Nektar Impact GX49, 49 Key Controller Keyboard, Black

Full Description

Take control of your workflow

The Impact GX49 is built to keep essential recording functions close at hand. Eight dedicated buttons give you direct access to transport controls and track navigation when using supported DAWs through Nektar's software integration. This reduces interruptions while recording ideas, editing projects or rehearsing parts.

If your preferred software does not support advanced integration the buttons can also be assigned to MIDI messages, giving you practical control across a wide range of applications. With programmable primary and secondary functions available you can customise the controller to suit your own workflow without adding unnecessary complexity.

Play with confidence

The 49 full-size velocity-sensitive keys provide enough range for two-handed playing while remaining compact enough for desktop production setups. Four selectable velocity curves and three fixed settings allow you to match the keyboard response to different playing styles or virtual instruments.

Dedicated octave buttons extend the playable range by up to three octaves down or four octaves up with coloured LED indicators showing the current position. Transpose buttons shift the keyboard by up to 12 semitones and can also be reassigned for Global MIDI Channel selection or Program changes, giving you extra flexibility during recording or live performance.

Create your own MIDI setup

Beyond DAW integration the Impact GX49 works as a flexible MIDI controller for a wide variety of software and hardware. The assignable control knob, modulation wheel footswitch input and programmable buttons can all transmit MIDI CC messages for custom operation. Buttons can also send Program messages or MIDI Machine Control commands, making the controller compatible with software that supports MMC instead of dedicated hardware integration.

Additional setup options include Bank LSB and MSB transmission, Global MIDI Channel selection and configurable transpose functions, allowing you to build a control layout that fits your own production environment.

Start producing straight away

The Impact GX49 connects through USB and draws very little power, making setup quick with compatible Windows, macOS Linux and supported iPad systems using Apple's optional USB camera connection kit. Its portable design suits musicians producing at home travelling between sessions or working with compact studio spaces.

Bitwig 8-Track is included with more than 86 instruments and effects plus support for third-party plug-ins, providing a practical starting point for recording and composing. You'll also receive a Melodics licence with 40 free lessons and a bonus fundamentals course, helping you build playing confidence while getting more from your new controller.

Features

• 49 full-size velocity-sensitive keys with expressive playing response
• Compact design that fits comfortably into desktop music setups
• Works with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Apple iPad using an optional camera connection kit
• Deep integration with popular DAWs for streamlined music production
• Dedicated transport controls for playback, recording, and track navigation
• Seven programmable buttons with dual functions for up to 14 custom MIDI assignments
• Pitch bend and modulation wheels for enhanced performance control
• Assignable control knob for adjusting MIDI parameters such as volume or custom controls
• Octave shift with LED indicators covering a wide keyboard range
• Transpose controls with customizable functions including MIDI channel and program changes
• Footswitch input for hands-free performance control
• Supports MIDI CC, Program Change, Bank Select, and MMC messages
• Four selectable velocity curves plus fixed velocity options to match different playing styles
• Quick setup options for MIDI channel selection and controller customization
• USB bus-powered operation with no external power supply required
• Compatible with class-compliant USB MIDI devices for simple plug-and-play connectivity
• Includes Bitwig 8-Track music production software
• Comes with over 80 virtual instruments and effects through the included Bitwig package
• Supports third-party plug-ins for expanded creative possibilities
• Includes a Melodics learning bundle with 40 interactive lessons and a fundamentals course
• Designed for music production, live performance, and MIDI control in one keyboard

Specifications

• Keyboard:
  • 49-note full-sized velocity-sensitive keyboard
  • 4 velocity curves + 3 fixed
• Controls:
  • 1 potentiometer
  • Octave up/down buttons with LED indicators
  • Transpose up/down buttons with LED indicators (assignable to send global MIDI channel or program)
  • 7 transport buttons with secondary level for 14 MIDI controls
  • Pitch bend wheel
  • Modulation wheel (MIDI assignable)
  • Potentiometer/control knob (MIDI assignable)
  • Power on/off switch (back)
• Connections:
  • 1/4" TS jack foot switch input (MIDI assignable)
  • USB port on rear panel, USB bus powered
  • Connects to iPad via Apple Camera Connection Kit (not supplied)
• System requirements:
  • USB class compliant: No driver needed
  • USB power requirement: 500 mA
  • Impact GX: Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10 or higher, Mac OS X 10.5 or higher, Apple iOS, Linux (Ubuntu)
  • Nektar DAW integration: Mac OS X 10.7 or higher, Windows Vista, 7 & 8 or higher
• Dimensions and weight:
  • Dimensions: 31 5/8" (L) × 7 3/4" (D) × 2 3/4" (H)
  • Weight: 4.8 lbs