irig Keys 2 USB/MIDI Keyboard Controller

WE HAVE BEEN LONGTIME

admirers of IK Multimedia’s extensive range of Mac and IOS compatible instruments, and interfaces, so were looking forward to this irig Keys sequel with much anticipation. This unit provides more ways to connect and control your gear, improved compatibility with the latest mobile devices, full MIDI input and output, multiple power options, a stocked software bundle and a stylish new look. Apart from that it’s just the same!

Bigger, better

There are two versions of the irig Keys 2; the standard version sports mini keys for daintier digits while the ‘Pro’ version, reviewed here, comes with 37 full-size keys over three octaves. Added into the mix is full MIDI input and output so you can control standalone gear, like UNO Synth and other analogue synthesizers, UNO Drum and other drum machines and more. When connected to your Mac or IOS device, the keyboard acts as a MIDI interface for all of your gear, thus streamlining your rig into one compact unit. And powering the irig Keys 2 wherever you take your rig will never be a problem as it can run it off your connected device, mobile power pack or mains via the supplied cables. These USB-A and Lightning cables connect to a microusb slot in the back of the keyboard, where you will also find the MIDI in/out ports, an external pedal input and another new inclusion, the headphone output. So now you are never stuck just relying on your device’s built-in speakers – you can make yourself heard using your favourite headphones and external speakers as well.

The irig Keys 2 hosts a number of useful controls. To the left of the keys are wheels for modulation and

pitchbend, and running along the top of the keys are controls for volume output, octave up/down buttons, a Set button, ALT button and an assignable data push encoder. You can also program custom settings to four assignable knobs for quick and easy access to your favoured performance parameters.

With a built-in Edit mode, you can transpose the keyboard, customise the sensitivity of the keys, change the MIDI channel and customise the knob assignments and then save your setup as a set that you can recall with a snap of the fingers using the Set button. The irig Keys 2 is designed to be as submissive as possible to your creative needs – and it really is. The package also includes IK Multimedia’s award-winning Mac sound and groove workstation, Sampletank 4SE, which provides over 2,000 sounds, and access to a range of

IOS apps, including Sampletank, igrand Piano, ilectric Piano and Cubassis LE. Of course, it also works with Garageband and Logic Pro X.

The irig Keys 2 is certainly a welcome addition to IK’S ever-expanding range of i-instruments and features plenty of solid improvements over the original model.

Verdict

The irig Keys 2 introduces a raft of essential new features that musicians of all abilities can enjoy. Perfect for learning to play or taking your tracks to all-new sonic heights.

“Introduces a raft of new features that musicians of all abilities can exploit and enjoy”