TerraTec Producer has unveiled a unique keyboard. Based on an unprecedented design, the AREA 61 is an expandable keyboard system for studio and gigging musicians.

It is a genuine musical instrument with freely selectable, integrated sound generators (optionally available DSP soundboards) that may also serve as a central control unit for all software sequencers and virtual instruments in computer-based music studios.

Offering professional-grade features, the AREA 61 is apparently the first keyboard to come with an integrated USB 2.0 High Speed Audio and MIDI Interface. Appointments such as an advanced low-latency architecture, 24-bit/96-kHz resolution and discrete power amps should ensure high fidelity and assertive sound in the studio and on stage. Another hallmark feature is the Ploytek FMC! audio algorithm.

The instrument’s 61 velocity-sensitive, half-weighted keys feature two impressive aftertouch zones. Two pressure sensors offer various touch-control options for the left and right hands. For example, the keyboardist may play a left-hand chord and control the volume level by varying aftertouch pressure, while playing a right-hand lead line using a different sound and aftertouch to control a filter.

A dual-colour LED chain with 15 segments surrounds each of the 10 programmable rotary encoders. Every encoder comprises not only the control dial, but also a push-button that triggers various events, for instance, to switch to another MIDI controller or to control a certain MIDI function.

Two rubberised control wheels and five buttons serving menu control and navigation purposes are apparently easy to reprogram using the included control software so players can conveniently remote-control a sequencer. A discrete amplifier powers the separately adjustable headphones, which should deliver plenty of punch for auditioning sounds.

The two MIDI ports are on board for internal communication. They also accept external sound generators and MIDI input devices. THRU configures as a separate USB MIDI output to provide a USB MIDI I/O interface alongside the standard keyboard MIDI output. A standard TerraTec Producer practice, ASIO drivers are part of the package to defeat latency.

In addition, keyboardists can equip the AREA 61 with optional sound modules for use as a classic synthesizer - that is, without a computer. To this end, TerraTec Producer now offers KOMPLEXER, a synthesizer that runs as a VSTi plug-in and as a standalone DSP application. Comprising a real synthesizer based on the Waldorf µQ, it provides more than 400 parameters for shaping the perfect sound.

And if this complexity seems a bit overwhelming at first, keyboardists can go to the Easy Edit page, choose from the many presets and easily manipulate their selections using eight Macro controls. Best of all, entire banks port from KOMPLEXER VST to AREA 61’s on-board KOMPLEXER DSP.

Released last year, the WaveXtable module is a 128-voice, GM- and XG-compatible Waveboard offering more than 500 top-drawer sounds. Further modules are in the works. You can employ other vendor-compatible Wavetable cards, making the AREA 61 a remarkably extendible instrument.

The integrated sound generator’s analogue output signal goes to the output mixer and may be auditioned with the 2.0 audio system’s playback signal as well as over the input monitor. Recording the output signal via USB 2.0 is also an option. The AREA 61 Controller Keyboard will be available in stores in Q 3/2006, retailing for £400.

[Best Audio Equipment Pricing UK]
[Best Audio Equipment Pricing US]

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BIOS, 31.03.06