Yamaha KX25 25-Key Keyboard MIDI Controller

No longer available at zZounds
zZounds Gear Experts Say...
Includes Cubase AI4, HALion One software and X Factor DVD. Built-in arpeggiator.

The Yamaha KX25 USB Keyboard Studio (hereafter referred to as the “KX Series”) were conceived and designed to support creativity and MIDI music composition without getting in the way. Based on a range of innovative features with advanced software integration and connectivity via a single USB cable, these control keyboards help create an efficient environment that supports traditional music production workflow.

They also feature a range of drum, guitar, bass, keyboard and other musical phrases built in, minimizing the need for complex manual MIDI data programming. Complete compositions can easily be created with just one finger. Of course Yamaha keyboard know-how acquired and refined through years of experience offers feel and response that provide optimum musical control and comfort for smooth production.

The KX series derives its superior feel from a long lineage of Yamaha pianos and keyboards with its own high-quality Yamaha keyboard action. With the addition of four assignable control knobs, dedicated performance controls, and DAW integration controls for soft synths and sequencers functions, the KX Series is a complete USB MIDI Studio that is as comfortable on stage as it is in the studio.

The KX Series enables easy song creation with its built-in arpeggio function. Inspired by the Motif ARP phrases, these arpeggios can be played back by the included HALion One softsynth using sound content from the Yamaha Motif or the VST Mega Pack Bundle featuring exclusive content read more from IK Multimedia, BFD, and Arturia. A dedicated control section on the KX enables complete control of sounds and content.

The KX USB Studio includes Cubase AI, a special Advanced Integration version of Steinberg's legendary music production software. Cubase AI is conveniently controlled via a dedicated control section on the KX, turning it into a complete music production solution.

The KX Series is also bundled with the new X Factor DVD from Yamaha. This DVD contains a massive collection of sounds and VST instruments from industry leaders like IK Multmedia, Sonic Reality, FXpansion, Arturia and Keyfax. In addition to the bundled sounds there are thousands of dollars worth of rebate coupons and added values from Antares, ASK Video, Broadjam, Electronic Musician, Electrix, Garritan, KeytoSound, Obedia, Steinberg and Tunecore.
read less

KX Series Keyboards System Requirements

Windows Vista
Computer: 1 GHz or faster Intel Core/Pentium/Celeron family processor, with USB terminal.

RAM: 1 gigabyte minimum

Windows XP Professional/XP Home Edition
Computer: 750 MHz or faster Intel Core/Pentium/Celeron family processor, with USB terminal

RAM: 128 megabytes minimum

Macintosh
Compatible OS: Mac OS X 10.3.3 or later

Computer: PowerPC G3 or later processor, with USB terminal

RAM: 128 megabytes minimum

Accessories Included
AC Adapter PA-3C, CD-ROM x 2, USB Cable x 1, Owner's manual

For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Phone: 714-522-9011
Web: https://usa.yamaha.com/support

Reviewers gave this product an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars. (2 ratings)
Submitted September 3, 2008 by a customer from yahoo.com

"Cubase AI 4 couldn't be activated. You will be on your own after a month."

Overall: 4 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
It is an great USB/MIDI Keyboard except the plastic housing is kinda thin. The application software Cubase AI 4 That comes with this keyboard can't be activated. The activation webpage has been taken off by Steinberg. I'm wondering why Yamaha is still selling it with the Cubase AI 4. I emailed Steinberg and Yamaha to let them know about the activation problem. It has been several days with no reponse at all. I had the same problem of activating my other Steinberg product Cubase LE 4 several weeks ago. It took me 2 weeks to solve the problem. Finally Steinberg fixed the LE 4 webpage but not the AI 4 activation page. So... finally yesterday I returned this keyboard to the seller. I don't want to wait another 2 weeks to have the activation done. Anyway I will keep my eyes on the activation webpage and I'll re-buy this keyboard after Steinberg or Yamaha have the Cubase AI 4 activation problem fixed.

Sound
n/a, It is a controller without sound generator and depense on what application you use.

Features
It comes with all the features that a MIDI controller should have. So far it is the first MIDI USB controller has the built-in appeggio.

Ease of Use
I don't think anybody will have the problem to operate it if you follow the manual instructions.

Quality
Yamaha always have better quality except the plastic housing is kinda thin.

Value read more
a little bit overpriced

Manufacturer Support
I emailed the Yamaha and Steinberg, it has been almost a week.... NO RESPONSE!!!!

The Wow Factor
I won't re-buy it unless I'm sure the Yamaha or the Steinberg has the Cubase AI 4 activation page fixed.

Musical Background:
professional

Musical Style:
all
read less
18 of 22 people (82%) people found this review helpful. Did you?
Thanks for your opinion!

No longer available at zZounds

In most cases, a product is unavailable because it has been discontinued by the manufacturer