Nektar Impact GXP88 MIDI Controller Keyboard

Nektar’s Impact GXP88 USB MIDI controller keyboard focuses on players and performers. It delivers a new note repeat engine and new key bed with aftertouch. It also offers two foot pedal sockets, allowing for tons of expression and performance control.

The Impact GXP88 features 88 semi-weighted keys, powerful Nektarine plugin patch management and Nektar DAW integration. Users will also have instant access to performance controls, including a real-time repeat engine.

The core of the GXP88 is Nektar’s carefully balanced keyboard action. 88 semi-weighted full-size keys with velocity and aftertouch deliver a firm touch and great playability. The GXP88 gives keyboard players the expression options needed for live performance and studio work. It also features pitch bend and modulation wheels, plus an expression pedal socket. A 1/4″ TRS jack offers connection of two foot switch pedals. The rear panel also includes a 5-pin MIDI out jack and an external power supply socket for powering the unit when not connected via USB.

The streamlined control panel is based on the Nektar Impact GX-series. This enables advanced DAW integration with extended transport control, track selection and volume control, plus options to open/close DAW windows and navigate songs. GXP88’s user interface also has 14 assignable illuminated RGB buttons for direct MIDI program- and bank-selection.

The new Key Repeat engine adds an intuitive real-time tool for creating rhythmic elements. Repeat is directly controllable from GXP’s illuminated RGB buttons. Once the Repeat mode is engaged, the buttons allow for direct selection of Repeat Rates, Accent, Interval, Swing and routing aftertouch or modulation to velocity. When Repeat is active, the second encoder turns into a dedicated tempo control, unless synchronization is set to external MIDI clock.

With Nektarine, the Impact GXP88 gets powerful master keyboard functionality. Up to 16 VST or AU instrument plug-ins can be loaded into Nektarine’s 16 slots for simultaneous use. GXP88 brings instant patch recall to hybrid or software-based keyboard setups with direct patch control from GXP88’s RBG patch buttons. It has the ability to define keyboard zones, layers and splits for all hosted plug-ins. All plug-in settings and combinations can be saved in a single Multi-patch for recall at the touch of a button. Nektarine can run as VST, AU or AAX plug-in in any compatible DAW. It can also be used as a stand-alone application.

Impact GXP88 works with any MIDI software on OSX, Windows and iOS. It can also be used as a standard MIDI controller for external MIDI gear right out of the box.