Edirol Launches PCR USB MIDI Keyboards

PCR-50 (Click for a close-up)

PCR-30 (Click for a close-up)

Edirol Corporation announced their new line of USB MIDI Keyboard Controllers -- the PCR-50 (49 key) & PCR-30 (32 key). These are Edirol's most powerful controller keyboards to date featuring programmable realtime control functions for users of software Sequencers, Synthesizers, and hardware Sound Modules.

Key features include:

• 34 controls of various types (knobs, sliders, buttons, wheel) of which 25 are fully assignable
• 8 rotary knobs, 8 sliders, 9 buttons, 2 pedal inputs
• Velocity sensitivity
• Multi MIDI functions through note keys
• MIDI Interface (in/out), USB Interface
• USB Bus powered
• An all-new Pitch Bend/Modulation lever offering even greater sensitivity and musical control
• Memory presets for Cubase, Digital Performer, Pro Tools LE, Sonar, and much more
• General MIDI 2 and blank cut-out template for laying over controls

Identical in basic functionality, the PCR-30 and PCR-50 offer features designed for complete realtime control of the most advanced audio software and hardware available today. The top panel boasts 8 knobs, 8 sliders, and 9 buttons -- all assignable; sustain and expression pedal connections are also provided. Controller assignments can be saved in any one of 15 onboard memory locations for fast recall.

The PCR-30 and 50's memory locations come pre-loaded with settings for leading MIDI/Audio Sequencers such as Cubase, Digital Performer, Pro Tools LE, and Sonar- more templates will be available for download from the Edirol website soon. Control of hardware Sound Modules is also supported.

Unlike other USB MIDI controllers, the PCR-series assignable controls can be assigned to all MIDI messages including Control Change, SysEx, RPN, NRPN, etc.

In addition to offering convenient single-cable connection to PC and Macintosh computers, the PCR-30 and 50 can be powered by USB, and will also serve as a 1-in, 1-out MIDI Interface.

And for cutting-edge Multimedia artists, both the PCR-30 and 50 offer V-Link, a new feature from Edirol and Roland that provides for realtime performance control over digital video. V-Link allows the user to trigger clips, perform video effects and transitions in real-time when connected with the Edirol DV-7PR (sold separately).

Suggested Retail Prices are $295 (PCR-50), and $225 (PCR-30); both keyboards will be available in December 2002.