REMIX
REVIEWS
TECH SECTOR
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When I think back to my first studio—where I was surrounded by an ominous wall of keyboards, sound
modules and flashing lights—I can’t help but pat myself on the back for deciding to streamline my setup.
The days of walking into my studio and feeling like I’m starting up a launch sequence for a UFO are a thing
of the past. Instead of navigating a sea of cables, I have simplified my home-studio setup to comprise only
the bare necessities: my computer, a solid audio interface and Apple Logic Pro 7. So what was missing? A
MIDI controller.
I have been using MIDI controllers in my professional studio and to teach Logic at SAE Institute for quite
some time now. Although I like the controllers that I’ve been using, I keep a close eye on what’s new in the
market, but nothing has really impressed me. So when I heard about E-mu’s new Xboard line of MIDI control-
lers, I was intrigued and curious. But the first question I must ask is what makes these different?
The most obvious difference is that the Xboard line ships with Ableton Live Lite 4, the E-mu Proteus X LE
desktop sound module and the Xboard Control software. This package not only gets you up and running
right away with a great program like Live but also gives you a sound module. For anyone who is a novice at
computer-based music, this package would be ideal to get you started. I must note that the Proteus X LE
software is currently only available for PC users, but, luckily, the control and editing software works on both
Mac and PC.
SOMETHING NEW
First, take a minute to get into some of the physical differences between the Xboards and the other controllers
on the market. The E-mu units have 16 rotary-style knobs and one slider. For those who like knobs to tweak,
this is great news; for all of the others who like sliders, you’re out of luck on this one. The main advantages with
Pros: Elegant, well-designed MIDI control-
lers. Full-size keys with aftertouch. Included
software is a great value.
Cons: Using advanced MIDI functions can
be cumbersome.
Contact: www.emu.com
Mac: Mac OS 10.2 or later; native USB port
PC: Windows 2000 SP4/XP SP1 or later;
native USB port
MADE TO PLAY > The E-mu
Xboard 25 and 49 (pictured)
each feature 16 MIDI-assignable,
rotary-style knobs and one slider.
Each unit also has the ability to
save a max of 16 presets.
CLASSIC FEEL > Both of the
Xboards feature full-size keys
and E-mu’s synth-action keybed,
which includes true aftertouch.
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