A little over a year since iRig Keys was announced, the folks at IK Multimedia have announced a couple of upgrades to the line – iRig Keys Pro and iRig Keys with Lightning.

The iRig Keys with Lighting shares the same size keys as the original, but it offers a few new “under the hood” features, while the introduction of iRig Keys Pro brings us a mobile keyboard (that’s 30% smaller than any other full-size key MIDI controller that can be played with two hands) featuring 37 full-size velocity-sensitive keys.

Beyond the size difference, they both offer the same powerful features that make them quite the MIDI keyboards. They have mod and pitch wheels, illuminated octave and program buttons, 4 programmable sets (so you can store complete setups), and a programmable continuous-controller volume knobs. They’re also the first and only range of professional and compact MIDI controllers that can connect via Lightning-connector, 30-pin AND USB, thus offering universal compatibility with all models of iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Mac/PC.

On a personal note, I’m an owner of the original iRig Keys and it’s one of two controllers that is always within arms reach. It might not be packed with all the knobs and pads that other cool keyboards have, but I don’t think it needs them. Obviously the added physical controls would make for a larger size (and price), but I they would also take away from the straight-forward feel of the device(s). It’s a keyboard’s keyboard and it’s probably because of this that it feels a little more “stable” than other portable keyboards I’ve had.

Now, I don’t have an iRig Keys Pro, but you know who does? Jordan Rudess! So here’s an excellent example of the Pro being used by a pro.

iRig KEYS PRO is priced at $149.99/€119.99 MSRP, and is available now from the IK network of music and electronic retailers around the world and the IK online store. iRig KEYS with Lightning connector is priced at $129.99/€99.99 and is available now from music and electronics retailers worldwide.