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Average Price: $486

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$501+

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Description

Experience a revolution in musical expression with the Roli Seaboard RISE 49, a groundbreaking MIDI controller that defies the limitations of traditional keyboards. The innovative "keywaves" on its smooth, touch-responsive surface offer a tactile sensation that invites you to explore your creativity like never before. This isn't just a keyboard; it's a canvas for your musical ideas, allowing you to slide, glide, and press into an entirely new dimension of sound.

The Seaboard RISE 49 puts dynamic control at your fingertips, enabling seamless transitions between notes and providing the ability to bend pitches effortlessly. Its unique design supports 5D Touch Technology, capturing five dimensions of touch to shape your sound with precision and fluidity. Whether you’re performing live or producing in the studio, this instrument expands the boundaries of your performance.

Connectivity is a breeze with Bluetooth MIDI support, freeing you from cables and allowing you to focus solely on your music. Compatible with a wide range of software and hardware, the Seaboard RISE 49 integrates effortlessly into any setup, making it an essential tool for both budding musicians and seasoned professionals.

Key Features:

  • 49-keywave surface with touch-responsive "keywaves"
  • 5D Touch Technology: Strike, Glide, Slide, Press, and Lift
  • Bluetooth MIDI for wireless connectivity
  • Compatible with a variety of DAWs and music software
  • Lightweight and portable design
  • Includes software bundle for enhanced sound exploration

Product specs

Brand ROLI
Model Seaboard RISE 49
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Categories Keyboard MIDI Controllers
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
MIDI I/O USB MIDI
Number of Keys 49 Keys

FAQs

What makes the ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 different from traditional MIDI controllers?

The ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 offers a unique touch-responsive surface that allows for expressive control over pitch, volume, and timbre, unlike traditional controllers with fixed keys. Its "5D Touch" technology provides a highly customizable playing experience.

Is the ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 compatible with popular DAWs like Ableton Live or Logic Pro?

Yes, the ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 is compatible with major DAWs, including Ableton Live and Logic Pro, through its USB MIDI connectivity, allowing for seamless integration into your workflow.

How portable is the ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 for live performances?

The ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 is designed to be portable, with a slim profile and lightweight build, making it suitable for live performances and easy transport between gigs.

Does the ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 require a specific power supply?

The ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 is powered via USB, eliminating the need for an external power supply and simplifying setup for both studio and live environments.

Can the ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 be used to control software synthesizers?

Yes, the ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 can control software synthesizers, offering expressive capabilities that enhance the dynamic range and articulation of your virtual instruments.

Sanjay C

Sanjay C

Seaboard RISE vs Seaboard BLOCK

Video thumbnail for Seaboard RISE vs Seaboard BLOCK by Sanjay C

Seaboard RISE vs Seaboard BLOCK

Sanjay C

Sanjay C

Video thumbnail for ROLI Seaboard RISE 49: Overview and Performance by Noisegate

ROLI Seaboard RISE 49: Overview and Performance

Noisegate

Noisegate

Video thumbnail for ROLI Seaboard Rise 49 Controller - SonicLAB Review by sonicstate

ROLI Seaboard Rise 49 Controller - SonicLAB Review

sonicstate

sonicstate

Video thumbnail for ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 Performance with Eren Başbuğ by Kraft Music

ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 Performance with Eren Başbuğ

Kraft Music

Kraft Music

Video thumbnail for ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 Demo with Eren Başbuğ by Kraft Music

ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 Demo with Eren Başbuğ

Kraft Music

Kraft Music

Video thumbnail for ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 by Gear4music Guitars

ROLI Seaboard RISE 49

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Video thumbnail for Roli Seaboard Rise 49 MIDI Controller Keyboard - Overview & Features by PMTVUK

