ControlBLADE™ (Gen3)
ControlBLADE: Power, Portability and Value...starting at: $1,899.
ControlBLADE for Windows 7
Contrary to popular belief, all modern day keyboard workstations are simply computers with a processor running an operating system and software connected to hardware controllers, piano keys, and an audio interface. This is just how they work today. However, there is a dramatic difference between keyboard workstations and the ControlBLADE, which is a keyboard production station. Keyboard workstations use low-powered processors, run proprietary Linux operating systems and are closed hardware and software-wise, thereby severely limiting their capabilities. ControlBLADE keyboard production stations on the other hand, are equipped with high-power computer cores (up to 10 times more powerful), run open operating systems such as Windows and Mac OS X, have vastly more expandability (up to 4 times more RAM memory and 136 times more disk storage), higher quality audio (24-bit / 96kHz vs 24-bit /48kHz), sequence, record and play more midi and audio tracks (up to 45 times more), and allow for the use of third party software, sounds and hardware controllers. Because of this, keyboard production stations are far superior than keyboard workstations and can be used to compose, record, mix, and master complete songs ready for radio play, which keyboard workstations cannot. In fact, many people today view keyboard workstations as merely hardware dongles for sound libraries, which is similar to a single VST that a keyboard production station can run. As demonstrated in real-world use, several of the keyboard workstations even include a software application which turns the keyboard workstation into a VST to be used inside of a DAW, something the ControlBLADE runs natively. However in the past some would argue keyboard workstations are better integrated hardware control and software-wise, but that is no longer the case. The ControlBLADE comes standard with a 22” multi-touch touchscreen that allows you to directly control the software interface, eliminating any need for integration at all. This is revolutionary and is not just applicable to a set workflow like most keyboard workstations, but any software you may wish to use. In addition, there are now a number of dedicated hardware controllers, which are designed with the same philosophy of tight integration between hardware and software that you can simply plug into the ControlBLADE and use. As shown by the reference chart, it is clear that although all modern day keyboard workstations are just computers attached to a keyboard, controller, and audio interface running software, the ControlBLADE…priced competitively, dominates its competition.
Our Design Philosophy: All Music Computing keyboard production stations were designed with the primary goal of creating a musical instrument with the power of a computer and not taking a computer and forcing it to become a musical instrument. Because of this, our products look and feels like traditional musical keyboards, which is vital to the creative processes. Cobbled together personal computer systems with random controllers and audio interfaces are rarely elegant or provide the stability required by today’s professional musicians. Constructed from the very best materials and components and backed by superior support, we believe our products are some of the very best in the world today.
Powerful, Full-featured and Affordable: ControlBLADEs are powered by high-performance computer cores utilizing Intel® latest Core i-series® third-generation (Ivy Bridge) processors that are perfect for today's demanding musicians and the virtual instruments and software application they use. Options include i5 and i7 quad core versions. The Windows 7 (64-bit) operating system is preconfigured for music production and can run virtually any software application or plug-in. Capable of running over 500 plug-ins at once, sequencing thousands of tracks simultaneously, and storing millions of sound presets, the ControlBLADE packs a serious punch for the money.
Play like a PRO: New with the Gen2 models is the option for the ProTouch™ piano keybed. The new ProTouch keybed brings higher levels of playability and better feel to the ControlBLADE line via high quality semi-weighted keys with after-touch. The optional upgrade is priced at: $199.
The Goldilocks Principle: At Music Computing, we believe in providing our customers with what they need, when they need it. This means you can start with the base configuration for the ControlBLADE with an i5 quad-core processor, one (1) memory module and one (1) hard drive, and add more as you need it. Simply install an i5 or even an i7 processor when you need the extra power...no motherboard change is needed. That's the magic about the new ControlBLADE, it's the right size tool for your needs the day you purchase it, and it will stay the perfect tool for you for many years to come.
Built-in Wi-Fi: ControlBLADEs all come with built-in Wi-Fi standard. This mean you can be online anywhere there is a hot spot. Send and retrieve files, log into remote servers, download new software and sounds directly into your ControlBLADE. You now have to freedom to create virtually anywhere you like.
