The hardware keyboard empire, on the sidelines for the
computer music renaissance, is striking back with new hybrid hardware. And
Linux is spreading through digital music equipment — fast. Witness the
new Linux-powered Korg behemoth: the second-generation OASYS keyboard announced today, as rumors predicted.
- Linux-powered computer, running entirely-proprietary Korg software on top (expansion appears to be proprietary, too, via ROM)
- 10.4" touchscreen display
- 16-track HD audio recording plus MIDI sequencing
- Second-generation KARMA synthesis engine
- MIDI control surface
- On-board effects processing
- CD Burner
- I hear there's a keyboard in there somewhere, too
The Korg looks significantly less flexible and more expensive than the Windows-powered Neko keyboards from Open Labs.
But, on the other hand, there's little comparison: this beast will run
like a traditional hardware keyboard, whereas the Neko is at its heart
a PC in a keyboard body. Which you prefer is a matter of taste if you
can afford either, which I can't.
Tip for Korg: since you use words like "Micro" to describe the inexpensive, compact keyboards, why not "GargantuaOasys?" No?
Availability: When I win the lottery
Price: If you have to ask . . .
Updated:
Pricing is somewhere between US$6700-$8000 for the 76-key model
(weirdly, a huge range depending on your vendor), to up to US$8500 for
the 88-key model. If you can afford this, contact me and let me know so
I can come rob you.
Also, check out Keyboard Magazine's Making of the OASYS.
Unfortunately, scant details on its custom Linux OS. (Okay, actually NO
details — but other interesting history behind the keyboard.)