CME

What is Xkey ?

Xkey is a MIDI keyboard controller equipped with 25 velocity-sensitive keys. It is a class compliant USB MIDI device, meaning it does not require a driver to work with computers (Mac, Win, Linux).

Why should I choose Xkey from all the other 25 key MIDI keyboards?

Because Xkey is equipped with 25 standard size keys but is thin, and consumes very little power when connected to your tablet, making it the perfect mobile keyboard solution. Also because it has unique features such as the possibility to send polyphonic after touch.
There is currently no other mobile keyboard on the market able to send polyphonic after touch, making Xkey unique .

What are the six buttons on the left ?   

Xkey is a 2 octave MIDI keyboard. It features 2 buttons (Oct+, Oct-) to change the octave up and down, from -3 to +3. This allows you to ‘virtually’ expand the number of keys.
Modulation is a touch sensitive button that allows you to emulate a modulation wheel. The harder you press, the more the modulation increases.
Pitch + and - are also sensitive buttons that pitch your notes up or down. The harder you press the more you pitch bend. When the buttons are released pitch returns to its default value.
Sustain emulates a Sustain pedal. Press this button before you play a note to sustain the sound.

Can I play with different velocities ?

Yes, each key is sensitive to pressure, meaning you can play loud or soft, depending on the pressure you apply on the key.
The sensors below each key are professional sensors, so you can reach all 128 levels of velocity as defined by the MIDI specification.

Can I connect Xkey to my android or Apple tablet ?

Yes, Xkey is compatible with iPad, iPhone and Android tablets.
When connecting Xkey to the iPad, you will have to use the Lightning or 30 pin USB camera kit (sold separately on the Apple store).
   • For iPad (1st generation)/ iPad 2 (2nd generation)/ iPad (3rd generation)
     http://store.apple.com/us/product/MC531ZM/A/apple-ipad-camera-connection-kit?fnode=3a
   • For iPad (4th generation)/ iPad mini/ iPad mini with Retina display/ iPad Air:
     http://store.apple.com/us/product/MD821ZM/A/lightning-to-usb-camera-adapter?fnode=3a
When connecting Xkey to a Microsoft or Android tablet, you will need to use the USB connector.
Xkey consumes very little power from your tablet. You do not need any extra USB powered hub to make it work.

Is there an App that enables Xkey setup?

Yes, an iPad application called Xkey Plus is available on the App store, it is free and allows you to configure Xkey parameters in depth. It is also used to check for new firmware.
You can find it here:
https://itunes.apple.com/app/id698087460

Mac and Windows:
Xkey Plus for Mac* (10.5+)
Xkey Plus for PC* (Xp and +)

What type of connectivity is included on the Xkey?

Xkey features a Micro USB connector and a cable is provided. If you break or lose the cable please contact CME as you need a special thin Micro USB cable to connect the Xkey.

What is the purpose of the LED on the rear panel ?

The led on the rear panel lights when the Xkey is properly connected and attached to your computer or tablet via USB.
If the led is blinking, it means Xkey is powered but not properly attached to your computer.  Please contact CME support if this occurs .

Can I connect multiple Xkey's to my computer or tablet ?

Yes, if your computer is equipped with multiple USB ports you can connect multiple Xkeys. If your tablet is equipped with a single USB port, you can use any USB hub to allow connection to multiple Xkeys.

Can I change the MIDI messages sent by Xkey ?

Yes, from firmware version 1.2 you can assign any MIDI message to Xkey’s buttons and keys. You have to use the Xkey Plus iPad application or software to change Xkey configuration.
Once configured, all parameters are saved into non-volatile memory. That means you no longer need Xkey Plus to keep the configuration.

My software does not respond to the after touch sent by Xkey ?

The MIDI standard specifies two kind of aftertouch messages, Channel pressure and Polyphonic key pressure.
Channel pressure is a single aftertouch message that is used as a global pressure value. As it covers the whole keyboard, all keys are affected by global pressure. Most MIDI keyboard controllers on the market are able to send this channel pressure message.
Polyphonic key pressure is similar to channel pressure, but it is dedicated to one key, as opposed to the entire keyboard. This means each key can generate its own pressure value, resulting in many more possibilities to control your sounds. This is a unique feature only available before on a few (often expensive) keyboards, but is now available on the Xkey.
Xkey sends this polyphonic key pressure by default. You can use our Xkey Plus application/software to select different after touch messages.

Can I change the velocity curves ?

Yes, you can use up to four user-defined velocity curves, plus an on/off or linear curve. You have to use the Xkey Plus iPad application/software to edit velocity curves.
Once configured, all parameters are saved into non-volatile memory, so you no longer require Xkey Plus to keep the configuration.