See More Clearly: ControlBLADEs can be outfitted with an optional telescoping and tiling 10" or 22" touchscreen that adjusts to your desired viewing angle, making it extremely ergonomic to use. Response is very quick and with pin point accuracy so you can literally control anything you see on the screen instantly. The need to pre-map physical controllers is no longer needed. Simply touch the software control on the screen and you're in command. Perfect for working on the fly with your favorite software or something you just installed. For detailed editing or use with software not designed for touchscreens, which may have tiny controls too small for the human finger to command, we recommend using the optional wireless computer keyboard and mouse. The 10" touchscreen is single touch while the 22" is single touch for Mac OS X but 2-touch for Windows 7. ControlBLADEs also provide two (2) additional external video ports so the user can run up to three (3) monitors simultaneously in cloned or extended desktop mode when using the 10" touchscreen but only one (1) additional external video monitor for a total of two (2) when using the 22" touchscreen. (Please note the 10" touchscreen comes mounted to the chassis standard, but the 22" utilizes a table top stand. However, the 22" can be custom mounted to the chassis also for an additional cost of $100)
Advanced Computing: Each ControlBLADE is equipped with the latest computing technologies including: USB2 and USB3/ HDMI, eSATA, DisplayPort, Wi-Fi, and much more. It's cutting edge computing for your musical needs.
Hear the Difference: The standard configuration for ControlBLADEs include a 24bit-48 kHz audio I/O with two (2) combo XLR & ¼" mic/instrument 48V phantom power inputs, two (2) balanced outputs and a stereo headphone jack. The optional upgrade gives you a 24bit-96 kHz audio I/O with two (2) combo XLR & ¼" mic/instrument 48V phantom power inputs, six (6) ¼" balanced inputs (line-level), two balanced outputs and a stereo headphone jack. ControlBLADEs also offer Firewire ports in the event outboard audio I/O or other Firewire devices are needed.
Thousands of Sounds Included...Add Millions More: SonicSource™ by Music Computing is a virtual synth (VSTi) equipped with three sample-playing layers, two multi-effect racks, and a library of multi-sampled instruments. The sample playing layers allow blending of waveforms and instruments into a wall of sound or alternatively, the use of the three multi-timbral layers as a workstation. These layers can then be further processed through SonicSource's powerful multi-effect racks. Over 8GB of modern and vintage sounds such as those produced by legendary electric keyboards including the Rhodes electric pianos, Hammond and Vox organs, Hohner clavinets, and Moog synthesizers are present as well as effects like tape based delay lines, rotating speaker cabinets, guitar distortion pedals, wah wah, phasing, and flanging are included. Additional sound libraries will be made available from Music Computing in the near future.
All Your Sounds Together: Since the ControlBLADE (Win7) is capable of running virtually any Windows 7 music software or plug-in, you can install any number of third-party auto-sampling software to "clone" sounds from other keyboard workstations, synthesizers, sound modules or even virtual instruments. Imagine having all your favorite sounds at your finger tips plus more. That's the power of the ControlBLADE.
Complete DAW: Included with each ControlBLADE is Studio One Pro from Presonus. This powerful digital audio workstation (DAW) software enables you to compose, record, edit and master your music with ease to produce professional quality songs. Included are both the 32-bit and 64-bit versions and an additional 10GB of sounds plus the following list of software! • Native Effects™ 32-bit effects library with 20 dynamics processors, reverbs, modulations effects, amp simulators, etc. • Ampire- Amplifier-Modeling • Analog Delay tape-delay emulation • Auto Filter - Envelope Filter • Beat Delay - Tempo-Synchronized Delay • Binaural Pan - Stereo Panning Effect • Channel Strip - Dynamics Processing and Equalizer • Chorus- Mono/Stereo Chorus • Compressor- Mono/Stereo Variable Compressor • Expander- mono/stereo expander • Flanger- Stereo/Mono Flanger • Gate- noise gate, now with MIDI trigger • Level Meter - sizable peak/rms meter • Limiter- Mono/Stereo Limiter • Mixtool- Phase and MS Utility • MixVerb- Mono/Stereo Reverb • Phase Meter phase-correlation analysis • Phaser- mono/stereo phaser • ProEQ - 7-band parametric EQ • Red Light Distortion - distortion processor • Room Reverb - stereo/mono room reverb • Scope- full featured oscilloscope with sidechain input • Spectrum Meter - frequency analyzer • Tricomp- 3-band compressor • Tuner- instrument tuner • X-Trem- mono/stereo tremolo • Four virtual instruments • Impact™ Sample Trigger Drum Instrument with 32 drum kits by Ueberschall™ o Now with multi-velocity layer capability • Presence™Sample Player Virtual Instrument with 200 sampled instruments by Digital SoundFactory™ o Now with multi-FX section and up to 96 voices o NewSynth Session Soundset adds over 150 new instruments • Sample One™ Sampler Virtual Instrument o New design with high-quality filter and switchable filter types, and now up to 96voices • Mojito™ Analog-Modeling Subtractive Synthesizer • Native Instruments™ Kore™ Player with 150 instruments • Native Instruments™ Guitar Rig LE • Toontrack™ EZ Drummer Lite • Nearly 1,400 drum loops (1.4 GB!) by Bandmate™ Loops • Free jambalaya recipe!
