CME’s SWIDI keyboard controller is “inspired by Behringer” and looks near-identical to the SWING
The SWIDI is fully wireless unlike its inspiration, however.
Top: Behringer Swing, Bottom: CME Swidi / Photos: Behringer, CME
CME has announced the SWIDI, a MIDI keyboard controller it says was inspired by Behringer‘s controversial SWING keyboard controller, a device that compelled Behringer to respond to comments that it copied the Arturia Keystep.
CME’s SWIDI is unique in several ways, despite the direct “inspired by Behringer” quote on the brand’s product announcement. The SWIDI is fully wireless unlike both the SWING and the Keystep as it features low-latency 3ms Bluetooth MIDI connectivity, and was imagined as a MIDI controller that doesn’t need to be attached to a mass of cables to function.
It’s capable of connecting with up to four peripherals and can be outfitted with a MIDI-powered Bluetooth adapter for older MIDI hardware. Up to five Bluetooth MIDI devices can be added using group auto-learn, though it has to be noted that the SWIDI has no ports, thus making Bluetooth adapters a must for users without Bluetooth MIDI devices. CME claims the SWIDI can maintain connection within approximately 20m of eyesight range, and users can optimise for latency using the WIDI app, which is available for iOS and Android.
The SWIDI also comes with wireless charging, with a full charge providing up to eight hours of wireless use on a two-hour charge.
The keyboard’s other features are much like its inspiration, featuring a 64-step sequencer along with an 8-note polyphonic sequencer and 32 keys. The SWIDI is expected to retail for €79 when it arrives later this year on 2 May, which is approximately 20 per cent less than Behringer’s SWING, currently retailing for €89.
CME have yet to open preorders for the SWIDI but are also making it a point to state that they have “no component shortage” that would delay the production of the SWIDI.
Learn more at cme-pro.com
