Rock Band 3 gets MIDI keyboard, stringed instruments
updated 10:45 am EDT, Thu June 10, 2010
Harmonix to tie Rock Band 3 to 25-key instrument
The mystery controller for Rock Band 3 was revealed today to be a real keyboard. Although deliberately limited to 25 keys, the peripheral will work as a true MIDI keyboard and should theoretically work with computers depending on the version of the controller. The game's more realistic Pro mode should use all 25 keys and, according to USA Today, will pan across the screen to show all the notes.
Guitars are also getting more realistic treatment in hardware for the Harmonix game. Fender will have a Squier Stratocaster with a full six-string design that uses touch to recognize finger placement in the Pro mode. Accessory maker Mad Catz is also making a Fender Mustang Pro replica that uses a large grid of buttons to replicate strings.
Drums will have three cymbals in addition to the drum pads.
Prices haven't been set for the controllers, but all of them should be available for the PS3, Wii and Xbox 360 when Rock Band 3 ships in the fall.
