NUX NTK is a new series of MIDI controllers in three versions with an aftertouch keybed, faders, knobs, and a built-in mouse trackpad.
The Chinese company NUX, operated by its parent company, Cherub Technology, is well known in the guitar sector. This is especially true for its affordable guitar pedals. I really like the NUX Tape Core delay in the studio, which has a nice successor in the Tape Echo.
Now, the company is venturing into new territory. NUX recently introduced new MIDI keyboard controllers with the NTK series.
NUX NTK Series
The NTK series is a new line of MIDI keyboard controllers. Every version has almost the same feature set, except for the keys. There are three versions: NTK-37 (37 keys), NTK-49 (49 keys), and NTK-61 (61 keys). The latter also includes eight velocity-sensitive pads and a switch button on the right.
The designers have chosen a slightly more special design. Most of the control elements are located on the left side. Each NUK NTK keyboard features a full-size semi-weighted keybed with velocity-sensitive and aftertouch keys.
Then, you can find eight customizable knobs and nine sliders alongside pitch and mod wheels and classic DAW transport controls. The new NTK keyboards also offer a big push knob with which you can guide through the menu system.
A special feature of the NTK keyboards is located on the right side. Here, they host a mouse control pad, which integrates directly into the keyboard. It allows you to easily navigate projects, select tracks, and adjust plugin parameters without having to switch between devices.
You don’t often see a built-in mouse pad in a MIDI controller. Although it may seem a bit strange at first, it makes sense to me.
Creative Features
Then, the new NUX NTX series also includes creative features developed to help with daily music production. For example, it offers a five-way encoder system that enables various functionalities, including zoom, track selection, and cursor alignment.
Next to this, it also has a built-in arpeggiator with seven types, scales (16 in total), and nine customizable key touch curves. Further, the keyboards support up to 8 different DAWs with quick control capabilities. You can also save DAW presets and user scenes right in the hardware.
On the backside, the NUX NTK keyboards give you a power on/off button, a USB port, a sustain pedal, and a 5-pin MIDI output.
Also, they ship with an editor software for deeper customizations and a Cubase 13 LE license.
First Impression
Intriguing new MID keyboards from NUX. The design is certainly a bit unusual, but the feature set is unique especially the built-in mouse pad. I am looking forward to seeing the keyboards come to the international market. None of the big shops currently list them.
The new NUX NTK series MIDI keyboard controllers will be available soon. The NTK-61 costs 299€.
More information here: NUX
For me 37 version will be a buy for sure.
Full options, real size keys and not too deep, that design is perfect when you have a laptop, a console or another keyboard. Even the price is great. Is it well built? If so, seems to be the best option if you want a functional classic MIDI keybed.
The trackpad is interesting, i had never thought of it but it could be a great idea.