Well... I am most excited today; I bought an AKAI LPD8. Oh yes.
Now I know what you're thinking: you're wondering whether this choice of 8-pad ultra-portable USB-powered MIDI controller with flexible Q-link faders and backlit multi-channel functionality could be signalling a diversion from my previous predilection towards the 88-key, fully weighted all-round superpower of the Nord Stage 2.
And who could blame you? Clearly, the Nord is an instrument of spectacular quality and unmatched style, combining some of the most delicious samples and organ-synths ever modelled by a machine. I'm just not quite sure I'm ready for it yet (plus it costs a small fortune) - especially when I'm still loving the feel of the Yamaha CP300, even after 7 years of lugging it round like a coffin.
No, what I need is something which combines flexibility with strength. And I think the AKAI LPD8 is part of the solution. I reckon I can do everything I need using the Roland XP-80, a neat bit of software and the AKAI LPD8, controlling the flow of MIDI data between the two. If I take out the normal XLR audio from the back of the Yamaha, I can even keep my piano sound as fresh as it's always been - just working together with some incredible pads, delays and effects.
What's more, it only needs a MIDI keyboard to run. My portable kit might be about to slim down to a laptop, some cables, a lightweight MIDI keyboard, the LPD8 and a couple of pedals. Kerboom! Goodbye awkward wheeling of the 32kg stage piano which might blow up a PA system; hello to a quick set up... and a pack-down so simple that it doesn't actually leave you wishing you'd chosen the ukulele instead, while your tired fingers push a back-breaking lump of plastic and metal into the boot of your car and the rest of the band are already tucked up in their cosy beds.
Funny how things cheer you up, isn't it?
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