Keystage

MIDI 2.0 Property Exchange for unparalleled integration and control

The MIDI Association explains on its official website, MIDI 2.0 means two-way MIDI conversations. Until now, MIDI 1.0 messages went in one direction: from a transmitter to a receiver. MIDI 2.0 is bi-directional and changes MIDI from a monologue to a dialogue.

Thanks to new MIDI-CI (Capability Inquiry) messages, MIDI 2.0 devices can talk to each other, and auto-configure themselves to work together.

Keystage utilizes MIDI-CI Property Exchange messages to communicate with other devices. It retrieves information such as which Control Change (CC) parameters should be linked and the appropriate names to display for each parameter. This means that Keystage can talk with a wide range of MIDI 2.0 compatible devices and exchange information in both directions. This exciting feature extends not only to software plugins, such as the ones included with Keystage, but also to hardware devices!

Since MIDI 2.0 Property Exchange is compatible with MIDI DIN cables, Keystage opens up opportunities for seamless integration with existing devices, paving the way for new and exciting possibilities in the horizon.

Furthermore, backwards compatibility is not an issue with Keystage. It can still communicate using MIDI 1.0 with devices that do not support MIDI 2.0.

Express your musical self

Keystage empowers musicians to reach new heights of musical expression.

A newly developed semi-weighted keybed with excellent touch and response provides an immersive playing experience. Keystage goes beyond feel alone, with support for both channel and polyphonic Aftertouch, and MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression). This versatility lets you manipulate a vast array of sources, transmitting nuanced subtleties that add an extra layer of richness to your music and live performances.

Keystage's arpeggiator is extraordinarily powerful and offers features that go well beyond what any other MIDI Keyboard out there has to offer. The vast selection of patterns is complemented with unparalleled customisation options including aftertouch-trigged ratchets, randomization, gating, and more.

In addition, Keystage's chord mode benefits from a suite of ready-to-use inspiring 32 chord sets. These can be used out-of-the-box, or fully customized and saved into any of the extra 32 user set slots. Because each set can have one chord assigned to each chromatic note of an octave, you can be sure you won't run out of chords! Chords can even be replayed in different ways, including a strumming mode for realistic guitar-like playing.

Keystage allows you to express your musical self effortlessly thanks to a seamless and streamlined workflow. Gone are the days of dealing with cumbersome and frustrating controllers. Keystage ensures a clean and efficient musical experience.

Seamless DAW Control & Official Ableton Live Integration

Keystage offers official integration with Ableton Live, one of the most popular DAWs in the industry, putting both transport and device control at your fingertips. As the go-to choice for live performance musicians, Live’s innovative dual Session/Arrangement view, smooth clip triggering, looping, and powerful production tools cater to countless musical styles.

Keystage offers deep integration with Ableton Live, providing seamless control over Live's transport functions and device control.

Device control allows Keystage to detect the device currently active in Live, and then automatically maps to the first 8 parameters! When switching devices, Keystage dynamically reconfigures itself in real time for an uninterrupted and fluid experience which keeps you in the zone.

Both Ableton Live and Keystage are MPE-compatible, enabling enhanced flexibility and creative possibilities in your music. Live's powerful Drift synthesizer (available with version 11.3) leverages MPE to offer even more expressive capabilities.

Additionally, Keystage comes bundled with Ableton Live 11 Lite as part of its software suite. Ableton Live 11 Lite is a beginner-friendly version of Live, providing many of the core features to help you kickstart your journey in music creation and performance.

Seamless DAW control
Keystage offers immediate, seamless plug-and-play compatibility with most popular DAWs, giving hands-on control on your most important playback / transport controls.
Currently supported DAWs:

Ableton Live (Official Integration)
Korg Gadget (Official Integration)
Logic (*)
FL Studio (*)
Cubase (*)
Studio One (*)
Digital Performer
Pro Tools
Cakewalk
GarageBand (*)

(*) Additional script necessary

Take your performance on the road

Keystage is not just an incredibly powerful MIDI controller packed with features; it is the ultimate master keyboard you've always desired to control your live rig.

Equipped with direct stereo output, simply connect Keystage to your computer, tablet or smarphone and directly link to the sound system without the need for additional gear that takes up valuable space.

The semi-weighted AT keybed not only provides exceptional playability but Keystage is also surprisingly lightweight, weighing in at just 4.2 kg/9.3lb for the 49 key version and 5.0 kg/11.02lbs for the 61 key version. Its slim and portable design allows for easy transportation, while its robust build ensures durability during long gigs and travel.

Keystage also offers flexible customization options. You can modify settings directly through the menu or conveniently adjust them using the Korg Kontrol software on your computer.

Keystage includes a dedicated expansion plate that can be attached at two different angles, making it ideal for tablets and other devices. On the 61-key model, you have the flexibility to adjust the placement of the plates in two different positions, providing a stable and solid surface to place your laptop.

With Keystage, you have everything you need to make the stage your own!

Full size control and integrated audio interface for your portable devices
Thanks to its plug-and-play-ready USB input, Keystage not only transmits MIDI data to your tablet or smartphone but also receives audio from your favorite music apps via its internal audio interface and sends it to your speakers through its direct stereo output. Additionally, Keystage boasts a dedicated expansion plate that ensures a perfect fit and optimal visibility, making it the ultimate all-in-one solution for modern music production on the go.