MusicRadar

A top-down look at the Panorama P4: click the photo for more images.

1 of 3 » View in gallery

NAMM 2012: We've been following the progress of Nektar's Panorama controller since it was announced back in October, so we're pleased to be able to tell you that this Reason-specific device will be getting its first showing at this week's NAMM show.

Click here for a gallery of Nektar Panorama P4 images

Accordingly, there's now an official press release with full specs, which you'll find below. This confirms that the controller will actually be known as the Panorama P4 (perhaps because it's got four octaves and that there may be larger and/or smaller versions on the way), and that it's expected to have a street price of around $500 when it's released in March.

Nektar Technology Panorama P4 press release

At NAMM Nektar Technology, Inc. the California based new brand for Advanced Control * Enhanced Workflow Controllers unveil Panorama P4, the first dedicated Keyboard Controller for the highly acclaimed Propellerhead Reason Music Creation Software.

Advanced Control, Advanced Workflow
Panorama P4 offers unrivalled tactile control and user transparency. From the outset Panorama P4 was conceived as an instrument intended to augment a computer music system through direct and tight integration.

The successful established workstation keyboard concepts allow for complete "on device" selecting and editing of sound with direct visual feedback, and Panorama P4 does not settle for less. It combines a comprehensive set of features, ergonomic design and complete transparency in one stunning instrument. And: there is no additional software to learn or get in the way of the creative flow.

Ergonomic Design
Great care and attention has gone in to the design of Panorama P4 with the aim to not only be functional but also inspire, set a tone and make the musician feel comfortable. Its unique design is both, comprehensive and sensible with seven distinct areas making Panorama P4 easy to operate in the studio and live. The front panel is angled, raising important controls so they are easy to see and reach. This also provides a great viewing angle for the centered hi-res display.

Expressive Keyboard
The 49-note weighted synth keybed is custom designed specifically for Panorama P4 to provide both a keyboard that plays great but also blends perfectly with the overall design. It offers a choice of 5 velocity curves, each optimized dynamically but with different response emphasis. Weather heavy handed or cultivating a light touch there is always a curve that works. Monophonic aftertouch adds another dimension and the zone function enables programming 4 zones that can be switched on and off during performance.

Around the web: