NAMM Preview: Edirol PCR-M MIDI Controllers

PCR-M30 (Click for a close-up)

PCR-M50 (Click for a close-up)

PCR-M80 (Click for a close-up)

Edirol Corporation introduced the PCR-M line of MIDI keyboard controllers at Winter NAMM, building on the PCR-series. The PCR-M series includes the PCR-M80 (61 keys), PCR-M50 (49 keys) and PCR-M30 (32 keys).

The new PCR-M series keyboards offer a number of refinements to the PCR line. Building on 30 years of Roland synthesizer key development, the PCR-M's include a new key mechanism that offers a more comfortable and playable feel, according to the company. The keys on the new PCR-M's are more rounded for quick glissandi and the key mechanism produces even less mechanical noise than its very quiet predecessor. Edirol has also added rubber-coated knobs, 12 velocity curves and the ability to freely assign the keys to send through USB, MIDI Out, or both at the same time. The PCR-M's allow the user to decide exactly which controls affect computer software, which controls affect outboard gear, and which affect both.

These new keyboards offer all of the benefits of the previous PCR line, including: 27 controls assignable to any MIDI message, hold and expression pedal connections, sturdy build-quality, and compatibility with the Win/Mac PCR Software Editor.

All of the online downloadable control maps for all the major software applications and synths are backward-compatible with the PCR-M series. Onboard FPT (Fast Processing Technology) is also included which provides stable, high speed, low latency, low jitter MIDI transmission regardless of the software application being used.

Suggested retail prices are $375 (PCR-M80), $285 (PCR-M50) and $225 (PCR-M30).