Impetus Turns MPE Keyboards into DAW Control Surfaces

Impetus Software has released Impetus, a macOS application that transforms an MPE keyboard into a DAW control surface. The app leverages the keyboard’s Y-axis slide gesture to control eight bankable mixer faders. Modifier keys then switch those faders to pan, solo, mute, and record arm functions. Transport controls, banking, and a system-wide keyboard shortcut engine also run from the keys. Impetus connects via HUI and Mackie Control protocols. Consequently, it appears to the DAW as a standard control surface rather than a MIDI remote.

Key Features of Impetus

Impetus offers a range of features designed for hands-on mixing. For instance, it supports HUI and Mackie Control protocols. Moreover, it provides eight bankable faders driven by MPE slide (Y-axis). Additionally, modifier keys switch faders to pan, solo, mute, and record arm. The app includes full transport control—play, stop, record, fast-forward, rewind, loop, and punch. Furthermore, it offers three fader modes: Absolute, Relative, and Hybrid, plus a fine mode. A system-wide keyboard shortcut and macro engine is also included. MIDI learn works for all controls and shortcut keys. Finally, factory and user preset systems are built in.

Features

HUI and Mackie Control protocol support
Eight bankable faders driven by MPE slide (Y-axis)
Modifier keys switch faders to pan, solo, mute, and record arm
Full transport control — play, stop, record, fast-forward, rewind, loop and punch
Three fader modes: Absolute, Relative and Hybrid, plus a fine mode
System-wide keyboard shortcut and macro engine
MIDI learn for all controls and shortcut keys
Factory and user preset system

Compatibility and Requirements

Supported keyboards include the ROLI Seaboard (49-key), ROLI Seaboard M (24-key), and Keith McMillen Instruments K-Board Pro 4. Other MPE keyboards with a Y-axis slide function are also compatible. Impetus has been tested with Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Cubase, Studio One, Reaper, Ableton Live, Digital Performer, and the Fairlight page in DaVinci Resolve. It requires macOS 13 or later on Apple Silicon. This means older Macs or Intel models are not supported.

Pricing and Availability

Impetus is available now for $99, with an introductory price of $79 through October 8, 2026. A 14-day free trial is available with no credit card required. The app is a single purchase, with no subscription fees.

Price
Intro: $79.00 USD
Regular: $99.00 USD