Nektar LX25mk3

Nektar Impact LX25mk3 is a USB controller keyboard with 25 synth-action keys and DAW integration that goes well beyond sending MIDI messages. Nektar reworked the keybed and the velocity curve, and added control features that are not usually found at this price.

DAW Looper: loops without reaching for the mouse

The biggest change in mk3 is a set of controls for handling loops straight from the keyboard. Scrolling the timeline, setting loop points and loop recording all happen on the large global encoder and backlit buttons, without taking your hands off the instrument. It works both in linear DAWs and with clip launching.

Plug-in control on a desk with no room to spare

Eight full-resolution encoders work across two pages — Sends and Pans — and the display shows parameter values in real time. The global encoder switches three integration modes: channel volume, instrument cutoff and any selected plug-in parameter, including NKS-compatible ones. On top of that come three performance modes: Scale keeps your playing in key, Chord plays chords from a single key, Hold expands legato and sustain options.

KEY FEATURES

• 25 synth-action keys, redesigned keybed with a refined velocity curve
• DAW integration: Ableton Live Suite, Bitwig, Cubase, FL Studio, Logic Pro, Reaper, Studio One and more
• DAW Looper for handling loops from the keyboard
• 8 full-resolution encoders with values shown on the display
• 8 backlit velocity-sensitive pads, pre-mapped for drum instruments
• Performance modes: Scale, Chord and Hold
• NKS compatibility
• USB-C: MIDI and bus power over one cable
• 1/4-inch footswitch input

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Keyboard: 25 keys, synth-action, velocity sensitive
• Pads: 8, velocity sensitive, backlit
• Encoders: 8, full resolution
• Faders: none (most compact model in the range)
• Display: LED, parameter value readout
• Connectors: USB-C, 1/4-inch TS footswitch input
• Power: USB bus powered
• Compatibility: NKS