14 DAY TRIAL // We don't get the chance of checking out some professional-grade music-making instruments too often, but when we do, they're usually pretty terrific, and, in fact, that's exactly the case with the two keyboard workstations you'll read about as follows, namely the StudioBLADE and iKeyDOCK, both released by a company called Music Computing.
The StudioBLADE and iKeyDOCK are complete, portable production stations, which either include a built-in Windows 7 64-bit PC with touch-screen and DAW software suite, or a docking system for any PC/Mac notebook.
The StudioBLADE series are powered by Intel processors and 64-bit Windows 7, and each model ships with a total studio package with DAW (digital audio workstation), virtual instruments, mastering effects, and utilities for the ControlDAW MIDI control surface.
Moreover, they support 2 additional monitors are supported and deliver a powerful combination of hands-on control that begins with the tilt and telescoping 10.1-inch touch panel (more than twice the size of most workstation screens), the high-quality 61-key synth action, or 88-key weighted piano action keyboard, while the ControlDAW interactive knobs, buttons, and sliders, managed by GeoMIDI mapping software, further enhance its level of functionality.
The large 64-button grid control surface, in addition to knobs and sliders, is a powerful tool for musicians using grid-style programs like Ableton Live, while Music Computing's TriggerGrid sample trigger player for drum pads turns the grid surface into a massive 64-pad virtual percussion instrument. Additionally, each StudioBLADE also includes Studio One Pro from Presonus, a highly respected DAW solution complete with virtual instruments and mastering FX, plus 10GB of sounds. The iKeyDOCK keyboard workstations, on the other hand, are suitable for any musician already comfortable with using a Windows OS, and/or Apple Mac notebook. Similar to the StudioBLADE series, minus the touch screen and internal PC, the iKeyDOCK provides a dockable solution for any notebook, users being able to simply plug-in and start playing. Like the StudioBLADE, a 61-key synth-action, or 88-key piano keyboard, audio and MIDI I/O, ControlDAW MIDI control surface, and performance software are included. Since we're talking about professional-grade musical equipment, it should come as no surprise that pricing for these things is pretty high, pricing for the StudioBLADE starting at $2599 (US/SRP) for the 61-key Intel Core 2 configuration with 24/48 audio, 2 combo XLR and 1/4-inch mic inputs with phantom power, 2 balanced outs, and headphone jack (optional upgrades include 24/96 audio and 8 inputs, more RAM, and internal hard drives). The iKeyDOCK is also pretty pricey, starting at around $1499 (US/SRP) with 24/48 audio, 2 combo XLR and 1/4-inch mic inputs with phantom power, 2 balanced outs, and headphone jack (upgrades include 24/96 audio and 8 inputs).