Ground-Breaking Price: In the past, keyboard production stations or keyboard workstations outfitted with external computers were relatively expensive, leaving the average person to only dream about owning one. Well-equipped ControlBLADEs start at only $1,899, making them an affordable tool virtually any musician can afford.
BladeCAST™: You can now stream your ControlBLADE's desktop in real-time to any computer monitor or LCD TV using the optional BladeCAST USB transmitter and receiver. Play full 1080p HD videos and 5.1 surround sound audio right from the ControlBLADE to any entertainment system. BladeCAST is extremely responsive...video and music will play instantly. However, it is not possible to play VSTs through this process, as the latency is just a bit too long. However, this is a still great way to share your videos and songs with others!
Built in Austin, Texas: Music Computing has created a partnership with a manufacturing company in Austin, Texas and has full access to virtually all equipment needed to produce its products on site and on demand. Our shopbots, pick and place machines, brake presses, and design computers are all standing at attention, ready to build the Music Computing instrument of your dreams, allowing us to custom configure and ship products out usually within a few weeks after the order has been placed.
Got Questions or Need Support? Music Computing is operated by avid musicians and technology geeks who are passionate about music and their work. This is a standing requirement for being part of the company, which means there will always be answers and help when you need it.
Ready to Order? Our online store is available 24/7 for you to place your order. You can configure the products exactly the way you want them and get it shipped out usually within a few weeks after you place the order. You can also call and talk to any of our friendly sales associates or contact a company referral member near you.
ControlBLADE for Mac OS X
Contrary to popular belief, all modern day keyboard workstations are simply computers with a processor running an operating system and software connected to hardware controllers, piano keys, and an audio interface. This is just how they work today. However, there is a dramatic difference between keyboard workstations and the ControlBLADE, which is a keyboard production station. Keyboard workstations use low-powered processors, run proprietary Linux operating systems and are closed hardware and software-wise, thereby severely limiting their capabilities. ControlBLADE keyboard production stations on the other hand, are equipped with high-power computer cores (up to 10 times more powerful), run open operating systems such as Windows and Mac OS X, have vastly more expandability (up to 4 times more RAM memory and 136 times more disk storage), higher quality audio (24-bit / 96kHz vs 24-bit /48kHz), sequence, record and play more midi and audio tracks (up to 45 times more), and allow for the use of third party software, sounds and hardware controllers. Because of this, keyboard production stations are far superior than keyboard workstations and can be used to compose, record, mix, and master complete songs ready for radio play, which keyboard workstations cannot. In fact, many people today view keyboard workstations as merely hardware dongles for sound libraries, which is similar to a single VST that a keyboard production station can run. As demonstrated in real-world use, several of the keyboard workstations even include a software application which turns the keyboard workstation into a VST to be used inside of a DAW, something the ControlBLADE runs natively. However in the past some would argue keyboard workstations are better integrated hardware control and software-wise, but that is no longer the case. The ControlBLADE comes standard with a 22” multi-touch touchscreen that allows you to directly control the software interface, eliminating any need for integration at all. This is revolutionary and is not just applicable to a set workflow like most keyboard workstations, but any software you may wish to use. In addition, there are now a number of dedicated hardware controllers, which are designed with the same philosophy of tight integration between hardware and software that you can simply plug into the ControlBLADE and use. As shown by the reference chart, it is clear that although all modern day keyboard workstations are just computers attached to a keyboard, controller, and audio interface running software, the ControlBLADE…priced competitively, dominates its competition.
