Intuitive Instruments has updated its Exquis MPE (Midi Polyphonic Expression) controller with major updates with the release of v2.2.0 firmware, alongside software scripts to merge its workflow with Ableton Live, Bitwig Studio and Cockos Reaper DAWs.
As an intuitive MPE controller, Exquis enables ‘seamless and natural’ interaction with all DAW software, Midi synthesisers and modular systems. Comprising a hexagonal matrix of 61 backlit soft silicon keys arranged as consecutive notes (semitones) horizontally, and harmonious notes (thirds) vertically that provide independent gestural control over four different dimensions – velocity (strike force), horizontal tilt (X axis – pitch bend), vertical tilt (Y axis – CC#74) and pressure (Z axis – channel pressure or polyphonic aftertouch).
Alongside a namesake companion app (macOS and Windows) with support for VST, VST3, and AUv3 audio plug-in formats, its is intended to provide musicians of all levels with an alternative means of creating melodies and progressions, whether working with third-party software over the USB (Type-C) connection, third-party software or hardware synthesizers through Midi In and Out (minijack) connections, and modular synthesizers via CV (control voltage) with dedicated 0-5V (minijack) connections for Gate(V-Trigger), Pitch(V/Oct), and Mod(pressure or velocity).
Firmware 2.2.0 brings several major updates to Exquis, starting with its MPE Key Freeze feature that allows users to ‘capture’ the expressive state of any key or chord by holding keys and clicking the fourth rotary/push encoder to lock their respective X/Y/Z axis positions and sustaining complex gestures indefinitely, freeing hands to perform other parts, tweak effects or control the arpeggiator. It is now possible to build evolving textures, harmonies and – when combined with the built-in arpeggiator – arpeggiated sequences, while preserving the expressive nuances of the original touch.
Midi Score Display lets users send Midi notes to Exquis to light up the keys like a playable score. Sustain and expression pedals can now be connected directly to Exquis via its Midi In connection (using an appropriate adapter) with the Midi CC (Continuous Controller) messages that are received being forwarded to both the Midi In, Out and USB.
More minor updates include improved sensitivity curves and better handling of off-centre key presses; new default layouts; and the internal tempo value now being displayed directly on the keyboard, as is the currently installed firmware version (via a button combination).
Timed to coincide with the firmware 2.2.0 release, the new Python-based Ableton Live Remote Script sees Exquis integrated into Live’s native controller family, delivering launchpad-style session control and an instrument-grade expressive touch – thanks to its MPE twist – that makes playing melodies and chords feel natural.
Exquis’ favourites system allows users to tweak any parameter on any device and any track using four rotary/push encoders and ten action buttons; and also to display a clip’s Midi notes directly on Exquis’ keys, regardless of which track is armed.
‘It is our goal to make music-making seamless,’ says Intuitive Instruments CEO, Bruno Verbrugghe. ‘By merging our workflow with Ableton Live, Bigwig Studio and Reaper, Exquis enables users to access countless functions without touching a mouse, keeping them focused on the music. With the new firmware and scripts, it becomes a fully expressive, intuitive electronic instrument, like a guitar with pedals and a looper.’
More: https://dualo.com