Intuitive Instruments Exquis

A Next-Generation Isomorphic Controller

Exquis (pronounced "hex-key") reinvents the relationship between gesture and harmony through a hexagonal matrix where neighboring thirds simplify chord construction. Its visual and tactile approach follows the lineage of modern isomorphic keyboards, offering immediate access to harmony and expressive playing. Positioned as a creative alternative to piano keyboards and classic grids, it combines physical control and a dedicated app for a quick learning curve.

For Creators, from Beginners to Experts

Whether you are a beginner or advanced, Exquis facilitates exploration of electro, techno, ambient, synthwave, pop, or soundtrack music styles. Scale guidance secures improvisation, while MPE expressivity will appeal to sound designers and keyboardists seeking nuance. In the studio or on stage, it integrates seamlessly with both DAW setups and modular systems thanks to MIDI and CV/Gate.

Features and Innovations

Exquis does not include a sound engine: it controls your synthesizers and software (subtractive, FM, wavetable, granular, etc.) via MIDI and MPE, and interfaces with modular systems through CV/Gate outputs. Its 61-key silicone keyboard offers responsiveness for percussive strikes and flexibility for long modulations. The backlit keys instantly display any scale or custom map to guide hands and ears.

The control panel features 4 clickable 360-degree encoders, 10 backlit buttons, and 6 slider zones with light feedback, for clear mappings and fine parameter control. The dedicated app offers an intuitive workflow: select a sound, record loops, arrange and structure your tracks in real time or via programming, with minimal gestures.

Connectivity-wise, USB-C provides power and communication with computers and compatible devices, while MIDI In/Out ports in 3.5 mm mini-jack (1/8") format enable dialogue with your synth collection. The CV "PITCH," "MOD," and "GATE" outputs facilitate integration into a modular rack, providing a direct bridge between MPE expression and control voltage.

Technical specifications

Arpeggiator	Yes	Number of keys	61
Bluetooth	No	Inputs	USB, Midi, Minijack, USB Midi
Compatibility	PC, Mac	Outputs	Midi, Jack, USB-C, USB Midi, CV out, Gate out
Controller	Aftertouch, Pitchbend, Polyphonic Aftertouch, 4 V-Pots encoders, 6 faders	Color	Black
Velocity sensitive	Yes

Type	MIDI controller	USB-C port	standard USB 3.0, 5 V and 0.9 A max (power consumption: 4.5 W max)
Keyboard	61 hexagonal keys with pressure sensitivity (Z axis) and tilt sensitivity (X and Y axes), RGB backlighting	MIDI In and MIDI Out	standard MIDI communication (serial), 3.5 mm stereo mini-jack connector (1/8''), 5 V and 5 mA max
Keys	independent, velocity-, pressure- and tilt-sensitive (MIDI Polyphonic Expression)	CV " PITCH " and CV " MOD "	0 to 5 V DC, 20 mA max; equivalent output impedance of 1 kohms
Buttons	4x clickable 360-degree encoders with RGB feedback	CV " GATE "	on/off 0 or 5 V, 20 mA max; equivalent output impedance of 1 kohms
Slider	6 zones with 6 RGB feedback indicators	Optimized for the Exquis app	sound selection, loop recording and live or programmed composition
Scale and custom map display	more than 350 scales and modes	Box contents	1 x Exquis Pure MPE + CV MIDI controller, 1 x USB-C / USB-A cable (1 metre), 2 x 5-pin MIDI DIN / 3.5 mm mini-jack adapters