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Description
The CME UF 80 CLASSIC is a masterful blend of functionality and value, perfectly crafted for both budding musicians and seasoned pros. This 88-key hammer-action weighted keyboard is designed with aftertouch for an authentic playing experience, providing the tactile feedback pianists crave. Whether you're laying down tracks in the studio or commanding your sound onstage, this MIDI controller is your ticket to a seamless performance.
Setting up is a breeze with its USB connectivity, making it compatible with your DAW or favorite sound modules. The UF 80 CLASSIC goes beyond mere playability by offering a plethora of control options: 8 assignable knobs for tweaking parameters such as Cut-off and Resonance, and 9 faders for precise volume control. The LED data display ensures you stay informed, while the pitch bend and modulation wheels add expressive layers to your sound.
Its versatility continues with over 20 user templates stored in non-volatile memory, sequencer remote buttons, and assignable shortcut knobs, providing you with intuitive access to your most-used commands. This controller is truly a musician’s best friend, transforming your creative impulses into reality with ease and precision.
Key Features:
- 88-key hammer-action weighted keyboard with aftertouch
- 8 assignable control knobs for real-time sound manipulation
- 9 assignable faders for comprehensive channel and master volume control
- LED data display with comprehensive control options
- USB MIDI port for seamless DAW integration
- Class-compliant for Windows and Mac OS
- U-CTRL function for effortless software remote management
- Optional multifunction expansion board for extended capabilities
Videos
gearwire
CME UF80: Wireless Keyboards With MIDI Mel At Winter NAMM 2008
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about CME UF 80 CLASSIC - MIDI Controller.
Build quality
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The UF8's keybed may require disassembly to fix sticking keys, involving reaming nylon bushes back to factory tolerance for improved playability.
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Software and compatibility
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The USB port is not class-compliant; using DIN MIDI connectors bypasses compatibility issues with current OS, such as Windows 11.
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Mods and upgrades
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For reliable operation, replace cheap USB MIDI adapters with a Roland UM-1, which is class-compliant and supports optically isolated current loops.
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User experience
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The UF8's hammer action lacks graded weighting, providing consistent key pressure across all octaves, enhancing playability for some users.
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Comparisons
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The CME UF80's weighted keys are preferred for classical music due to their authentic feel, contrasting with the M-Audio's newer semi-weighted touch.
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Value and pricing
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For $230 AUD, the CME UF80 offers a solid build and full weighting, making it an attractive option despite its age.
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4.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings
244
Amazing Feel. No Frills.
By far my favorite MIDI controller I've ever owned. Fully weighted keys, the feel is incredible. Unfortunately it's hiding in the closet right now as it's a bit too big for my small 1br apartment. Cons: It is huge and bulky, and its midi mapping can be wonky, but I personally dont really need function mapping on my keys Id rather have that on pads or computer keyboard.
Artist usage
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On his website C418 says of his CME UF 80, "This keyboard is behind my big desk. It's for piano training. Hence the monitor on top. I use it for Synthesia."
In the article "Roine Stolt and Neal Morse: Degrees of Separation" by John Kelman on All About Jazz, Neal Morse is shown using the CME UF 80 CLASSIC MIDI Controller.
Guy Allison, a renowned keyboardist, composer, and music producer, uses the CME UF 80 Classic MIDI Controller. This is substantiated by his statement: "When it comes to keyboard action, my first choice is always a grand piano. In the world of controller keyboards, the UF-80 most closely emulates the feel of the piano's weighted action. As soon as it was hooked up in my studio and I started playing I knew I made the right choice. It's solid, it's intuitive to program and it's the perfect blend of function meets form. I highly recommend it. CME has certainly raised the bar and I look forward to their next innovative creation."
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use CME UF 80 CLASSIC - MIDI Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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