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“The Seaboard Block M: A Game-Changing $350 Controller Introducing the Company’s Revolutionary 5D Touch Technology”
Roli, a pioneer in MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE), has faced challenges over the past decade but remains committed to promoting MPE technology. Following its filing for administration in the UK and subsequent rebranding as Luminary Roli, the company introduced the redesigned Seaboard Rise as its first product. This flagship MIDI controller, priced at $1,399, showcases Roli’s dedication to delivering professional-level instruments. However, Roli’s latest offering, the Seaboard Block M, offers a more affordable and portable option at $349.95.
The Seaboard Block M features Roli’s signature squishy, continuous keyboard with 5D Touch technology, enabling expressive melodies and chords through finger movements, pressure, and taps. While the Seaboard Rise 2 offers a premium 49-key controller with advanced controls, the Block M has 24-keys and a simplified control set. Users can connect two Seaboard Blocks together to create a modular 48-key keyboard.
Constructed with premium materials designed for touring durability, the Block M is primarily made of plastic. It lacks the “precision frets” found on the Rise 2, which facilitated navigation by touch. However, it does include a dedicated MIDI-out jack, allowing users to control setups without a computer, a feature increasingly present in MIDI controllers.
While the selection of instruments fully compatible with MPE controls is still somewhat limited, the Block M comes bundled with ROLI Studio, offering options for expressive playing. However, it is not as powerful as Roli’s flagship soft synth, Equator 2.
The Block M offers approximately 10 hours of battery life with Bluetooth connectivity, but users can also connect directly to devices via USB-C for zero latency and extended playtime. Preorders for the Seaboard Block M are available now, with shipping expected in March 2024.