M25: Controls, Inputs and Outputs

Introduction

The Rockville M25 MIDI Keyboard is a compact and versatile controller equipped with drum pads, an arpeggiator, pitch and modulation controls, and MIDI connectivity. This guide will walk you through all the controls, inputs, and outputs to help you get started with your setup.

Back Panel: Inputs and Outputs

1. Power Button – Turns the keyboard on and off.
2. 3.5mm MIDI Output – Sends MIDI data to external gear like synthesizers or drum machines.
3. USB Type-C Port –
   • Connects the keyboard to your computer or DAW.
   • Also charges the keyboard when connected to a power source.
4. Sustain Pedal Input – Allows you to connect a sustain pedal for extended note playback.

Top Panel: Controls and Features

Pitch & Modulation Control (Thumb Stick)

• Left/Right: Controls pitch bend (left lowers, right raises the pitch).
• Up/Down: Adjusts modulation depth for synth-like effects.

Arpeggiator

• Turn On: Press the arpeggiator button and play a chord to trigger an arpeggio.
• Tap Tempo: Adjust the speed of the arpeggio by tapping the button. Hold it down to turn it off.
• Arpeggiator Settings:
  • Hold the arpeggiator button and use the knobs to adjust:
    • Division (e.g., 1/8 to 1/16 triplet).
    • Swing (adds groove to the pattern).
    • Mode (Up, Down, Random, etc.).
    • Octave Range (expands the pattern across multiple octaves).
    • Latch Mode (keeps the arpeggio playing even after releasing keys).
    • Sync Mode (Internal/External sync for DAW or hardware integration).

Octave & Transpose Controls

• Octave Buttons – Move the keyboard up or down by octaves.
• Transpose Buttons – Shift the notes up or down in semitone increments.

Drum Pads & Velocity Control

• Drum Pads: Trigger drum sounds or assignable samples.
• Touch Sensitivity: Light presses play softly, harder presses play loudly.
• Full Level Mode: Plays pads at full velocity regardless of pressure.

Loop & Note Repeat Functions

• Loop Button: Records and loops a sequence while playing.
• Note Repeat:
  • When enabled, holding down a drum pad triggers repeated hits.
  • Adjustable using the Division, Swing, and Speed knobs.

Pad Banks

• Bank A & Bank B Buttons: Switch between different pad assignments for expanded drum/sample mapping.

MIDI Control Knobs

• Can be assigned to:
  • Arpeggiator Settings
  • Note Repeat Adjustments
  • MIDI CC Messages for DAW control

Controller & Drum Settings

• Controller Setting Button: Assigns knobs to specific MIDI CC parameters.
• Drum Setting Button: Customizes the MIDI notes for each drum pad.

Conclusion

The Rockville M25 MIDI Keyboard is a feature-packed controller perfect for music production, live performance, and sound design. Whether you're using it to control a DAW, trigger drum samples, or arpeggiate melodies, this guide provides everything you need to get started.