Evolution MK225C

Apart from limitations described below, the MK-225C is certainly easy to use. Changing parameters [patch change, knob/wheel assignment] is simple, but you have to enter numbers within three seconds: so stay focused! Contrary to what the printed manual states, all parameters are remembered when the unit is powered down. It gets its power, by the way, from the usb bus; it's great not having to hassle with an AC adapter! It took me a few attempts to get its driver recognized by OMS on my iBook, but now it behaves reliably. OMS does not give it an icon that will receive on-screen connections [that interfaces normally get], but you can just rename MK-225C icon that does appear for whichever synth/device you have its midi out connected to (so as to make logical sense within your sequencer). I suspect this limitation results from its being a "one-way" interface (midi out, but no midi in) -- meaning you cannot receive external sync or input from any other controller without adding a "two-way" interface. The unit does add an additional 16 midi channels to a set-up which already includes another such usb-midi interface. When putting the iBook to sleep, I find I need to leave the MK-225C power switch on if I don't want to reboot OMS applications to remount the connection on "wake-up".

For the sake of ergonomics, I imagine, the MK-225C is a bit bigger than the Oxygen 8. Its 8 assignable knobs are probably more easily accessed than on the latter -- being in one row instead of two -- and it has a numeric keypad (which the O8 lacks).

No sounds, of course. The keyboard requires a light touch to achieve a wide dynamic range, as there is none of that "weighted" resistance offered by higher quality keyboards. Out of the box, its knobs are assigned (and labeled) for what is assumed will be the most popular parameters; owners of XG units may feel particularly blessed. I found myself wanting to change only one. The mod wheel, by the way, is particularly handy when reassigned to cc#2 (breath -- it cannot be assigned to aftertouch), breathing life into appropriately programmed synth patches.

For something all plastic, it seems relatively sturdy. I haven't traveled with it yet, but I would worry somewhat about the knobs becoming damaged if not adequately protected in transport.

The included manual is incomplete -- as it is intended to accompany most of the Evolution products -- but the .pdf manual (which you must download from the company's site) fills in the gaps. Questions e-mailed to tech support were answered politely in a few days, though often not to the point.

I am happy with the MK225C and would recommend it to anyone who would like more hands-on control of a software synth or external module. [If you want even more knobs, Evolution makes a 16-knob usb control surface -- no keyboard -- as well]. It makes a great companion to my Yamaha FS1R and MU15 modules along with my sequencing, patch editing and notation software.