Akuto Studio Chord Machine AKT-0.1: A New Approach to Playing Chords
The Akuto Studio Chord Machine AKT-0.1 is a compact MIDI controller that rethinks how musicians interact with chords. With its unique circular keys and multiple playing modes, it offers an alternative approach to traditional keyboards.
Design and Build
The device features a minimal design combining aluminium 6082 and ABS thermoplastic. At 317 × 87.7 × 14 millimeters and weighing 450 grams, it's portable enough for mobile music production. The controller can be flipped 180 degrees, making it suitable for both left and right-handed musicians.
The interface includes 28 round keys arranged in four rows, two shift keys, an infinite rotary encoder, and a 4-inch capacitive touchscreen. Each key has LED backlight feedback to show you what you're playing.
Three Ways to Play
The Chord Machine offers three distinct keyboard modes:
Tonnetz Mode uses a tone network layout, which arranges notes based on harmonic relationships. This helps you discover chord progressions that sound good together.
Accordion Mode mirrors the button layout of traditional accordions, where chords are played with simple finger movements.
Piano Mode provides a familiar piano-style layout for those who prefer traditional note arrangements.
The large rotary encoder handles scaling, semitones, octaves, chord types, and transpositions. You can adjust these settings on the fly while performing.
Touchscreen Features
The 480 × 480 pixel TFT touchscreen serves multiple functions. It has three modes:
- Direct Mode generates simple notes with ease
- Bimanual Mode allows two-handed control techniques
- Strum Mode simulates guitar-like strumming patterns
The screen also acts as a control surface for MIDI effects. You can configure up to four active borders or effects with customizable MIDI CC ranges. The live feedback shows the chords and notes you're playing in real time.
Connectivity and Compatibility
The controller connects via USB Type-C and works with any software that receives MIDI input, including DAWs and game engines. It can also work with CV and MIDI through a conversion dongle for DAW-less setups.
Since it's a MIDI controller, the Chord Machine doesn't produce sound on its own. You'll need to connect it to a synthesizer, computer, or other MIDI-compatible device.
Additional Features
The device includes horizontal and vertical keyboard grid offsetting, allowing you to customize the key layout to match your playing style. You can save customizable MIDI CC presets for different performance scenarios.
A tutorial mode is available through a web app to help new users learn the different playing modes and features.
Availability
The Chord Machine AKT-0.1 was successfully funded through Kickstarter, with 475 backers supporting the project. The device is now available for pre-order through Indiegogo, with shipping that started in September 2024.
The Swiss-based Akuto Studio designed the controller to encourage new ways of approaching music creation, whether you're composing, performing live, or experimenting with chord progressions.
