GXP49 and GXP61 still offer direct integration into Bitwig, Cubase, Digital Performer, Garageband, Logic, Nuendo, Reaper, Reason, Sonar and Studio One. This means that you’re spared the tedious process of manually mapping the keyboard’s controllers to your software.
When used with the included Nektarine software, the Impact GXP keyboard controllers become performance workstations. Nektarine offers 16 slots for software instruments, which can be controlled via the keyboard’s buttons. You can define keyboard zones, splits and layers, add effects and save complete setups. This makes the Impact GXP series a versatile instrument for live performances. In addition to Nektarine, the keyboards come with Steinberg Cubase LE and the Retrologue virtual instrument.
Price and availability
The Nektar Impact GXP49 and GXP61 keyboard controllers will be available later this month. You can order the Impact GXP49 from Thomann.de* for €189. The Impact GXP61 is €229 at Thomann.de*.
More information
Video about Nektar Impact GXP49 and GXP61
You are currently viewing a placeholder content from YouTube. To access the actual content, click the button below. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.
This might also interest you
