NAMM 2020: Roland Introduces MIDI 2.0-Ready A-88MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller

Las Vegas, NV, January 6, 2020 — Roland (LVCC Central Hall, Exhibit #10719), one of the co-founders of the original MIDI specification, introduces the A-88MKII, a powerful new 88-note MIDI keyboard controller for studio and stage. The latest in a long line of professional MIDI controllers from Roland, the A-88MKII is supremely playable, with modern creative tools for today’s musicians and producers. Slim and ergonomically designed, the A-88MKII comes equipped with an acclaimed, weighted-action keyboard, plus cutting-edge features like USB-C connectivity, RGB-lit controls, and more. It’s also MIDI 2.0 ready, making it the first Roland instrument to support the new MIDI standard. 

When it comes to MIDI controllers, playability often seems like an afterthought. The 

A-88MKII breaks that mold with rigid, wooden construction and the 88-note Ivory Feel PHA-4 keyboard found in acclaimed Roland instruments. With high-resolution sensing and lightning-fast response, the PHA-4 accurately translates the subtlest playing nuances, and users can personalize the sensitivity for their own unique touch.

Equipped with a host of real-time performance features, the A-88MKII is equally at home in the studio and on stage. With three user-definable zones, players can layer and split the keyboard with different sounds or instruments. Advanced arpeggiator and sophisticated split and layer

functions are also on board, providing direct access to performance tools normally only found in standalone synths and workstations.  

Roland’s famous pitch/mod lever and an array of RGB-lit knobs offer expressive, hands-on control of sounds. Eight assignable pads are available to control DAW functions, trigger sounds and clips, and more, and pad bank setups can be stored for quick recall. There’s also a dedicated sustain pedal input, plus two assignable control inputs that support expression pedals or footswitches.

The A-88MKII is ready for the future with modern USB and MIDI protocols. USB-C offers single-cable connectivity and eliminates the need for an external power adaptor. And the A-88MKII is ready for the high-resolution control and extended capabilities of MIDI 2.0.

For a hands-on demo of Roland products like the A-88MKII, visit the Roland exhibit at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Nevada, at booth #10719 from January 7-10, 2020.

Availability & Pricing 

The Roland A-88MKII will be available in March 2020 for $999.99 U.S. Street.