Sure, you'll be able to pop the Rock Band 3 disc in and start rocking using all of your existing instruments. But if you want to really take advantage of what the game has to offer -- updated support for a keyboard peripheral and all of the game's 'Pro' modes -- you'll want to turn to Mad Catz.
The accessory manufacturer has partnered with MTV Games and Harmonix to deliver a full suite of new items, including the highly-touted keyboard controller. Gamers will be able to purchase the keyboard, a fully functional MIDI keyboard with a two-octave range for $79.99; you can also purchase a bundle for $129.99.
For more details (straight from Mad Catz) on this and the other peripherals (including updated drum cymbals, guitars, and a MIDI adapter) after the jump.
Rock Band 3 Wireless Keyboard Controller
Designed for use exclusively with Rock Band 3, the Wireless Keyboard Controller has been crafted to resemble classic professional keyboards and is playable on a secure flat surface or while strapped over the player’s shoulder. Empowering gamers to take their enjoyment of rhythm music gaming to the next level, the Wireless Keyboard Controller also functions as a MIDI keyboard, boasting a two-octave (C3 to C5) range and non-weighted, velocity-sensitive key bed allowing gamers to take full advantage of the Rock Band Pro mode. The MIDI output connector provides compatibility with MIDI software sequencers and hardware devices while standard console-specific gaming controller buttons deliver seamless console integration and navigation of the game menus. In addition to playing the keyboard parts of Rock Band 3, the Wireless Keyboard Controller can also be used to play the lead guitar or bass parts of the game. An optional Keyboard Stand will be sold separately and is expected to be available alongside the launch of Rock Band 3.
MSRP: $79.99
Rock Band 3 Game & Wireless Keyboard Controller Bundle
Ideal for gamers who wish to enjoy the holiday seasons hottest music title and latest instrument together, the bundle includes both the Rock Band 3 game and Wireless Keyboard Controller, representing a convenient and excellent value purchase for music fans everywhere.
MSRP: $129.99
Rock Band 3 Wireless Fender Mustang PRO-Guitar Controller
Introducing a new level of realism to the rhythm music genre, the Wireless Fender Mustang PRO-Guitar Controller is designed for use exclusively with Rock Band 3, allowing gamers to accurately replicate a real guitar when playing Rock Band Pro mode in the game. Featuring 17 frets along a button-based neck, the Fender Mustang PRO-Guitar includes a 6-string strumming area which allows for discrete picking of each string and a touch-sensitive string box which allows players to mute or ‘cut-off’ notes when pressed. In addition, the Fender Mustang PRO-Guitar operates as a fully functional MIDI guitar, with the MIDI output connector providing compatibility with MIDI software sequencers and hardware devices while standard console-specific gaming controller buttons deliver seamless console integration and navigation of the game menus. The Fender Mustang PRO-Guitar allows for left or right handed use and can also be used to play either lead or bass parts of the game in Rock Band Pro and standard game modes.
MSRP: $149.99
Rock Band 3 Wireless PRO-Cymbals Expansion Kit
Compatible with all wireless Rock Band drum kits, the Wireless PRO-Cymbals Expansion Kit features three newly designed Rock Band 3 cymbals which have been re-engineered for quiet operation. Fully supporting the Rock Band Pro mode where the cymbals represent Hi-Hat, Crash and Ride, the cymbals can also be used in standard game modes for all Rock Band software. Improved from the Rock Band™ 2 cymbals, the new PRO-Cymbals boast quieter sound with noise-dampening rubber covering the full surface area of the cymbal. The PRO-Cymbals also feature enhanced responsiveness, essential when playing in Rock Band Pro mode. In addition, the redesigned Rock Band 3 cymbals now permanently rest at a pre-defined 10° angle, better positioned for accurate play. The PRO-Cymbals are also available as part of the Rock Band 3 Wireless Drum and Cymbal Kit (sold separately).
MSRP: $39.99
Rock Band 3 MIDI PRO-Adapter
Designed for use exclusively with Rock Band 3, the MIDI PRO-Adapter allows musicians to use their real MIDI keyboards or MIDI drum sets to play Rock Band 3. Plugging directly into the console via USB, the MIDI PRO-Adapter works as an interface between the console and MIDI instrument, converting the MIDI messages into console controller data which the game translates into on screen action. The MIDI PRO-Adapter features a velocity sensitive adjustment for MIDI drums designed to reduce cross-talk during play. A full D-Pad and standard gaming controller buttons are located on the PRO-Adapter to deliver seamless console integration and navigation of the game menus. Ships with a removable clip, allowing MIDI PRO-Adapter to be attached to a belt, or rest on a table top or similar flat surface.
MSRP: $39.99
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Contest:
11:10 PM on 06.10.2010
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Lol right?! That's exactly what I was thinking! That Eric Clapton music game (Power Rig?) is doing this same "Realistic Guitar" thing, too. Wonder if Guitar Hero will ever change their ways?
Ugh. Already getting a headache. I give up. I'm getting a REAL GUITAR and learning to play FOR REALSIES. Fuck this! -_-
oh wait.
That said it is probably a Squier and you can definitely find better. It'll cost you more ($100 more at least and that's assuming you don't want to spring for a full on Fender or God forbid a Gibson) but it'll be a worthy investment if you really are looking into guitaring.
The keyboard/game bundle will get my money. $130 and it's a true MIDI keyboard? Yes, please.
you can put all the tech stuff to make it look and sound (somewhat) like a real guitar, but it's just not possible to match the sound and feel of a real guitar.
for $150, you can get a real electric guitar. it won't be the best, but i'm sure i'll sound a lot better than the toy.. and people will be more impressed if you learn to play it well than they will the toy.. just my thoughts on this..
Gonna dig out my ancient midi keyboard and use that adapter, assuming it works. 130 bucks good lord.
*waves goodbye*
It's just a matter of waiting until the right moment.
Still not gonna buy it, but I have a pretty damn nice keyboard I'd be more interested in playing if I had Rockband's guidance to help me learn.
/guitar player
This is about as cluttered as it gets. Even when in pro mode, the keyboard wont take up much more than that.
@Everyone who's complaining
The Pro modes aren't necessarily if you already if you already play guitar, it's teaching you to play it. You can start at 'Pro-Easy' and as you get better you make your way up until 'Pro-Expert' where you will actually playing the song. If you don't want to do this, you don't have to. It's optional.
Could this mean songs I actually like?
May look at investing in a keyboard later, but I'm horrid with them, so most likely not.
Would be great if you could plug an actual electric guitar in somehow. That'd be awesome.
Do people not understand that you only need the pro instruments if you basically want to take in-game lessons to learn the actual instrument?
Seriously, for a 102-button controller that actually teaches you how to play guitar and which is totally optional, $150 is not bad. For everyone just saying to buy a real guitar, let's not forget that there's also a version that is both a real guitar and a rock band controller, which for whatever reason isn't mentioned here.
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