Another option for portable control is just around the corner -- Korg has introduced the microKEY, a compact USB-powered keyboard and MIDI controller.

According to Korg, the new microKEY was developed for computer-based musicians on a budget seeking portability and power without sacrificing keyboard feel and function. You can use the controller as a compact and customized MIDI command center, since it features a built-in two-port hub to connect other controllers, computer peripherals, or Korg nanoSERIES controllers. The new unit also includes free editing software and a number of extra software bundle licenses and discount coupons.

The microKEY features 37 Velocity-sensing mini keys that use the same Natural Touch keybed found on the Korg microKORG XL and microSTATION. The proportions of the black keys and white "waterfall" keys have been adjusted for optimal playability, and the key touch makes it easy to play chords, glissandos and rapid-fire phrases. To top it off, the microKEY's keybed conveys dynamics accurately as well.

The Octave Shift buttons extend the range of the microKEY by four octaves in either direction, up or down. Likewise, the Key Transpose function allows you to play in any key instantly, and when used together, these two features provide access to the entire MIDI note range. For adding expression, the microKEY also sports both a Pitch Bend wheel and a Modulation wheel.

Going further, the controller can serve as a USB hub. Its two USB ports (Type A) allow you to expand your control setup by adding on a Korg nanoPAD or nanoKONTROL, or any other USB device. The microKEY is compatible with Mac OS X 10.4 or later, along with Windows XP SP3 (32-bit) / Vista SP2 (32-bit, 64-bit) / 7 (32-bit, 64-bit).

To customize the microKEY for your production or performance system, you can download free Korg KONTROL Editor software from the Korg Web site. With the editor software, you can set the keyboard to respond to one of eight Velocity curves, or set a fixed Velocity value. In addition, the range of the Modulation wheel can be customized by setting minimum and maximum control change values.

The microKEY weighs a little over 2 pounds and measures 22.24" (W) x 5.47" (D) x 2.13" (H). The unit comes with the following software licenses and discount coupons:

• A license to download the M1 Le, a limited-edition of Korg’s M1 software synthesizer; or the choice to upgrade to the M1 software synthesizer, Wavestation 1.6 software synthesizer, or MDE-X 1.2 multi-effect plugin bundles
• A license to download Toontrack’s software drum sound module EZdrummer Lite
• A discount coupon for Ableton Live, Live Suite, and Live LE
• A license for Applied Acoustics Systems Lounge Lizard Session

Korg expects to release the microKEY keyboard and MIDI controller in November, 2010. Pricing will be announced at a later time. For more information, please visit korg.com.