Nektar Impact LX88 MK3 MIDI Controller

The NKS-compatible Impact LX mk3 MIDI controllers have arrived, and our studio pros agree: Nektar nailed it. Across the lineup — LX25, LX49, LX61, and LX88 — these controllers combine performance, interface, and production upgrades with next-level DAW integration to supercharge your workflow. Studio-grade rotary encoders, transport controls, and velocity-sensitive pads deliver precision and control, whether you’re tracking beats or dialing in automation. Each model features a newly redesigned keybed with an optimized velocity curve, giving you expressive, nuanced playability. The LX25 through LX61 sport Nektar’s responsive Clean-action synth-style keys, while the flagship LX88 mk3 ups the ante with semi-weighted keys for added depth and feel. Whether you’re working in the studio or performing onstage, the Impact LX mk3 series stands to elevate your sound and streamline your creative process.

Unmatched DAW integration

Across the enhancements introduced with the Nektar Impact LX mk3 controllers, the detailed transport controls that complement dedicated DAW-management tools are a game changer. Firstly, the DAW Looper is a suite of hands-free controls that allows you to create, edit, and manage loops within your linear timeline-based DAW directly from your controller, in addition to launching clips. With the LED-backed buttons and large global encoder, timeline scrolling, loop recording, and adjusting points are a workflow-boosting breeze. What’s more, this same encoder lets you switch between three tailored modes of Nektar’s DAW-integration capabilities: channel volume, instrument cutoff, and control of any selected parameter within your DAW or active plug-in, including your favorite NKS-compatible tools. From here, studio-grade precision is yours to wield, streamlined by the real-time display of parameter values.

Multimode performance possibilities

Each of the eight full-resolution encoders is paired with a dynamic display that automatically adapts to your selected plug-ins, offering clear, real-time control feedback. The encoders operate on a dual-page layout — one for Sends, the other for Pans — giving you intuitive access to key mix functions. All eight LED-backlit performance pads come pre-mapped for popular drum instruments to streamline your workflow, while remaining fully customizable to suit your setup. With deep velocity sensitivity, the pads respond to every nuance of your finger drumming, sample triggering, one-shots, and more, delivering expressive and detailed performance. And beyond the global key-shifting versatility of the Transpose function, every Impact LX mk3 controller includes three dedicated, advanced performance modes:

Software included to kick-start your sound

Thanks to the comprehensive and customizable controls of the Nektar Impact LX mk3-series MIDI controllers, virtually any DAW and plug-in is primed for powerful performances, on the stage or in the studio. Its wide-ranging adaptability is complemented by the seamless functionality of its USB-C port, facilitating USB-MIDI connections and doubling as your source of bus power. Plus, these controllers feature a 1/4-inch TS input for augmenting your expressive palette with your footswitch of choice. But that’s not all, as Nektar’s partnered with some of the brightest software minds in the business to step up your setup, regardless of where you are along your musical journey. Included with your controller is a suite of virtual firepower, covering dozens of synth, drum, and multi-instrumental sounds, effortlessly integrating with DAWs that include Ableton, Logic, FL Studio, Cubase, and more!

Features

• Multimode series of MIDI controllers designed for streamlined DAW integration and detailed hands-on control of your favorite software tools
• Reengineered keybed overhauls sensitivity and response profiles for unparalleled playing and satisfying tactility
• “Clean-action” synth-style keys support expressive velocity-sensitive performances across 25-, 49-, and 61-key controllers
• 88-key LX88 mk3 controller features robust semi-weighted keys to blend classic feel with modern malleability
• Onboard transport and DAW controls give you diverse, adaptable interfacing to suit your setup, with extensive customization options
• Dedicated DAW Looper lets you edit, create, and manage loops straight from your controller
• Global encoder manages 3 DAW-focused modes that automatically adjust displays, matching your selected Channel Volume, Instrument Cutoff, or Selected DAW/Plug-in Parameter mode
• NKS compatibility ensures your favorite NKS-standard tools are effortlessly integrated into your Impact LX mk3-fueled ecosystem
• 8 high-resolution rotary encoders give you customizable and detailed control for instant hands-on adjustments and tweaks
• 8 velocity-sensitive performance pads capture every nuance and flourish of your playing, pre-mapped for common instrumental configurations yet endlessly adjustable
• 8 vertical faders provide additional, customizable interfacing (not included with the Impact LX25 mk3)
• 3 performance modes include Scale, Chord, and Inversion Modes for supercharged studio and stage playing, instantly accessed
• USB-C port consolidates MIDI connectivity and bus power into a singular, streamlined connection
• Bundled software includes dozens of DAW-ready sounds and instruments to kick off your next project right out of the box

Specifications

• Type:Keyboard Controller
• Number of Keys:88
• Type of Keys:Semi-weighted
• Pads:8 x LED Pads (velocity-sensitive)
• Other Controllers:Pitchbend Wheel, Modulation Wheel
• Encoders/Pots:8 x Full-res Encoders
• Faders:8 x 30mm Faders
• Dedicated Transport Control:Yes
• Pedal Inputs:1 x 1/4" TS (footswitch)
• MIDI I/O:Out
• USB:1 x USB-C
• Software:Bitwig 8-Track, Native Instruments Komlete Select, MOK Miniraze Snyth Plugin
• Format:NKS Compatible
• Color:Black
• Power Supply:USB Powered
• Height:3"
• Width:50.4"
• Depth:10.75"
• Weight:17 lbs
• Manufacturer Part Number:LX88 mk3