Roli Seaboard Rise 49 MIDI Controller Keyboard - Overview & Features

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Reviews

PROS

  • Highly expressive with X, Y, and Z axis touch sensitivity

  • Comes with Equator softsynth, enhancing sound design capabilities

  • Seamless integration with popular DAWs and synths

  • Improved playing surface allows fluid finger movement

  • Exceptional build quality, can be powered by batteries or computer

  • Offers a new level of expressiveness for keyboard players

  • Facilitates organic and intuitive playing experience

CONS

  • Middle octaves may develop issues over time without warranty support

  • License transfer for software is difficult

  • Requires time to master software and create good patches

  • Limited by exclusivity of MPE support at times

  • Setup and patch construction can be complex

  • Heavier compared to smaller models, affecting portability

  • Lack of clear key delineation may require adjustment time

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roli Seaboard RISE 49.

Build quality

  • Some users report faders malfunctioning, only operating at "0" or "100", and USB ports becoming unreliable, affecting power functionality.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • DIY replacement of the User Interface panel is possible for about £60, requiring Torx bits, Allen keys, and isopropyl alcohol for best results.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners frequently highlight poor customer service, with delayed responses and ineffective solutions, leading to dissatisfaction despite the product's innovative features.

    Source
  • Some users report sensitive touch responses on the Seaboard Rise, necessitating careful handling to avoid unintended notes, highlighting the importance of adjusting playing technique.

    Source
  • The Seaboard can be compared to a fretless instrument, requiring deliberate playing to avoid note smearing, especially for classically trained pianists.

    Source
  • Some users notice consistent inaccuracies with specific keys, particularly near the center, which can be intermittently bothersome but are often overlooked in performance.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Heavy studio use over multiple years shows minimal wear, with keywaves appearing delaminated but not affecting playability, indicating durability in static setups.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Arturia Pigments is praised for its MPE support and integration with the Seaboard, making it a favored synth choice for users looking for compatibility and enhanced functionality.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The Roli Dashboard software remains operational regardless of registration status, providing flexibility and ease for users who purchase the Seaboard second-hand.

    Source
  • Adjusting the glide envelope in the Roli Dashboard can modify touch sensitivity, with options for linear or exponential settings.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A new Seaboard Rise 49 can sometimes be found as a clearance item at Guitar Center, offering potential savings if purchased directly in-store rather than online.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Roli Dashboard offers a "Piano Mode" that disables gliding, transforming the Seaboard into a more traditional keyboard experience.

    Source

Critic Reviews

ROLI Seaboard Rise 49 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 impresses with its expanded two-octave range and wireless capabilities, making it a must-have for musicians seeking innovation. The integration with the Noise app is seamless, enhancing its portability and functionality. However, the unconventional key layout may challenge traditional keyboardists, requiring adjustment. While priced at £949, the technology justifies the cost, offering a unique sound-shaping experience through its five dimensions of touch. For those willing to adapt, the RISE 49 is an exciting leap forward in keyboard design, though standard key spacing could broaden its appeal.

positive

ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 Review - Bigger & Better

musictech.com

ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 impresses with its expanded 49-keywave design and multidimensional MPE capabilities, offering unparalleled expressive control through its innovative touch-sensitive features. While the dark design may pose challenges in dimly lit venues, its robust build and included padded case enhance portability. The integration with Equator software further showcases its sonic potential, although the interface may seem daunting initially. Despite minor drawbacks, the Seaboard RISE 49's unique performance dimensions and high-quality construction make it a standout choice for musicians seeking new expressive possibilities.

positive
Add

5.0 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 22 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
mach4
mach4

1256

Extraordinary. A distinctive and unique approach to expressive MIDI control

The ROLI Seaboard RISE is a gigantic improvement over their initial ROLI "Grand" some years earlier, the playing surface of which left me somewhat disappointed. I was quite excited with idea of this remarkable new way of expressive playing for keyboard players, but the "Grand" felt too rubbery to me and didn't allow for the fingers to glide easily.

