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The keyboard used by Hans Zimmer to score the music for Dune: Part Two is now more accessible to musicians, thanks to a new, more affordable version released by ROLI.

ROLI, known for its innovative music technology, initially created a custom keyboard for Zimmer, dubbed the Seaboard RISE 2, to facilitate his work on the film’s soundtrack. The original instrument was highly specialized and carried a price tag of $2,499. However, the company has now launched a more streamlined and budget-friendly version, the Lumi Keys Studio Edition, priced at $1,499, according to reporting from The Verge.

What Makes the Lumi Keys Studio Edition Different?

The Lumi Keys Studio Edition retains the core functionality of the Seaboard RISE 2 – its signature keywave surface that allows for expressive performance through touch – but simplifies some of the more complex features. The original keyboard offered extensive customization options and advanced modulation capabilities. The new version focuses on providing a more intuitive and accessible experience, particularly for composers and producers who may be less familiar with ROLI’s ecosystem.

According to The Verge, the key differences include a reduction in the number of sensors under each key, streamlining the manufacturing process and lowering the cost. While the original Seaboard RISE 2 featured seven sensors per key, the Lumi Keys Studio Edition has five. ROLI states that this reduction does not significantly impact the expressive capabilities of the instrument, and that the remaining sensors still allow for a wide range of nuanced performances.

Hans Zimmer’s Influence and the Dune Connection

Zimmer’s involvement with ROLI began when he sought a more expressive and tactile way to create music. He collaborated with the company to develop the Seaboard RISE 2, which became an integral part of his workflow on Dune: Part Two. The keyboard’s unique keywave surface allowed him to create the film’s distinctive soundscapes, blending organic and electronic elements.

The Verge reports that Zimmer has been actively promoting the Lumi Keys Studio Edition, highlighting its potential to empower other musicians. He believes the instrument can unlock new creative possibilities and make expressive music creation more accessible to a wider audience.

ROLI’s Broader Strategy

The release of the Lumi Keys Studio Edition represents a shift in ROLI’s strategy. The company has faced financial challenges in recent years, and the new keyboard is part of an effort to broaden its appeal and reach a larger market. By offering a more affordable and user-friendly version of its flagship instrument, ROLI hopes to attract both professional musicians and hobbyists.

ROLI has also been focusing on software development, releasing new tools and integrations to enhance the Lumi Keys experience. These include a dedicated software suite with a range of sounds and effects, as well as compatibility with popular digital audio workstations (DAWs). The company aims to create a comprehensive ecosystem that supports musicians at every stage of their creative process.

Availability and Pricing

The Lumi Keys Studio Edition is available for purchase now through ROLI’s website and select retailers. The keyboard is priced at $1,499, making it significantly more affordable than the original Seaboard RISE 2. ROLI is also offering a range of accessories, including a carrying case and a sustain pedal, to complement the instrument.

The release of a more accessible version of the keyboard used on a blockbuster film soundtrack like Dune: Part Two is likely to generate significant interest among musicians and music fans alike. It remains to be seen whether the Lumi Keys Studio Edition will achieve widespread adoption, but it represents a bold step forward for ROLI and a potentially exciting development for the world of music technology.