WINTER NAMM 2009 (MuseWire) – At a press conference this morning, Open Labs announced their new line of “generation 5” keyboard workstations. The new models include the 37 key MiKo LXD, 61 key NeKo LX5, and deluxe NeKo XXL. All models have Quad Core processors, 1TB storage (4TB with XXL), and 4GB RAM standard. All models sport updated interfaces for mixing and control, as well as MPC-replacement drum controllers with “first ever” extra assignable 17th pad for double-kick play or better high-hat control. The MiKo LXD will ship in late January. All models include a wealth of innovative and custom software applications for live music.

From their announcement: The Gen5 MiKo LXD is the latest addition to the Open Labs® products line. Using a 15” touch-screen, 37 black and white keys, external backlit QWERTY keyboard and running Windows® OS, MiKo LXD is an entirely new class of portable music instrument. This portable media work center was specifically designed for the electronic musician, music producer and today's digital lifestyle.

MiKo LXD's optimized Windows OS natively supports virtually any music application or plug-in developed for a PC. From Pro Toolsâ„¢ to Nuendoâ„¢, Native Instrumentsâ„¢ Kompleteâ„¢ to Spectrasonicsâ„¢ Omnisphereâ„¢, MiKo LXD does it all with ease.

MiKo LXD is equipped with the new Bump MPâ„¢ integrated drum module, designed to allow the user to create beats and trigger any sound, loop or sample in real-time. Enhanced with a special Open Labs version of Guruâ„¢ from FXpansionâ„¢, key features of the Bump MP include: (16 plus 1) fully assignable pads, note repeat, max level, fixed level fader, transport controls, chromatic mode, hold, pad tune, multiple groove preset and eight engines with 24 presets per engine.

MiKo LXD is also equipped with the new Open Labs Mix/Edit controller. The mixer section consists of multiple fully assignable controls including: (8) encoders, (8) lighted buttons, (8) faders, (4 X 4) banks (total of 128 channels) and (1) master volume fader. The edit section consists of multiple, fully assignable controls including: (8) encoders, (1) LCD display (for encoders), (4) buttons and (4) banks (total of 32 control parameters).

MiKo LXD has the most relevant and compelling sounds including: Open Labs The Master's Series Libraryâ„¢ produced by multi-platinum producer Mr. Porter (Denaun Porter), as well as Open Labs' own V5â„¢ sound, sample and loop library.

Open Labs Riffâ„¢ is an entirely new concept in virtual instrument hosting. Written from the ground up by Open Labs, Riff encompasses over six years of live performance and studio production knowledge gathered from some of the world's top artists, engineers, composers, and producers. Its advanced features include: Live Controlsâ„¢, which allows the user to create any number of virtual controls in real-time that can be mapped to various effects and other parameters. Advanced intelligence allows any number of virtual controllers to manipulate any number of other virtual controllers, providing automation for virtual instruments and effects. Rewire allows for this powerful host application to be used within any DAW program.

The MiKo offers superior mobility in a compact package. It's perfect for working in a project studio of performing live – where creating beats, guitar and vocal multi-tracking, and DJ/VJ capabilities are as necessary as playing a keyboard.

The MiKo's assignable Master and DJ controllers elevate live performance beyond normal application. For instance, you can trigger Mp3's in real time, then grab audio waveforms via the touchscreen. To top things off, throw some real-time drum, bass, and vocal lines on top of your mix.

Open Labs instruments are equipped with Firewire, USB, PCI EXPRESS and an Ethernet port, allowing access to the Internet via a broadband connection. Open Labs tech support can log-in to your system, and our online technicians can remotely view and diagnose any issue – while you are still in your own studio.

We've included over 200 world-class virtual instruments and effects with over 20,000 presets with virtually unlimited capability for third party plug-ins and applications.

MiKo LXD Dimensions: 34″(L) X 19″(W) X 7″(H) Weight (base configuration) 38.8 lbs.

[tags]Open Labs Gen5 keyboards, MiKo LXD, NeKo LX5, NeKo XXL[/tags]