Roland Lightweight 49-Key Midi Keyboard Controller, Black (A-49-BK)

The Roland A-49-BK is a slim, black 49-key MIDI keyboard controller designed for hands-on control of software instruments, MIDI sound modules, and compatible production setups. It provides a full playing range in a compact footprint for musicians who want more expressive input than a small pad controller offers. Because it is a controller rather than a synthesizer, it sends MIDI data and requires connected software or external MIDI hardware to produce sound.

The 49 velocity-sensitive keys are suited to recording melodies, bass parts, chords, and two-handed performances. Roland designed the keyboard with rounded key shapes for a responsive playing feel and comfortable glissandi, while reducing mechanical noise and vertical key shake. Its lightweight 2.5 kg design is practical for desktop studios, mobile production, and second-keyboard duties.

Performance control is built around two assignable knobs, two assignable switches, a pitch bend/modulation lever, pedal inputs, and Roland's D-BEAM controller. The D-BEAM controller responds to hand movement above its sensor, allowing compatible MIDI parameters such as pitch, volume, or assigned control data to be adjusted without touching a knob. Default knob assignments provide cutoff and resonance control, with reassignment available for a personalized workflow.

The A-49-BK connects to a computer through its USB Type-B COMPUTER port and is powered from that USB connection, so no separate AC adapter is required. It also includes a standard MIDI OUT connector for directly controlling compatible MIDI sound modules and other MIDI hardware. Dedicated octave and transpose controls help adapt the 49-key layout to different playing ranges while LED indicators provide status feedback.

This controller fits naturally into Mac or Windows music-production rigs, external MIDI module setups, and compatible iPad-based workflows. It supports hold and expression pedal connections for more traditional performance control, with compatible Roland pedals sold separately. SuperNATURAL mode can automatically configure controls for supported Roland SuperNATURAL sound modules, making the A-49-BK a focused input device for studio and performance systems.

Key Features

• 49 Velocity-Sensitive Keys: Supports expressive note input across a practical performance range.
• USB Bus Power: Runs from a computer USB connection without an AC adapter.
• D-BEAM Controller: Enables hands-free control through hand movement above the sensor.
• Assignable Controls: Two knobs and two switches can be configured for MIDI tasks.
• MIDI OUT Port: Connects directly to compatible external MIDI sound hardware.
• Pedal Support: Accepts hold and expression pedals for expanded performance control.

Design & Installation

The A-49-BK uses a streamlined, lightweight chassis with a recessed rear connection panel and black finish. Its 49-key layout combines full-size, velocity-sensitive keys with an uncluttered control surface. Power and octave/transpose LED indicators provide simple visual status information during use.

Connect the USB Type-B COMPUTER port to a computer with the supplied USB cable, then select the A-49 as a MIDI input in compatible music software. For external hardware control, connect its MIDI OUT port to the MIDI IN of a compatible sound module or device and match MIDI channels. A DP-2 or DP-10 pedal switch may be used at the HOLD jack, while Roland specifies EV-5 or EV-7 expression pedals for the EXPRESSION jack.