1. Introduction
The Nektar Impact GXP49 is a USB MIDI controller keyboard designed for musicians and producers. It features 49 premium quality semi-weighted, full-size velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch, providing an expressive playing experience. This controller integrates seamlessly with popular Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) and offers comprehensive MIDI functionality, making it compatible with a wide range of music software applications.
Key features include pitch bend and modulation wheels, octave and transpose buttons, sustain and expression pedal sockets, and a 5-pin MIDI Out port for versatile connectivity. The GXP49 is compatible with both Mac and PC operating systems.
Figure 1.1: Front view of the Nektar Impact GXP49 USB MIDI Controller Keyboard, showcasing its 49 keys, control panel, and Nektar branding.
2. What's in the Box
Upon unboxing your Nektar Impact GXP49, please verify that all the following components are included:
- Impact GXP49 Keyboard
- USB Cable
- User Manual (this document)
- Steinberg Cubase LE DAW License
- Steinberg Retrologue VST-Synth PlugIn License
3. Setup Guide
3.1 System Requirements
- Operating System: macOS 10.7 or higher, Windows 7, 8 or higher
- Connectivity: Available USB port
- Software: Compatible Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software (e.g., Cubase LE, Retrologue, Nektarine, Bitwig, Cakewalk, DP, FL Studio, GarageBand, Logic, Nuendo, Reaper, Reason, Studio One)
3.2 Physical Connection
- Connect USB Cable: Connect one end of the supplied USB cable to the USB port on the back of the GXP49 keyboard.
- Connect to Computer: Connect the other end of the USB cable to an available USB port on your computer. The GXP49 is USB class compliant and typically does not require additional drivers for basic functionality.
- Power On: If using an external power supply (not included, DC 9V), connect it to the DC 9V input and then switch the On/Off button to the 'On' position. Otherwise, the unit will power on via USB.
- Optional MIDI Out: For connecting to external MIDI hardware, use a standard 5-pin MIDI cable from the MIDI Out port on the GXP49 to the MIDI In port of your external device.
- Optional Pedals: Connect a sustain pedal to the "Foot Switch" input and an expression pedal to the "Expression Pedal" input for enhanced control.
Figure 3.1: Rear view of the Nektar Impact GXP49 showing the Expression Pedal, Foot Switch, MIDI Out, USB, DC 9V, and On/Off connections, along with USB, macOS, and Windows compatibility.
3.3 Software Installation and Setup
- DAW Integration: For Nektar DAW integration, visit the Nektar website and download the specific integration files for your DAW. Follow the provided instructions for installation. Supported DAWs include Bitwig, Cubase, Cakewalk, DP, FL Studio, GarageBand, Logic, Nuendo, Reaper, Reason, and Studio One.
- Nektarine Plugin Control: Install the Nektarine software to manage and control your VST/AU/AAX plugins directly from the GXP49.
- Included Software: Use the provided license keys to download and activate Steinberg Cubase LE DAW and Steinberg Retrologue 2 VSTi.
Figure 3.2: Screenshot illustrating Nektar DAW integration with various supported DAWs listed.
Figure 3.3: Visual representation of the included Steinberg Cubase LE DAW and Retrologue 2 VST Virtual Analog Synthesizer software.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Basic Playback
- The 49 semi-weighted keys are velocity-sensitive, meaning the volume and character of the sound will change based on how hard you press the keys.
- Aftertouch allows for additional modulation by applying pressure to a key after it has been pressed down.
- Use the Pitch Bend wheel to smoothly raise or lower the pitch of notes.
- Use the Modulation wheel to control various parameters, typically vibrato or filter cutoff, depending on the instrument or software setting.
4.2 Transport Controls and DAW Integration
The GXP49 features dedicated transport controls for your DAW, allowing you to manage playback, recording, and navigation directly from the keyboard.
- Play/Stop: Initiates or stops playback in your DAW.
- Record: Toggles recording on/off.
- Fast Forward/Rewind: Navigates through your project timeline.
- Track Navigation: Use the dedicated buttons to select previous/next tracks.
- Patch Navigation: Browse and load instrument patches directly from the keyboard using Nektarine.
Figure 4.1: Close-up of the Nektar Impact GXP49's control panel, highlighting the transport controls and track/patch navigation buttons.
4.3 Repeat Engine
The built-in repeat engine allows for the creation of rhythmic elements and arpeggiated patterns. Activate the repeat function and adjust parameters as needed to generate dynamic musical phrases.
Figure 4.2: Detail of the Nektar Impact GXP49's repeat engine section, showing the 'On', 'Func', 'Patch', 'Group', 'Direct', and 'Slot' buttons.
4.4 MIDI Functionality
The GXP49 offers comprehensive MIDI functionality, allowing it to be used with any MIDI music software application. Refer to your DAW or software's manual for specific MIDI setup and mapping instructions.
- MIDI Out: Transmits MIDI data to external hardware synthesizers or modules.
- USB MIDI: Transmits MIDI data to your computer via USB.
- Assignable Buttons: The 14 RGB MIDI buttons can be assigned to various functions within your software.
5. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the surface of the keyboard. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or waxes, as these can damage the finish.
- Storage: Store the keyboard in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Handling: Avoid dropping the unit or subjecting it to strong impacts. Do not place heavy objects on the keyboard.
- Connectivity: Ensure USB and MIDI cables are connected securely but do not force them. Disconnect cables by pulling the plug, not the cable itself.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Keyboard not recognized by computer/DAW. | USB cable not connected properly; USB port issue; DAW MIDI settings incorrect; Driver issue (rare for class-compliant). |
|
| No sound from software instrument. | Software instrument not loaded or armed; MIDI channel mismatch; Output routing issue in DAW. |
|
| DAW integration features not working. | Nektar DAW integration files not installed or configured correctly. |
|
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Impact GXP49 |
| Number of Keys | 49 |
| Key Type | Semi-Weighted, Velocity-Sensitive with Aftertouch |
| Connectivity | USB (Type B), MIDI Out (5-pin DIN) |
| Pedal Inputs | 1x Expression Pedal, 1x Foot Switch (Sustain) |
| Power Supply | USB Bus Powered or Optional DC 9V Power Adapter (not included) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 31.7 x 9.06 x 2.83 inches (80.5 x 23 x 7.2 cm) |
| Weight | 8.8 pounds (4 kg) |
| Color | Black |
| Compatible OS | macOS 10.7+, Windows 7, 8+ |
8. Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Nektar website or contact Nektar customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
- Official Website: www.nektartech.com
- Support Contact: Refer to the support section on the official website for contact details, FAQs, and driver downloads.