Our Design Philosophy: All Music Computing keyboard production stations were designed with the primary goal of creating a musical instrument with the power of a computer and not taking a computer and forcing it to become a musical instrument. Because of this, our products look and feels like traditional musical keyboards, which is vital to the creative processes. Cobbled together personal computer systems with random controllers and audio interfaces are rarely elegant or provide the stability required by today’s professional musicians. Constructed from the very best materials and components and backed by superior support, we believe our products are some of the very best in the world today.
Powerful, Full-featured, and now Mac OS® X compatible: ControlBLADEs are powered by Apple® Mac® Mini computers utilizing Intel® Core i-series® latest-generation processors that are perfect for today's demanding musicians and the virtual instruments and software application they use. Options include i5 and i7 dual and quad core versions. The Mac OS X (Lion) operating system is perfect for music production and can run virtually any software application or plug-in. Capable of running over 500 plug-ins at once, sequencing thousands of tracks simultaneously, and storing millions of sound presets, the ControlBLADE packs a serious punch for the money.
The Goldilocks Principle: At Music Computing, we believe in providing our customers with what they need, when they need it. This means you can start with the base configuration for the ControlBLADE with an i5 dual-core processor, one (1) memory module and one (1) hard drive, and add more as you need it. Likewise you can even upgrade with newer Mac Mini models as they are released. That's the magic about the new ControlBLADE, it's the right size tool for your needs the day you purchase it, and it will stay the perfect tool for you for many years to come.
Built-in Wi-Fi, BlueTooth and Thunderbolt: ControlBLADEs all come with built-in Wi-Fi standard. This mean you can be online anywhere there is a hot spot. Send and retrieve files, log into remote servers, download new software and sounds directly into your ControlBLADE. You now have to freedom to create virtually anywhere you like. Bluetooth connection allow you to use wireless devices such as the Apple Magic Trackpad and Thunderbolt means you'll be ready for what's next is new computing technologies.
See More Clearly: ControlBLADEs can be outfitted with an optional telescoping and tiling 10" or 22" touchscreen that adjusts to your desired viewing angle, making it extremely ergonomic to use. Response is very quick and with pin point accuracy so you can literally control anything you see on the screen instantly. The need to pre-map physical controllers is no longer needed. Simply touch the software control on the screen and you're in command. Perfect for working on the fly with your favorite software or something you just installed. For detailed editing or use with software not designed for touchscreens, which may have tiny controls too small for the human finger to command, we recommend using the optional wireless computer keyboard and mouse. The 10" touchscreen is single touch while the 22" is single touch for Mac OS X but 2-touch for Windows 7. ControlBLADEs also provide two (2) additional external video ports so the user can run up to three (3) monitors simultaneously in cloned or extended desktop mode when using the 10" touchscreen but only one (1) additional external video monitor for a total of two (2) when using the 22" touchscreen. (Please note the 10" touchscreen comes mounted to the chassis standard, but the 22" utilizes a table top stand. However, the 22" can be custom mounted to the chassis also for an additional cost of $100)
Advanced Computing: Each ControlBLADE is equipped with the latest computing technologies including: USB, HDMI, Wi-Fi, Thunderbolt, and much more. It's cutting edge computing for your musical needs.
Hear the Difference: The standard configuration for ControlBLADEs include a 24bit-48 kHz audio I/O with two (2) combo XLR & ¼" mic/instrument 48V phantom power inputs, two (2) balanced outputs and a stereo headphone jack. The optional upgrade gives you a 24bit-96 kHz audio I/O with two (2) combo XLR & ¼" mic/instrument 48V phantom power inputs, six (6) ¼" balanced inputs (line-level), two balanced outputs and a stereo headphone jack. ControlBLADEs also offer Firewire ports in the event outboard audio I/O or other Firewire devices are needed.
