REVIEWED
CME Z-Key Master MIDI Controller CME Z-Key Master MIDI Words: D.P. Wilson
This full size MIDI controller keyboard features a more robust construction alongside a much improved features set including semi- weighted keys…
More years ago than I care to remember I was working in a music shop when the first MIDI controller keyboards started arriving. Back then it was often an uphill struggle trying to convince people that these so called ‘dumb’ keyboards were a good idea, simply because, for not much extra outlay you could buy almost the same keyboard that had a built in sounds or synthesis capabilities. However, things now appear to have gone full circle. Like so many contemporary musicians I prefer to generate all my synth & keyboard sounds straight from my PC and I know I am far from alone.
CME…feel me.
The new CME Z-Key range of MIDI controllers is the latest in the line of keyboards from the Chinese manufacturer which has built up quite
CME Z-Key
SRP £520.84
All prices include VAT CONT
ACT
Sonic 8 Distribution T:
W:
0330 2020 160
www.sonic8.com
36 3pickup
a decent reputation in a fairly short space of time, particularly in the world of MIDI controllers where a combination of affordability and feature set has ensured its popularity. Some users, including me have occasionally criticized the actual keyboard action of the earlier MIDI keyboards and their undeniably ‘synthy’ feel. By this I mean the keyboard action itself is very light and springy, and lacking a little bit in the feel department. CME’s new Z-Key sets to improve
this whole key situation with some new thinking in the keyboard design, which we will look at in a moment. The Z-Key range is available in 4 sizes: 49, 61, 76 and 88 keys, meaning that everyone should be able to find their perfect fit. The semi-weighted keyboard features full velocity sensitivity and aftertouch with adjustable velocity curves. Unlike some of CME’s older controllers the Z-Key cuts down on superfluous controls, instead we find Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels, a decent size Data Dial and a pair of octave buttons which are majorly useful especially for the smaller keyboards. The keyboard itself is Class Compliant with Windows XP/Vista/7 and Mac OSX meaning that there are no drivers to install, just connect up the USB and you computer will recognise it and be ready to go. The keyboard is also powered via the USB bus so there is no annoying wall wart to
worry about. The rear panel is simplicity itself featuring only the aforementioned USB socket along with a MIDI out and a socket for a sustain pedal.
Action stations The build quality seems up there with the best of them and the brushed metal and shiny white plastic design seems rugged whilst displaying a classy understated charm, and a definite departure from the ‘Starship Enterprise’ flight deck feel of earlier CME keyboards. I did notice that CME’s website state’s that the keys themselves are not integrated, meaning that each key may be individually adjusted for touch and response although it is not clear what level of surgery if any is required to do this. When you first sit down to play the Z-Keys the first thing you notice is that the action itself is nice and quiet with no obvious tinny, springy noises emanating from the keyboard. The black keys are also slightly wider compared to older CME units. In use I found the keys themselves feel more piano-like to touch with the front of the key extending downwards into the keyboard rather than the hollow synth type, and even the plastic used seems of a noticeably higher quality than most controller keyboards. CME themselves, claim that the Z-Keys features, “the most comfortable piano-style key action” which being
honest I can’t fully agree with. Quite simply, unless I’ve misunderstood the hyperbole, this keyboard does not feel like any piano I’ve ever played, it’s simply too light. However, in use there is certainly something of the piano about the delicacy and expression you can get from the keys, which lends this keyboard a classy feel. Whether or not this is a problem is entirely down to how you play.I personally struggle on properly weighted piano keyboards and would choose the semi weighted lighter action of the Z-Keys any day. PM
SHOULD I BUY ONE?
For me the playing of this keyboard represents the perfect compromise: Not too heavy, not too light, great feel and a slightly shallower key travel to most other semi weighted ‘synth key’ controllers which make it excellent for organ and harpsichord playing too. So to sum up, whilst on one level the Z-Keys may not quite deliver the ultimate piano keyboard experience I’m rather glad it doesn’t. It has an action that will suit the vast majority of users out there and the build quality suggests it will withstand the test of time.
Keyboard Controller
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