Open Labs

Open Labs

Also known as: OpenLabs

Unclaimed

Open Labs, founded in Austin, Texas by Victor Wong, pioneered the concept of integrating a full Windows-based computer into a keyboard workstation. The company's flagship products — the 61-key NeKo and the more compact 37-key MiKo — were among the first all-in-one music production stations capable of running VST instruments, audio sequencing software, and plug-in effects within a single keyboar...

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Open Labs, founded in Austin, Texas by Victor Wong, pioneered the concept of integrating a full Windows-based computer into a keyboard workstation. The company's flagship products — the 61-key NeKo and the more compact 37-key MiKo — were among the first all-in-one music production stations capable of running VST instruments, audio sequencing software, and plug-in effects within a single keyboard housing. The NeKo featured a built-in 15-inch touchscreen, motorized faders, rotary encoders, and expandable PC internals, while the MiKo offered a portable alternative with DJ controls and a cross-fader module. The company also produced the DBeat, SoundSlate, and OpenSynth eKo.

Open Labs attracted endorsements from prominent producers and artists including Timbaland, who lent his name to special edition MiKo and NeKo models. Other notable users included Lil Jon, Tommy Lee, Teddy Riley, Polow Da Don, Jonathan Davis of Korn, Jesse Carmichael of Maroon 5, and Morris Hayes of Prince's band. The company later shifted focus to software with Stagelight, a cross-platform DAW designed around a touch-friendly interface, available on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Stagelight emphasized accessibility for beginners with features like its LoopBuilder for loop-based composition alongside a more traditional timeline-based workflow for advanced users.

Open Labs has 8 products cataloged on Equipboard, including Synthesizers, DAW Software, and Computers & Peripherals. Their gear is featured by 6 artists, with the strongest followings in Hip Hop, Rock, and Electronic. Notable users include Mike Shinoda, Jimmy Nichols, and Jonathan Davis.

Artists Who Use Open Labs

Mike Shinoda uses 4 Open Labs products

Mike Shinoda

Singer, Guitarist · Linkin Park

Jimmy Nichols uses 2 Open Labs products

Jimmy Nichols

Singer, Keyboardist · Sound City Players

Jonathan Davis uses 1 Open Labs product

Jonathan Davis

Singer, Guitarist · Korn

Timbaland uses 1 Open Labs product

Timbaland

Singer, Rapper · Timbaland & Magoo

Lil Jon uses 1 Open Labs product

Lil Jon

Rapper, Music Producer · Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz

Rickey Pageot uses 1 Open Labs product

Rickey Pageot

Keyboardist · Madonna

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