Roland

Roland Introduces MIDI 2.0-Ready A-88MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller

Roland (LVCC Central Hall, Exhibit #10719), one of the co-founders of the original MIDI specification, introduces the A-88MKII, a new 88-note MIDI keyboard controller for studio and stage. The latest in a line of professional MIDI controllers from Roland, the A-88MKII has modern creative tools for today’s musicians and producers. Slim and ergonomically designed, the A-88MKII comes equipped with a weighted-action keyboard and features like USB-C connectivity, RGB-lit controls, and more. It’s also MIDI 2.0 ready, making it the first Roland instrument to support the new MIDI standard.

The A-88MKII has a rigid, wooden construction and an 88-note Ivory Feel PHA-4 keyboard. With high-resolution sensing, the PHA-4 translates the subtlest playing nuances, and users can personalize the sensitivity for their own unique touch.

Equipped with a host of real-time performance features, the A-88MKII is equally at home in the studio and on stage. With three user-definable zones, players can layer and split the keyboard with different sounds or instruments. Advanced arpeggiator and sophisticated split and layer functions are also on board, providing direct access to performance tools normally only found in standalone synths and workstations.

Roland’s pitch/mod lever and an array of RGB-lit knobs offer hands-on control of sounds. Eight assignable pads are available to control DAW functions, trigger sounds and clips, and more, and pad bank setups can be stored for quick recall. There’s also a dedicated sustain pedal input, plus two assignable control inputs that support expression pedals or footswitches.

The A-88MKII is ready for the future with modern USB and MIDI protocols. USB-C offers single-cable connectivity and eliminates the need for an external power adaptor. And the A-88MKII is ready for the high-resolution control and extended capabilities of MIDI 2.0.

For a hands-on demo of Roland products like the A-88MKII, visit the Roland exhibit at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, NV at booth #10719 from Jan. 7-10.

Availability & Pricing
The Roland A-88MKII will be available in March 2020 for $999.99 US Street.