I'm so glad that I waited. The Seaboard playing surface is far smoother and allows for more fluid finger movements, especially when gliding forwards, backwards, left and right, even when holding chords. The dedicated synth engine, Equator, is also a jam-packed dream for sound designers. The programming, whilst deep, is helped by an intuitive and clear GUI. The exceptionally comprehensive modulation routings are tailor made get the absolute best from the Seaboard. An incredible package overall.

producerdysphoria

Excellent Instrument

Fantastic piece of kit. Takes expression to another level.

jake_marsh

Great product but a lot of issues

I love the product, I love the features, but I have had to send it back to Roli multiple times, for them to fix it, because it keeps breaking. They have good customer service, it is just annoying.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Flume uses Roli Seaboard RISE 49

Flume

Music Producer, DJ

What So Not

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo of some of Flume's studio gear, on the right side are two cases containing ROLI Seaboard RISE MIDI Controllers. Judging by their size, since they match the width of the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MIDI keyboard which has 49 keys, they must be the ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 models.

See how Kygo uses Roli Seaboard RISE 49

Kygo

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

At 5:38 you can see a ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 on his Homestudio table. Also in a interview with ROLI, Kygo says that he uses the Seaboard: https://roli.com/stories/kygo-interview.

See how Grimes uses Roli Seaboard RISE 49

Grimes

Singer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via Instagram

almost finished building like 20 or so "5D multi timbral" synths in roli equator, they'll be released for roli blocks later this year. never made synths from scratch before, its pretty fun

Throughout the accompanying video clip, Grimes can be both seen and heard freely improvising on a Seaboard Rise controller set up next to her.

See how Just Blaze uses Roli Seaboard RISE 49

Just Blaze

Music Producer

Roc-A-Fella Family

...
Verified via YouTube

An Instagram Live video between Jake One and Just Blaze happened during quarantine in 2020. In 12:01, Just Blaze discusses with Jake One how he uses the SWAM Engine, a VST full of orchestral instruments. Later in the video(12:33) he says the SWAM Engine is best paired with the ROLI Seaboard because the midi sounds like it’s an actual band recording if played correctly.

See how Conor Maynard uses Roli Seaboard RISE 49

Conor Maynard

Singer

...
Verified via YouTube

Behind him you can see the Seaboard Rise.

See how David Maxim Micic uses Roli Seaboard RISE 49

David Maxim Micic

Guitarist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

In his YouTube playthrough video "687 DAYS," David Maxim Micic can be seen using the Roli Seaboard RISE 49 at the 2:05 mark.

See how Swanky Tunes uses Roli Seaboard RISE 49

Swanky Tunes

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

We can see this item at 15:19

See how Neon Vines uses Roli Seaboard RISE 49

Neon Vines

Singer, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

She uses this seaboard for the guitars on the video.

See how Big Wild uses Roli Seaboard RISE 49

Big Wild

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo of Big Wild performing live, he can be seen using a ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 MIDI Controller. He captions the photo:

"don't force it," aka rely on your instincts and follow your inspiration. It took me many life experiences to fully understand that, but sometimes learning things the hard way is the best way.

See how Marco Parisi uses Roli Seaboard RISE 49

Marco Parisi

Keyboardist

PARISI

...
Verified via YouTube

Marco is playing a ROLI Seaboard RISE 49 in this video.

See how Solar Fields uses Roli Seaboard RISE 49

Solar Fields

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video for his Studio Jupiter Live Session, the Seaboard can be seen. Based on the layout of the device, it looks to be a Roli Seaboard RISE 49.

See how Diego Tejeida uses Roli Seaboard RISE 49

Diego Tejeida

Keyboardist

Haken

...
Verified via Photo

Seaboard RISE 49 is seen in the upper left of Diego's rig when touring Haken's latest album, Vector.

Album Usage

The Roli Seaboard RISE 49 has been featured on the following albums:

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 Roli Seaboard RISE 49, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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cobaltorder

cobaltorder

Gear IQ 1021

bassic

bassic

Gear IQ 221

sammy_merayah

sammy_merayah

Gear IQ 75

cobaltorder

cobaltorder

Gear IQ 1021

bassic

bassic

Gear IQ 221

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