Roland Lightweight 49-Key Midi Keyboard Controller, White (A-49-WH)

The Roland A-49-WH is a compact 49-key MIDI keyboard controller for playing and controlling software instruments, MIDI sound modules, and compatible music-production setups. It provides full-size, velocity-sensitive keys in a slim white format that takes up less desk space than a larger controller. Because it is a controller rather than a keyboard with built-in sounds, it sends MIDI data to connected software or hardware for sound generation.

This model suits producers, composers, performers, and students who want a straightforward keyboard interface for a computer-based studio or portable music rig. The 49-key range gives room for two-handed parts while remaining easy to carry and place on a desktop, keyboard stand, or mobile workstation. USB bus power keeps the setup simple by eliminating the need for a separate AC adapter.

The A-49-WH supports expressive performance through velocity-sensitive keys, a combined pitch-bend/modulation lever, assignable controls, and pedal inputs. Its D-BEAM controller lets the player alter assigned parameters with hand movement above the sensor. Dedicated octave and transpose controls help adapt the keyboard range to bass lines, leads, chord work, and instrument-specific layouts.

Two assignable knobs and two assignable buttons provide direct MIDI control without adding a dense control surface. The default knob assignments transmit cutoff and resonance messages, while the D-BEAM controller can address pitch, volume, or an assigned function. MIDI channel, program-change, velocity, controller, and other settings can be accessed through the Function mode.

The A-49-WH connects to a computer through its USB Type-B COMPUTER port and can also send MIDI from its five-pin MIDI OUT connector to compatible external hardware. HOLD and EXPRESSION pedal jacks support optional pedals for sustain and continuous expression control. This makes the controller practical as a focused front end for a DAW, virtual instrument collection, MIDI module, or hybrid computer-and-hardware setup.

Key Features

• 49 Velocity-Sensitive Keys: Full-size keys capture playing dynamics for more expressive MIDI performance.
• USB Bus Power: Draws power through the USB COMPUTER connection without an AC adapter.
• D-BEAM Control: Hand-motion control can adjust pitch, volume, or an assigned MIDI function.
• Assignable Controls: Two knobs and two buttons can be configured for MIDI tasks.
• External MIDI Output: Five-pin MIDI OUT connects directly to compatible MIDI hardware.
• Pedal Connectivity: Dedicated HOLD and EXPRESSION inputs support optional performance pedals.

Design & Installation

The A-49-WH uses a slim, lightweight white chassis with a 49-key layout designed for desktop and portable production environments. Its controls are organized around the playing area, including the pitch-bend/modulation lever, D-BEAM sensor, assignable knobs, assignable buttons, and octave/transpose controls. POWER and OCTAVE/TRANSPOSE LED indicators provide simple visual status feedback.

Connect the included USB cable from the USB Type-B COMPUTER port to a compatible computer, then select the A-49 as the MIDI input device in your music software. Use the MIDI OUT jack when controlling an external MIDI sound module, and add separately sold compatible hold and expression pedals when needed. Since the controller has no internal sound generator, it must be used with MIDI-capable software, a sound module, or another device that produces sound.