With the release of GarageBand, many users are now investigating the purchase of a MIDI keyboard to use with Apple's latest iLife program. One of the clear leaders in the list of options is the Edirol PCR-30, a 32-key, full featured controller that weighs in at just under $200. In this in-depth look at the PCR-30, we'll review some of the cooler features of the keyboard, analyze the best prices available on the Web, and help you make the decision of whether this keyboard should be added to your Arsenal.- 8 rotary nobs that can be used to control functions like tempo, pan, effects, etc.
- 8 faders that can be used to control volume, effects, etc.
- 9 buttons that can assigned to functions like start/stop, mute, changes, etc.
- Pitch and modulation controls for bending and modulating sounds in realtime.
The rear of the PCR-30 is fairly simple. As shown below, there are several inputs/outputs. These include, from left to right: (1) Power, (2) USB, (3) Midi In/Out, and (4) sustain and expression pedal inputs. Note that the built in USB interface means you will not need a USB/MIDI adapter for this keyboard to work with your Mac. If the keyboard, as some earlier keyboards do, featured only MIDI in/out, you would need such an adapter.
Software. The PCR-30 comes with drivers specifically for OS X, and updated for 10.3 Panther. In addition, Edirol has a special program for editing the function of the buttons, sliders, and knobs on the keyboard that runs in both OS 9 and OS X, as well as Windows.
Templates. You may wonder how best to keep track of all the buttons and sliders on the PCR-30. The answer is that Edirol provides a PDF Template that can printed and used to write your functions on. In addition, they offer pre-made templates for popular audio applications include Reason and ProTools among many others. No word yet on whether GarageBand will get its own template, but I wouldn't doubt it.
Size and Weight The PCR-30 is a small, but substantially built piece of equipment. It's size is just under two feet wide and about 9 inches deep. This makes for a comfortable fit on a medium sized desk, and can easily be tucked away when not in use. The PCR-30 weighs about 5 and a half pounds.
Pricing. The PCR-30 offers quite a punch for its price. The Apple Store carries the PCR-30 for $199 including free shipping. However, online music retail specialists offer the PCR-30 for less. For example, ZZounds.com offers the PCR-30 for $170 with free shipping.
Useful Links
- Edirol information page on the PCR-30
- PCR Advantages page at Edirol.
- SonicState.com PCR-30 Review.