Thousands of Sounds Included...Add Millions More: SonicSource™ by Music Computing is a virtual synth (VSTi) equipped with three sample-playing layers, two multi-effect racks, and a library of multi-sampled instruments. The sample playing layers allow blending of waveforms and instruments into a wall of sound or alternatively, the use of the three multi-timbral layers as a workstation. These layers can then be further processed through SonicSource's powerful multi-effect racks. Over 8GB of modern and vintage sounds such as those produced by legendary electric keyboards including the Rhodes electric pianos, Hammond and Vox organs, Hohner clavinets, and Moog synthesizers are present as well as effects like tape based delay lines, rotating speaker cabinets, guitar distortion pedals, wah wah, phasing, and flanging are included. Additional sound libraries will be made available from Music Computing in the near future.
All Your Sounds Together: Since the ControlBLADE (Mac OS X) is capable of running virtually any Mac OS X music software or plug-in, you can install any number of third-party auto-sampling software to "clone" sounds from other keyboard workstations, synthesizers, sound modules or even virtual instruments. Imagine having all your favorite sounds at your finger tips plus more. That's the power of the ControlBLADE.
Dual Product Support: Included with each ControlBLADE is personal support from Music Computing including unlimited remote sessions for the first 30 days where we can connect to your ControlBLADE via the Internet to help setup and train you on the use of the keyboard as well as lifetime email and trouble ticket support. In addtion, the computer core qualifies for direct Apple support and you can even purchase Apple Care extended warranty if you so choose.
Ground-Breaking Price: In the past, keyboard production stations or keyboard workstations outfitted with external computers were relatively expensive, leaving the average person to only dream about owning one. Well-equipped ControlBLADEs start at only $2,499, making them an affordable tool virtually any musician can afford.
Built in Austin, Texas: Music Computing has created a partnership with a manufacturing company in Austin, Texas and has full access to virtually all equipment needed to produce its products on site and on demand. Our shopbots, pick and place machines, brake presses, and design computers are all standing at attention, ready to build the Music Computing instrument of your dreams, allowing us to custom configure and ship products out usually within a few weeks after the order has been placed.
Got Questions or Need Support? Music Computing is operated by avid musicians and technology geeks who are passionate about music and their work. This is a standing requirement for being part of the company, which means there will always be answers and help when you need it.
Ready to Order? Our online store is available 24/7 for you to place your order. You can configure the products exactly the way you want them and get it shipped out usually within a few weeks after you place the order. You can also call and talk to any of our friendly sales associates or contact a company referral member near you. Music Computing, Inc. is an authorized Apple Mac Developer.
ControlBLADE SpecsControlBLADE for Windows 7
TestimonialsThe Straight Word From Real People: At Music Computing, our main focus is on the users of our products. It's our belief everyday people who use our products are the best spokespersons for our company. Here are just some of the things they are saying...
"I am a proud owner of the StudioBLADE 61-key and I can tell you that you won't be disappointed!"
"I am a producer based out of Philadelphia. I have been using products made by Victor for over 3 years now. The reliability is excellent. I've had the StudioBLADE for 2 weeks now and it's pretty nice. Ed is very knowledgeable so should you encounter any problems Ed can definitely point you in the right direction." -- Lee (StudioBLADE Gen1)
"I got mine and dude let me tell you.............. This thing is awesome. Victor Wong is the man for making this product. He also knows how to take care of his customers. I am working on a new record and all I am using is the StudioBLADE." -- Gerry (StudioBLADE Gen1)
"I have been using Intel Core2duo and Quad processors and nothing compares to speed and stability that I have experienced with the Xeon processors. All my software installs have gone smoothly without a hitch (including Native Instrument and EastWest stuff). I'm loving the power and dependability that these processors and extra ram have given me. Thanks so much to Music Computing for designing such an incredible workstation and beast." -- John (StudioBLADE Gen2)
"Victor I sincerely want to express my appreciation for what you have done to my board. I LOVE IT, IT LOOKS LIKE QUALITY. Once again you've made me proud to be an owner of your products. Again THANK YOU!!!!!" -- Jason (StudioBLADE Gen2/Type R)
"Unbelievable piece of art and equipment made right here in the good ole USA! -- Richard (StudioBLADE Gen2)
"This product is absolutely amazing and thank you very much for existing. I can't believe this thing exists for the price it does, but the fact that i'm sending a message with her is conformation. -- Jon (ControlBLADE) |
